It's what I call the "China Effect"
If the Chinese put up a strong showing over the coming decade, which I believe they will, then the U.S. will be forced to respond by increasing our own space efforts. The ESA and NASDA have also begun to perk up due to China's efforts. Their First World pride doesn't seem to like being shown up by the likes of a second tier power like China.
Lee, (I need to get "The China Effect" trademarked, it's gonna be a will used term)