Analysis: China Spreads Its Wings, Reluctantly
From Times Online:
China’s much-feared military build-up has been in the public eye this week. For the first time since the 15th century, its naval ships have set sail for African waters, their aim to protect international vessels against pirate attack, and the People’s Liberation Army has finally confirmed its intent to build an aircraft carrier.
Beijing looks as if it could be ready and eager to spread its power and influence beyond its borders. But China’s ambitions do not lie overseas – or at least not yet.
China’s Communist Party leaders will have agreed to take part in such a high-profile international venture only after much soul-searching and with a sense of great reservation. They are deeply cautious by nature, reluctant to strut their stuff on the world stage for two reasons.
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