This reflects the soft power approach to foreign policy that the Bush administration has touted over the years.

NPR: Bush Signs Aid Deal for Tanzania Infrastructure

Second, by endorsing a rise in the Chinese currency relative to the dollar, the president and those who support this policy put at risk the vast soft power and competitive advantage the U.S. enjoys by providing Asia and the rest of the world a reliable currency for engaging in trade in goods and financial instruments.

FORBES: President Obama's Strategic Blunder With China

This week we talked about the growing reach and influence of Chinese soft power around the world, and the advent of the e-bike on Beijing streets (Kuo and Osnos both worship at the temple of the e-bike, and never resist an opportunity to proselytize).

FORBES: New China Podcast: Soft Power And E-Bikes