I'm sure that by now, everyone has already heard of the earthquake tragedy in Haiti. Aside from their dysfunctional government, it is probably one of the poorest places in the world to begin with. Roadside vendors routinely sell biscuits baked from a slurry of mud and sugar water to the poor. Into this setting, a natural disaster strikes those that have the least; needless to say, there is tremendous loss of life and suffering. The US has traditionally been a leader in providing massive amounts of international humanitarian aid during times of disasters, and is expected to perform with Haiti as it has with other nations in past crises. My question is, if the PRC really wants to engender good will with the world, should it respond in a similar fashion? Would it be worthwhile for China to even participate in such events? Also, in the case of Haiti, there may be political issues at stake. Haiti is one of the small number of sovereign states that recognizes Taiwan as China and not the People's Republic. *** Sidebar *** China has been providing manpower for United Nations peace keeper missions around the world for years now. Sadly, eight Chinese peace keepers (out of approximately 130 plus) were killed in Haiti by the earthquake, with ten others still missing. China's response thus far has been to pledge a 50 man rescue team. More here: http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90776/90883/6867760.html
Why? Do you actually think that the US wants to be in Haiti, LOL... So, you're saying that they have tons of natural resources, are strategically located, and vital for international business? Well, I guess the US had to better hurry before someone else snaps them up. Frankly, I don't think even 10,000 troops will be enough. That place was a wreck even before the earthquake.
