Brisbane, 15 March 2007

China is a world super power. It is growing in terms of military strength, economic production and political influence. While Chinese leaders proclaim that they have no hostile intent, countries in the region are forming relationships that will give them combined resources to counter Chinese gains.

Australia and Japan formed an alliance this week and the rumor now is that India will be invited to join in a three way pact. While the specific aim is not to "combine to counter Chinese power" there is none the less a definite intention that that will be one of the actual outcomes.

It is difficult to see how any one country can be a deterrent to any Chinese aggression in the future. The simple solution is to form alliances that will both deter and if necessary, defeat any intentions that Chinese leaders, present or future, may hold.

The Japanese are vulnerable . Geographically they are "next door neighbors". Chinese people have long memories and they remember the cruelty inflicted on them by Japanese forces and politicians pre World War Two. Japan is wise to form defense alliances.

Simultaneously, Japan, Australia and India can compete economically with China.  While the rumored alliance between Japan, Australia and India is still a proposal, there will be alliances in the future. Chinese power is a potential threat in economic, resource and defense terms.