Obama and China

While I have always strived to maintain a somewhat upbeat and informative blog, I admit this is not the U.S.-China business bible. One thing I have strived for is to be current. And what can be more current then a pending visit from our very own President Obama to the shores of China. Yes, according to some, Obama knows no bounds, he can part the Red Sea, he can slay the hydra, and he invented electricity. Ok, well I don't know about the last one. He epitomizes hope, ambition, promise, utopia. Surely he can pave the way for progress between the United States and China right? Not so fast grasshopper...

Sure the ties that bind us have strengthened in recent decades, but major differences between the two nations remain unsolved. One of these differences is how to deal with global warming. What are the two most polluting countries on the planet? If you guessed China and the United States you would be correct. It is difficult for us to take the high ground, especially after having our industrial revolution, what gives us the right to deny China their respective revolution. After all, China wants industry, industry that is not regulated by foreigners, foreigners who are concerned with China's economic development, development being their first and foremost goal going forward.

Another concern for the United States that Obama may press China on is China's relationship with Iran. This is asticky situation indeed. While China may not be happy about the ignorant President that leads Iran, they do have substantial interests there. Another import albeit tricky issue for the two countries is the human rights issue. Whether or not comments or specific issues will be made public is to be determined. Perhaps they will be made in private consult. Either way, Obama should walk a fine line here. China does not respond well to finger pointing, or nations who view them as unequal, or the questioning of their way of handling human rights. Sure, I don't think they have a sparkling record when it comes to their treatment of certain ethnic groups or political aspirants, but China is not an itch we can simply scratch and it will go away. Mutual understanding and respect must be given.

To Obama's credit he has already layed some solid groundwork prior to his arrival. He views the nations as equals and even advocated that the United States will not seek to "contain" China. This is important. Another tricky situation is the status of Taiwan. This also seems to appear whenever the two countries meet. While it may be second page news behind the latest Hollywood bullshit, this is a monumental visit. Not just for the United States and China, but for the whole world. Be sure to tune in, I know I will.