Hu and the Trade Imbalance

At the United Nations in New York, Chinese President President Hu Jintao met with George Bush (or "Little Bush" as the Chinese like to call him).

The Chinese leader has reportedly made a commitment to help lower the growing trade imbalance between the two countries.

How should Americans interpret this remark? Is Hu just trying to please Bush and say what he wants to hear? Or is Hu serious?

I may be wrong, of course, but I think Hu wants to prevent more trade disputes that have plagued the relationship in the past year.

Is it in China's best interests to restore some balance to international trade and capital flows?

What specific actions, if any, is Hu going to take to back up his words?

With Bush planning to visit Beijing later this year, I think many Americans will be watching closely.