| |
|
|
 |
| |
| If you'd like to print out this page, click the Print button
above. Alternatively, you may click the printer icon on your browser's toolbar, or
choose File>Print from the menu. |
| |
| |
|
|
| |
An Adversary Grows Stronger
Put yourself in the position of being a policymaker for the United States government in 1997. This transfer of power strikes some of your colleagues as dangerous. Others see it as an opportunity.
Those who are dubious of this transition have their feet firmly planted in the ground of the Cold War. For them, the world is divided into two camps: free nations and communist regimes. Foreign policy is a reflection of this dichotomy and communism must be opposed in every possible instance. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, China has become the most powerful nation in the communist world. Tiananmen Square revealed with crystal clarity the brutality of the Chinese government. China is the enemy. For these analysts, anything that happens to strengthen China is unacceptable, and the addition of Hong Kong goes far beyond merely strengthening China. This transition places one of the most vital and thriving sources of economic activity on the planet within the control of a nation that is seen as the greatest threat to freedom in the world. The transfer of control of Hong Kong from Great Britain to China is extremely dangerous. Ultimately a showdown with China is inevitable and the addition of Hong Kong makes China a much stronger adversary.
Others see this as an opportunity. The goal of the United States should not necessarily be preparing for an ultimate war with China, but rather, finding ways to coexist with China without resorting to war. A military clash between the United States and China would cost hundreds of thousands of lives, if not more. It could very well set into motion events that would destroy the world as we know it. Thus, options must be explored for bringing China into the community of nations. Hong Kong presents such an option. For decades China has made any number of moves intended to improve its economic position. China wants to become part of the global economy. The addition of Hong Kong enhances China’s interest in being an economic player. It is this interest that makes China susceptible to manipulation by the West. China will be allowed to join the global market, but only if it is willing to play by the rules and live up to the conditions set by the United States. A dangerous and belligerent China will be excluded from the global market. A compliant and diplomatic China will be welcomed into the world economy and the family of nations.
Is it wise to simply view China as an adversary? Do you agree with those who view conflict between the United States and China an inevitability? Can the United States maintain a positive and productive relationship with the largest communist nation in the world?
What do you think of the strategy of trying to "buy" peace with a nation? Can China’s desire for economic advancement be used as device to change China’s behavior on the world scene? Would this be seen as a move grounded in savvy or cowardice?
In 1997, do you perceive China’s taking control of Hong Kong as that of an adversary getting stronger or an opportunity to bring China within the family of nations and render the chances of war much less likely?
|
|
|
