More geopolitics

From this article on Secretary of State Clinton's historic visit to Burma/Myanmar:

"She said the U.S. was ready to further improve relations with the civilian government in the Southeast Asian nation — also known as Myanmar — but only if it stays on the path of democratization. In a series of modest first steps, she announced that Washington would allow Myanmar's participation in a U.S.-backed grouping of Mekong River countries; no longer block enhanced co-operation between the country and the International Monetary Fund; and support intensified UN health, microfinance and counternarcotics programs."

Is it just me, or does anybody else read this and think "Wow. We are bullies." Maybe it was our demand that they cut military ties with one of their allies that got me thinking that way. Not that the government she's dealing with is full of nice people. But that shouldn't have anything to do with our basic behavior - blocking cooperation with the IMF? NOT supporting UN health and microfinance programs? And we'll only let them into our Mekong Club if they do what we say? Bullies. At the very least - there are stronger words I could use.

Now, I don't think we're ALWAYS bullies. I do love my country, let's be clear. I just wish I could admire us much more often.