My point was, the Chinese had some flexibility handling this visit and has the option to downplay it. Instead, they have chosen to take a stand, draw a line in the sand. You only make that choice if have faith that you have the ability to impact all the outcomes. It means the Chinese are confident enough about their own military at least in that area.I'm not sure where you got that. China is clearly willing to confront America if it feel its red line has been crossed. But the longer it waits, the more force it has behind that threat. Even 3 years from now, US military might have a completely different assessment of its chances vs now. In general, China's future will rest in its relationship in Asia and this is what this thread is to discuss. It's relationship with Indonesia will be a big part of that.