Sunday, March 23, 2008

If China wants attention, it should show it in Darfur

China's leaders may believe the chance for their country to gain global respect lies in the Olympic Games in Beijing, but their real chance to impress lies in Darfur.

China is the largest trading partner of the African nation Sudan and potentially its most influential ally. In November, China sent a team of military engineers to Darfur, the region of Sudan that has seen major bloodshed and turmoil the past five years. China has publicly voiced "grave concerns" about the violence in Darfur and says it is interested in stepping up efforts for an international peacekeeping force there.


If China wants to gain the world's attention, Darfur presents it with an excellent opportunity. As a nation that has sold arms to Sudan and is looking to gain a diplomatic and economic foothold elsewhere, the plight of Darfur gives China the chance to show just how serious it is about becoming a more engaged, influential player — for peace, not conflict. The world already knows about China's might. Now is the time to see its will. Read More >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

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