Where will Donald and Ivanka set up their sweatshops now? Not the US. America First comes after Trump Profits first?
Nukes or beef.
China can take out North Korea's nuclear program any time it wants.
China is behind Morth Korea's bad boy behavior.
Enough already.
China can take out North Korea's nuclear program any time it wants.
China is behind Morth Korea's bad boy behavior.
Enough already.
1
"Shi Yinhong, a professor of international relations at Renmir University of China, said that Mr. Trump's actions returned the relationship to normal: strained, with deep issues dividing the two countries"
Umm, no. It is China's ACTIONS that returned the relationship to strained and divided. Either they FULLY end ties with the murderous regime in North Korea or they will face the consequences.
Who cares if they allow American beef in China if they are propping up a nutjob with nukes while doing so?
Umm, no. It is China's ACTIONS that returned the relationship to strained and divided. Either they FULLY end ties with the murderous regime in North Korea or they will face the consequences.
Who cares if they allow American beef in China if they are propping up a nutjob with nukes while doing so?
1
Quoting from the article:
"A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry, Lu Kang, said those actions contradicted the agreements that emerged from Mr. Xi’s meetings with Mr. Trump at Mar-a-Lago in April, among them the decision to lift the beef ban, which had been in place since December 2003. If not reversed, they could have consequences, he said."
Mr Xi, on behalf of the American people, I would like to apologize for our President's practice of making promises, and subsequently breaking them. In the short time he has been in office, our people have already had repeated experience with his utter lack of honesty, and inability to be trustworthy.
Our President's decision making skills are inconsistent, and have the potential to change based upon who whomever he has spoken to in the last thirty seconds. The exact opposite of the time-honored tradition of building long term trusting relationships.
It's unfortunate for you, and the other world leaders, who are experiencing this behavior firsthand and consider the USA's inability to make honorable deals, and then abide by them after the handshake, an intractable problem.
"We the people" of the USA take our responsibility for our reputation and standing in the world community very seriously. Luckily, our system of government provides for the orderly transition of power, in the event our leaders underperform. Please be patient with us for the next several years and we will address this festering problem at the appropriate time.
"A spokesman for the Foreign Ministry, Lu Kang, said those actions contradicted the agreements that emerged from Mr. Xi’s meetings with Mr. Trump at Mar-a-Lago in April, among them the decision to lift the beef ban, which had been in place since December 2003. If not reversed, they could have consequences, he said."
Mr Xi, on behalf of the American people, I would like to apologize for our President's practice of making promises, and subsequently breaking them. In the short time he has been in office, our people have already had repeated experience with his utter lack of honesty, and inability to be trustworthy.
Our President's decision making skills are inconsistent, and have the potential to change based upon who whomever he has spoken to in the last thirty seconds. The exact opposite of the time-honored tradition of building long term trusting relationships.
It's unfortunate for you, and the other world leaders, who are experiencing this behavior firsthand and consider the USA's inability to make honorable deals, and then abide by them after the handshake, an intractable problem.
"We the people" of the USA take our responsibility for our reputation and standing in the world community very seriously. Luckily, our system of government provides for the orderly transition of power, in the event our leaders underperform. Please be patient with us for the next several years and we will address this festering problem at the appropriate time.
1
Typical! Trump as the Chinese think only with their stomachs/pleasure centers.
Discussing beef on the same level with nuclear weapons!
Discussing beef on the same level with nuclear weapons!
The Bank of Dandong? Sorry, but this is stage fighting and the Chinese know it. They will play along and duly proclaim to be greatly upset. Trade between China and NK will continue through a thousand other channels.
1
On the eve of the twentieth anniversary of Hong Kong handover to China this article is short-sighted with the long history of Sino-American history.
It is undisputable the US-China relation is important to Americans, however, strategically it has to be built on the long term basis, not just short-term commercial benefits.
Not for the reason of that I am living in Taiwan, keeping Taiwan Strait as a safe passage to all ocean liners is vital to the world economies, not just American, especially at the time while China is building artificial islands to enhance its military presents in the South China Sea.
North Korea is not only a long term problem to the United States and South Korea, it could be a trigger to major conflicts on the global stage. It is just unpredictable by any means.
Unfortunately, Donald Trump is as unpredictable as King Jung-un, and Xi Jing-pin is so strategically aggressive with no comparison to his predecessors, the world order could be in chaos at any moments.
US news media and public opinions need to be vigil to keep the US foreign policy stable with a long term perspective.
It is undisputable the US-China relation is important to Americans, however, strategically it has to be built on the long term basis, not just short-term commercial benefits.
Not for the reason of that I am living in Taiwan, keeping Taiwan Strait as a safe passage to all ocean liners is vital to the world economies, not just American, especially at the time while China is building artificial islands to enhance its military presents in the South China Sea.
North Korea is not only a long term problem to the United States and South Korea, it could be a trigger to major conflicts on the global stage. It is just unpredictable by any means.
Unfortunately, Donald Trump is as unpredictable as King Jung-un, and Xi Jing-pin is so strategically aggressive with no comparison to his predecessors, the world order could be in chaos at any moments.
US news media and public opinions need to be vigil to keep the US foreign policy stable with a long term perspective.
2
Chinese/ American relations have been beneficial for China, as America has exported its manufacturing sector in large measure to China for profit for the corporate owners raising the standard of living in one and stressing or lowing it in the other to Wall St. benefit.
Now a hot issue is on the table: North Korean nuclear development.
China, which must be a puzzle for the U.S., does not believe in interfering in the internal affairs of another country and has opposed the use of U.N. sanctions, except in two cases the Sudan and N.K.
It has crimped N.K. development as have others with sanctions but that has not stopped their nuclear progress.
N.K.’s arming is rational from their perspective fearing ‘regime chance’ as it has come to be called. They want a security agreement that has never been reached in previous negotiations that now seems much more urgent. Pres. Moon wishes talks, China wishes talks, and Pres. Trump has said he would talk with Kim, but no further signs from Washington save the China must do more line. Trumps administration is heavily staffed by people who give ever indication of wish enhanced conflict with China and that is the probable outcome. The point is the ball is in America’s court and ‘leadership’ is thin.
The mentioned sanctions in the article are likely in keeping with the agreement, but are of little consequence in any event. The issue is the disarming of Pyongyang and that will only follow talks not posturing.
Now a hot issue is on the table: North Korean nuclear development.
China, which must be a puzzle for the U.S., does not believe in interfering in the internal affairs of another country and has opposed the use of U.N. sanctions, except in two cases the Sudan and N.K.
It has crimped N.K. development as have others with sanctions but that has not stopped their nuclear progress.
N.K.’s arming is rational from their perspective fearing ‘regime chance’ as it has come to be called. They want a security agreement that has never been reached in previous negotiations that now seems much more urgent. Pres. Moon wishes talks, China wishes talks, and Pres. Trump has said he would talk with Kim, but no further signs from Washington save the China must do more line. Trumps administration is heavily staffed by people who give ever indication of wish enhanced conflict with China and that is the probable outcome. The point is the ball is in America’s court and ‘leadership’ is thin.
The mentioned sanctions in the article are likely in keeping with the agreement, but are of little consequence in any event. The issue is the disarming of Pyongyang and that will only follow talks not posturing.
You can't trust the Chinese to keep an agreement or to abide by international law. Exactly what gains are we talking about here. The latest news was how Hong Kong is now being coerced and pressured to "tow the Communist Line" or face consequences. China is Russia during the Cold War, and we all know what happened then!
7
@Majortrout
But of course China is not Russia etc., It is now the second largest economy in the world and that required knowledgeable intervention in what was one of the world's poorest Asian countries. China is here and will not fade away the question is can the US share the role of world power as it diminishes in importance with out setting off unwanted conflict? Trump is a poor choice for that task unfortunately.
But of course China is not Russia etc., It is now the second largest economy in the world and that required knowledgeable intervention in what was one of the world's poorest Asian countries. China is here and will not fade away the question is can the US share the role of world power as it diminishes in importance with out setting off unwanted conflict? Trump is a poor choice for that task unfortunately.
1
I encourage the U.S. to ask China to ask Russia to intervene. Russia had supported North Korea (providing provisions) until the fall of the Soviet Union; however, emotional ties remain. They seem to be the only ones that Kim Jung Un listens to; after his ballistic missile testing that landed too close to Russia, Putin made an aggressive statement, and Kim Jung Un defended himself saying that it was self-defense. (It was the first time he sounded apologetic.) Since Russians were the ones who put them in power, I believe they have the power to remove them. But they won't do it with U.S.'s bidding, because of the current tensions that exist between the two nations. One way to gain Chinese cooperation is to ask them to ask Russia (close allies) to remove the current dictator of North Korea. That is the only way moving forward. It's important to exhaust remedies before engaging in a cataclysmic war.
@elliot
A little history there of a period pass. Russia was one of the six countries involved with the negotiations with Kim father but nothing came of those sessions. Now Pyongyang has a real threat that must be met. Talks are needed and Russia and Japan may be invited again to attend but the meaningful link is with the current American Administration and does anyone see that being realized? Trump could be a Hero he would love that but the issues will not be settled by Tweeting.
A little history there of a period pass. Russia was one of the six countries involved with the negotiations with Kim father but nothing came of those sessions. Now Pyongyang has a real threat that must be met. Talks are needed and Russia and Japan may be invited again to attend but the meaningful link is with the current American Administration and does anyone see that being realized? Trump could be a Hero he would love that but the issues will not be settled by Tweeting.
What "gains" are we talking about?
What exactly has China ever done for us in the past 25 years?
NOTHING.
The Times needs to wake up. China has taken us for a ride and finally we have a leader that will say so publicly.
What exactly has China ever done for us in the past 25 years?
NOTHING.
The Times needs to wake up. China has taken us for a ride and finally we have a leader that will say so publicly.
6
I'm surprised you would even ask this question?
All the "cheap goods" that our big box stores sell, so American can buy more stuff, are a direct benefit for us so that China can undercut our job market with low wages, no benefits and little environmental regulation for their people. That's a big gain isn't it?
So much of our high tech gear is made in China, so we can but it at really low prices. Cell phones, solar cells, household appliances, the whole gamut of all the products that used to be the mainstay of US manufacturing. That too is a big gain, right?
And what about the future? China is moving into aviation, electric cars, batteries and now without the TPP, China will control trade for its Pacific trading partners (Australia, Korea, Japan, etc), because we bailed out rather than step up. Another big gain for us, we're on the outs, so we don't have to lead, we can just follow.
I know it's policy wonk stuff. We don't want to get bogged down in those messy details. We just want to: "Make America Great Again!"
All the "cheap goods" that our big box stores sell, so American can buy more stuff, are a direct benefit for us so that China can undercut our job market with low wages, no benefits and little environmental regulation for their people. That's a big gain isn't it?
