I do not mean to imply that this story is not true. Events are very likely accurately described. I have followed Mr. Chen's story with interest for two or three years.
The NYT sometimes makes a mistake and prints something useful and even accurate. One wonders why. Just not in character, what?
I think we have to judge not the New York Times, the corporate entity, but rather evaluate each scibe by his or her own contributions.
We are finding that anyone with any interest or financial tie to China, even the smallest business opportunity, will back away from principles quickly in order NOT to irritate the Chinese communists. Human Rights is the issue: China cannot continue to subjugate people forever and expect to be welcomed gladly by the rest of the world community. Where are the French and other Europeans who so righteously attack the United States whenever they perceive only the slightest infraction here in America?
Vietnam is a separate issue. That communist government also believes that the world runs on money so if they can woo the U.S., gain PNTR, join the WTO then all will be OK. Well, there is no “normal” in Vietnam. They imprison and torture people too readily, they keep groups like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International out, they harass people of all religions. Every smart group that has looked at the human rights situation in Vietnam comes away distress. We urge people to get involved: here is a place the little guy really can change the world.
John E. Carey
http://peace-and-freedom.blogspot.com/