NationStates Jolt Archive

International press wire:

THE HAGUE- Today, after months of negotiations behind closed doors, Knootoss and Thirtycaliber have signed a mutual defence pact specifically targeted against militant anticapitalist aggression.

The treaty is seen as historic as this is the first instance of such close cooperation between the liberal WBO nation of Knootoss and Thirtycaliber, a nation in the region of Maine, associated with the New Conservative Alliance. Next to military cooperation both nations will also engage in closer economic ties.

The selective defensive pact was deemed necessary by the governments of both nations, citing “the increasing terrorist treat from rogue nations such as SeOCC” and “dangerously high tensions between the communist block and the Free World.”

Enclosed with the press wire is the treaty itself:

Signatory nations.
-The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber
-The Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss

1) Signatory nations agree to come to each other's aid in case there is direct military conflict with the Coalition of Anti Capialist Economies. (CACE), their member nations or directly related bodies and organisations.

2) Signatory nations agree that any military action against the CACE should only be considered with due reason. Such reasons include but are not limited to a threat to the national sovereignty of signatory nations and attempts of CACE nations to undermine the state or attempts to undermine capitalist economies.

3) Signatory nations agree to an immediate reduction of tariffs between our nations by 50%.

4) Signatory nations agree to a mutual exchange of embassies.

*international press release via Bri-SAT - taken from Watfordshire evening news, extract from council speech by http://www.drnightshade.org.uk/images/CACE/MHooleyjnr.jpgMagic Hooley Jnr., Head of Military Dancing*


"We, the people of Watfordshire; as a nation of pacifists, should go on record stating the FACT *bangs desktop* that the CACE is a purely economic organisation,...
... many greater politicians than I have already done so til they are blue in the face...
...While we maintain a mutual defence pact, there are many non-militarised nations such as ourselves... civilised folk... who are members of the CACE, who I'm sure will share the view of the Shiree, that the recent publicised pact between Knootoss and ThirtyCaliber stinks of nothing but panic, agression and paranoia, and I'm sure certain parties would agree that SeOCC, Empire and Tellenic Aperin already propagate more than enough of those dangerous emotions to deal with *laughter from audience*....
...attempts by the CACE to undermine capitalist economies is nothing but futile propaganda, as I'm sure the many recent capitalist signatories of the IFTA will attest to.."

*message interrupted*

OOC: Considering that came from a red guy with horns...

IC:

Given that this treaty between my nation and the Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss is, effectively, a trade agreement and mutual defense pact rolled into one, I don't perceive as to why a CACE member would care about it, unless you were planning something that would bring Article 1 into effect. Any other reasoning behind your comments is beyond my comprehension; after all, why would care who agrees to dehend whom if you weren't attacking the latter? I dare say that your comments stink of typical Red mischief. And I also would like to point out that you might experience a benefit from the screaming of rhetoric until blue in the face that those you perceive as greater than yourself have allegedly already done, as it might return your visage to a more normal state of coloration.

----------------------------------------------------
John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
Republic of Thirtycaliber

--EDIT: Double Post--

This shameless Orwellian contradiction lies squarely on that thin line between the macabre and the ridiculous. To place the WBO, an organization created for the sole purpose of keeping billions of slaves securely in their chains, within the ‘free world’ and the CACE, an organization created for the purpose of international emancipation and social justice outside of it is beyond the pale. The fact that this claim was made by a government whose horrendous civil rights record alone would disqualify it from CACE membership makes it even more laughable.

And why a military alliance? Though the WBO and it’s heavily armed marionette, SATO have often threatened the CACE with brute force, the CACE has never reacted in kind.

-Maxwell Freeborn Pierce,
Of the University Collective at Port Bakunin

Marxism, Leninism, Communism, Socialism, Collectivism - these are the chains that enslave men! If you seriously believe that any citizen of the Free Republic of Thirtycaliber is a slave, we urge you to come and see for yourself. After reading a telex of your nonsense, the President has authorized me to offer a single diplomat from a CACE member nation safe passage into Thirtycaliber and one week's stay there. The only stipulation is that the diplomat may not be a Sea Orc, as we do not have any facilities with which to house sea creatures, and we have heard many reports that these creatures may be rather environmentally destructive, and threaten the great temperate forests of Thirtycaliber, the last vestiges of the ancient hunting grounds of my country. We await your response.

---------------------------------------------------
John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber

The shores of Free Outer Eugenia are always open to peaceful visitors, and we invite Mister Schnee to come to our land for a while so that he may clear his head of his indoctrinated misconceptions about socialism and collectivism. He will also be welcome to take advantage of our state of the art healthcare so that his poor mind can be freed from the obvious chemical imbalance.

Scene-- halls of the Elected General Council, Lhijhir, Lhai, Xikuang. Councillor Xiang walks by the the Office of the Elected General Committee for National Security, rapping gently on the frame of the open door.

"Oh, hello, Kalsang. What is it?"

"I thought you should see this, Djijirin."

Councillor Sarekh takes the paper, reads it through briefly, and smirks. His expression is met by the upraised eyebrow of his smaller colleague.

"I'll file it with all the rest of them, shall I?"

"Do that. By the way, how's the plot to go to war with the capitalist world going?"

"Oh, you mean that initiative with no funding, no staff, no database, and no membership, that meets on 31st February? Swimmingly: they claim to have a foolproof plan to detonate reality."

"Excellent. This means that our evil anticapitalist goals for total annhilation of everything will be reaised, bwah ha, wha ha, ha ha."

"Indeed, bwah ha, ha ha, ha ha, KOMrade. "

"I wish it were that funny."

"Me too. Join me for tea?"

OOC: -X, you're a day old, and I don't even know whether you're a CACE alliance member. Why would this be addressed at you? You realize that there is a CACE alliance in NS with its own forum and leadership, that this is not a freshly coined term, right? Since you are a socialist nation, if you wanted to join with your brethren, talk to Sea Orc. Otherwise, get the facts at least a little straight before commenting.

IC:

Thank you, -X, for your valuable input. We are filing your pathetic attempt at satire right after the French military stategy advice we received last Tuesday, in our Suggestions Department.

http://thirtycaliber.tripod.com/suggestions_dept.txt

----------------------------------------------------

John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber

You realize that there is a CACE alliance in NS with its own forum and leadership[...] Otherwise, get the facts at least a little straight before commenting.
OOC: Actually there is no CACE 'leadership.' And please note that we are not an 'allaince' per se, but rather a mutual aid-based economic network. Maybe you should get the facts straight before commenting.

statement from cpc-mutual defense caucus
cpc-mdc supports all libertarian marxist/socialist guerilla collectives fighting against the repression of bosses and its state capitalist croonies.
all cpc networks have decided to aid these brave insurgents with weapons,food,or anyway that it can.
we realise that this is support of "terrorism" but there is no terror more than capitalist fueled imperialist state policies that murder and subjugate millions of the working class.
down with capitalism! up with elagarian socialism!!

A brief report landed on Jessica's desk. She quickly skimmed it and promptly chucked it in the garbage can. Calling her secretary into her office she frowned and asked, "What do I care about a Knootossian mutual defence agreement?"

"They're a WBO member ma'am. Being our Delegate to that organization, I thought..."

"Well, you were mistaken. Just because they're in the WBO doesn't mean that I, or much of anyone else, cares what they do on the side. Besides, it looks to largely be something that they cooked up just to piss off CACE."

"Yes ma'am."

OOC: Hmph. I still have now idea how someone applies for WBO membership. :( God knows, I can't apply for SATO membership, what with being in the middle of the Pacific, and all.

OOC: -X, you're a day old, and I don't even know whether you're a CACE alliance member. Why would this be addressed at you? You realize that there is a CACE alliance in NS with its own forum and leadership, that this is not a freshly coined term, right? Since you are a socialist nation, if you wanted to join with your brethren, talk to Sea Orc. Otherwise, get the facts at least a little straight before commenting.

