one of China’s more liberal official newspapers -- has chosen to run a lengthy feature

Tellingly, the weekender article steered around Burma’s current state of turmoil and the brutal suppression by the military junta

Since 1990 China has been the only big country backing the military junta that rules Burma, supplying it with aid and arms.

In return, China has received teak and gems, promises of Burma’s oil and gas reserves through a planned pipeline and access to a large market for its cheap consumer goods.

Protecting its investments and business interests, China has also come to play the role of Burma’s staunchest supporter at the United Nations.

While the international community deplored the bloodshed in Rangoon and other cities last week, China blocked calls for a strong statement condemning Burma’s repressive actions.

2008 Beijing Olympics has brought heightened international scrutiny

leaders are loath to see the preparations marred by any association with a Burmese massacre