China is changing its approach to foreign affairs toward the less nefarious, says a new report from the International Crisis Group that's meant to allay fear of China's negative influence on world affairs and markets. The country is by shades more and more enlightened, says ICG, shifting from belligerent, mercantilist policies on oil reserves, energy security, foreign investment and even, in some cases, its standard non-interventionist take on crises abroad. China is coming to realize that, as it takes on new responsibilities and importance on the world stage, its national interests are starting to align with (gasp!) those of the international community.

Of course, the country still arrests its people for going to the wrong church or posting a "reactionist" blog entry. But still, progress comes in many forms.