IC:

Thank you, -X, for your valuable input. We are filing your pathetic attempt at satire right after the French military stategy advice we received last Tuesday, in our Suggestions Department.

http://thirtycaliber.tripod.com/suggestions_dept.txt

----------------------------------------------------

John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber

ooc: sorry, that was me. -X is an administrative experimental thinktank (an issues testing puppet). Whups. Xikuang, often reerred to on the CACE boards and by fellow CACE members as X, is a CACE member, and we know exactly to whom you are referring when you speak of Sea Orc. We assume you take SeOCC to be the leader of the CACE. The CACE, however, is an economic alliance, neither having nor requiring leadership. All members are on equal standing and CACE-wide decisions are made democratically, via the medium of polls taken in members-only forums. All of this information is freely and easily available on the CACE forums to which you refer. Please, before making assertions about CACE policy/leadership/whatever, do get your facts straight. Cheers.

OOC: I believe it is you that is mistaken. IRL, there is no defined 'leader' of NATO, however, in real terms, the US was during the cold war the leader of NATO. Nowadays, NATO is not really serving any purpose, so it doesn't matter.

Thank you, though, for clarifying the -X/Xikuang matter. Issues testing puppets are fun, aren't they?

On the 'alliance' matter, you can say all day that the CACE, which you describe as a 'mutual aid-based economic network', is not an alliance, but your own description gives it away that it is a de facto alliance. One could similarly argue that an RPG is not a rocket launcher or that a 'hoodie' isn't a sweatshirt, and neither of these arguments would have any more merit.

Heh, never a dull moment with these cappies. At least these ones aren't going attack for no reason at all - they'll have to think one up first. Hey wait... "directly related bodies and organizations". Are they implying that they might go to war against IFTA signatories? Sounds completely loony to me.

Jahil Thimbas
Member of the Weekly Insurgent Editorial Collective

An economic alliance, perhaps. A trade partnership alliance, perhaps. No military alliance is entailed, implied, or indeed, extant, and we tend to abhor violence. Many of us could fairly be described-- some of us have been-- ;) as treehugging peaceniks. Really, if you're expecting aggression from us, somebody's telling you stories with no foundation. We really don't like war, and we spend a lot of time talking about how not to get into any whenever it looks likely we might be targeted.


Thank you, though, for clarifying the -X/Xikuang matter. Issues testing puppets are fun, aren't they?

I hope so. Tthis is my first one, and I've not had it long-- hopefully I'll be able to figure out what these issues do!

OOC: Good luck with -X, Xikuang. I used to have an issues puppet called M14, but I lost the password and it died of inactivity.

ooc: Thanks. Ah, that dread disease... I used to have an insane religious fundamentalist nation (I invented the insane religion and all) called Pnakharaphhaphetkham... I got sick of typing the name and it died of inactivity. I'm being quite organised with -X. Maybe it'll even be useful one day.

OOC: I believe it is you that is mistaken. IRL, there is no defined 'leader' of NATO, however, in real terms, the US was during the cold war the leader of NATO.OOC: Please explain how Seocc is the 'leader' of the CACE. Yes, the US is the evident puppetmaster of NATO, but how is Seocc the 'leader' of the CACE? The CACE isn't like NATO, it is an ECONOMIC NETWORK, not a MILITARY PACT.

and people don't even do what i say. like watch this:

you guys, quit posting in this thread. now. your dictator has spoken!

Fuck you, you shit-eating Stalinist scumbag!

:P

Give me back my lunch!

Did you not hear what his royal highness said.
*waves a whip* stop posting or else *points at the salt mines*!

Kinky! :wink:

you guys, quit posting in this thread. now. your dictator has spoken!

Sir, yes sir!

Statement from the Anarcho-Order Following Brigade

I can't work in the salt mines. The ACEPB has regulated my work schedule for the rest of my life.

The New Separatism recognizes that the CACE is a threat to the world that must be contained from spreading and oppressing the rights of the workers and the businessmen of the world. The New Separatism hopes to set an example to our fellow Separatist Confederacy members and to our ally in Knootoss.

~Lord Zhovhan

...the CACE is a threat to the world that must be contained from spreading and oppressing the rights of the workers...

This just needs to be said again.

...the CACE is a threat to the world that must be contained from spreading and oppressing the rights of the workers...

it certainly does; another unfounded, completely impossible to prove statement for the master of the anti-ideology ideology.

now, all of you, back to the salt mines, or no whips for you before bedtime!

OOC: Aren't the last three letters in Sea Orc's name usually capitalized?

U 1Z |\|0+Z0rZ +34 +rU |_3aD3rZ, 1 |\|0 |_1Z+3|\| 2 U!!!!!11111

OOC: Aren't the last three letters in Sea Orc's name usually capitalized?

U 1Z |\|0+Z0rZ +34 +rU |_3aD3rZ, 1 |\|0 |_1Z+3|\| 2 U!!!!!11111

|-|3 IZ +34 +rU |_3@d3Rz0r! @Ll |-|@I|_!!!!!!!!!!!!

After further debate and discussion, it has been the decision of the Separatist Confederacy and the New Separatism to refute our previous statement of support. It is considered that all though this would have allowed us to increase our ability to counter the Communist and Anti-Capitalist elements, it would have drawn us closer to the WBO and the Capitalists and thus we would lose our neutral and centrist position in economic terms.

~Lord Zhovhan

bwaha, and by neutrality, you mean that worker exploiting, privately owned capital economy you pretend isn't capitalist? bwahaha, you're allied with Knootoss, congrats, you're not neutral.

and besides, it's impossible to be neutral on a moving train.

Well behind the times, as typical in the back-logged and inefficient Ministry of Foreign Affairs, news of a military alliance against the Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies and “their member nations or directly related bodies and organisations.” Naturally, this caused a good deal of hand-wringing up and down the halls of parliament across the Commonwealth. For long had Iansisle maintained a precarious middle ground, being ideologically more drawn towards the free trade states and diplomatically towards the worker states.

As usual, the slim plurality held by Hiresh Dhawan’s Ruling Coalition wasn’t sufficient to maintain any sort of action or firm declaration. However, it was generally held, among all but the most right-wing MPs, that the capitalist nations were the definite aggressors (certain members of the Tradition and Royalist parties held that by their very existance were provocative and therefore at fault for the escalating tensions. As usual, the opinions of the fringe parties were politely listened to and quickly disregarded.). It was also agreed that threats against traditional allies, through various Third World Conferences, such as Tanah Burung, Hell Bovines, and Xikuang simply could not be tolerated.

However, any case of Iansislean politics could not be completed without the input of the large corporations who in truth all but ruled the Commonwealth. Those same powers which had pushed Iansisle into a ruinous and (as seen by those who lost loved ones at Salvador, but perhaps not the politicians in V+S) needless war with Beddgelert now worked to keep Iansisle neutral in any coming capitalist-communist debacle. To many outside the country, Iansisle - sometimes boasted about as perhaps the model of a true laissez-faire economy - seemed to be contradicting itself; abandoning its libertarian ideals in the defense of state controlled industry. Still, Parliament was at long last flaunting its increased independence from the whims of the business world - albeit in baby steps - and its first step was to move to protect its vested diplomatic interests in and friendships with several CACE members and IFTA signatories.

After several days, His Iansislean Majesty’s Government at last issued a statement. While half-hearted, mildly worded, and weak compared to some, it was nonetheless for Iansisle - and I hope all Marxist governments will forgive the pun - a revolutionary step. Simply, it announced to the world that Iansisle would “be vexed should any powers chose to take military action against [CACE or IFTA members].” It further warned that “His Majesty’s Government may be forced, in that eventuality, to take action perhaps affecting Iansisle’s state as a neutral power.” It was signed by Hiresh Dhawan, seven of the other thirteen party leaders in the Commonwealth Combined Parliament, all six members of the government, and even the High King himself.

