China weighs 'right side of history' in Gulf

[JohnWood]

I like to read Asian Times articles, because it allows a variety (non-USA) of perspectives on geopolitical events...As the geopolitical chess match continues between US and China. Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar the author of this article was a career diplomat in the Indian Foreign Service.
China weighs 'right side of history' in Gulf
http://www.atimes.com/atimes/China/NA18Ad02.html
While a tour by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao was solidifying political and energy ties with Sunni Gulf countries, Beijing was at the same time standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Shi'ite Iran over United States sanctions. That the Saudis invited Wen despite tensions with Tehran shows China's diplomatic hedging is paying off. Meanwhile, Washington's attempt to sanction a Chinese oil firm smacks of desperation.
- M K Bhadrakumar (Jan 17, '12

[letter_factory]

I enjoy reading chinese politics also. western news seems so bipolar...this is right, that is wrong. Very propagandist. Watching the chinese, it seems they some how dance with everyone while still keeping their own rhythm.

[DMac]

WRT Asian news, I subscribe to, and recommend, the Times of Central Asia newsletter. I check their website from time to time as well.

http://www.times.kg/

There is so much going on in the region that is just never spoken about in Western media outlets, and I find it vastly underrated in terms of importance.

There is a tremendous mineral/oil wealth in the region. All major parties (US/UK/Russia/China) are playing games there, similar to Africa in that regard.