The US isn't so pure

Chen Ming-chung's letter criticizing Australia's China policy (Letters, Aug. 27, page 8) is another worrying example of an unbalanced, moralistic American opinion.

Although Chen claims the US does not support China's oppressive policies, he cleverly disguises the fact that the

US doesn't oppose its policies either. US President George W. Bush also "sucked up" to China by describing it as a "great

nation" and bowed to Chinese pressure by not supporting Taiwan's referendum when Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (溫家寶) visited the US at the end of last year.

The true test of a government and a nation's character comes when the principles of freedom and democracy are tested against the desire for wealth.

Despite preaching "global democratic revolution," the US is seemingly prepared to sacrifice Taiwan's chance for freedom in return for greater business with China.

Is this a good example to set? When will the US judge itself as critically and by the same standards as it judges others?

Philip Wallbridge
England