In a public international statement, the Elected General Council of the Serene Socialist Republic of Xikuang welcomed the statement made by the Iansislean government, adding that the expectation remained that Iansisle's neutrality should not have to be compromised regarding this affair, as no CACE aggression exists, and the CACE nations are concerned to avoid conflict at all costs. "The nations comprising the CACE are well accustomed to looking beyond our borders and well into the future, and we know where war would take us. We would rather not go there, as is well known." said Dr. Xu Xian, Chair of the Elected General Council. Unofficial opinion is that the so-called 'CACE Containment Alliance' will lead nowhere, as it is fundamentally ill-informed and unneccessary. "The CACE is quite capable of 'containing' itself. We are a coalition pledged to mutual support, and we are law-abiding UN member states as a matter of policy-- there is no rationale for any external alliance to 'contain' an economic alliance of non-aggressive nations."

The ledgendery Outer Eugenian Guerilla fighter "Red Shadow" Rabinovitz was heard to ramerk thus upon reading a transcript of the Xikuangese statement:

"Indeed. When they are not attempting to level our cities and burn our fields these filthy fascist scumbags like making loud angry noises about 'containing Seocc.' Ironically it is the only Anarchist contingent within the CACE that has ever truly done anything to contain Seocc. Feeble-minded attempts at military provocation do not ammount to 'containment.'"

taggage.

...the CACE is a threat to the world that must be contained from spreading and oppressing the rights of the workers...

This just needs to be said again.

Stop oppressing your workers with high civil and political rights! At once, I tell you, or I shalt layeth the smack down upon thee!

Ah, to hell with it, I'm going down the pub instead.

OOC: I believe it is you that is mistaken. IRL, there is no defined 'leader' of NATO, however, in real terms, the US was during the cold war the leader of NATO. Nowadays, NATO is not really serving any purpose, so it doesn't matter.

Thank you, though, for clarifying the -X/Xikuang matter. Issues testing puppets are fun, aren't they?

On the 'alliance' matter, you can say all day that the CACE, which you describe as a 'mutual aid-based economic network', is not an alliance, but your own description gives it away that it is a de facto alliance. One could similarly argue that an RPG is not a rocket launcher or that a 'hoodie' isn't a sweatshirt, and neither of these arguments would have any more merit.

(OOC: actually, a RPG isn't a Rocket launcher. The RPG refers to the Rocket propelled Granade itself. The launcher for the Granade would also not be a Rocket Launcher in the strictest sense either, as it is a rocket assisted granade, not so much a rocket.

(OOC: actually, a RPG isn't a Rocket launcher. The RPG refers to the Rocket propelled Granade itself. The launcher for the Granade would also not be a Rocket Launcher in the strictest sense either, as it is a rocket assisted granade, not so much a rocket.

Actually, RPG is also a term used by NATO to classify Soviet rocket propelled grenade launchers, as per the ubiquitous RPG-7, so using it to describe the launcher isn't really incorrect in the strictest sense.

Stop oppressing your workers with high civil and political rights! At once, I tell you, or I shalt layeth the smack down upon thee!

Actually, according to the UN, our political freedoms and civil rights have both recently fallen to unacceptably low levels. Superb?! What have we done wrong? Oh, the humanity...

bwaha, and by neutrality, you mean that worker exploiting, privately owned capital economy you pretend isn't capitalist? bwahaha, you're allied with Knootoss, congrats, you're not neutral.

and besides, it's impossible to be neutral on a moving train.

Who said I was on any train?

(OOC: actually, a RPG isn't a Rocket launcher. The RPG refers to the Rocket propelled Granade itself. The launcher for the Granade would also not be a Rocket Launcher in the strictest sense either, as it is a rocket assisted granade, not so much a rocket.

Actually, RPG is also a term used by NATO to classify Soviet rocket propelled grenade launchers, as per the ubiquitous RPG-7, so using it to describe the launcher isn't really incorrect in the strictest sense.

Meh, the RPG-7 is used in reference to the RPG-7 :P

Public statement from the ministry of Foreign Affairs, a few days later:

The Dutch Democratic Republic is glad to have signed this agreement and we are pursuing similar deals at this very moment. We believe this treaty is a step towards restoring the balance of power, and as a deterrent it will ultimately be a step towards better security and ultimately world peace. To guard the peace, one must be prepared for war.

We have heard concerns recently from the more pacifistically inclined CACE nations regarding this treaty. To keep it short: we, too, hope that the provisions as laid out in this treaty will never have to be used. We have faith in the Xikuangese good intentions, and also trust most of the anticapitalist nations to be ultimately wise. However as long as the Coalition is dominated by the nameless bureaucracy in the Ministry of Politics we are wary of anticapitalist plotting, terrorism and deceit.

Even though it is clearly outlined in the pact, we would like to restate our position that we are not pursuing an active policy of aggression towards the Coalition of Anticapitalist Economies.

However, given the past, preparations seem necessary. The ACA aim to build a region strong and united enough to bring down the capitalists' unfair, dictatorial rule over our world. is publicly used for propaganda. And the CACE has a similar ideology against all nations which allow Freedom™ to flourish. While we are not even a purely capitalist nation, it appears they have counted the DDR amongst the dictators.

We would also like to note that we understand the withdrawal of the New Seperatist declaration of support. They have experienced SeOCC ‘diplomacy’ first-hand. However we respect that it is not their time or place to take ‘sides’ in what has been polarised into an ideological conflict. We continue to stand by their objectives to end the idiocy of ideological division and will strive for pragmatic solutions to the problems of the world.


On behalf of the government, we would like to assure Iansisle that we have no warlike intensions towards the CACE. If a conflict starts it will be wholly their doing. Given our pacifistic outlook we simply want to assure our security. To this end, we are willing to ally ourselves with anyone if it brings our people closer to peace. We unilaterally proclaim that we will respect Iansisle neutrality at all time. However on a more positive note, our government feels our nations have much in common, and we would like to hold bilateral talks in the spirit of friendship if this is acceptable.

- End of statement -

OOC: @Iansisle. I saw your nation description and I am surprised by the amazing similarities between both our nations, Ian, I feel we may have much common ground here. Also by way of neutrality and a habit to write extraordinarily long posts. ;) We are also wary of conflict but the CACE and Knootoss just have a lot of… history. They are the only reason why we aren’t members of the whole fair trade thing for example.)

OOC: @The rest. Bunch of spammers. :P

OOCL Knoot, I am going off to write an anouncment of the Thelas-Knootoss non-agression pact, I will TG it to you when I finish it.

International press wire:

THE HAGUE- Today, after months of negotiations behind closed doors, Knootoss and Thirtycaliber have signed a mutual defence pact specifically targeted against militant anticapitalist aggression.

The treaty is seen as historic as this is the first instance of such close cooperation between the liberal WBO nation of Knootoss and Thirtycaliber, a nation in the region of Maine, associated with the New Conservative Alliance. Next to military cooperation both nations will also engage in closer economic ties.

The selective defensive pact was deemed necessary by the governments of both nations, citing “the increasing terrorist treat from rogue nations such as SeOCC” and “dangerously high tensions between the communist block and the Free World.”

Enclosed with the press wire is the treaty itself:

Signatory nations.
-The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber
-The Dutch Democratic Republic of Knootoss

1) Signatory nations agree to come to each other's aid in case there is direct military conflict with the Coalition of Anti Capialist Economies. (CACE), their member nations or directly related bodies and organisations.

2) Signatory nations agree that any military action against the CACE should only be considered with due reason. Such reasons include but are not limited to a threat to the national sovereignty of signatory nations and attempts of CACE nations to undermine the state or attempts to undermine capitalist economies.

3) Signatory nations agree to an immediate reduction of tariffs between our nations by 50%.

4) Signatory nations agree to a mutual exchange of embassies.

Jaru dont Like this..The Free people of Jaru prepar to defend iitself against the Evil Capitolist World Order...