So much of our high tech gear is made in China, so we can but it at really low prices. Cell phones, solar cells, household appliances, the whole gamut of all the products that used to be the mainstay of US manufacturing. That too is a big gain, right?
And what about the future? China is moving into aviation, electric cars, batteries and now without the TPP, China will control trade for its Pacific trading partners (Australia, Korea, Japan, etc), because we bailed out rather than step up. Another big gain for us, we're on the outs, so we don't have to lead, we can just follow.
I know it's policy wonk stuff. We don't want to get bogged down in those messy details. We just want to: "Make America Great Again!"
2
Yet another example of one step forward, two steps back. Is someone actually attempting to coordinate US policy on China? Is someone else responsible for Taiwan and do the two talk? The Chinese must be impressed...
www.thewaryouknow.com
www.thewaryouknow.com
6
Violation of international law China screams? What law?
The USA does not accept China's claim that Taiwan is part of China, it only recognizes that China makes such a claim. Much like China's claim that it owns all of the South China Sea, another claim now legally debunked by the UN which China refuses to recognize.
The people in Taiwan have a free sovereign democratic country, something that China fears. Taiwan historically has always been invaded by other countries including China.
The USA does not accept China's claim that Taiwan is part of China, it only recognizes that China makes such a claim. Much like China's claim that it owns all of the South China Sea, another claim now legally debunked by the UN which China refuses to recognize.
The people in Taiwan have a free sovereign democratic country, something that China fears. Taiwan historically has always been invaded by other countries including China.
6
We need to wake up. The sooner we get realistic about China the better. They steal our trade secrets, restrict access to their markets, brutally repress any dissent at home, illegally construct artificial islands in the South China Sea to falsely claim ownership, brualize Tibetans etc. I could keep this up all day. This will all end very badly so, we and our allies (if we have any after Trump), need to be militarily prepared.
The authors treat China as a normal country when in reality it is the wholly owned subsidiary of the Chinese Communist Party where all institutions most especially the judicial system are subservient to its perpetuation. How can we have a normal relationship with such a regime.
The authors treat China as a normal country when in reality it is the wholly owned subsidiary of the Chinese Communist Party where all institutions most especially the judicial system are subservient to its perpetuation. How can we have a normal relationship with such a regime.
10
While the republicans are busy dismembering the government, and president Trump finds it necessary to tweet about every slight against him, the Chinese are laughing all the way to the bank. You can invest in weapons all you want, but the Chinese learned that real power and influence comes from ECONOMIC power, and they invest in their people, in education, in infrastructure,
They have the long view, they have a plan, while the US is in disarray, just making sure that the wealthy accumulate ever more, the middle class drowns, and the poor fend for themselves.
They have the long view, they have a plan, while the US is in disarray, just making sure that the wealthy accumulate ever more, the middle class drowns, and the poor fend for themselves.
9
It's likely Trump will get us into a few more wars, but touching NK may have consequences he never bargained for. I can see a time when China and the rest of Asia sanction us for out foolish behaviour.
2
The rest of Asia is not aligned with China. In fact the rest of Asia is concerned about China claiming other countries territories as it own and ignoring UN rulings.
2
The foreign policy aligns with domestic policy which aligns with tweets--the intellectual and emotional maturity of a 7th grader.
4
China has been open to pull the plug on North Korea to get back Taiwan ever since 1953.
2
Apparently the Chinese don't watch much Morning Joe, then they'd really understand how outraged they should be. Comparatively speaking, selling weapons to Taiwan is small potatoes next to insulting Mika's esthetician care.
7
Of course Trump is going to become provocative with North Korea and China. It seems like sequels are all the rage in film these days, so why not Korean War II?
In reality, Trump is chumming the press pool and in turn the public's interests to change the story from "Trumpgate"' the series of failures and investigations of this zany president to war---as if that is a good idea.
Perhaps Trump will launch another US Navy task force this time to China and en route it will locate that other US Navy task force last seen headed from Australia to North Korea---presumably by wind power.
In reality, Trump is chumming the press pool and in turn the public's interests to change the story from "Trumpgate"' the series of failures and investigations of this zany president to war---as if that is a good idea.
Perhaps Trump will launch another US Navy task force this time to China and en route it will locate that other US Navy task force last seen headed from Australia to North Korea---presumably by wind power.
5
How can the Chinese figure out what Trump means or is doing? Heck, we live here and WE have no clue...
12
With the current administration in the WH .... I'm rooting for China.
7
Trump lied to the Chinese?
He changed his mind?
He awoke one day and decided that he was just going to do whatever regardless of the consequences?
Welcome to our world.
Personally, though, it couldn't have happened to better people.
The Chinese communist dictatorship deserves to fail and helping Taiwan, the only democratic Chinese state in the world, is a nice place to begin.
The Republic of Taiwan is a reality that the entire world just needs to acknowledge.
China and its criminal dictatorship is on its way out hopefully along with Trump.
He changed his mind?
He awoke one day and decided that he was just going to do whatever regardless of the consequences?
Welcome to our world.
Personally, though, it couldn't have happened to better people.
The Chinese communist dictatorship deserves to fail and helping Taiwan, the only democratic Chinese state in the world, is a nice place to begin.
The Republic of Taiwan is a reality that the entire world just needs to acknowledge.
China and its criminal dictatorship is on its way out hopefully along with Trump.
8
As if Xi cares what Trump, or America, thinks. China is not scared of the United States. China does not need the United States.
6
While there are legit issues with China over trade and North Korea, you got the Trump clown team running the show for us.
Trump's two most important things on his mind re this and everything else.
1-How to make himself look good no matter how much damage he does.
2-How to make money off of it.
Trump's two most important things on his mind re this and everything else.
1-How to make himself look good no matter how much damage he does.
2-How to make money off of it.
10
China has done little or nothing to curtail development of nuclear arms and ICBMs that will inevitably have the capability of reaching the U.S, their lies to the contrary. The result is an extremely dangerous and escalating tension between the U.S and N. Korea.
Perhaps China thinks that threats of armed conflict between the two nations is great than ever to the former's advantage - especially with Trump as the American president. Easy pickings, a man who can be easily played.
The problem and potential miscalculation is China thinks they can manipulate an irrational man giving to bizarre tweets, who is camped out watching news programs. A president who is capable at any moment of causing a conflagration based upon 'gut feelings'.
That is, once the American ships are turned around and going in the right direction.
What was that again-who is getting stabbed in the neck?
Perhaps China thinks that threats of armed conflict between the two nations is great than ever to the former's advantage - especially with Trump as the American president. Easy pickings, a man who can be easily played.
The problem and potential miscalculation is China thinks they can manipulate an irrational man giving to bizarre tweets, who is camped out watching news programs. A president who is capable at any moment of causing a conflagration based upon 'gut feelings'.
That is, once the American ships are turned around and going in the right direction.
What was that again-who is getting stabbed in the neck?
4
China authored North Korea for geopolitical reasons and has lost control of its rogue vassal state. China alone is responsible for NK nuclear weaponry, endangering the entire world. Each is an authoritarian state implicated in gross human rights violations with gulags. China now bullies Hong Kong having promised it autonomy. I trust the Chinese government as far as I can throw it.
If you think either will not put a gun to your head to get what it cannot get otherwise, you need to read more. China respects one thing: brute force. Deal with it patiently taking the long view as it does and with restrained but very clear force: it is a Communist police state, and that is the reality.
If you think either will not put a gun to your head to get what it cannot get otherwise, you need to read more. China respects one thing: brute force. Deal with it patiently taking the long view as it does and with restrained but very clear force: it is a Communist police state, and that is the reality.
4
Since when is selling arms to Taiwan illegal? We've been selling them arms for years.
4
I wonder if our diplomats have considered a deal with China in which China clamps down on North Korea in exchange for the U. S. agreeing to cease defending Tai Wan. Many people on Tai Wan would prefer to remain politically independent of the Mainland, but what is the U. S. interest in maintaining their independence. The reunification is going to happen some time in the next few decades, so why not get on with it and get something in return, such as China taking responsibility for North Korea. Had the Chinese not protected North Korea, the U. S. would likely have taken military action before the North Koreans became nuclear. Obviously, no military action could be taken on China's border without their consent. China wants to solve Tai Wan and we want to solve North Korea. Surely I am not the only person to consider this.
In this case, Trump is right. China can't be allowed to condone its businesses and banks doing business with North Korea. If it does, then we should retaliate.
National security trumps minor trade deals. The beef deal is nothing compared to the threat of North Korea knocking out power on the entire west coast for months, which their ICBMs will be able to do in the near future, if they keep improving at the current rate; an EMP from a nuclear missile that misses by 500 miles can still be devastating.
If it takes the threat of arming Taiwan to get China to do something about North Korea, it's worth it. Letting a lunatic like Kim Jong Un threaten the US, rather than hurt China's feelings, is a poor deal.
National security trumps minor trade deals. The beef deal is nothing compared to the threat of North Korea knocking out power on the entire west coast for months, which their ICBMs will be able to do in the near future, if they keep improving at the current rate; an EMP from a nuclear missile that misses by 500 miles can still be devastating.
If it takes the threat of arming Taiwan to get China to do something about North Korea, it's worth it. Letting a lunatic like Kim Jong Un threaten the US, rather than hurt China's feelings, is a poor deal.
2
I never thought that I would agree with anything coming out of the White House these days - but - I am very pleased that the USA is supporting Taiwan, rather than the Chinese Communist Party.
While Russia remains a threat, Communist China poses a far greater threat. Xi Jinping will NEVER rein-in North Korea. They are his little puppet, and Xi loves to see their provocation in the area. Xi WANTS to see America involved in yet another War - so we are Militarily and Financially over extended. Its bad enough that Bush 2 made China "our Banker", after Cheney and Halliburton looted the Federal Treasury during their phony and illegal Iraq War.
Communist China wants, simply, everything - including World domination.
Anyone who thinks that Xi is friendly, fair or balanced in his agenda is a fool. Look at Tiannamen Square - murdering peacefully assembled citizens asking for Democratic reform. Look at Tibet - when in 1959 Mao and the Communist Red Guard invaded and stole the entire Country at gunpoint. Tibet was a non-aggressive, peaceful Nation. Thousands of Tibetans were killed in the streets, while thousands more were locked in prison for practicing their non-violent, Buddhist faith. Look at Hong Kong, where the citizens were only asking for the autonomy originally granted by the British and China. Look at Japan, where China "claims" their land, too. And then, China's building Islands of Navy bases on reefs off of Viet Nam.
Endless greed & expansion. Enough!
While Russia remains a threat, Communist China poses a far greater threat. Xi Jinping will NEVER rein-in North Korea. They are his little puppet, and Xi loves to see their provocation in the area. Xi WANTS to see America involved in yet another War - so we are Militarily and Financially over extended. Its bad enough that Bush 2 made China "our Banker", after Cheney and Halliburton looted the Federal Treasury during their phony and illegal Iraq War.
