Beyond that, gains in U.S. exports depend upon China actually implementing its WTO commitments and not devaluing its currency. China has a long history of devaluing its currency for trade gains and has been hinting at a new devaluation for two years. A new devaluation would hardly surprise most China observers. Finally, proponents of PNTR have also argued that a China that is more commercially connected with the rest of the world through trade and investment is less likely to be a threat to peace. Here again, there is likely a kernel of truth.
Economic ties do create a disincentive to war or other disruptive behavior.
Still, the second largest source of investment into China is nearby Taiwan. Based upon China's recent invasion threats, it seems that the billions of dollars Taiwan has sent to the mainland have not been sufficient to quell the aggressive urges of the Chinese military. China must continue to be considered a potential military threat to U.S. interests for the foreseeable future. The risks of hyperbole There seems an unpleasant tradition of lies and exaggerations in American political debates. Perhaps the practice is so common that Americans have come to automatically discount claims made in a political context.