Ironically, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications has been quietly rooting for the Americans as well.

ECONOMIST: Japanese telecoms

We have an excellent relationship with China -- with the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, China Telecom and various provincial and municipal bodies and telecommunications authorities.

CNN: Getting Ready for 1997

Sanrio's licensing offensive has so far netted such high-profile brands as pen-maker Parker, cosmetics manufacturers Shiseido and Kanebo, and even the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications.

CNN: PRETTY IN PINK SLUMP