China continues to open borders.

It appears free-market proponents may have been right.

Back up. Read that sentence again. Yes, you got it...I said free market and right.

Now, I have absolutely nothing against the market forces. I think competition and desire can be strong motivators, however, I have always questioned the wisdom of using such forces in the face of overwhelming human rights abuses and cultural differences.

Perhaps my fears will be allayed. Perhaps.

This week, China's government made yet another move towards opening up the country. While the "opening" was only to allow foreign travel agents to set up shop in the expansive and largely rural country, it was, nonetheless, an opening of the borders. Quite literally.

As of July 1, foreign travel agencies will be permitted to set up branch offices nationwide. The move is part of China's commitment as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Up until now, the government had restricted all foreign movement into the country which prhobited travel agents from setting up anywhere in China (although, some exceptions were made in: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Xi'an).

While, it does not always work this way, it certainly does appear that the almighty dollar really is prompting China to open its borders. Obviously, as a person that cares more about human rights than monetary gain, the fear is that the push for a version of communism-inspired free-market-economy may eclipse the need to change and alter their human right's record. May. However, I also believe that with a free market comes responsibility and examination. By embracing a more open market, the Chinese government are also opening up their policies to criticism. This world stage, then, will do more in changing the much-maligned human rights record China is currently known for, then any plea or petition presented outside a closed door.

I guess, travel really does bring the world closer.