What do the Chinese want when they give lavish gifts to North Korea? Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao brought with him on his latest trip this October over US$200 million, which included, "free economic assistance, pledges of support in the fields of education and technology, tourism deals and the construction of a new bridge over the Apnok or Yalu River with Chinese money" (Chosun Ilbo).
China is not the most altruistic country. Nor does it need North Korea to be its trading partner. Instead what it wants for its assistance is:
"Mining rights for North Korea's key mines, including Musan iron ore mine in North Hamgyong Province, Hyesan copper mine in Yanggang Province and Yongdeung coal mine in North Pyongan Province. China is in charge of prospecting for offshore oil deposits on the West Sea and has won exclusive use of certain docks in Rajin port by either building or expanding them. China has also won the rights to fish in parts of North Korea's territorial waters and to develop the Yalu River. During the latest visit by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, the two countries also signed agreements in the areas of food, energy, education and information and technology" (Chosun Ilbo).
When I was waiting at the North Korean border, it was sad to see many Chinese trucks leaving North Korea with its natural resources. Is it really a fair trade? It seems that North Korea has traded its land and soul to the Chinese. And for what?
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