OOC: actually Thelas I wanted to add a few more items to our nice package deal. :wink: I'll respond again when I have time and when I find the thread.

Some Stats on that fleet of yours would be nice as well... to see if they can fit into my universe. If you could post that there I would be much oblidged...

Public statement from the ministry of Foreign Affairs, a few days later:

The Dutch Democratic Republic is glad to have signed this agreement and we are pursuing similar deals at this very moment.

An alarming prospect. We do hope that our friends in Knootoss will not be making common cause with too many of the pillars of the radical right.

On behalf of the government, we would like to assure Iansisle that we have no warlike intensions towards the CACE. If a conflict starts it will be wholly their doing. Given our pacifistic outlook we simply want to assure our security. To this end, we are willing to ally ourselves with anyone if it brings our people closer to peace. We unilaterally proclaim that we will respect Iansisle neutrality at all time. However on a more positive note, our government feels our nations have much in common, and we would like to hold bilateral talks in the spirit of friendship if this is acceptable.

The wording of the Knootoss-Thirtycaliber pact seems to suggest that the International Fair Trade Agreement is among the bodies to be "contained." We would be grateful for a Knootian recognition that IFTA signatories are also neutral in the conflict between Knootoss and the CACE. Non-alignment between power blocs remains at the heart of our foreign policy, and we hope that Knootoss has not just declared itself our enemy based merely on who our trade partners happen to be.

International press wire:
“the increasing terrorist treat from rogue nations such as SeOCC”

“dangerously high tensions between the communist block and the Free World.”
Seocc: The terrorist's treat!™


We the nations of the Free World were not aware that the DDRK and his allied nation of Hollowpoint now count themselves as a part of a 'communist bloc.'

Public statement from the ministry of Foreign Affairs, a few days later:

The Dutch Democratic Republic is glad to have signed this agreement and we are pursuing similar deals at this very moment.

An alarming prospect. We do hope that our friends in Knootoss will not be making common cause with too many of the pillars of the radical right.

On behalf of the government, we would like to assure Iansisle that we have no warlike intensions towards the CACE. If a conflict starts it will be wholly their doing. Given our pacifistic outlook we simply want to assure our security. To this end, we are willing to ally ourselves with anyone if it brings our people closer to peace. We unilaterally proclaim that we will respect Iansisle neutrality at all time. However on a more positive note, our government feels our nations have much in common, and we would like to hold bilateral talks in the spirit of friendship if this is acceptable.

The wording of the Knootoss-Thirtycaliber pact seems to suggest that the International Fair Trade Agreement is among the bodies to be "contained." We would be grateful for a Knootian recognition that IFTA signatories are also neutral in the conflict between Knootoss and the CACE. Non-alignment between power blocs remains at the heart of our foreign policy, and we hope that Knootoss has not just declared itself our enemy based merely on who our trade partners happen to be.

We echo and underline the words of our friends in Tanah Burung. The IFTA began as a CACE initiative, but it is no longer a CACE organisation. It belongs wholly to the nations who have signed the IFTA, many of whom are not CACE nations.

We maintain that the CACE is not and never was a threat, much less one meriting a 'containment' initiative, but if there are those who insist upon seeing the CACE as such, then may we insist that they restrict their sights to the CACE and the CACE alone. The IFTA signatories have allied themselves with the CACE only insofar as they are willing to adhere to an agreement assuring worker rights-- a statement blind to aflliation to a specific economic model or a particlar political platform. We understand that there is a certain amount of, shall it best be put, history between some CACE nations and certain other nations. We ask that the IFTA nations shall in no wise be dragged down into this, nor shall their names be associated with non-existent conflicts in which they had no part. They are not involved, and we ask, on their behalf, that they be left alone, and their rights as sovereign states to choose their trade partners shall be respected.

So long as the IFTA is not under the direct or indirect control of the CACE and/or its leadership/professed lack thereof, none of the signatories of the CACECT would be obligated to take any stance against any IFTA signatories. Since our Knootian friends are, as far as we can tell, wanting to warm relations between themselves and the IFTA (although we can not 100% confirm this, it seems the case based on known motives and recent statements), and the Free Republic of Thirtycaliber has no quarrel with any IFTA signatories that are not CACE members, I see no reason that relations between CACECT signatories and IFTA signatories should not be friendly. Perhaps we couild take a preliminary measure to show good faith and goodwill?

On another note, we find it rather hard to comprehend how a self-proclaimed 'Federation of Anarchist Communes', which outlaws private enterprise and demonstrates, to the best of my knowledge, zero respect for the private property rights of its own citizens, could believe itself a part of the Free World as opposed to a demilitarized version of the CCCP circa 1930, sans the psychotic murderous guy with the mustache. We also question the rather... oxymoronic nature of this title. However, we are sure our misconceptions and misunderstandings could be cleared up if our respective national leaders were to discuss matters in a more private setting. Perhaps a conference is in order? Although I myself am not sure of the terms of CACE membership and whether or not these would limit your options vis-a-vis any official conference(s) with any free market nation(s), I am equally sure that my own President is willing to bend over backwards in order to accomodate any conditions that might bring my nation to a closer understanding of your political and economic systems and your nation to a better understanding of our version of the former and lack thereof the latter.

And, yes, it is to our understanding that the meat from the vicious Sea Orc is in fact the preferred breakfast of the enemies of freedom worldwide (this information, of course, was gained through rather frightened and graphic reports from TC citizens traveling abroad in certain... unsavory, shall we say, corners of the globe.

--------------------------------------

John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber


OOC: 'Hollowpoint' is a rather poor nick! If you had simply skimmed my post history, you would see that I take a rather dim view IC of such crude (for the general tech level of 'modern-tech' NS nations). OOC is another matter completely, though SMKs are really better described as OTMBT rather than JHPBT rounds.

From the 'Structure' section of the FOEnet International (http://www.geocities.com/free_outer_eugenia) Webiste:

Political

The Federation has never been a true 'government' but rather a free and ultimately democratic partnership of individual communes and productive associations. It has provided a structure that eradicates the need to maintain order through an imposed hierarchy. Through the Federation the people of Free Outer Eugenia have made sure so that no individual or group could garner enough power to impose tyranny over the land and the people.

The social structure of each commune is by no means identical. There is, for example, no Federation policy addressing the question of whether the means of production in an individual commune should be directed by the workers who operate it, or by the commune as a whole. Certain questions of resource distribution are also local prerogatives. Some communes share the products of labor equally amongst all while others base one's share on the work preformed by the particular individual. The principle of democracy practiced in the Federation does not rest upon the 'divine right' of the collective to impose its arbitrary will upon the individual, but rather on the ultimate freedom of the individual in personal matters and the rule of all in matters of collective concern.

There are some common principles though.

The primary structural principles of the Federation are federalism, bottom-up rule; consensus based decision-making, and free association or 'the right of secession.'

Federalism

The Federation is ruled from the bottom up by the people who make up the productive associations and communes, which in turn make up ecoregions, which are united under the Federation. The 'lower level' organizations send their elected delegates to the 'higher level' bodies.

Bottom-up Rule

The delegates may be recalled at any time and are only empowered to relay the decisions made by their constituencies to the 'higher level' bodies. All resolutions made within a body of elected delegates are sent directly to the people for final approval

Consensus-Based Decision Making

All decisions on all levels of the Federation- from the election of a delegate to the approval of a production plan- are made by consensus.

Free Association and the Right of Secession

All bodies- from a Sunday pear-picking collective in Freetown to the Federation itself- are formed by the free association of individuals and communities. No association is bound by anything but the wills and necessities of the individuals that comprise it. All of these associations are free and natural and are thus stronger and more productive than any externally imposed superstructure can ever be.


Economic

Any productive association is entitled to the right to direct and control its production and to dispose of the fruits of its labor as the workers will. This has made all attempts to impose the brutal slavery known in much of the world under the euphemism of 'free enterprise' on the people of Free Outer Eugenia utterly futile.