Communist China wants, simply, everything - including World domination.
Anyone who thinks that Xi is friendly, fair or balanced in his agenda is a fool. Look at Tiannamen Square - murdering peacefully assembled citizens asking for Democratic reform. Look at Tibet - when in 1959 Mao and the Communist Red Guard invaded and stole the entire Country at gunpoint. Tibet was a non-aggressive, peaceful Nation. Thousands of Tibetans were killed in the streets, while thousands more were locked in prison for practicing their non-violent, Buddhist faith. Look at Hong Kong, where the citizens were only asking for the autonomy originally granted by the British and China. Look at Japan, where China "claims" their land, too. And then, China's building Islands of Navy bases on reefs off of Viet Nam.
Endless greed & expansion. Enough!
4
The proper response by China should be to cancel half of Trump's Chinese trademarks and slap sanctions on any Trump properties (including in Hong Kong or Maccau).
3
Why just half?
This is a lot more complicated than an arms deal to Taiwan, a beef deal with China, China's influence (or non-influence) over N. Korea, a couple of medium sized banks being sanctioned, and yes, a nuclear armed North Korea. All of these issues, and more, tie in together in a gigantic three-dimensional chess game with each being a micrcosm of the whole. It's the gestalt of world level politics.
Unfortunately, Trump is playing Chinese Checkers while the rest of the world is focusing on that 3D chess scenario.
This is a lot more complicated than an arms deal to Taiwan, a beef deal with China, China's influence (or non-influence) over N. Korea, a couple of medium sized banks being sanctioned, and yes, a nuclear armed North Korea. All of these issues, and more, tie in together in a gigantic three-dimensional chess game with each being a micrcosm of the whole. It's the gestalt of world level politics.
Unfortunately, Trump is playing Chinese Checkers while the rest of the world is focusing on that 3D chess scenario.
1
This article seems to be saying that no matter what policy actions the U.S. takes in regards to China, it will be in the wrong.
The U.S. has been selling arms to Taiwan in the face of Chinese criticism since the transfer of recognition from Taipei to Beijing during the Nixon administration. There is nothing new here. China's pique will pass, as it has every other time.
On the other hand, dithering and wishful thinking has left the U.S. facing the real prospect of North Korea on the verge of being able to credibly threaten the Continental U.S. with nuclear weapons. It is entirely high time that our government put real pressure on China to encourage it to no longer be N. Korea's enabler. This is clearly in our nation's national security interest.
China is all about its self interest. The U.S. has tended to subjugate its economic self interest to international security interests. Here again, it is long overdue for the U.S. to take a firmer stand on trade issues with China where the playing field is far from level.
Unfortunately, this is an area where Trump is failing as clearly as his predecessors. Case in point; after much noise from candidate Trump about Ford's planned move of Focus production to Mexico, nary a word was said last week when Ford announced its latest plan for production of the Focus - move it to China and import into the U.S. The U.S. small car import duty is 2.5% versus China's 25%!
The U.S. has been selling arms to Taiwan in the face of Chinese criticism since the transfer of recognition from Taipei to Beijing during the Nixon administration. There is nothing new here. China's pique will pass, as it has every other time.
On the other hand, dithering and wishful thinking has left the U.S. facing the real prospect of North Korea on the verge of being able to credibly threaten the Continental U.S. with nuclear weapons. It is entirely high time that our government put real pressure on China to encourage it to no longer be N. Korea's enabler. This is clearly in our nation's national security interest.
China is all about its self interest. The U.S. has tended to subjugate its economic self interest to international security interests. Here again, it is long overdue for the U.S. to take a firmer stand on trade issues with China where the playing field is far from level.
Unfortunately, this is an area where Trump is failing as clearly as his predecessors. Case in point; after much noise from candidate Trump about Ford's planned move of Focus production to Mexico, nary a word was said last week when Ford announced its latest plan for production of the Focus - move it to China and import into the U.S. The U.S. small car import duty is 2.5% versus China's 25%!
5
No leader from around the world will take the Donald seriously.
So, this will be happening over and over and over.
So, this will be happening over and over and over.
2
The Chinese (and everyone else) knows that trump talks trough but there is nothing to him. He acts erratically, knows nothing about the history of the different regions or foreign policy and, what is worse, he doesn't want to learn or take advice from anyone that does know. If he wanted a serious foreign policy he would get some knowledgeable people in the State Department and work with them. Of course, anyone that criticized trump in the past is automatically disqualified. And if he was doing serious work he would not have time to tweet constantly.
China, Iran, Europe, and the other countries know that all they need to do is basically Ignore trump and go ahead with their plans. They alternately tell him how great he is or ignore him. In other words string him along.
This is unfortunate because there are important issues in foreign/defense policy that should be dealt with at the highest level (presidential level). The major concern for the long term is China. Trump is worried about the middle east. But day by day we are becoming less dependent on oil - which lessens the importance of the middle east.
China, Iran, Europe, and the other countries know that all they need to do is basically Ignore trump and go ahead with their plans. They alternately tell him how great he is or ignore him. In other words string him along.
This is unfortunate because there are important issues in foreign/defense policy that should be dealt with at the highest level (presidential level). The major concern for the long term is China. Trump is worried about the middle east. But day by day we are becoming less dependent on oil - which lessens the importance of the middle east.
2
We must protect our allies and deter both North Korean and Chinese aggression. Both of these moves are warranted and long overdue. Our pacifism and looking the other way has encouraged global thugs to expand and threaten their neighbors. Deterrence is best policy as history clearly shows.
3
Trump sells himself as a great negotiator and hired his cabinet based on loyalty and being rich since he sees that as the quality of a great negotiator too.
Well, our great negotiator seems to have blindsided the Chinese with sanctions and an arms sale to Taiwan while China is allowing importation of beef. Trump's childlike bully and naivete has shown through again.
A great negotiator in international dealings sits down to discuss issues and possible repercussions before slamming them home. Trump's brutal negotiation technique may work for subcontractors who he doesn't intend to pay anyway, but China, among other international trade partners of the US, can't be fired, we cannot default on payments, and we cannot realistically put military pressure on them. So what does Trump think he's doing? Where's an experienced adult? Even Tillerson?
China is our only path to a negotiated settlement with the North Koreans. A military solution would be an internationally expensive horribly bloody mess and a humanitarian crisis. I would suggest that blindsiding China in negotiations may be a phenomenally unwise path.
Well, our great negotiator seems to have blindsided the Chinese with sanctions and an arms sale to Taiwan while China is allowing importation of beef. Trump's childlike bully and naivete has shown through again.
A great negotiator in international dealings sits down to discuss issues and possible repercussions before slamming them home. Trump's brutal negotiation technique may work for subcontractors who he doesn't intend to pay anyway, but China, among other international trade partners of the US, can't be fired, we cannot default on payments, and we cannot realistically put military pressure on them. So what does Trump think he's doing? Where's an experienced adult? Even Tillerson?
China is our only path to a negotiated settlement with the North Koreans. A military solution would be an internationally expensive horribly bloody mess and a humanitarian crisis. I would suggest that blindsiding China in negotiations may be a phenomenally unwise path.
3
China is where most of our consumer goods come from. China needs our money. Their military is no match for ours, even today, not even close. We no longer need the NK headache, which is just a nuclear buffer state for China. The solution is reunification of Korea and exile for Kim Jong Un in a country of his choice. Or a peace treaty, but now not in some undefined period of time.
The US, no matter the President, cannot allow NK to have the ability to attack the US with nuclear weapons.
The US, no matter the President, cannot allow NK to have the ability to attack the US with nuclear weapons.
5
The Bush/Clinton/Bush globalist approach to opening up "free" trade with China will someday rank as one of the greatest strategic errors in our country's history.
Not only did it hollow out U.S. manufacturing, it provides China with the money to oppose us militarily.
The promised benefits of massive new markets for U.S. agriculture, high tech, and service products never materialized. Worse yet, China never became the democratic member of Pax Americana that Bush/Clinton envisioned.
Trump gave them a chance to prove their willingness/ability to control North Korea and be responsible member of the global system. They failed.
Now we must move aggressively on the trade front. For starters, their status as a "developing" country and the associated benefits should be revoked. We should then apply a "pollution" surcharge to all products coming from China.
Yes, it will cost the American consumers a bit more. But it will also help American (and Mexican) workers and the consumer cost will pale in comparison with the long term costs of giving them the rope with which to hang us.
Not only did it hollow out U.S. manufacturing, it provides China with the money to oppose us militarily.
The promised benefits of massive new markets for U.S. agriculture, high tech, and service products never materialized. Worse yet, China never became the democratic member of Pax Americana that Bush/Clinton envisioned.
Trump gave them a chance to prove their willingness/ability to control North Korea and be responsible member of the global system. They failed.
Now we must move aggressively on the trade front. For starters, their status as a "developing" country and the associated benefits should be revoked. We should then apply a "pollution" surcharge to all products coming from China.
Yes, it will cost the American consumers a bit more. But it will also help American (and Mexican) workers and the consumer cost will pale in comparison with the long term costs of giving them the rope with which to hang us.
3
We should work on problems with China where the two countries have mutual interests: climate change and trade agreements. (It was a mistake for us to cancel our participation in the TPP.)
On the issues on which we disagree: human rights, the islands in the south China sea, North Korea, we should engage in patient diplomacy.
Threats and unilateral actions damage relations and make reaching agreements harder.
On the issues on which we disagree: human rights, the islands in the south China sea, North Korea, we should engage in patient diplomacy.
Threats and unilateral actions damage relations and make reaching agreements harder.
5
CHINA NEEDS A LESSON
Its government is corrupt, its economy is overloaded with debt, wherever it builds things in other countries, it alienates its host. China's Communist Party is hanging on to a population slowly getting wise to, and capable of creating difficulties for, its kleptocratic elites. Time is not on the side of China's Communist Party.
Now may be time for us to show our strength and not cringe from their fragile government, before they grow to challenge our economy and our military more than they can now, and before the Party's fragility motivates it to seek Putinesque distractions of foreign adventures in the South China Sea...
Its government is corrupt, its economy is overloaded with debt, wherever it builds things in other countries, it alienates its host. China's Communist Party is hanging on to a population slowly getting wise to, and capable of creating difficulties for, its kleptocratic elites. Time is not on the side of China's Communist Party.
Now may be time for us to show our strength and not cringe from their fragile government, before they grow to challenge our economy and our military more than they can now, and before the Party's fragility motivates it to seek Putinesque distractions of foreign adventures in the South China Sea...
2
China now must deal with two unpredictable megalomaniacs and decide who is the worse risk. A word of advice: Trump is a casino owner (and has a bigger nuclear stockpile), I wouldn't bet against the house.
4
But... he bankrupted his casinos.
