A litmus test for China is in the offing, and for all the world to see.
During the Olympics next year, China will have two genuine moments in which it can prove to the world it is truly a magnanimous country focused on contributing positively to humanity and demonstrating its "peaceful rising."
Either at the beginning or the closing of the Olympics, China should make a resounding announcement to the world that it will forever renounce the use of force against its 23 million neighbors across the Taiwan Strait and then, to put even more color into the Olympic torch, declare that it will recognize Taiwan as a sovereign and free nation.
China should also announce greater and tangible autonomy for Tibet and the Uighur people, as well as an end to persecution of the Falun Gong.
Could you imagine the "face" China would have if it did all this?
Place your bets. I know where my money is.
Kevin Larson
Chiayi
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