Imperialist Invaders

The China Daily Online has a little section where a journalist describes a situation and then poses a question for people to write in. Now this is in English, so it is geared for a western audience. Here is today's scenario:

China: A Role Model to All Nations

China is a role model to all developing nations around the globe.

After centuries of oppression and domination by western nations, most developing nations are trying to pull their nations up from poverty. They look at China's rapid progress as an example.

China also give aid and technical help to these nations and have formed many bilateral relations for the benefit of everyone.

However, it is not only the developing nations that benefit from China. The developed nations benefit as well.

Recently, China has helped to arbitrate between the US and North Korea. There are also many more examples too numerous to mention.

Question: Is it a good idea for China to act as a role model or should she just quietly mind her own business?

Ummm. First, that oppression and domination you experienced, China, that was from Mao. He was not western. It was not the British that sent you to the countryside for re-education. And if we are going to make comparisons, let's look at Hong Kong. Hong Kong was in British hands for quite some time, and if I were forced to make a judgment, I'd say it is way the heck ahead of you in about every category.

So enough with the smug, self-satisfied navel gazing. Keep moving forward and focus on making the lives of your people better and your air breathable.