1
Trump, by reneging on his own talks with China just a few months ago, and by his willingness to upend decades of U.S. foreign policy just for the sake of upending it, is inflicting on the U.S.'s ability to function as a world leader. That is not to suggest our foreign policy hasn't been in need of changing -- it certainly has in a number of areas. But what Trump is doing isn't replacing a bad policy with a good one; what he is doing is to replace policy with impulsive gesture. And it's hard to see how any other nation, including any of our allies, will be willing to put any faith in what the U.S. government says for a long time to come. Indeed, even after Trump is out of office and a more responsible leader is our President, the leaders of other nations wil surely have to be cautious about the degree to which they are willing to put faith in what that President might say, because, in back of their minds, they will be wondering how long it will be until the U.S. elect yet another bull-in-a-china-shop president.
8
Taiwan cannot defeat the rest of China if it decides to invade and takeover control. The U.S. is the force that can deter such a move. Thus the arms deal really does not assure Taiwan of security from Chinese aggression. Thus going forward with it actually makes our relations with China more difficult without significantly protecting the independence of Taiwan. The sanctions against the Chinese firms because of the government's failure to control North Korea presumes that they will spur the government onto success when it's likely that they won't. The reasons that China will not entirely break relations with North Korea and impose and embargo to squeeze them into submission is because it would require far too great sacrifices by the Chinese. Inept diplomacy.
2
This makes no sense ,,, Taiwan needs weapons so they won't be invaded
1
If China were to try to invade Taiwan, the people on Taiwan would fight bravely but the numbers would be against them, even with the weapons. The U.S. Navy and Air Force would be the forces that would keep China from invading.
Casual -
China will eventually take Taiwan back and every day is another closer to that becoming reality.
When the time and opportunity presents itself, then China will strike quickly and effectively before the US can react. Game over for Taiwan. This will be another significant indicator of the decline of American influence and power in the region as China continues to assert it self as a global power.
We have created this dragon with three simple words.
Made in China.
China will eventually take Taiwan back and every day is another closer to that becoming reality.
When the time and opportunity presents itself, then China will strike quickly and effectively before the US can react. Game over for Taiwan. This will be another significant indicator of the decline of American influence and power in the region as China continues to assert it self as a global power.
We have created this dragon with three simple words.
Made in China.
1
A huge trade relationship with China is a powerful disincentive to war, but I think it's not an ironclad safeguard against war.
I think someday events are going to prove that China's an expendable ally. We may have fewer cheap manufactured Chinese products around here for a while, but so what. Americans will survive without it. They'll start getting more of the stuff from garage sales, or hanging onto things longer, or fixing more things.
Trump's trying to be smart and follow advice by proceeding carefully at confronting North Korea, but what may need to happen despite that is a war. And then someday the same sort of scenario may apply to China. We're giving them a chance with the South China Sea, but that stuff they built shouldn't really be there.
I think someday events are going to prove that China's an expendable ally. We may have fewer cheap manufactured Chinese products around here for a while, but so what. Americans will survive without it. They'll start getting more of the stuff from garage sales, or hanging onto things longer, or fixing more things.
Trump's trying to be smart and follow advice by proceeding carefully at confronting North Korea, but what may need to happen despite that is a war. And then someday the same sort of scenario may apply to China. We're giving them a chance with the South China Sea, but that stuff they built shouldn't really be there.
4
There must be consequences for China's deliberate failure to take any meaningful steps to curb North Korea's hostile behavior. Indeed, the weapons we send to Taiwan ought to have Otto's picture on them.
17
China has a longstanding policy of not interfering in the internal affairs of other countries. Longstanding. They're surely observing very closely, and they have publicly objected to the DPRK's behaviour in the past. Exactly what do you expect them to do? They're not like the USA, running off to invade a sovereign nation every time they do something that America doesn't agree with. Perhaps the Chinese have learned that's not a good idea, having witnessed the immensely costly American failures in Cuba, Viet Nam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
2
Nice to know our Government can take our tax dollars, hire people to build bombs, and then sell them overseas to a nation that has troubles with one of it's neighbors. Then turn around and tell you we "can't afford" to hire people to provide a little health care ...for one of your neighbors.
11
The authors must be shills for the Communist Party in China. What else could explain their apologetic stance towards China, and their obvious dislike of Trump's actions? There is nothing of any significance that China has done in the recent past that has benefited the US, not while Bush was in charge, not while Obama was in charge, and not now. China's non-existent efforts at containing North Korea would be laughable, except their lack of action over several decades has allowed Kim Jong Un to build nuclear weapons, when they should've stopped him and his father a long time ago. China continues to run rough-shod over its neighbors in the South China Sea, so much so that even our former enemies in the area are concerned enough to come to us for help. They're building military bases on man-made islands that the United Nations has ruled are illegal. That's certainly not for America's benefit. For decades, we've kept the South China Sea open for all, they're trying to shut it down. They've been ramping up Communist control of Hong Kong ever since the British handed it back to the mainland. They don't (and never have) contributed anything to the fight against terrorism. Their recent stance on climate change is solely because the wealthier residents of Beijing and Shanghai started making noise about the constant air pollution, not because the government suddenly want to save the Earth. Stop pretending China does anything that's good for America. Trump is right to stand up to them.
24
Trump says American first; China says China first. I think that it is always assumed that countries do what is good for their national interest.
1
China did something awful while Obama was still President. Near the end of his presidency, he went on a trip to China, and when his plane landed, the Chinese didn't follow the usual procedure for having him disembark from the plane. This alarmed Obama's people, and they ended up getting into a shouting fight with the Chinese over it, right then and there. Then the Chinese personnel ended up saying something like, "This is our country, we can do what we want."
It wasn't covered in the news much, I think, and the one or two articles I read didn't specify what was omitted from the protocol. But, for instance, what should Obama's security people think of it? It's not the right way to treat the United States, the world's most powerful nation.
And it's like treating Obama like he's racially inferior. Imagine if some white person had done it to him. People would pick up on it right away as insulting and as a big deal.
I'm sure the Chinese did it on purpose, and it was probably meant to rock Obama psychologically or something like that, to forestall him doing anything tough against China while he was still around.
It wasn't covered in the news much, I think, and the one or two articles I read didn't specify what was omitted from the protocol. But, for instance, what should Obama's security people think of it? It's not the right way to treat the United States, the world's most powerful nation.
And it's like treating Obama like he's racially inferior. Imagine if some white person had done it to him. People would pick up on it right away as insulting and as a big deal.
I'm sure the Chinese did it on purpose, and it was probably meant to rock Obama psychologically or something like that, to forestall him doing anything tough against China while he was still around.
11
Want to shake up the equation ? Move our U.S. troops out of S. Korea or move them south and out of artillery range. After 70 years S. Korea should be able to support their border.
As well, it will remove the 40,000 American service men that act as hostages for, and protection against, collateral for the N. Korea to basically do what they want without any regard to retaliation.
As well, it will remove the 40,000 American service men that act as hostages for, and protection against, collateral for the N. Korea to basically do what they want without any regard to retaliation.
6
Why is China in a snit? They play the same game. Arms to the highest bidder. Iran, fine. North Korea, fine. What's the problem? Building artificial islands and arming them, fine.
Think of it in capitalist terms and not political.
Look, George W. received a call. The Spanish navy stopped a North Korean cargo ship. It's searched. Dozens and dozens of missiles bound for Yemen. Well, some time later they may be aimed at our troops.
The Spanish navy wants to know: sink the ship. Haul it into port and confiscated the missiles or (are you kidding me) let'em go.
George gives it a nanosecond of thought; "Let'em go."
And why? A prior signed contract before we were at odds with Yemen.
The Spanish Navy could have negated the contract then and there.
Money the supreme ruler.
I had the opportunity to ask Secretary Kissinger about that decision. He said that white house lawyers had convinced George that it was against international law. Kissinger said that he lost sleep over that decision.
It's happen to me too over spoiled seafood.
Think of it in capitalist terms and not political.
Look, George W. received a call. The Spanish navy stopped a North Korean cargo ship. It's searched. Dozens and dozens of missiles bound for Yemen. Well, some time later they may be aimed at our troops.
The Spanish navy wants to know: sink the ship. Haul it into port and confiscated the missiles or (are you kidding me) let'em go.
George gives it a nanosecond of thought; "Let'em go."
And why? A prior signed contract before we were at odds with Yemen.
The Spanish Navy could have negated the contract then and there.
Money the supreme ruler.
I had the opportunity to ask Secretary Kissinger about that decision. He said that white house lawyers had convinced George that it was against international law. Kissinger said that he lost sleep over that decision.
It's happen to me too over spoiled seafood.
5
Angering our Chinese overlords and benefactors is a bad idea. President Xi is playing the long game.
4
Trump may have misfired on many issues but on China, I believe he has seen the duplicity in their actions much sooner than his predecessors. China needs North Korea to keep S Korea, Japan, and the US on edge. They made a lot of token gestures in the past about curbing North Korea, but where the heck are they getting materials for the powerful rockets they have developed. In South Asia, they are developing the Silk Road which is going to indebt many of the participating nations, serves China's purpose immensely but the other generally poorer nations are there for the ride. And they are the all-weather friend to the Pakistanis whose sole aim is to keep India at bay at all costs. Serves China's purpose very well.
15
I think that nearly every president has run into problems with China when it comes to Hong Kong and Taiwan. China doesn't like to be undermined. Nor does any other sovereign country.
6
What gains. You might try dong a little calculating. Over the last 30 years the Americans have transferred a NET of over 4 trillion dollars of the hard working Americans' wealth to the Chinese. This does not even account for the stolen intellectual property. In net terms US has absolutely gained nothing from China Of course this idiocy was approved by previous presidents and corporation with the big China carrot of 1 billion people dangling in front of their greedy selves like sugar plums. Is there any promise that China is going to open up to foreign markets. Why would they. They now have the technology, the wealth (our wealth) and the desire to look after their people. A system of managed trade where the Chinese would have been forced to up their wages, working conditions and not limit their imports along with variable limits on US import would have served the US well. But managed trade requires real work. Thirty years ago and many subsequent years after, China was on the mat and would have done anything to accommodate the US-now its game over. India is cited as having too many regulatory road block so the US stayed away from there. But this was a false flag. India is a democracy and unions in India would have had higher wages but over all I believe the trade would have been more equitable. Free trade where one partner constantly bend over is nonsense.
26
A kindred spirit. Yes, 30 years ago we made a fateful decision to switch from containment to Engagement (mostly at the behest of corporate donor$).
7
I think Trump is probably attending the daily intelligence briefings now.
He ran for president believing that foreign heads of state would respond to him a lot better than they have to anyone else. Now that he has experience as president, he's less naive and notices that some other nations, like Russia and China, are our enemies.
