Current Imperialism

Many countries have practiced imperialism; Spain, Portugal, Netherlands, Britain, U.s., Belgium, and much more. But recently, China joined the list. This article http://revolutionaryfrontlines.wordpress.com/2010/04/27/chinese-imperialism-extends-its-naval-power-to-the-middle-east/ talks about the extending of Chinese imperialism to the Middle East. One of the reasons for this extension is China's want to defend its coast and prepare for war over Taiwan. Also, by this extension, China's plans to assert its interests abroad and extend its operational reach beyond the South China Sea and the Philippines. China is one of the most important countries in the world; its the leader in exporting and buying oil and other natural resources. I believe this is political imperialism because it wants to strengthen its sea defense and protects its country's transportatiion routes and the safety of their sea lanes and become an even greater power in the world.