Every adult (The definition of adulthood varies from commune to commune. The threshold generally lies somewhere between the age of fifteen and eighteen.) member of Free Outer Eugenian society participates in several of the many activities absolutely necessary to run the essential industrial and agricultural production and infrastructure of the Federated Anarchist Communes. This generally amounts to an average fifteen-hour workweek. The people of Free Outer Eugenia spend the rest of their time studying various fields of personal interest, engaging in many sorts of creative labor and generally enjoying all that a free, comfortable and stimulating life has to offer. Because of this the Outer Eugenian GDP is not a very good indicator of either the quality of life or the productiveness of the people of the Federated Anarchist Communes.

As the Federation economy functions on a mutual aid basis, the production plans of the workers' associations are informed by the needs of the communes. The needs of the communes are defined by the consensus decisions reached by each communal collective. Though the educated opinions of various experts and think tanks are of course taken into consideration by the productive associations and communes, these 'learned savants' act only in an advisory capacity. The economy of the Federation is certainly not centralized, but it is both planned and non-competitive.

OOC: 'Hollowpoint' is a rather poor nick! If you had simply skimmed my post history, you would see that I take a rather dim view IC of such crude (for the general tech level of 'modern-tech' NS nations). OOC is another matter completely, though SMKs are really better described as OTMBT rather than JHPBT rounds. OOC: Did I mistype your nation's name? Must have been a Freudian slip.
'Hollow Point' just suits your posts on this thread so well :lol:

the President has authorized me to offer a single diplomat from a CACE member nation safe passage into Thirtycaliber and one week's stay there. The only stipulation is that the diplomat may not be a Sea Orc, as we do not have any facilities with which to house sea creatures, and we have heard many reports that these creatures may be rather environmentally destructive, and threaten the great temperate forests of Thirtycaliber, the last vestiges of the ancient hunting grounds of my country. We await your response.

---------------------------------------------------
John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber

We would be happy to take you up on your offer of a diplomatic visit to Thirtycaliber, Mr. Schnee. We'll be sure to send over a diplomat who will reflect how seriously we take diplomatic relations with some countries.

Sarah Donovan CM,
Head of Foreign Affairs,
The Weegies.

OOC: It's a little hypocritical, complaining about FOE calling you "Hollowpoint" but calling SeOCC Sea Orc, the derogatory term the SATO members tend to use.

1) Signatory nations agree to come to each other's aid in case there is direct military conflict with the Coalition of Anti Capitalist Economies. (CACE), their member nations or directly related bodies and organizations.

This would seem to imply that all other IFTA nations are now threatened by your alliance. Interesting considering they have only signed an economic treaty which is oranized to be ‘bigger then CACE’

2) Signatory nations agree that any military action against the CACE should only be considered with due reason. Such reasons include but are not limited to a threat to the national sovereignty of signatory nations and attempts of CACE nations to undermine the state or attempts to undermine capitalist economies.

What about Anti-capitalist don’t you understand? Technically it would be plausible to argue that under you current terms you are at war with CACE nations at this moment – or in violation of your own alliance. Then again it could also be argued that the IFTA economically contains the CACE, and therefore nullifies the last segment.

And how do you mean “undermine the state” – does publishing Marxist literature count? What about having an exchange student program? Anything that offers to potentially undermine the status que within your nations would threaten the state – ideas are more dangerous then guns, because they are what inspire people to take to revolution – so do you plan on brain scanning your entire citizenry?

2) Signatory nations agree to an immediate reduction of tariffs between our nations by 50%.

A rather moot clause, especially knowing that the DDRK is supposed to operate along a neo-liberalist economic system, so tariffs should not really exists, how do you halve nothing? Unless Knootoss has been a naughty boy and actually still plays with his tariffs.


OOC: Considering that came from a red guy with horns...

Thank you, -X, for your valuable input. We are filing your pathetic attempt at satire right after the French military stategy advice we received last Tuesday, in our Suggestions Department.

Racism sees no colours.

We are filling an official complaint with the Non-Human Rights Court to pursue an apology for your speciest comments. As the Foreign Minister for the Non-Human union I am officially expressing disappointment and indignation at your comments directed at attempting to undermine the value and authority of another sapient being based on their particular species.

OOC: actually Thelas I wanted to add a few more items to our nice package deal. :wink: I'll respond again when I have time and when I find the thread.

Some Stats on that fleet of yours would be nice as well... to see if they can fit into my universe. If you could post that there I would be much oblidged...

OOC: Sure, I have to go dig the stats out... again

...
On behalf of the government, we would like to assure Iansisle that we have no warlike intensions towards the CACE. If a conflict starts it will be wholly their doing. Given our pacifistic outlook we simply want to assure our security. To this end, we are willing to ally ourselves with anyone if it brings our people closer to peace. We unilaterally proclaim that we will respect Iansisle neutrality at all time. However on a more positive note, our government feels our nations have much in common, and we would like to hold bilateral talks in the spirit of friendship if this is acceptable.

- End of statement -

It was raining on the Southern Shield - hardly a infrequent occurance - as Hiresh Dhawan assembled his chief cabinet ministers for a meeting. The Gallagan Prime Minister folded his glasses as the meeting started, and quickly broke down into various arguments. Dhawan had a commanding personality and a quiet air of confidence, though perhaps it was not as impressive in front of a small group as on the floor of parliament’s massive single house.

“Enough,” he said at last, holding up his hands. “This is a government, not some jabbering hen house. I’ll thank each of you to hold your peace until such time as I wish to hear your opinion.” As silence crept into the room at last, Dhawan smiled. “Thank you; that’s much better. Now, Lord MacIntyre, if we may have the latest report?”

“Of course, sir,” said the vastly subdued and physically tiny Minister of Foreign Affairs. He continued to read the entire transcript of the Knootossian speech. “Frankly, sir, I’m worried. If we accept their offer, we may be seen as trying to play both sides of the field, and find ourselves alienated from everyone.”

“Frankly, sir,” cut in Dr. Blayer, Minister of Finance, “We have more in common with the anti-CACE coalition that we do with CACE itself. Besides, even if this does turn out to be a trick, we have the New Highlands to fall back upon.”

“I’m sure our stalwart friends in Celeborne and Agrigento would be most unpleased to hear themselves referred to as a ‘backup plan,’” replied Dhawan to Blayer in a cold voice. “Indeed, after all the New Highlands has done for Iansisle, I am insulted to hear you speak of them so.”

“Er, of course Prime Minister,” replied Dr. Blayer, lowering his eyes slightly.

“However, you are right: it would appear that we are between a rock and a hard place. Knootoss is our ideological ally, even if diplomacy has forced us into an opposite camp. Likewise, I do not wish to offend our friends in the anti-capitalist block.” He paused for a moment to think, then nodded to MacIntyre as a slow smile crept across his face. “Minister, have your department prepare a return message at once. Be polite, and invite a delegation to Ianapalis for negotiations at once. Be sure you tell him, however, that they will be heading an international delegation, as we’re inviting both sides to a conference; one that will hopefully reduce tensions in this ‘cold war’ they seem to be having. Send that out to key CACE and CACE allied states as well, won’t you?”

“Perhaps, sir, you aren’t quite sure what sort of forces you’re dealing with,” said Minister of Space Ernie Bankfield. The entire hall fell silent - it wasn’t too often they heard an opinion from the stocky, thick-glasses wearing former engineer and current head of the Royal Space Exploration Corps. He stood cautiously, a little uncomfortable now that all eyes were on him. “Sir, you’re expecting both sides to be willing to sit down for a reasonable, even-handed debate. From experience, I know that’s the absolute last thing we’ll get. Mr. Dhawan, this whole thing is spiraling out of control towards one, and only one, possible destination. Frankly, sir, we’d do well to wash our hands of the whole mess.”

