[Jeff Head]

You are certainly entitled to your opinion, as I am to mine.

I feel that any movement or gravitation of India towards China is a bad thing for US interests. As simple as that, and I feel we should make moves to offset it (and I believe we are in fact making such moves under this administration).

I can say all of that without snide, belligerent, or insulting comments towards you and your opinion. IMHO, doing so would not only lessen my position in the eyes of others, it would lessen me personally.

No offense intended, just my opinion on the ematter.

[razoroccam]

India and US have a lot in common. We are like two brothers who have never known each other. We share values in democracy, freedom, have multi-ethnic populations that speak many languages, and finally are now even sharing in the joys of capitalism. That is enough for us to work closely with each other.

Our relations should not be based on any other country or threat, whether that is Pakistan or China, even though realpolitik may recommend otherwise. Look at history - realpolitik has always meant perhaps short term gain but long term real trouble. Alliances only work when there are shared values (such as US and UK). This administration understands that and has been moving in that direction. So should we.

[razoroccam]

I forgot to add in my last post to you: I greatly commend your appreciation of India, especially in this board that has its fair share of India haters.
cheers