U.S. President Donald Trump says he is looking forward to developing a "constructive relationship that benefits both the United States and China."
A White House statement said Trump expressed the sentiment in a letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping.
It also said Trump thanked Xi for a letter congratulating him on his inauguration last month. Trump further wished the Chinese people "a happy Lantern Festival and prosperous Year of the Rooster" as they celebrate Lunar New Year.
The U.S. and Chinese leaders have not yet spoken since Trump took office.
During his campaign, Trump frequently criticized China, particularly on the issue of trade, as he promoted his U.S.-focused vision for economic affairs. He also sparked ire from Chinese leaders when he spoke by phone with Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and questioned the One China policy.
Since 1979, the U.S. has recognized China's official position that Taiwan is part of China. Trump later questioned why the U.S. should be bound by that policy unless China makes trade concessions.