Free Republic

Nixon made his famous trip to China 30 years ago, although the anniversary was several months ago (February?). In the process of opening up to China, Taiwan, one of America's very best friends, was tossed aside like a gum wrapper. Taiwan is now a democracy. Was Kissinger's diplomacy in the Middle East, Rhodesia, South America, USSR and Vietnam a success?

<p>Before September 11, the Bush Administration seemed to be treating China as one of the biggest threats that the U.S. faced worldwide. There was the incident of the U.S. spy plane that went down on China's Hainan Island as well as President Bush's talk about doing whatever it takes to defend Taiwan from Chinese aggression. Republicans talked about treating China as a competitor rather than as the partner envisioned by former President Bill Clinton.</p>