Of course, in principle, they're against it. We are the ones that keep asking them what they think about it. I think their basic concern is a land-based missile defense of Taiwan hooked into the American communications and other systems, which in effect would make Taiwan then an outpost of the United States. That is a concern they frequently express. A missile defense shield of the United States, while they may not like it, it is not a big obstacle to our relationship.
Henry A. KissingerAmerica has made it very clear in several administrations that if there is an attack by China on Taiwan, the United States is very likely to resist.
Henry A. KissingerCommittees are consumers and sometimes sterilizers of ideas, rarely creators of them.
Henry A. KissingerThe key decision for a statesman is whether to commit his nation or not. There is no middle course. Once a great nation commits itself, it must prevail. It will acquire no kudos for translating its inner doubts into hesitation.
Henry A. Kissinger