Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is rejecting calls for a more belligerent response to U.S. protectionism, hoping a compromise approach will repair damaged relations during Donald Trump’s presidency.

Commerce Secretary Mary Ng said in an interview this week that she is continuing new efforts with the first Bild administration on mutual U.S.-Canadian interests that risk further straining relations between the two countries, whose trade ties reach $725 billion a year.

Criticism began when President Joe Biden revoked permission for the Keystone XL pipeline, a move that threatened the oil-rich Alberta’s leader under a challenge under the old North American Free Trade Agreement. Tensions escalated when the new administration tightened “American Buy” provisions for government purchase agreements.

“I don’t think it’s in the best interests of Canadian workers or the energy sector to go to war with the United States,” NG said on Wednesday. “What we’ve been able to do is common ground where Canadian interests are seen and seen as American interests.”

The Commerce Secretary’s remarks highlighted Trudeau’s decision to sidestep the flashpoints with Biden and instead create energy channels on goals such as fighting climate change and inaugurating an economic recovery.

Trump officials welcomed Biden’s arrival at the White House after the Trump era, which has maintained relative stability over the years with Canada’s largest trading partner.