Dhawan wasn’t used to having his opinions challenged thusly by his own cabinet, and certainly not by the quietest member of it, who seemed to spend more time at the launching pad in Copplestone than at Jameston Place. It took him just a few seconds to organize his thoughts, while the other ministers continued to glance from Dhawan to Bankfield and back again. At last, Dhawan stood to face the rotund little man. “Minister Bankfield, I understand what you mean. However, I remember, not so very long ago, when Irving Graye -” Bankfield’s mouth twitched slightly at the corner “-was trying to pervert wonderful invention; to turn it into a weapon of war, you were the only person bold enough to challenge him. Look where your principles have gotten you now.” He waved slightly about the room. “From an unknown professor at U.G.L.R.W. to the halls of parliament; from an obscure tinkerer to the inventor of the Gurney-III rocket booster and unmanned orbiter. All I ask is that you now stick to those principles: help me help the world, Ernie. If we don’t, perhaps no one will.” It was naïve, certainly, but no person had ever accused the Commonwealth of being a cynical orginization, and Bankfield smiled faintly.

“Well...I suppose it certainly can’t hurt anything, but if you’re expecting to be hailed as a hero, sir, you may wish to lower your expectations.”

“I’ll keep them rock low, Ernie. Now, John, I want you to send out those messages at once. And, if you’ll excuse me, I believe I have a meeting Sir Penton Dubois. Good day.”

OOC: @Iansisle. I saw your nation description and I am surprised by the amazing similarities between both our nations, Ian, I feel we may have much common ground here. Also by way of neutrality and a habit to write extraordinarily long posts. ;) We are also wary of conflict but the CACE and Knootoss just have a lot of… history. They are the only reason why we aren’t members of the whole fair trade thing for example.)

(ooc: I wouldn't be surprised if we do, actually. Iansisle siding with communists is actually somewhat of an unholy alliance, considering we may have the single worst workers' rights record among any democracy in NationStates. Of course, once information with liberal ideals becomes available in the Commonwealth - namely as we advance into the industrial age- I intend to have a revolution of sorts. I haven't quite decided if it will be a democratic style takeover of parliament, with the old organs remaining at the heart of a new body, or a French revolution type affair. I love my mess of a political system, so to kill it off would be a shame, but I really want to behead noblemen :))

(Oh no! Labour can never win in Walmington- I haven't a potential replacement for Mainwaring. Walmington will be all aghast and stuff! I don't know how we'd cope with having worse social equality than the Ians. ..Although at the moment the statements "A well-funded social safety net protects the unfortunate" and "notable for its complete absence of social welfare" do seem to clash somewhat in Walmington's national profile. Erm.. oh God, where was I going with this? I got distracted by the entire villiage going past outside with a pick-up decked out to look like a sleigh, blasting Christmas pop tunes through the night. Gosh..I have to move.)

1) Signatory nations agree to come to each other's aid in case there is direct military conflict with the Coalition of Anti Capitalist Economies. (CACE), their member nations or directly related bodies and organizations.

This would seem to imply that all other IFTA nations are now threatened by your alliance. Interesting considering they have only signed an economic treaty which is oranized to be ‘bigger then CACE’

2) Signatory nations agree that any military action against the CACE should only be considered with due reason. Such reasons include but are not limited to a threat to the national sovereignty of signatory nations and attempts of CACE nations to undermine the state or attempts to undermine capitalist economies.

What about Anti-capitalist don’t you understand? Technically it would be plausible to argue that under you current terms you are at war with CACE nations at this moment – or in violation of your own alliance. Then again it could also be argued that the IFTA economically contains the CACE, and therefore nullifies the last segment.

And how do you mean “undermine the state” – does publishing Marxist literature count? What about having an exchange student program? Anything that offers to potentially undermine the status que within your nations would threaten the state – ideas are more dangerous then guns, because they are what inspire people to take to revolution – so do you plan on brain scanning your entire citizenry?


I'll say this once. Biotopia's interpretation of this treaty doesn't matter or factor in to anything whatsoever. The interpretation of the treaty and implemation based on the aforementioned is done by the signatories. This is true of any treaty. So, as much as Biotopia may want Thirtycaliber and Knootoss to be at odds with all IFTA signatories and at war with the CACE, we are not.

Unless Knootoss takes serious issue with it, this is the interpretation of the treaty that matters:

IFTA signatories are not bound to the CACE, nor are they considered under the terms of this treaty to be any threat to peace whatsoever. So long as an IFTA signatory is not a CACE member nation, it may maintain a position of neutrality and/or nonalignment with no negative consequences from either of the CACECT signatories.

The CACE, while certainly not displaying friendly behavior, is not at this time considered to be acting to stir sedition in either Thirtycaliber or Knootoss. It is most likely beyond their capabilities to do so. Since neither of our nations conducts a census on a loop based on processor speed, I am not sure what you meant by 'status que'. I
OOC: Considering that came from a red guy with horns...


I see no reason that this quote is mentioned, as it was plainly not made by any citizen of Thirtycaliber, and most likely was fabricated altogether. If you are insinuating that I, John C.G. Schnee, made this quote which is clearly not my own, you are tragically mistaken.

I see no racism or 'specism' in my other comments. The French Military is an institution, not a race. It's numerous humourous 'moments' reflect on nothing but itself, and not any ethnic or racial group (which tend to have only cultural and cosmetic similarities, anyways, not character traits).

Since there is no 'Non-Human Rights Court' in Thirtycaliber, I am unsure to what panel you are submitting your frivolous claims, but it is of little consequence anyways.

--------------------------------------

John C.G. Schnee
Secretary of State
The Free Republic of Thirtycaliber



OOC:

Perhaps you don't realize it, Bio, but stuff denoted by 'OOC' is Out Of Character, and thus is not part of the RP.

OOC:Iansisle already found it, but for proper reference:

Iansisle-Knootian contacts...
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2331657#2331657

Thirtycaliber already responded to Biotopia, but it's really more of a "flame away" format then proper IC contact. Esp. since you supposedly have no contact with me at all. But that has already been pointed out.

Tanah Burung, you have a telegram

(OOC: as requested by the Tanah Burung government)

Public statement sent over to all Knootian embassies in the world for immediate release.

Let it be known that the DDR government fully supports the interpretation of the alliance terms as given by Thirtycaliber. Specifically, we would like to make a statement with regard to the status of IFTA in this treaty.

We regard the non-CACE members of the IFTA positively. The government subscribes to the belief that fair trade is an admirable goal. While we do not wish to become a member of an organisation that is dominated by the CACE, who seek to bring more countries into their sphere of influence, we have employed our own initiatives for fair trade in the past and we will continue these policies in the future.

We do, however, want to emphasise that the explanation as provided by Thirtycaliber is the interpretation as it stands at this time. We do not regard IFTA to be a military threat at present, nor do we doubt the noble intentions of the non-CACE signatories of this pact. If this status remains so the same we shall consider IFTA members to be neutral in any hypothetical conflict unless bilateral relationships with said nations dictate otherwise.

However, we expect that the Coalition of Anti Capitalist Economies does the same and will pledge not to use IFTA as an instrument for geostrategic military policies and respect their neutrality. The government believes that IFTA should remain what it is – a peaceful instrument to promote fair trade – and not a military pact.

We strongly encourage a statement by both the CACE and the IFTA on the issue.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry.
"Omnia mutantur, nos et mutamur in illis"

(ooc: thanks eh!)

My government appreciates the recognition by Knootoss of the non-military nature of the International Fair Trade Agreement and the neutrality of its members. Although the IFTA currently has a majority of CACE members, we hope and expect this to change soon, and therefore we do not agree that the IFTA (the largest and fastest-growing trade bloc in the world) is dominated by CACE.

The assurances that the IFTA will not be transformed into a military bloc were already given at the time we signed. There has never been any suggestion in this direction by any CACE member, and we are sure that the economic-only nature of the IFTA is assurance enough that it is a wholly peaceful agreement.