He's reacting to that China is being insincere in its cooperation over North Korea. We're trying to disarm a cruel, wild, criminal, and rogue enemy that wants to be able to point nuclear weapons at us. And that's not what China wants. They want North Korea to be a henchman (for use against us), and they're trying to slip that under the door. That's even while all attention, like huge spotlights, are focused on this thing, and we're treating it as one of our most important issues. It's like it goes beyond disrespect to the point of being stupidity instead.
We're still at peace now, but beyond North Korea is China, and I don't think there's really room enough in Dodge for both of us. The world's going to be a much worse world, including for America, with China having the influence of a super power.
He ran for president believing that foreign heads of state would respond to him a lot better than they have to anyone else. Now that he has experience as president, he's less naive and notices that some other nations, like Russia and China, are our enemies.
He's reacting to that China is being insincere in its cooperation over North Korea. We're trying to disarm a cruel, wild, criminal, and rogue enemy that wants to be able to point nuclear weapons at us. And that's not what China wants. They want North Korea to be a henchman (for use against us), and they're trying to slip that under the door. That's even while all attention, like huge spotlights, are focused on this thing, and we're treating it as one of our most important issues. It's like it goes beyond disrespect to the point of being stupidity instead.
We're still at peace now, but beyond North Korea is China, and I don't think there's really room enough in Dodge for both of us. The world's going to be a much worse world, including for America, with China having the influence of a super power.
9
The fact that Trump apparently has NOT in fact noticed that Russia is our enemy undermines your argument, I'm afraid.
And who opened the position for China to be a "super power"?
You think so? Remember, he knows more than the generals. For him, nuke the whole of NK and problem solved.
“The United States has stabbed us in the back,”
...is an interesting argument. What the Chinese are saying is that the protectionist measures that they apply to US companies (that include stealing and forcing to hand over IP) are justified but that the US should not be allowed even (much milder) protectionist actions. It's hypocrisy to the max.
North Korean warmongering has been supported and encouraged by the CHinese who are selling the Koreans oil and high tech equipment for their warheads. They could stop it tomorrow. What Trump did is simple common sense, which Obama unfortunately could not see.
Regarding Taiwan (and Tibet), the Chinese have been blackmailing the entire world and it is time for the blackmailing to stop. One has to applaud Trump to call Chinese bullying as we all see it. China has increasingly become a menace for the stability in the South China sea and Asia in general, and the world has too often acquiesced in order to preserve economic deals. What Trump is saying is that China needs the US more than the other way around. And he is right.
...is an interesting argument. What the Chinese are saying is that the protectionist measures that they apply to US companies (that include stealing and forcing to hand over IP) are justified but that the US should not be allowed even (much milder) protectionist actions. It's hypocrisy to the max.
North Korean warmongering has been supported and encouraged by the CHinese who are selling the Koreans oil and high tech equipment for their warheads. They could stop it tomorrow. What Trump did is simple common sense, which Obama unfortunately could not see.
Regarding Taiwan (and Tibet), the Chinese have been blackmailing the entire world and it is time for the blackmailing to stop. One has to applaud Trump to call Chinese bullying as we all see it. China has increasingly become a menace for the stability in the South China sea and Asia in general, and the world has too often acquiesced in order to preserve economic deals. What Trump is saying is that China needs the US more than the other way around. And he is right.
22
Well put, but few readers will applaud Trump.
All well said except the last part: they both hold and buy our endless debt: we need them too. Do not kid yourself cowboy. We did not give them our money: they lent us their money. The way to deal with them is with a loaded gun on your hip for its government does not respect the rule of law. Then and only then will it "understand".
"Unravel gains" with China? The Chinese have a vested interest in keeping the North Korea situation exactly where it is. It keeps us off-balance, causes us to spend resources that we can ill afford to spend (sending the carrier fleet over there can't be cheap) and keeps us distracted from dealing with the menace that China presents by soaking up our jobs, our technology and just in general, our wealth. Trump gave the Chinese a chance to do something. They didn't (you didn't really expect them to, did you) so I'm encouraged to see him acting in our best interest. We've had too many decades of bending over backwards to the Chinese, all at our expense. Good to see some spine on this side of the pond.
17
I don't disgree we need to change how we deal with China, but Trump is certainly NOT the right person for the job.
1
wow i am gonna get a bunch of flack but i think china is doing nothing at all different then what we kind of did at the start of the last century. for man years we Americans complain about being the world's policeman, benefactor, whatever word of choice one wants to submit. hey sit back and watch the next world's super power take on the job. that is what has been put in the office of alternate facts. well time marches on. who used to be in charge? oh yeah it was rome. then us ahem. maybe china wants the job
5
tell me how freedom and democracy work out for the orphans, widows, the maimed, the wounded, and the dead in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and Syria.
the u.s. has never been the world's policeman. it's more like a rogue cop.
the u.s. has never been the world's policeman. it's more like a rogue cop.
We don't want foreign powers in our back yard and China feels likewise. Trump's dismal failures will be forgiven if he can work out the deal of his life : peaceful coexistence with China.
5
One cannot co-exist with tyranny; one must confront it. States have permanent interests not friends and the US and China have opposing geopolitical interests and always will.
I've always been for a middle path with China, not hostile containment but cooperation with verification of trust, and checks and balances to keep China from overreaching to become harmful.
That said, China has not helped produce meaningful results over 20 years w/regard to North Korea's nuclear threat, and it is becoming ever more critical that they do so. China should see this nuclear destabilization as a result of their lack of responsibility.
North Korea threatening to deploy nuclear missiles and nuclear ICBM's should NOT be regarded as "business as usual" nor "status quo". It will be destabilizing. The USA has been patient, but it will predictably become only practical to escalate defenses if NK does field nuclear ICBMs. China should expect to have missile defenses deployed throughout the region, and regional military tensions increase, because the calculus is not MAD but rather a reasonable chance of defense against annihilation from a state government that is aberrantly criminal in the modern world.
That said, China has not helped produce meaningful results over 20 years w/regard to North Korea's nuclear threat, and it is becoming ever more critical that they do so. China should see this nuclear destabilization as a result of their lack of responsibility.
North Korea threatening to deploy nuclear missiles and nuclear ICBM's should NOT be regarded as "business as usual" nor "status quo". It will be destabilizing. The USA has been patient, but it will predictably become only practical to escalate defenses if NK does field nuclear ICBMs. China should expect to have missile defenses deployed throughout the region, and regional military tensions increase, because the calculus is not MAD but rather a reasonable chance of defense against annihilation from a state government that is aberrantly criminal in the modern world.
7
A wag the dog strategy. Raise the tension with China and people forget about his senseless twits, health care and job creation failures, sending Hillary to jail , incessant lying and on an on.
There's method to this man's madness.
There's method to this man's madness.
8
In other news China's navy just commissioned a new destroyer and a new frigate within two days. China is also testing a new light battle tank in Tibet.
7
In other news, the US has the largest military in the world by so much it dwarfs the next 10 militaries when combined together: what is your point?
China is biding it's time and gaining strength while we can't avoid a cargo ship. Getting tied up in this mess called the Middle East for a few decades has taken a significant toll on air and land forces. Also are missile silos are in need of repair and upgrading.
History tells us that at one time the British Empire was the most powerful in the world. Thirteen colonies decided to take a stand against all odds and then things started to change for England.
Get my point.
History tells us that at one time the British Empire was the most powerful in the world. Thirteen colonies decided to take a stand against all odds and then things started to change for England.
Get my point.
The NYT's criticism of Donald Trump is spot-on in most cases, but please don't throw Taiwan under the bus just to make Trump look bad again. He has no problem doing that on his own.
The Trump administration may have approved the arms sales to Taiwan, but...
(1) the negotiations for the details of that package had been in place since the Obama administration
(2) the arms are entirely defensive, and most of them merely incremental upgrades to Taiwan's aging military equipment
(3) Beijing makes the same noises every time there is arms sales to Taiwan...under every Presidential administration, Democratic or Republican.
(4) Taiwan is a de facto nation under a democratically-elected government. It's population is something like 3% of China's, and its defense budget is a fraction of China's. China spent $611 billion in 2016, Taiwan spent $9.9 billion.
(5) Taiwan does not threaten China (which would be laughable in any case.) But China's official, declared government policy is to take Taiwan by force should peaceful "reunification" not be possible.
The Trump administration may have approved the arms sales to Taiwan, but...
(1) the negotiations for the details of that package had been in place since the Obama administration
(2) the arms are entirely defensive, and most of them merely incremental upgrades to Taiwan's aging military equipment
(3) Beijing makes the same noises every time there is arms sales to Taiwan...under every Presidential administration, Democratic or Republican.
(4) Taiwan is a de facto nation under a democratically-elected government. It's population is something like 3% of China's, and its defense budget is a fraction of China's. China spent $611 billion in 2016, Taiwan spent $9.9 billion.
(5) Taiwan does not threaten China (which would be laughable in any case.) But China's official, declared government policy is to take Taiwan by force should peaceful "reunification" not be possible.
11
We arm Taiwan because China arms North Korea. Let's not kid each other. It is geopolitical grand chess and it will not end.
For once, I actually agree with the steps that the Trump Administration has taken. Given that Chinese trade with North Korea has increased since Trump came into office, it is more than clear that a change in strategy is necessary. Any solution to the North Korean nuclear program starts and ends with China, and it is important for the US to prod them in the right direction.
16
As we’ve seen, Twitter is well-suited to hurling nasty insults. When Trump spewed his ugly, undisciplined and unpresidential tweets about Mika Brzezinski he provoked justifiable outrage. However, what’s even more unsettling are Trump’s tweets involving foreign relations. International diplomacy hinges on carefully worded statements, and nuanced communiques. Trump has used Twitter to express disappointment with China over its handling of North Korea. I was in Hong Kong earlier this year, as the situation with North Korea was heating up. While on that side of the Pacific, it was very clear to me that the United States needed to be seen as acting in a clear and thought out manner. In such situations, Twitter does not inspire confidence.
As Trump’s tweets regarding Qatar have further shown, 140 characters can wield extraordinary damage which other parts of the U.S. government must then work overtime to repair. When Trump tweeted about Qatar, he seemed unmindful of the consequences for 10,000 American military personnel stationed there. There are 28,000 American troops in South Korea, and another 50,000 in Japan. Without the support of China, Trump is putting those troops at risk. Before Trump again takes to Twitter to opine about China, he should ponder the weight of his responsibilities as Commander-in-Chief, and put the phone down.
As Trump’s tweets regarding Qatar have further shown, 140 characters can wield extraordinary damage which other parts of the U.S. government must then work overtime to repair. When Trump tweeted about Qatar, he seemed unmindful of the consequences for 10,000 American military personnel stationed there. There are 28,000 American troops in South Korea, and another 50,000 in Japan. Without the support of China, Trump is putting those troops at risk. Before Trump again takes to Twitter to opine about China, he should ponder the weight of his responsibilities as Commander-in-Chief, and put the phone down.
