I kid you not—the Chinese are sending riot police to Haiti as part of a UN peacekeeping mission. The Chinese are never involved in this mushy-lovey peacekeeping stuff—what gives?

In the past, China has been accused of contributing less than its fair share to international missions, especially as it is a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

Yeah, I think that’s an accurate statement.

The move could also be a chance for Beijing to gain influence in the developing world, at the expense of its rival, Taiwan, observers say. China views Taiwan as part of its territory, and has threatened to invade it if the island ever declares independence. Haiti, as well as about 20 other countries, maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan rather than China.

The truth comes out! Yes, about two dozen countries still recognize Taiwan, not the PRC, as the “real China.” It’s basically a lost cause—most of the countries that back Taiwan are small island states in the Pacific and the Caribbean. Now we know what China’s hoping to accomplish with their 125 riot police in Port-au-Prince.

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