Submitted by: Patrick Johansing

The US Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard recently performed a search and rescue exercise with Hong Kong’s search and rescue team. Hong Kong’s government invited the American forces for the exercise. In The Post-American World, Zakaria noted China’s diplomatic efforts to build friendships. Their invitation of American forces shows that they are trying to foster trust between the nations; it is a powerful gesture.

One Coast Guard man was quoted as saying “We wear different uniforms but we’re ultimately the same.” This stuck out to me because he could be referring to the Chinese men or to the other American forces. I view this as a hopeful indication that many Americans are beginning to view China as a friend rather than a rival. I believe this is especially meaningful because it came from an American in uniform.

Here is the article if anyone wants to interpret it differently.