[Batrachian]

I enjoy bashing Clinton too, but it was Richard Nixon who opened diplimatic channels with China and "ceased trying to isolate the communists". All successive administrations have maintained this position.

Yes, I know, other administrations didn't sell them nuculer weapons secrets in return for campaign donations. You don't have to remind me.

[witnesstothefall]

Nixon's China play was more tactical than strategic. Kissinger used the China opening as a weapon against the Soviets, who were proving very difficult bargainers over Indochina, SALT, emigration, etc. But it's true, it was a gesture that bolstered the Beijing regime.

It was Clinton who dismissed all talk of any adversarial aspect to our relations with China, calling them "partner" instead and permanently granting MFN, ending the debate.