28th February 09

Asia Times Online

THE ROVING EYE
Backstage at the theater of 'terror'
By Pepe Escobar

Afghanistan is not only the graveyard of empires; it's a graveyard of misconceptions.

Kaixin – there is an indirect reference to China in this article. It’s relevance is that Pakistan is within China’s sphere of influence. How China approaches the issue of Afghanistan/Pakistan is of direct relevance to the west.

China breaks its silence on Afghanistan
By M K Bhadrakumar

In the violent, lethal environment in which he lived and survived to eventually lead Beijing's march towards socialism with Chinese characteristics, Deng Xiaoping had great reasons to be cautious. In regards to China's international approach, Deng had this to say: "Observe calmly; secure our position; cope with affairs calmly; hide our capacities and bide our time; be good at maintaining a low profile; and never claim leadership."