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ASIA: "China's navy off Somalia: Cash and carry; A hijack dilemma for China," The Economist, 31 October 2009.
The Chinese navy in the Gulf of Aden last January was the first time the PLAN (People's Liberation Army-Navy) conducted an op beyond the Pacific.
Then you get this hijacking of the Chinese bulk carrier. The Chinese foreign ministry promises an "all-out effort," but it is likely to simply pay the ransom.
Why?
China is probably extremely wary of resorting to force. A botched operation would be an embarrassment for a navy that earlier this year celebrated its 60th anniversary with much hoopla.
Indeed, the PLAN is so famous for . . . nothing actually.
And apparently Beijing aims to keep it that way--for now. I guess, until China gains enough confidence, the PLAN will remain for "the having" as opposed to "the using"--much like nuclear weapons. It is simply too valuable to use, because China could not handle the loss of face right now.
How to gain confidence in using the force without actually using it?
There is no way. That's the conundrum.
Should we help China out of this conundrum? Do we need new friends with military forces? Or are we currently getting all the help we need from our old friends?
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