Quote Originally Posted by Fengzi
China's handling of North Korea is probably a tougher issue for them then our handling of North Korea is for us. What China ultimately wants is stability and to continue it's economic growth. The absolute last thing they want to see is a conflict between the North Korea and the U.S/ ROK. Beyond the strain it could put on U.S.-China relations, China would also be faced with millions of refugees fleeing across the border. China already has an illegal alien issue with North Korea, similar to what the U.S. has with Mexico. We all know how bad that is and what a strain it puts on our economy. Now multiply that by thousands and put it into an economy not as strong as the U.S.' and you get the picture.

The biggest problem China has in controlling the DPRK is that they can't outwardly appear to be controlling them. Whether it is true or not, North Korea sees China as an ally, or at least a neutral party in the situation. North Korea feels somewhat safe having China next door. If, however, China appears to be siding with the U.S., then North Korea would feel isolated. And, if North Korea feels truly isolated, surrounded by enemies on all sides, who knows what they will do. It might just whip them into shape. On the other hand, they may lash out like a cornered animal. Kim Jong Il is one of the wacko dictator types that can't be predicted to act rationally. You mention that "North Korea is in a desperate state, but won't nuke anyone" probably not now, but most experts agree that if it really came down to it, Kim Jong Il would probably launch his nukes, if not in self defense then out of spite. After all, what does he have to lose?

Incidentally, North Korea gets all of it's oil from China. So yeah, oil is an issue everywhere.
I agree with everything you just said...

AND I think that everyone should also remember that when North Korea pulls stunts like they did a couple days ago it makes Japan and South Korea step up military strength and spending.

The LAST thing China wants to see is Japan increasing the strength of their army. This could lead to trouble between Japan and China...

:smokin: