There are complicating factors, not least, sustaining U.S. extended deterrence in Asia and allies’ interests need to be seriously and fully considered. But rather than persisting with a laundry list of issues in the complex U.S.-Chinese relationship, the administration would be wise to prioritize issues, and place those defining the strategic relationship with China—nuclear, missile defense and unimpeded access to all the global commons (maritime, air, space, cyber) at the top of the list. A Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) is also in that category, as it would shape economic rules. There is no guarantee of success, but a renewed focus on the issues that shape the character of U.S.-Chinese relations would offer the best chance to succeed.

Robert A. Manning is a senior fellow of the Brent Scowcroft Center for International Security at the Atlantic Council. He served as a senior counselor to the Undersecretary of State for Global Affairs from 2001 to 2004 and a member of the US Department of State Policy Planning Staff from 2004 to 2008, and on the National Intelligence Council 2008-12. 

Barry Pavel is Vice President at the Atlantic Council and Director of its Brent Scowcroft Center on International Security. He served as Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Defense Policy and Strategy for Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama.