G'day all - 1st, this is not directed at anyone in particular, but plz allow me to be so bold as to suggest that we try to refrain from flame baiting - I reckon that most people are not doing it intentionally, that we do so inadvertently b/c of the net effects <SG> - since I am sure the speakers on the subject [E Timor, and other hotspots, for that matters] are conscientious people. Ranting at each other doesn't help us to see the world clearly. I do admit that I am behaving poorly myself at times, but I ve tried my best to restrain myself by imposing self-excommunication <SG> with some people b/c our chemistries are so different despite my best effort to bridge the gap [sorry to mix metaphor!]
Ahem, back to the on topic discussion. 1st, here are two links as the backdrop
boston.com
boston.com
Steve, I think the Indonesia situation is a bit more complicated because of China. I think this is a rare situation that China may vote favor of an intervention. One should be mindful that this is Asia. So unlike Kosovo, the potential composition of the intervention team is unlike that of Kosovo, which is in NATO's backyard.
If one carries this argument to the logical conclusion, Indonesian military should be wary that the incoming peacekeeping force may have a Chinese contingent! I doubt the US wants that to happen [well, I think I should go subtle here <SG>]
best, Bosco |
