Foreign infiltration still deserves measure of Chinese caution
Source:Global Times Published: 2013-3-8 23:33:01
Issues of civil livelihood are topping the agenda of the ongoing "two sessions," which is a blessing for China. In the world of today, few countries really focus on earnestly discussing the improvement of civil livelihoods.
The US Department of State just named 10 winners of the 2013 International Women of Courage Award, including a Chinese woman. There are numerous outstanding Chinese women who have demonstrated courage and made contributions during reform and opening-up. But Washington picked a "writer" who advocates secessionism.
Many Western prizes have apparently become ideological weapons against China, and the stories of these handpicked prizewinners depict a twisted version of China. These prizes, aimed at encouraging various "dissidents," signal Western support for political confrontation within China.
The era of an isolated China is long gone. As China's reform and opening-up deepens, the nation shares increasing common interests with the West. However, as China becomes more powerful, the West also has more leverage to penetrate the country and sabotage its social integration.
This is an interesting rivalry. But ultimately China will have adequate poise and flexibility to tackle such leverage, which will prove that its development edifice was not built on shaky foundations.
Those who are active on the Internet often oppose the argument of "being cautious against external forces," mainly because this parlance was overused in the past. But Western forces are indeed increasingly impacting Chinese society.
It is not an easy task to absorb constructive elements from the West, while preventing interference in China's reforms. In fact, this is one of the biggest challenges that China faces.
During Thursday's knife attack in Korla, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, four were killed and several were injured. Facing such randomized violence, we should not be disturbed by Western perspectives, but view events with a rational, confident mind.
Southern Xinjiang borders onto Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and other countries. A trip to any of those countries will make one cherish the stability and prosperity of Xinjiang. For generations, Xinjiang's borders have halted turbulences originating from outside. The Chinese people need to know what peace in Xinjiang means to China as a whole.
No matter how much leverage the other side holds, we should be confident that the country's future ultimately rests in our own hands. How strongly we hold onto our own way of thinking will largely determine our destiny.