11
China got played. Surprise, surprise! Welcome to Trumpworld. Anyone and everyone who has ever been involved with trump has learned he can't be trusted, from contractors to voters. Yet people continue to do business with him or support him. Fool me once....
8
So Make America Great Again means Do Not Trust It Anymore?
5
So the Chinese are confused about Trump's erratic foreign policy and his spontaneous tweets. Well, welcome to the club. Trump doesn't have a foreign policy because he can't think that far ahead and because he's already engaged in a war. A war with the media. Maybe if President Trump were to allow Secretary Tillerson to actually run the State department we might have a cohesive foreign policy, but it doesn't look like that will happen anytime soon.
44
While I'm no fan of Trump, slapping the sanctions on the Chinese bank might make sense if it were part of a broader, consistent strategy to try to restrain North Korea's looming nuclear/intercontinental missile threat. The problem is, we have a president who doubtless does not fully understand the issue, who refuses to fully staff his State and Defense Departments with appropriate experts, and who as a result fully falls short of constructing such a strategy.
The broader lesson for world leaders is that once again we see our president acting naively friendly one day only to reverse himself and perpetuate his inconsistency the next. Not exactly a model those leaders will look to for leadership or partnership.
The broader lesson for world leaders is that once again we see our president acting naively friendly one day only to reverse himself and perpetuate his inconsistency the next. Not exactly a model those leaders will look to for leadership or partnership.
24
Reply to Steve Golub NYT PICK: Or perhaps it is the iron hand inside the velvet glove. While Trump is a bully, lazy, and entitled, he is not clueless entirely.
I think this article should have noted that the American beef "win" came at a cost - which is that the US will now allow the import of cooked Chinese chicken products. Given the numerous food safety concerns that have plagued China for years, I, for one, will be extremely focused on making sure Chinese chicken isn't on my kids' dinner plates.
1
Re: China and NK
Is the administration's plan to just pressure someone else to take care of the problem? They seems to pass the buck on a lot of issues, even continuing to blame Obama for things. Now they're blaming another country?
Is the administration's plan to just pressure someone else to take care of the problem? They seems to pass the buck on a lot of issues, even continuing to blame Obama for things. Now they're blaming another country?
2
Pretty sure President Obama blamed bush plenty....even in his second term which was years later. North korea is obamas fault, and bush, and Clinton and Bush before that.
"The United States has stabbed us in the back."
The pot calling the kettle black.
The pot calling the kettle black.
6
Letting North Korea continue with its shenanigans suits China very much. China does not want a Korea unified under democracy and US leaning, bordering its lands. China has never had any intention of cooperating with the US on North Korea.
Like Pakistan's use of non-state actors to give itself a cover of deniability and absolve itself of any blame, N.Korea is China's non-state actor.
The US should tell China that should N.Korea launch any attack on American soil, the US will hold China equally responsible.
Like Pakistan's use of non-state actors to give itself a cover of deniability and absolve itself of any blame, N.Korea is China's non-state actor.
The US should tell China that should N.Korea launch any attack on American soil, the US will hold China equally responsible.
5
Sweeping away red tape through bluff, bluster and brinksmanship may work in real estate. Not so much in international relations, where the stakes are higher and the risks are to nations and governments, not corporations and individuals.
It will take a slow learner a long time to understand this.
It will take a slow learner a long time to understand this.
3
Then you will need lots of time.
Gunboat diplomacy is as old as the world. We have geopolitical interests the Chinese want to negate. It wants hegemony in the S. China Sea and is now taking it by force; intends to remove democracy in Hong Kong and Taiwan; and to neutralize Japan. One Belt One Road is designed to create vassal colonial sates throughout Asia to power its economy.
While I dislike Trump, he understands this reality. I prefer American freedom and stupidity to Chinese tyranny. The former is marginally benevolent.
Gunboat diplomacy is as old as the world. We have geopolitical interests the Chinese want to negate. It wants hegemony in the S. China Sea and is now taking it by force; intends to remove democracy in Hong Kong and Taiwan; and to neutralize Japan. One Belt One Road is designed to create vassal colonial sates throughout Asia to power its economy.
While I dislike Trump, he understands this reality. I prefer American freedom and stupidity to Chinese tyranny. The former is marginally benevolent.
It's more than just "provocative moves".
It's the utterly unplanned, non-strategic, apparently random and almost whimsical nature of these "moves".
And the terrifyingly erratic nature of Trump and his gang. China, and (perhaps soon-to-be-former) allies like Australia, South Korea, Canada, Europe are appalled by Trump's erratic and totally unpredictable behavior. That's why they're all backing away and distancing themselves from the US. And then we have NO allies? (Russia and Saudis don't count)
It's the utterly unplanned, non-strategic, apparently random and almost whimsical nature of these "moves".
And the terrifyingly erratic nature of Trump and his gang. China, and (perhaps soon-to-be-former) allies like Australia, South Korea, Canada, Europe are appalled by Trump's erratic and totally unpredictable behavior. That's why they're all backing away and distancing themselves from the US. And then we have NO allies? (Russia and Saudis don't count)
3
Trump's "unplanned" move to sell Taiwan weaponry has been the clear policy of each US administration since 1949.
1
The US economy is about 750 times as big as the North Korean economy.
China can do the math and determine how many millions of Chinese workers depend on trade with the US.
Or they can continue to prop up North Korea and hope that the eventual nuclear fallout doesn't drift onto Chinese territory.
China can do the math and determine how many millions of Chinese workers depend on trade with the US.
Or they can continue to prop up North Korea and hope that the eventual nuclear fallout doesn't drift onto Chinese territory.
3
There are no "set backs" with China. We are enemies and you had better realize it.
2
@Al
Like we are with Russia?
Like we are with Russia?
Another brilliant move by Team Trump to hit the gas pedal so we can enter the Thucydidean Trap sooner rather than later
Trump plans to get us into WW3 if he's found guilty of influencing the outcome of his election by collusion with Russia. He's making moves both in China and the Middle East to make it easier to take action there. Once the big boys start dropping their bombs there will be no turning back until the population has been substantially reduced around the world.
Ironically, this may over the long run actually help to reduce global warming.
Ironically, this may over the long run actually help to reduce global warming.
Seems things aren't connected in the mind of Mr. Trump. He takes action with no apparent consideration of the inevitable payback.
1
By allowing a transaction already agreed upon by the previous admin?
1
I really don't care if China is furious. China is illegally building new islands in South china sea and pretending it can exclude shipping thru that area. China has done nothing in N korea. China gets all huffy when we review deals with Chinese companies to buy US companies, yet to do business in China the US companies have to share/give up their technology, if they can do business at all. China says they are pro environment, yet they are not required to reduce coal use as much because they are a "developing country" . They abuse their own people, their legal system is based on what the communist party wants, and all their leaders and leader's families are filthy rich, including XI's family. China is not an equal party and everyone in the US is afraid to do anything.
6
"Provocative moves"? No, bold, right minded moves. The Chinese now understand that the weak kneed, fuzzy lovey Obama foreign policy era is over. North Korea is a clear and present danger and we will not tolerate Chinese duplicity with respect to containing them. We will not kick this can down the road any longer. They both need to shape up now or their will be military consequences.
China is a COMMUNIST dictatorship and does not share many common values or goals. It was a mistake to give them the economic keys to our industries and markets 20 years ago, and now Trump is now standing tall as promised for America and democratic allies like Formosa (the real China). Rock on Mr. President.
China is a COMMUNIST dictatorship and does not share many common values or goals. It was a mistake to give them the economic keys to our industries and markets 20 years ago, and now Trump is now standing tall as promised for America and democratic allies like Formosa (the real China). Rock on Mr. President.
4
You mean you prefer the tails we lose heads you win policy of the Obama administration. Arms sales to Taiwan are routine as is Chinese bluster after every announcment and we sell them beef and don't have the right to close off there funding of North Korea? This is all well done diplomacy.
2
I'm puzzled that the trump administration has continued the seemingly "Two Chinas" policy, as they have nothing but contempt for US foreign policy since 1945.
Hopefully now there'll be a 'coalition of the willing' to confront the behemoth and its insane, unpredictable leader - Russia, China, Iran and any other democratic or dictatorial regime. We've become a menace to the rest of the world, with our policies towards fossil fuels and world domination!
Until China:
--gives foreign companies the same treatment as domestic, state owned companies in loan terms, etc
--stops giving fuel/food to north korea so the north can spend its entire Gdp on nukes to point at us; and
--stops stealing intellecutal property from foreign companies via forcing partnering with a domestic company,
the relationship will be strained.
--gives foreign companies the same treatment as domestic, state owned companies in loan terms, etc
--stops giving fuel/food to north korea so the north can spend its entire Gdp on nukes to point at us; and
--stops stealing intellecutal property from foreign companies via forcing partnering with a domestic company,
the relationship will be strained.
5
Instead of sanction against the bank, US should help China contribute to the lost profit of that bank and shut off the spigot. Boots down there to monitor banking activities.
As for Taiwan, it is far better for US to let the Tsai administration sink. A weak Taiwan is far better than a stronger one even though it sounds counter intuitive. The crux of the problem is Tsai's attempt to rewrite the understanding China have with Taiwan One China Two System interpretation.
Trump should have just wait, let a new Taiwanese administration come in before selling arms to her and China won't complain as aggressively. There is really no danger of Chinese attack, so why sell arms now?
As for Taiwan, it is far better for US to let the Tsai administration sink. A weak Taiwan is far better than a stronger one even though it sounds counter intuitive. The crux of the problem is Tsai's attempt to rewrite the understanding China have with Taiwan One China Two System interpretation.
Trump should have just wait, let a new Taiwanese administration come in before selling arms to her and China won't complain as aggressively. There is really no danger of Chinese attack, so why sell arms now?
1
And hows that interpretation working out for hong kong? Oh wait it's not.
1
Whoever takes Trump's words seriously is stupid. Foreign leaders should have realized this by now. At this moment, US administration is a collection of random people with conflicting interests with no leader.
4
Short of war, pressure from China is the only path to de-nuclearizing N. Korea. I'll trade beef exports for that.
I think Trump is and will be a terrible president but I have no gripe with this.
I think Trump is and will be a terrible president but I have no gripe with this.
5
Nixon opened China. Trump is closing it.
It looked to me like China _was_ following through on its promise to get tougher on North Korea when it suspended fuel sales to North Korea through its China National Petroleum Company. The Reuters story about that suspension, which appeared in the NYT 2 days ago, noted that private sellers of gasoline in Pyongyang and the northern border cities of Sinuiju and Hyesan had raised prices by 50 percent since April 21. That's the kind of pressure that could influence North Korea without causing it to lose face. I wonder if President Trump saw that story; if not, someone should bring it to his attention.