We also reiterate our assurances that Tanah Burung will not take part in military alliances of any kind, with the exception of the limited military clause of the third world solidarity conference. We look forward to a world without military blocs. In our view, armed camps do not build peace: they raise tensions that lead to war. We also look forward to continued close ties with Knootoss in the field of culture.

Violeta Bi Bere
People's representative for foreign affairs & human rights

As one of the CACE nations prominently involved in the promotion of the IFTA, I may speak for the CACE in offering our absolute assurance that there is no CACE intention, nor is there available policy that would enable the CACE, to use IFTA as an instrument for geostrategic military policies. The IFTA is purely an economic agreement; further, it is one that belongs to the signatory body, not to CACE. Military language is absent from the agreement text, as can be confirmed by examining the text here. (http://s1.invisionfree.com/forums/CACE/index.php?showtopic=536&st=0)

We hope that this statement shall be sufficient to settle the matter to the satisfaction of all concerned.

In sincerity,

Elected General Councillor Zhe Xexin,
Chair of the Elected General Committee for Economic Affairs,
The Serene Socialist Republic of Xikuang

OOC: umh... I really can't examine the text as long as I am still IP-banned... :cry:

(never mind; X's looks better!)

ooc: Dagnabbit, Knootoss, of course you can't. Please accept my second apology for that.

(edit: deletes now unneccesary text)

(edit edit: laughs, puts it back)


Preamble:

The Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies was formed as a co-operative multinational economic platform from which nations concerned to put the interests of the people before the interests of profit can work together to create a strong economic alliance that is fair to labourers. Previously, CACE economies have been closed to non-members. Now, having succeeded in our ambitions and in recognisance that humanitarian interest can be served in adherence to capitalist as well as anti-capitalist economic models, we invite nations of any economic model, capitalist and non-capitalist alike, who with us refuse to treat labour as a resource to be exploited, upholding instead the rights and welfare of the labourer, to create and maintain a growing economic alliance based on fair trade and worker rights.

The International Fair Trade Agreement
The following treaty was ratified by the Coalition Body on October 22nd, 2003, and is now a requirement for membership in the CACE. Any nation, regardless of economic system, may sign this treaty providing they meet the terms as detailed under Section 1.

I. Terms of Compliance

Signatories must pass and institute legislation to meet the requirements set in below within 1 year (365 days) of signing this treaty. Full compliance will be assumed from the signing of the treaty, and will be evaluated after one year. Signatories that have failed to bring their nations into compliance with the treaty will have all benefits suspended until they have met the treaty’s requirements. After the first year, any nation that fails to meet the treaty’s requirements will be placed on one year probation, with re-evaluation at the end of that year. Failure to comply with the terms of the treaty at the end of the one year probation will result in suspension of benefits until they have met the treaty’s requirements.

Signatories that meet the upper tier requirements as noted specifically will be granted Trade Primacy status. Primacy grants greater access to markets and resources, and the requests of nations with Primacy status will receive preferential treatment over base level nations. Trade Primacy status is cumulative; the more areas a nation meets upper tier requirements the greater the benefits.

Signatories are required to enforce the dictates of this treaty and may not act in a manner contradictory to the treaty. Signatories must honor the requirements the treaty places upon their nations. Signatories which fail to enforce a section of the treaty, or act in contradiction to the treaty, will be immediately suspended and must reapply for full benefits.

II. Labor Requirements


A. Wages

1. Companies operating within, or doing business with companies within, the signatory nation must pay their workers a living wage.

i. Living Wage is determined individually for all nations: it is calculated by adding the mean cost of food for the worker and one dependant, housing for the worker and one dependant, electricity, water, local telecommunications, schooling for a dependant and +30% discretionary spending.

ii. Signatories which set a Living Wage 10% or more above the amount listed above will be granted Trade Primacy.

2. Wages may not be denied for time worked. Companies found to be in violation of this clause will be fined no less than 10,000 WD a day until all back wages are paid.

3. Wages must be paid on a regular basis not to exceed one calendar month in duration. Companies found to be in violation of this clause will be fined no less than 10,000 WD a day until wages are delivered on an acceptable schedule.



B. Work Schedules

1. The work week is set at 40 hours per week. All hours from 41-60 must be paid time and a half. All hours from 61-80 must be paid double time. No worker can work more than 80 hours a week.

2. Full time workers must have health and pension plans provided by their employers or the state. Part time workers must have health plans provided by their employers or the state.

i. Full time is defined as working 30-40 hours a week, or 35 hours or more on average for a 50 week year. Part time is defined as working 15-29 hours a week, or 20 hours a week on average for a 50 week year.

ii. Signatories that set a full time work week at 35 hours or less will be granted Trade Primacy status.



C. Workplace Environment

1. No company may operate a business in a hazardous environment. Companies found to be operating inside hazardous environments will be fined no less than 50,000 WD a day until operations cease in hazardous environments.

i. In situations where hazardous conditions cannot be avoided, workers will be fully informed as to the nature and degree of risk, and companies shall have the responsibility for the implementation and maintenance of measures minimising worker risk, i.e. the provision of protective clothing and equipment; provision of adequate and appropriate training; medical and psychological support; maintenance of sufficient staff; other measures as appropriate to minimise individual exposure to a hazardous environment and increase worker safety.

2. Workers will be protected from all types of workplace discrimination and harassment, including but not limited to harassment based on gender, race, ethnicity, creed, sexual preference, or political beliefs. Companies may be brought to court on civil charges by individuals for violating this clause.

i. Workers shall not be dismissed on the ground of calling for investigation into workplace conditions. Companies may be brought to court on civil charges by individuals for violating this clause.

D. Labor Unions

1. Signatory nations must recognize unions formed for the purpose of collective representation of workers.

2. Signatory nations must take appropriate steps to ensure the ability of unions to strike, and must appoint unbiased mediators to resolve disputes if a strike continues for 60 days or more.



III. Investment Requirements

A. International Investment

1. Taxes on foreign direct investment from signatory nations will be capped at 12% in addition to local taxes. Firms must have 66% of their stock owned by local stock holders in order to be eligible for this clause. Nations which set FDI taxes at 6% or less will receive Trade Primacy status.

2. Signatory nations must institute a 1% tax on FDI, which must be spent on either education or social welfare projects. Nations which set this tax at 4% or higher will receive Trade Primacy status.

3. Investors with residence of holdings in signatory nations may only invest in holdings and nations which abide by the regulations of this treaty.



B. Domestic Investment

1. All companies must be at least 25% worker owned, either through direct ownership of stock or through stock options in retirement investment funds. Companies which are worker controlled, where workers own and vote 51% of stock, will be granted Trade Primacy status. Nations which require companies to be 51% worker owned and controlled will receive Trade Primacy status.

2. Signatory nations must regulate banking investment. Nations which make bank investment in the open stock market illegal will receive Trade Primacy status.

3. Signatory nations must regulate domestic stock markets. Nations which criminalize to felony level trading violations such as insider trading, fraud or stock manipulation will receive Trade Primacy status.



IV. Trade Requirements

A. International Trade

1. This treaty will establish four levels of trade between the CACE and capitalist nations.

i. CACE Autarchy: This level is available to CACE members only, and constitutes a non-monied, need based industrial alliance network.

ii. Primary Trade Partner: This level is the highest level available to non-CACE members, and is made of nations selected by the CACE Production and Trade Board. These nations are free to sell their goods to CACE nations and CACE nations need not seek permission to trade with them.

iii. Trade Partner: This level is available to all other signatory nations of this treaty, but CACE members must seek goods from CACE members and Primary Trade Partners first before purchasing goods from Trade Partners.

iv. Non-Treatied Nations: Nations which are not members of the CACE and not signatories of this treaty reside in this level. CACE members and Signatory Nations are barred from trading with them without explicit permission of a simple majority of treaty signatories.

