Charles is burdened by long decades of cold war anti-Communist ideology. His mind is in deep conflict. He is not in a position to understand, less analyze today China. 

Let me set reality straight. With Washington,  it NEVER about free trade only. Washington price for trade is heavy indeed - military cooperation, alignment with its global empire, alignment with its foreign but even domestic policies, buy their military gear at high price, use the U.S. dollar. And when they feel like it they will hit you like an enemy. Why just ask Mexico. 

China currently have about 30 trade agreements all over the world. About 10 more in negotiation. Massive trade benefits already confirmed with Africa, South Asia, Russia and Inner Asia. China led infrastructure investment bank joined by all kinds of states from Asia to Europe. 

China free trade agreements have only one term beyond details of trade. Absolutely no strings attached. Zero. Trade with China is 100% pure trade. Did Charles read them?