5
It would be good to read about the smuggling of fuel and coal from NK into China.
1
I have the best deal you can make with North Korea you have a bunch of North Korean soldiers standing around doing nothing. Why don't we offer them a bucket full of money and in exchange we get out of Afghanistan and they go in. We can then save so much money and get single payer over here.
3
The only way the North Korea problem will be solved is if both the Chinese and the US are all in. (No need to mention the South Koreans. They clearly want a peaceful resolution. It is their lives will sacrificed by the hundreds of thousands -- sort of like Iraq.) What the US and the Chinese have to agree on is very similar to the situation in Europe at the end of the Cold War. Then the question was whether a united Germany would be tolerated. Now it is whether a united Korea would be tolerated and what that united Korea would look like. If the US really wanted a deal the US would agree to significantly reducing or removing its military presence including missiles in the united Korea. This is something both the Chinese and the vast majority of the South Korean population would be happy to see (check any poll and the recent election). Start negotiations on what a united Korea would look like and the significant reduction removal of US military presence in the Korean peninsula -- the North Korea problem can be quickly solved. It is the US that is really the intransigent party. The US knows what needs to be done but for the same neo con pro meddling, military intervention and regime change forces that initiated the Pacific Pivot and continues to stir up trouble in the South Seas are going to fight tooth and nail to prevent the peaceful resolution of this matter that both China and South Korea want.
3
While North Korea is the U.S. priority, I would have thought supplying arms to Taiwan would have been a bigger deal for China. As noted, the arms sale represents a physical violation of national sovereignty from the Chinese perspective. The equivalent counter measure would have China messing around in Guam. The situation can deteriorate rapidly from there.
That said, the U.S. has more legitimacy in acting unilaterally against North Korea vis-à-vis China. However, I can understand why China is upset. First, China is actually under nuclear threat now. It's not a hypothetical for them. Second, Trump just cold-clocked Chinese business without so much as a phone call first. There are no small number of ways in which China can retaliate to the offense.
I don't think employing New York real estate tactics is really going to accomplish much here. China is asking Trump to back down. If he doesn't, I expect the U.S. is going to get burned in one way or another.
That said, the U.S. has more legitimacy in acting unilaterally against North Korea vis-à-vis China. However, I can understand why China is upset. First, China is actually under nuclear threat now. It's not a hypothetical for them. Second, Trump just cold-clocked Chinese business without so much as a phone call first. There are no small number of ways in which China can retaliate to the offense.
I don't think employing New York real estate tactics is really going to accomplish much here. China is asking Trump to back down. If he doesn't, I expect the U.S. is going to get burned in one way or another.
6
Provocative moves: such as China putting trade sanctions on South Korea in response to allowing THAAD (a defensive system) to be deployed on its territory? Or, the insulting treatment of President Obama (and by extension the entire U.S.) when he visited China a little more than a year ago (remember that)? And you think President Trump is crude?? China has been a double-dealer with respect to NK for a very long time, and the time has come for them to absorb more of the risk that firm dealing with NK will entail. Their failure to do so should be met with steadily increasing doses of stronger medicine until they get the message.
10
Since the State Department is in a state of ignorant neglect by the Trump Administration there is no real approach to China, except Trump tweets. Sending arms to Taiwan and getting out Paris Green House accord are right boiler plate. More serious is President Xi's distain for Trump because of Trump's love "shiny objects" and neglect of diplomacy leaving a serious void in Chinese/American relations. China will not allow the overthrow of the N. Korean regime. No matter what dangerous activities N. Korea is engaged in. The idea of the US and its allies moving up to the Chinese border brings back the same situation that precipitated Chinese intervention in the Korean War.
3
"except the Trump administration seemed to forget that the “win-win” part requires reciprocation"
Trump takes but does not pay? We knew that.
He is not unique in American foreign policy behavior.
Trump takes but does not pay? We knew that.
He is not unique in American foreign policy behavior.
11
I only ask...what rules guide the Chinese leaders? I am in favour of the sale, but not in favour of the overall philosophy which Trump espouses, which is me, me and more me. And it appears he still has many supporters who think the same way. They rob Americans and they snub others. The GOP first and foremost.
While administration officials said Mr. Trump had grown increasingly frustrated with China for not putting more pressure on North Korea over its nuclear and missile programs,
As yesterday's tweets demonstrate, Trump's decisions are always thoughtfully considered and thoroughly vetted.
As yesterday's tweets demonstrate, Trump's decisions are always thoughtfully considered and thoroughly vetted.
4
Humiliating China might make the Trump base happy, but there is a larger picture that gets lost in the fog of political passions.
During the Ming Dynasty, China missed her opportunity to rule the world for the basic reason that the Emperor didn't know there was a world outside China. The current rulers of China, for all practical purposes modern-day emperors, are not making the same mistake.
Trump and his followers, from the white working class to the oil and gambling executives and military men in his entourage, know nothing about world history, and it shows. The Trump's "administration" guiding principle is ignorance, not knowledge.
Under Trump and the glorification of ignorance that is gripping the US, Americans are losing the game to China, and Trump's petty attempts at humiliating her doesn't alter this fact. This is obvious to any keen observer who travels the world; but as the Ming Court of the past, many Americans seem not realize there is a world beyond the US borders.
During the Ming Dynasty, China missed her opportunity to rule the world for the basic reason that the Emperor didn't know there was a world outside China. The current rulers of China, for all practical purposes modern-day emperors, are not making the same mistake.
Trump and his followers, from the white working class to the oil and gambling executives and military men in his entourage, know nothing about world history, and it shows. The Trump's "administration" guiding principle is ignorance, not knowledge.
Under Trump and the glorification of ignorance that is gripping the US, Americans are losing the game to China, and Trump's petty attempts at humiliating her doesn't alter this fact. This is obvious to any keen observer who travels the world; but as the Ming Court of the past, many Americans seem not realize there is a world beyond the US borders.
90
Uhhh...yeah because the USA, along with Western European nations are the most integrated communities in the world..and invented the technological and political means of achieving that integration..They just can't see beyond their borders?...But china which is hopelessly lost obsessing in it's humilities and constructing a political means of authoritarianism and hierarchy has the means of producing profound benefits to the world's progress and humanity...Not going to happen..study the world's history and it's humanity.
1
Monckton in SF: As a Canadian, and therefore an observer from outside your borders, your comments make perfect sense. Recent actions by our own Canadian government seem to indicate growing frustration with the "conflicting signals" and "widespread confusion" emanating from Washington. If your closest neighbours, who know you and like you best, are taking action to insulate themselves from this frightening and unpredictable situation it doesn't bode well for US relations with the rest of the world.
Correct move but wrong person at the helm. The current status quo with China and their support of NK is wholly unacceptable. Chinese strategy is to maintain it's trade status quo[a $350 billion annual trade surplus with US] while doing the bare minimum. They are hoping as long they provide lip-service and tokin gestures to make Trump "look good" is sufficient enough. However China underestimated Trump's growing unpopularity domestically. This will divert some attentions and fulfill some of his campaign promises at the same time, and if Trump is lucky China might concede and implement real substantive sanctions on NK. That's Trump's version of "win-win".
8
Why the confusion about a confusing US policy (or absence of same)? Has it not yet sunk in that Trump has no intellectual ability to conceptualize much less implement any coherent policy? On any topic?
Since his entry into the political arena it is obvious he is a generally ignorant, impulsive and undoubtably mentally unstable person---what type of policies and interactions would be expected from such a person? The answer is just what we are getting. A serious attempt to remove him from office is clearly the only rational solution, one the Republican Party seems unwilling to pursue no matter the cost to our society, the world, and to basic human decency.
This king is stark naked, and it's not a pretty sight.
Since his entry into the political arena it is obvious he is a generally ignorant, impulsive and undoubtably mentally unstable person---what type of policies and interactions would be expected from such a person? The answer is just what we are getting. A serious attempt to remove him from office is clearly the only rational solution, one the Republican Party seems unwilling to pursue no matter the cost to our society, the world, and to basic human decency.
This king is stark naked, and it's not a pretty sight.
19
sigh...
There is no way to remove him from office. He has done nothing impeachable. Being stupid, boorish, absurd in his behavior and tweeting is not "high crimes and misdemeanors". There is no evidence of collusion or obstruction. You can wish upon a star all day long, it doesn't make it so.
Hatred of trump is not grounds. You lost, get over it. Trump is the worst candidate we've had in a long time,( ?ever), yet he beat HRC.
Suggestion: Stop being anti trump, give the people a reason to vote for democrats, otherwise you lose, again, in 2020.
There is no way to remove him from office. He has done nothing impeachable. Being stupid, boorish, absurd in his behavior and tweeting is not "high crimes and misdemeanors". There is no evidence of collusion or obstruction. You can wish upon a star all day long, it doesn't make it so.
Hatred of trump is not grounds. You lost, get over it. Trump is the worst candidate we've had in a long time,( ?ever), yet he beat HRC.
Suggestion: Stop being anti trump, give the people a reason to vote for democrats, otherwise you lose, again, in 2020.
1
Trump pressured US Congressman to pass a health care bill and then called it mean. He's an ego-driven fool that will stab anyone in the back. World leaders are not idiots and they will not trust Trump - but they will play his ego to get what they want.
28
Does anyone want to wager than Trump knows nothing of this new deal---when you are up all night and morning trading insults with Joe and Mika, who has time for China relations.
39
China is replacing the United States as the world's most popular nation by doing things that we used to do around the world - building highways, airports, shipping terminals, hospitals, etc. I was impressed on a recent visit to Sri Lanka just how much "foreign aid" that country had received from China but nothing from the U.S. But I suppose our military presence is what's needed.
97
China is not providing aid. It is providing loans at interest. This is the new form of colonization. With SriLanka not being able to pay the loans, it has been forced to give China a stake in the ports etc. Thus giving China control over SriLanka's sovereignty.
Google SriLanka China debt
OR read this article -
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-40044113
Google SriLanka China debt
OR read this article -
http://www.bbc.com/news/business-40044113
4
China is popular?Where?And you could draw these conclusions from a single trip to Sri Lanka? Just look at the South China Sea situation and decide.
The infrastructure is designed and built by Chinese. There's no transfer of expertise. Not the immediate economic boost you'd get by employing your people.
Like much of what China does, it's very clever. It looks good to people who are so eager to see the rise of a new superpower that they don't notice it's putting its thumb on the scale. That'll change in a few years when the bill comes due.
Like much of what China does, it's very clever. It looks good to people who are so eager to see the rise of a new superpower that they don't notice it's putting its thumb on the scale. That'll change in a few years when the bill comes due.
"Lurching" foreign policy. Indeed.
Foreign relations require patience, coddling, and resoluteness--qualities DT simply lacks.
He can't treat other countries, allies or adversaries, like building trades and contractors. What works (at least for Trump) in NYC is less likely to influence partners.
