“They have no more motive to expand their dominance to the Philippines ... Just in the news last night there was mention of the US asking to station some ships here.”
Motive... the new business class, no. There is a segment of their economy that wants only to sell us stuff, and they have no ambitions for taking territories.
Their military leadership is another matter. They are schooled in the idea that China’s destiny is to rule Asia, and eventually to become the premier power in the world. Some of the things their generals have said publicly are quite frightening.
There is a struggle between the two factions within their government. The business class wants peace and profits; the military class is — long-term — preparing for war. That is the reason the US is increasing our presence in the Pacific.
Right now China does not have a navy capable of large-scale conflicts, but they are rapidly building that capability. Ten or twenty years from now, they may have the power to be able to reach out to their neighbors.
Sorry for the bad news. I’m sure you like your new life: tropical island, beaches, warm breeze, Asian food... Got a spare room? :)
Be safe!
I agree with you pastor.
I will also give you a good reason,farm land and clean water. China has pretty much devastated theirs and they have billions and billions to feed. The farm lands to the north have been devastated by drought. Hungry and Famine are two of the oldest motives for war.
“Ten or twenty years from now, they may have the power to be able to reach out to their neighbors.”
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God only knows what the world will be like in 20 years, if it is even still here.
I am 67 and not worried.
I will be long gone, if and when they invade the Philippines.
If and when China starts a war, it will probably be the last war on Earth.