Xie Liaofu's intention was very clear: the Huayin Treaty Organization aimed too high, to the extent that the combined efforts of the other 11 members paled in comparison to working alone, and without China, nothing could be accomplished.
In such a situation, it was essential to fully utilize one's own advantages. During negotiations, one could afford to be more aggressive. It would be a disservice to oneself not to strike while the iron was hot.
Moreover, with the overwhelming advantage of possessing heavy-lift reusable rockets domestically, it was imperative to claim as much space territory as possible before other countries could acquire this technology.
The superiors took another look at the brief report summarized by the two men and made some decisions in their minds.
...
July 4, 4 a.m.
"Initiate deceleration!"
