China Offers Iraq Air Support

Wow!

China Offers Iraq Air Support - The American Interest

So why is China doing this?

My guesses:

1. Keeping positive relationships with oil producing nations is very important for China.
2. Good publicity for the Chinese government
3. Good practice for the Chinese air force
4. They are worried about their own Islamic Fundamentalists
5. It's good for the Chinese government, internally. It shows China being a part on the world stage.