Cheney Questions Intentions Of China, North Korea
U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney (file photo) (epa)
Cheney praised China for its role in the six-party talks that led to the February 13 deal with Pyongyang but also expressed concerns over Beijing's military build-up and last month's anti-satellite tests.
"Other actions by the Chinese government send a different message," Cheney said. "Last month's antisatellite test, China's continued, fast-paced military build up are less constructive and are not consistent with China's stated goal of a 'peaceful rise.'"
Cheney also stressed the importance of coalition forces remaining in Iraq until it had stabilized.
Cheney was speaking today in Australia, one of Washington's closest allies over the Iraq war.
Roadblocks cut off the Sydney hotel in which Cheney spoke as about 50 people staged a loud and colorful protest, chanting "Chain Up Cheney."
Protesters also called for an end to the Iraq war and the release of Australian David Hicks from Guantanamo Bay.
(AFP, Reuters, AP)