[cyborg]

Nothing stopping the US from doing the same. Wonder why they aren't. Years later we'll be whining about the Chinese commies still.

[Destro]

What is to be gained? Denail to America of military bases closer to China and future control of natural resources that hungry China needs for her industrial revolution.

[the gillman@blacklagoon.com]

I think the saying goes something like,

"Today Taipei, tomorrow the world!"

[polymuser]

Let's see: China owns both ends of the Panama Canal, is buying up all the Caribbean and South American port properties (trade gateways) it can, is building more ports in these areas, is negotiating trade agreements with these nations and Cuba to obtain their raw materials (like oil) in return for capital investment and low cost consumer goods, has military officials meeting with these nations, builds gigantic ships, and is building more nukes. And still considers America an enemy.

Caribbean. Cuba. Panama Canal. Mexico?

Knock, knock, knock...

[Bald Eagle777]

Bulls-eye.

Keep watching China CLOSELY.

[this_ol_patriot]

In America everyone is safe from evil smokers and nobody feels left out.
That must count for something, no?

[ponder life]

"America is punk broke."

Actually, America is significantly wealthier than China and has exerted great influence in other countries through the years. China, on the other hand, had remained isolated. However, China is now a growing economy in need of resources and is now playing catch up with the US, both diplomatically and in securing overseas supply lines to natural resources.

Their diplomatic relations drive makes perfect sense in light of the natural resources that are needed to keep the economy humming along.

What else should do if they need something another country has?