China, having benefited tremendously from WTO membership, is now in a position to spearhead WTO reforms as a bridge between developed and developing nations. It won’t be easy but Beijing can get the ball rolling in areas of agreement such as e-commerce regulations and marine plastic pollution.

The Middle East faces a transition to a post-oil economy, impeded by great power interference and inter-regional rifts. Solutions should come within the region, but Beijing is uniquely positioned as a partner, mediator and customer.

Since the CPTPP’s launch, the massive trade pact has been beneficial to its members, and China would be no different. Other members have also shown interest in Beijing joining, which would be one step closer to a free-trading Asia-Pacific.

Hong Kong has prospered as a gateway to China. Now, the Greater Bay Area offers an opportunity for the city to reposition itself as a hub for talent and innovation, thus offering brighter options for its unsettled young people.

China has a talent-deficit problem that, if unsolved, will constrain its ability to innovate and further develop. It should take several steps to meet the challenge, starting with removing the wall between local and international students.

China should address American concerns on investment and forge better non-governmental and state-level ties in the US, while each side should encourage more study, travel and work in the other country. Better data would also give a more balanced picture of trade.

The two countries should build on warmer ties fostered during the Indian prime minister’s first term to cooperate on China’s Belt and Road Initiative, deepen trade and investment, and promote greater exchange between people.

Absent a clearly defined plan, Beijing’s belt and road strategy has been misunderstood. It has evolved into a global development project in the past five years and should be redefined accordingly to dispel misunderstanding.