U.S. President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping will sit down for an informal summit in California in June-the first time in over forty years that the leaders of two such consequential and different powers have met for a "blue sky" discussion. They should express principles to guide future cooperation and lay the foundation for a practical yet visionary way forward.

Principles for U.S.-China Cooperation

Commitment to resolving differences and regional crises peacefully, through international law and mechanisms

Resolution not to impose unilateral changes to the status quo in Asia

Dedication to the denuclearization and ultimate peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula

Pledge to pursue a global free trade agreement over the next decade