Quote:
Originally Posted by MMM
I think we are saying the same thing, but in different ways. Yes, oftentimes helping your allies IS in your national interest. In the most recent Iraq War it was VERY unpopular among citizens in Japan and Australia for their countries' forces to participate. But they did anyway.
No country would send so much help it would put the country in debt for five decades. I think Australia sent 8000 troops. Japan sent non-combat support. I agree, there is a balance struck, but still that commitment to help, even tiny, is maintained.
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Although I think, even that tiny commitment is also due to national interest - not from some ultruistic motive, comradership or obligation under any treaty. Had Australia not been so influenced by the US as a primary trade partner, and maybe some perception from our government that Iraq was of some real threat to national security, I highly doubt even those 8000 troops would have have been sent.