Bob, given the need to solidify our diplomacy in the region, I’m
not actually surprised President Bush went there. It’s clear that
he is in Asia in part because of his political woes, but at least
he’s not simply committing himself to tokenism; I think he’s
getting real work done. While fighting terrorism around the world,
Bush’s hawks are doing their best to make sure China’s regional
goals are tempered. It’s why pulling out of South Korea hasn’t been
our top priority, though it’s not the worst idea.