A superficial reading of Iraqi politics would indicate an impressive political scene with dozens of parties vying for power in what appears to be a regulated constitutional order. But in reality Iraqi “democracy” is fragile and often a cover for the advancement of sectarian, regional and other sectional interest.

But although geography is permanent, geo-strategy is not. China is seeking to change the geostrategic parameters of the existing game for influence in Asia and this is where its second great itinerant tradition – through the Old Silk Road - comes in. 

It is manifestly apparent that the conflict in Afghanistan is far more multifaceted than that in Iraq and neither the Afghan Government nor NATO troops host sufficient civilian and military logistics to control substantive chunks of Afghan territory.

Human rights and peace are wilting under the absence of unified singularity of lines in both parties to the conflict as well as the burden of sanctions on Gaza that have misfired. With no evidence of military or political weakening of Hamas, which enjoys bounteous Iranian patronage, the crisis in Gaza exemplifies how economic sanctions as instruments of foreign policy are often not ‘smart’.

China's cool response to Russia's action in Georgia earlier this summer was explained by its consistent opposition to secessionist movements. But the history and geopolitics of Central Asia suggest that China's concerns may also reflect a long-standing nervousness over Russia's intentions in Central Asia.