China’s Burma test —Steve Tsang
China’s national interest does not require it to prop up the Burmese junta forever. Of course, China benefits greatly from access to Burma’s energy and other natural resources. But, by playing a positive role in bringing about a successful and peaceful transfer of power, China can secure a friendly neighbour in Burma more effectively than with its current policy

Burma’s peaceful protests are nearing their tipping point, with the military junta weighing the potential costs of a full military crackdown. But Burma’s generals will have little incentive to opt for an alternative to bloodshed and repression if China continues to provide them with support and protection against sanctions at the UN Security Council.