An empire that they don't have to fight for.
Nepal is would be a political takeover. Salami slicing I think is the term.
Taiwan was created when the last remaining chinese counter revolutionary forces set up a state. China has the best claim to Taiwan, but has not, in 60years landed troops.
Hongkong was given back at the end of the lease period.

I agree that they are a repressive regime, but the people get their bread and circuses, so don't need anything to take their minds off a crappy government.
( Bartleby A dead man on vacation, Tue 5 Oct 2010, 8:45, Reply)