Max Fisher puts a positive spin on China’s interest in Iraq’s oil:
As I’ve written before, China’s increasing investment in foreign markets is actually great news for the U.S., which is finding it harder and harder to be the world’s policeman. Although this sometimes gets portrayed as scary resource competition, it’s also forcing China to act less like a free-rider on a U.S.-enforced international system and more like a responsible stakeholder in global peace and stability. Iraq in particular badly needs outside aid and attention to keep its political system and economy together. The more money and interest China has tied up a stable Iraq, the harder it will work to keep it that way – something that very much benefits the U.S.
My thoughts here. As I said, one good benefit for us is lower oil prices. But, as I’m sure Max would agree, the imbalance between this benefit and the cost in life and treasure remains staggering.
The Dish 