--------------------------

IFTA Signatories*:
Last Updated: 10th December 2003, -Xikuang

Altaran
Alvarezistan
Ancient Races
Anhierarch
Arbustropolis
Askewnia
Aztec National League
Bakuningrad
Biedermannia
Biotopia
Calapooya
Caselonia
Celdonia
Cirdanistan
Constantinopolis
Craptania
Crosshill
Croton-On-Hudson
Demo-Bobylon
Eauz
Emperor Corp Ltd
Erik Wiklund
Evil and other things
First Outside
Free Outer Eugenia
Free Socialism
Free Soviets
Freebodnik V
Fritz
Geneveev
Georgeton
Germanicapan
Hearja
Hell Bovines
Hewhocaresnot
Homopolis
Jigoku
Justitium
Kalaallit Nunaat
Kerla
Klypherine
Kneejistan
Lietuveska
Megrovia
Mentholyptus
Monkecia
New Dorkland
ParEcon
Progressive Communism
Ricoh
Russian Navy
Sacco and Vanzetti
SeOCC
Shutthehellup
Soviet Kevistan
Spartacism
Springsteencult
Southon
Szczurlandia
Tanah Burung
Terrus
The Anti-flag
The Monkey Queen
The Weegies
The Weredolphins
Uppity Plebs
Verkat
Watfordshire
Wolomy
Xikuang
Zylaxydia

Thanks, Iansisle.

"Business is War." Colonel Ken Allard, ret.

ik

we have employed our own initiatives for fair trade in the past and we will continue these policies in the future.

The government of Tanah Burung would allow the point to go unchallenged, sticking to its friendly statement, but the Knootian ambassador can expect some press questions on this point:

1) What fair trade initiatives has Knootoss engaged in? How does the Knootian government define fair trade?

2) If Knootoss believes in fair trade, why not sign the IFTA?
[I'm aware of the reasons of course, but it's an obvious press question]

3) If Knootoss beleives in fair trade, will it ask for far-trade clauses in trade agreements being negotiated as we speak?

In response to the questions, the Knootian ambassador took quite a while to answer, granting an interview after the journalist’s deadline had ended. (He was pretty sure of it, anyways.) When the journalist showed up after all with his tape recorder he quickly gathered some facts and figures:

1a) What fair trade initiatives has Knootoss engaged in?
“Umh… there have been several occasion in which the Knootian government has mediated fair trade agreements. More specifically, the ministry of Economic Affairs appears to be willing to engage in fair trade agreements. An example would be the rebuilding process in the former Vampiric nation of Bloodreign, where SATO was involved in a peacekeeping mission. Other examples would include developing nations in the Columbian region, such as the Knootian support for territories formerly held by the leftist FARC rebels. We’re working together with private industries there for decades. Basically since the first Vogels administration.”

(OOC: little known fact, but together with the Empire of Baron / Chimea, Knootoss holds large parts of Columbia that were formerly FARC commie rebel territory. The territories are somewhat larger then the RL FARC territory, as the rebels had advanced significantly. It’s a long story – one of my first RP’s. Been rebuilding that part of the NS world in our image since then. The FARC player now has a new nation.)

The ambassador sits back for a subject he’s going to enjoy: “Of course, we also engage in more-or-less fair trade with the nation of Ale-Yarok. This (OOC: named after an Israeli political party) nation was ruled in a quite socialist way when they asked for some international guidance and we were glad to step in. Since then, the nation has been moving slowly back towards independence. The economy is really swell, a first world nation basically, so the trade can become more competitive. Ale-Yarok is a good example of successful Knootian guidance.” He sneers as he grabs his coffee: “Kinda what Tanah Burung could have done really.”

But those are just examples with extensive Knootian involvement. I’d like to go on to the next question…

1b)How does the Knootian government define fair trade?
(OOC: EFTA definition with South ---> developing nations)
The ambassador hands the journalist a sheet, and reads it out loud:
"Fair Trade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers - especially in the Developing Nations. Fair Trade organisations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade".

Fair Trade's strategic intent is:
-Deliberately to work with marginalized producers and workers in order to help them move from a position of vulnerability to security and economic self-sufficiency
-To empower producers and workers as stakeholders in their own organisations
-Actively to play a wider role in the global arena to achieve greater equity in international trade.

2) If Knootoss believes in fair trade, why not sign the IFTA?
The Ambassador frowns and thinks for a moment, leaning back in his chair:

“Well… there are political reasons obviously. We support fair trade as a means, but IFTA has some critical flaws that inhibit our joining. The main reason is that the organisation is CACE dominated.”

His tone becomes more aggressive:
“My government has no desire to be associated with an organisation that is run behind the scenes by a rogue terrorist-supporting puppetmaster. Of course, we will not forget how they openly supported terrorist groups and nearly deliberately caused a thermonuclear conflict just to root out an, umh, intelligence source they already had strong suspicions was there. You know, I hope, of which nation I speak.

The intelligence we have gathered so far indicates that some CACE governments see the IFTA as a possibility to gain economic and political influence over what they consider to be nations that can be easily persuaded. Intelligence reports gave an image of a tone that was actually quite demeaning.”

As if in an afterthought, he adds:
“Also, some of the definitions and regulations in the treaty are incompatible with established traditions in Knootian society, and the scale of the Knootian economy making implementation of the treaty difficult.”

3) If Knootoss believes in fair trade, will it ask for far-trade clauses in trade agreements being negotiated as we speak?
“Well… that depends on with whom we are negotiating. We believe in free trade and optimal competitiveness between nations who have equal opportunities. For example there will be negotiations shortly with the Empire Of The Eternal Dawn within the SCOJAN treaty (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=104940&highlight=) forum where we also hope to secure trade deals. And the Knootian government also intends to look into any organisation that may emerge out of the ashes of CENNA.

But these are all first world nations who do not need ‘fair’ trade. If you want to know if there are any ongoing negotiations with developing nations right now you should really contact the ministry back in Knootoss.

OOC: just a reminder. This is the Knootian ambassador IN TANAH BURUNG, not a televised address or something. Just a note before everyone starts to flame.

My government has no desire to be associated with an organisation that is run behind the scenes by a rogue terrorist-supporting puppetmaster. Is that an official notice of withdrawl from WBO/SATO?

-'Red Shadow' Rabinovitz
of the Che Guevarra Brigade International Revolutionary Collective

Knootian embassy, Tanah Burung

"SECURITY!", the ambassador yelled, and 2 Knootian marines immediately stormed into the ambassadors quarters.

The Knootian is totally perplexed that he did not notice the 'Red Shadow' while he was in the same room. "What the hell are you doing here and how did you get in?!", he asked while nervously looking at the journalist who was obviously going to publicise this.

and why did he suddenly speak up?

The marines angrily pointed their 'new' M16's at the CACE intruder.

OOC: :roll:

[ooc: Phear Red Shadow's 133+ stealth abilities. Aha!]

What do you think PEACE was for if not to contain CACE?

Give PEACE a chance! (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=91172&highlight=)

The ambassador sits back for a subject he’s going to enjoy: “Of course, we also engage in more-or-less fair trade with the nation of Ale-Yarok. This (OOC: named after an Israeli political party) nation was ruled in a quite socialist way when they asked for some international guidance and we were glad to step in. Since then, the nation has been moving slowly back towards independence. The economy is really swell, a first world nation basically, so the trade can become more competitive. Ale-Yarok is a good example of successful Knootian guidance.” He sneers as he grabs his coffee: “Kinda what Tanah Burung could have done really.”

ooc: oh dear. That's very genuine indeed, Knoot. :wink: I think you know what thin-skinned anti-colonial button your ambassador has just pushed. Even Suharto would be cursing Knootoss now! Will respond (when i get more time) with a rather hard-hitting editorial in the TB press denouncing your government.

OOC: I realise that and I just coulnd't resist. :mrgreen:
When it comes out the central government will try to contain the statement as much as they can. :P