Archives for August 16, 2011

While the killing of Bin Laden was considered a great success, one of out stealth helicopters was left behind. While it was blown up, some parts remained. There is currently some reason to think that our fine friends in Pakistan showed the parts to the Chinese.

While this has not been confirmed, it is certainly consistent with Pakistan’s track record. Assuming it is true, there seem to be various points that can be drawn from it.

First, if this is true, then we have one more reason to believe the obvious: we are (at best) a friend of convenience for Pakistan. They are happy to accept our money and support, while also dealing with our enemies and acting in ways clearing inconsistent with our interests.

Second, if this is true, then we have one more sign that our influence in Pakistan (and perhaps the world) is not as great as we might hope.

Third, if this is true, then it is another (admittedly small) sign of China’s growing influence in the world. Pakistan has recently claimed that China is its “best friend”, which does not bode well for us. Or perhaps it does-given what a great “friend” Pakistan has been for us, perhaps it would be a good thing for us if Pakistan became China’s “friend.”