A powerful bloc of U.S. senators from both sides of the aisle, led by Delaware Republican William Roth and New York Democrat Daniel Patrick Moynihan, warned the Clinton administration Wednesday that the trade pact facilitating China's entry into the World Trade Organization is in jeopardy following Beijing's renewed threats to invade Taiwan. And all the while, over in Taiwan the main candidates square off over just how hard they'll push to remain outside of the mainland's orbit, driving Beijing apoplectic. Despite the rhetorical frenzy, however, the election-season trading of insults is unlikely to disrupt business as usual. And despite its nationalist pride, Beijing well knows the potentially catastrophic economic consequences of confrontation with the West. And over on Capitol Hill, despite the threats and posturing, the Clinton administration remains confident of passing a trade deal strongly backed by the overwhelming majority of donors to both parties.
Elections are a time for talking the talk, but walking the walk is too risky for everyone involved.
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