Multilateralism

On a related note, I thought this article from the Hong Kong Standard is an illustration of how multilateralism can work great to prevent liberty.

In the joint statement, China and Russia sent a clear message: Washington poses a threat to Central Asia's sovereignty; China and Russia can offer a similar economic and security package, only it will be designed to preserve the status quo not change it. Fearing democratic revolutions similar to Ukraine's recent about-face, Central Asian states were all ears.

The article presents an interesting summary of the challenges the US faces in Central Asia. When reading things like this, my isolationist instincts make me wonder why the US is worried about Central Asian politics and nation-building in Afghanistan.