discussion on this board so admit I can't help but want to try and chime in sometimes -- unfortunately mixed in with sad, absurdity as well.

Without question there are layers of reasons trade will never really be truly free-flowing across all items and countries -- national security being one of a host of important considerations. Unfortunately, there are anti-trade forces who use virtually every excuse in the book, but that is also the history of politics and trade and it's never going away ---- and all countries do this. It's just a matter of to what degree and philosophically, where a person falls. I think trade is (by far) the single biggest factor that lifts all boats -- even in today's world -- and we should have as big an interest in doing what we can to stay connected with all countries through vibrant trade. A lot of historical conflict is tied in with trade tensions and countries that fall apart with general relations that would be better off if they had trading ties holding together.