And it might be a good idea to call President Xi instead of slapping sanctions on his banks just because you're peeved he isn't moving as fast on North Korea as you think he should.
Foreign relations require patience, coddling, and resoluteness--qualities DT simply lacks.
He can't treat other countries, allies or adversaries, like building trades and contractors. What works (at least for Trump) in NYC is less likely to influence partners.
And it might be a good idea to call President Xi instead of slapping sanctions on his banks just because you're peeved he isn't moving as fast on North Korea as you think he should.
33
How could U.S. sell arms to Tainwan if you were DT?
Chinese communist party bellies will be full of expensive, dry aged steaks. That should be enough to avoid conflict and/or economic disruption over Taiwan.
1
Trump's policy: I do and say what I want, you react. So far, we are relying on the maturity and dignity of all involved. But it is still early.
8
I actually support President Trump sending arms to Taiwan.
China needs to stop pretending it does NOT have an aggressive agenda.
It has taken repeated actions in the South China Sea, for years, which demonstrate a clear intent to assert its regional power status, upsetting its many neighbors.
The US putting weapons on Taiwan gives the US more leverage over the North Korea threat.
The US should continue to counter China aggressively, until NORTH KOREA IS COMPLETELY AND IRREVERSIBLE DISARMED OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS IN VERIFIABLE FACT.
Period.
China needs to stop pretending it does NOT have an aggressive agenda.
It has taken repeated actions in the South China Sea, for years, which demonstrate a clear intent to assert its regional power status, upsetting its many neighbors.
The US putting weapons on Taiwan gives the US more leverage over the North Korea threat.
The US should continue to counter China aggressively, until NORTH KOREA IS COMPLETELY AND IRREVERSIBLE DISARMED OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS IN VERIFIABLE FACT.
Period.
44
Taiwan is a part of China. The United States recognizes that fact in that it has NO diplomatic ties to Taiwan as a seperate nation. Is this what we should be belicose about?
You would allow the tail to wag the dog and lose the bone in doing so.
You would allow the tail to wag the dog and lose the bone in doing so.
7
How?
It takes a strategy and tactics to support the strategy. It takes time. It takes wisdom. It takes understanding of other cultures and what drives others to act as they do.
Our president knows nothing of China's history, understands nothing about international relations and acts only based on what his minions tell him will make his poorly educated (his words, not mine) supporters feel good.
This will not end well.
It takes a strategy and tactics to support the strategy. It takes time. It takes wisdom. It takes understanding of other cultures and what drives others to act as they do.
Our president knows nothing of China's history, understands nothing about international relations and acts only based on what his minions tell him will make his poorly educated (his words, not mine) supporters feel good.
This will not end well.
Ask Trump's daughter where her "fashion" line is made. When Trump was on Letterman's show, Dave admired his tie and asked him where it was made....China.
Even if Trump had an aneurysm today, it would take many years for the leaders of other countries to see the US as stable, reliable, and trustworthy again.
30
Selling U.S. beef to a vast market like China will sharply reduce the supply of "tasty, wholesome" beef available for U.S. consumers. Incredibly, Trump has chosen to implement this new policy to coincide with the start of America's annual backyard barbeque season.
When the supply of beef goes DOWN, beef prices go UP. Put that on your grill this Independence Day.
When the supply of beef goes DOWN, beef prices go UP. Put that on your grill this Independence Day.
3
Producers also produce more when a market opens up, right?
5
Cattle ranchers will be able to ramp up production as soon as this summer? Try five years. Meantime, if you like steak buy it now. You'll need a second mortgage by Labor Day. Oh... but there's a bright side. In exchange for exporting the beef you were hoping to eat to rich Chinese, the Trump administration has agreed to accept a flood of Chinese processed chicken imports into the US. So instead of grilled steak you can eat Chinese processed chicken. Sounds like a good deal to me.
Our president (in name only) has no ability to stop his lying or contradictions. He says one thing and sooner (usually) or later he contradicts himself with his next words or actions. We in America understand that this man has no control over his astonishing intellectual and ethical flaw. We have learned not to trust him. Now the rest of the world is catching on. China knows this now. The world leaders who attend the G-20 meeting next week are well aware that his man, who is so deeply flawed, is anything but a leader. The rest of the world will do what it must to separate itself from his nonsense. So we should expect the worst and get ready for one hit after another that rips away at our former self-respect. That we are stuck with this man for 4 years is horrifying---much damage will be done. And rest assured the Republican "leadership" and those who voted for this unpresidential misfit will not disassociate themselves from him.
18
Want a Deal China? Shutdown North Korea and we will not sell arms to Taiwan.
39
This is not a policy, this is The Price Is Right.
2
Agree with the sentiment but the people of Taiwan should not be used this way. I hope that's not Trump's game.
3
If you had any idea how things work in the world, you wouldn't post simplistic, uninformed half-thoughts like this.
With this president there are no normal relationships between countries.
39
Quite a stretch to call being able to sell hamburger in China and allowing a rogue nation to threaten the American population with nuclear armaments a reciprocal arrangement...
10
Why am I not surprised by this? Trump is applying his usual business practices of ignoring deals and unilaterally changing deals after the fact. People did not like doing business with him. The only trust was that he could not be trusted. Now onto a brave new era in US foreign policy.
76
Is it true that if there was a disagreement between Trump and Kim Jung Un, you would side with North Korea.... your hate for Trump would permit you to side with anyone besides Trump, is this not correct?
1
You mean just like trump's and the GOP hate for liberals that would permit you to side with the Russians, is this not correct?
1
Trump´s diplomatic initiative with China to pressure N.Korea demonstrates a lack of strategy, naivete,and misunderstanding of the Chinese/North Korean historical and geographical relationship. China would never want a free,prosperous ,united, and democratic Korea on it's border.
12
You can get along and have peace with anybody, no matter how badly they treat you, if you give them everything they want. You will wake up one day and everything you have is gone, including freedom and life.
16
Trump needs to launch a tweet-storm against China's violation of sanctions against North Korea. That's his weapon of choice. He should also start watching the Chinese propaganda network instead of MSNBC.
22
Politically this plays well for Trump.
His followers see the beef deal and that not only did he not give anything up but took things away from China
To his followers this is sheer brilliance
And that he Tweeted all of this even better.
His followers see the beef deal and that not only did he not give anything up but took things away from China
To his followers this is sheer brilliance
And that he Tweeted all of this even better.
6
"Politically this plays well for Trump."
Plays well for whom? his base? Those who will ride this shipwreck to the bottom.
Plays well for whom? his base? Those who will ride this shipwreck to the bottom.
20
We have a president who is not well making decisions (or rubberstamping those presented to him by the hawkish military) that could literally determine the fate of this planet. All of us who have children must spend sleepless worrying about how much closer we're inching -- or running, really -- to the brink with such insolent and mindless brinksmanship.
13
I agree, he is not the best person to be making these decisions, but his predecessors refused to make them so now it comes to this.
2
"Win Win"? China's President Xi Jinping would be hard pressed to defend this view of his policies in the court of public opinion. In the past several years china has:
- attempted to seize islands in the south pacific which it has no legal claim to.
- constructed artificial islands to house military bases
- enabled and advanced North Korea's nuke and missile programs
- become the leading exporter and manufacturer of synthetic opiods
- maintained an entire army brigade for the purpose of hacking the infrastructure computers of America and other democracies.
These are not the actions of a nation committed to peaceful co-existence.
- attempted to seize islands in the south pacific which it has no legal claim to.
- constructed artificial islands to house military bases
- enabled and advanced North Korea's nuke and missile programs
- become the leading exporter and manufacturer of synthetic opiods
- maintained an entire army brigade for the purpose of hacking the infrastructure computers of America and other democracies.
These are not the actions of a nation committed to peaceful co-existence.
97
All excellent points.
I'll add:
-China does not allow American companies like Amazon, Ebay, Facebook, Twitter, Google or many others into China,
-China will only allow Foreign tech companies a foothold if they "partner" with a Chinese company , e.g.,legalized intellectual property theft;
-China is allowed free reign to buy US and other foreign companies, but no foreign company is allowed to buy Chinese companies;
-The China Daily, Global Times, Xinhua, CCTV and other Chinese government propaganda outlets are all allowed to be published in the US or have tv/radio stations, but the NY Times, Washington Post, WSJ , CNN and all other American media outlets are banned in China;
I could go on but the point is clear:
We've had an extremely unfair relationship with China for decades; they get all the advantages and we get none. They dangle the carrot of "access to 1.3 Billion Chinese" but the carrot is yanked when any competition, real or perceived , arises to the CCP.
I don't approve of Trump at all, but eventually someone must stand up to China. Obama had a chance but caved. His inaction unfortunately will lead to a more dangerous situation between the US and China. If HRC were President, I would have more faith in her administration to manage this. But under Trump, anything can happen. This is scary.
I'll add:
-China does not allow American companies like Amazon, Ebay, Facebook, Twitter, Google or many others into China,
-China will only allow Foreign tech companies a foothold if they "partner" with a Chinese company , e.g.,legalized intellectual property theft;
-China is allowed free reign to buy US and other foreign companies, but no foreign company is allowed to buy Chinese companies;
-The China Daily, Global Times, Xinhua, CCTV and other Chinese government propaganda outlets are all allowed to be published in the US or have tv/radio stations, but the NY Times, Washington Post, WSJ , CNN and all other American media outlets are banned in China;
I could go on but the point is clear:
We've had an extremely unfair relationship with China for decades; they get all the advantages and we get none. They dangle the carrot of "access to 1.3 Billion Chinese" but the carrot is yanked when any competition, real or perceived , arises to the CCP.
I don't approve of Trump at all, but eventually someone must stand up to China. Obama had a chance but caved. His inaction unfortunately will lead to a more dangerous situation between the US and China. If HRC were President, I would have more faith in her administration to manage this. But under Trump, anything can happen. This is scary.
2
What Rich Black's very selective analysis leaves out is the fact that the U.S. has almost completely encircled China with nearly 400 of its own military bases. (See http://foreignpolicy.com/2013/08/20/surrounded-how-the-u-s-is-encircling... ) . If you were in China's shoes, you would probably think it prudent to add a few of your own, don't you think? If the construction of military bases is to be seen as prima facie evidence that a country is not "committed to peaceful coexistence," then it is the U.S., hands down, that must be seen as the nation least committed to peaceful coexistence.
@Mark -- China is within its sovereign rights to deny entry of foreign corporations, or to permit such entry on any conditions it may choose. The fact that the U.S. doesn't do so is not a function of the U.S. being somehow treated 'unfairly.' The U.S. has not taken similar steps because it wants the foreign investment (which is within its soveriegn rights also). We are free to take the same steps towards Chinese companies as China is to take steps against American companies. There is no 'unfairness' here -- there are just two countries, each acting according to its own interest.