COMMENT, China — Chinese leadership in Beijing must be wishing the Olympics would come around soon.
The significance of these 8 good news stories, is that the Beijing government often signals it’s shift in strategic thinking, and engagement, by actions rather than rhetoric.
China’s actions indicate some possibly shift in policies, and increasing inclination in Beijing top openness.
Few understand, the significance of these events, except perhaps Australia Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, and some European Union heavyweights.
Lucky 8
Here are 8 (8 is, of course, lucky in China), mostly positive news stories (including one phoenix from the ashes).
8. First item of good news… Miracle survivors of the recent quake continue to be found, according to CNN report, one survivor after 9 days
7. Mobile phones and other devices with cameras expanded amateur coverage of the Chinese Quake, increasing the flow of information about the quake outside China.
According to AP, bloggers allowed to spread the word, in a bold experiment by the Chinese. News limited also heralded online debate.
6. Chinese to build 1 million emergency housing for Quake survivors, according to Chinese media outlets.
5. Chinese officials have asked for help. This is good news, for a formerly isolated regime. Even Canada is being asked for tents, a way of asking for help from a US neighbor and ally. Potentially strategically notable.
Russia also, strategically is providing medical aid to China, given Sino-Russian history, somewhat significant.
4. The number 4′s unlucky in China, so… China has been struck by the Tibet movement, which is an emotional issue for many. Many Chinese feel this represent hypocrisy by the West, and racism.
This issue is deeply felt by the Chinese.
3. According to Chinese media reports, another significant step… more journalists, with more access to the Quake zone.
2. Earth Quake. It has been a disaster, but China has been more open. And change of a ship of state takes time. And China is trying. Remember internal dissent, and decades of Maoism.
Most particularly one China Official, PM Wen Jiabo, has been notable in his almost Western emotive approach to leadership in the Sichuan Province. Blair-esque charm from”Grandpa Wen”, and … this is China.
1. Possible rapprochement and normalization of relations between China and Taiwan. San Jose Mercury coverage According to the comprehensive AP coverage, China, “a Chinese official praised improved cross-strait relations Thursday”
China’s sovereignty over Taiwan is recognized by every major power, and a changed US presidency may reduce the potential China-Taiwan flashpoint, once an unnecessary strategic flashpoint.
Extremely significant for peace and world trade, yet not commented too much in mainstream media.
china politics