China is celebrating its 60th anniversary with an impressive display of military might, fireworks, and decorative floats that puts the Rose Bowl to shame. Unsurprisingly, the military parade received the most attention. Major U.S. media reports, including those by the New York Times and the Washington Post, centered on concern over China’s military modernization.
It really shouldn't trouble us, though. We have already seen the technologies that were showcased yesterday, through official Chinese disclosures and satellite images. And while the new nuclear-capable ICBMs and upgraded warplanes represent great improvement for the Chinese military, they still lag far behind U.S. capabilities.
More importantly, China's 13th military parade was not really directed at an American audience. According to Professor Geremie Barmé, the official “Propaganda and Education Outline” for the parade states, “It is a crucial manifestation of the recent victory of the people… under the Party's leadership and represents the realization of the great revival of the Chinese nation as a result of tireless struggle.” In other words, the military hardware parade was designed for the edification of millions of Chinese television viewers, intended to bolster their confidence in the Party. For the rest of us, it was no more than a stunning display of organizational prowess, a la last year’s Olympics opening ceremony.
Fixated on the military, we missed the tableaux of vibrant floats and well-orchestrated cultural performances. The Shanghai float, for example, showcased its towering skyline and an animated World Expo mascot. Formations and songs were dedicated to themes such as “health care,” “environmental protection,” and “rule of law,” all areas in which the Obama administration hopes China will strengthen in the years to come. As the U.S. continues to press for military transparency and reassurance from China, we should likewise heed Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg's counsel to “avoid the trap of self-fulfilling fears” resulting from undue caution.
--Linda Li Linda Li is a Fall 2009 Prospect intern.
