NationStates Jolt Archive

The Dominion is pleased to announce the formation of the Trade Network Association - an organization intended to lay the groundwork for and encourage an outreaching of trade efforts between nations. We are aware that there are many trade pacts and alliances available, and we recognize their validity without question. What we are hoping to offer is yet another alternative that will ideally work in conjunction with these others, not against them.

First off, this is a trade network - not an alliance, not a binding pact. It is hoped that nations and perhaps, alliances who usually do not have access to or contact with one another could utilize the system to initiate them via [trade. No nation involved will be forced to recognize or trade with those they do not wish to, and there are no punitive actions in place for trouble between signatories - however the organization will offer mediation services if agreed on and requested by any signatories requiring such.

Think of it as more like a job board, with those nations posting services and offers, and others looking to benefit from them. Over the years we have been fortunate to establish ties with many nations of various sorts, incredibly enough, often of diametrically opposed natures and purposes. Diversity and adaptability are traits we feel important in today's world of trade, and hope that our many contacts will take this offer as a chance to broaden their horizons and benefit financially as well.

We require no permanent representation within our nation by any participating signatories, though we will establish a main office through which Association business will pass and local agreements be conducted. Additionally, we do not require that any of our current allies or contacts participate in this new venture, nor will this be tied in with any standing alliances, nor said agreements be forfeit on account of it. As things stand, we will continue to honor all existing trade agreements. We view this as an opportunity to expand, not to reorder or force change on agreements and obligations that have already been proven to be mutually satisfying.

Some services we hope to offer, and some points for clarification of purpose are as follows:

--First and foremost, we intend to develop a network where trade and business opportunities can be advertised, and where those in need of services can go for an easy reference, and to provide a new method of contact between nations and organizations who either lack the means or the proper avenues to initiate such contact for themselves. In addition, we offer our services as 'middleman' for those groups who desire the benefits of a particular trade, but for whatever reasons are unable to mediate between the two parties.

--Easy Monetary Exchange. Given our resources, we wish to offer exchange services between nations who lack the recognition or avenues to initiate such, should they be desired or required. In addition, should the majority of the Association desire it, we propose a common denomination to be used throughout, for even more ease in transactions.

--Mediation Services. For those Association signatories who run into difficulties with other signatories in trade issues or disputes, we propose to create a pool of willing mediators who would assist in the aggrieved parties coming to a solution. This would be for mediation purposes only, not to enforce any Association 'rule'.

--Shipping and Transport Services. Our own Eidolon Technologies, Inc. has the capability of providing transport for trade goods, whether it be terrestrial or interstellar in nature. Not only this, but Eidolon is open to franchise opportunities within nations, should there be an interest. More details available on request.

--Opportunities for expanded business, trade, and warehousing on the new Machiavelli Station, where a satellite office of the Association will be present.

--No signatory is forced to trade with anyone they don't wish to. This is all entirely voluntary, and intended as a service, not a requirement.

--Everything is negotiable. We wish for this network to be as free and open as possible to accommodate as many different needs as we can. Given that business and trade run rather differently than any one government overall, we propose a democratic process of clear majority rule for any future changes or additions to the Association's methods.

--Signatories are not required to be a member of, nor discontinue membership in any current alliances, pacts, or agreements prior to joining the Association.

--Signatories are free to withdraw at any time, should they feel the Association no longer serves their purposes, without fear of reprisals. We ask only that a grace period of three months be observed if said signatory also plans on discontinuing trade or business contracts along with their withdrawal.

--Signatories that leave for whatever reason are free to continue any business or trade arrangements made during their involvement with the Association. Who you do business with is no concern of ours - the Dominion's view on sovereign rights crosses over here, in full. The only loss will be the aforementioned services available through the Association.

As Minister of Trade, Bernardo di Medici, will be heading up the local offices, and all questions pertaining to it can be directed to him and his staff using the contact information listed at the end of this missive. We hope that nations will find this Association useful, and look forward to doing business with you.

--Dominion Ministry of Trade, Trade Network Association Offices



Signatories

The Resurgent Dream Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8033475&postcount=15)
Iuthia Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8075403&postcount=25)
Iraqstan
Treznor
Liebermonk
Scolopendra TME Industries (http://s3.invisionfree.com/DLN_Biz_and_Trade/index.php?showtopic=5&view=findpost&p=130282)
Sakkra Updated Listings (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9811200&postcount=55)
Austar Union
Pantocratoria
Fodmodmadtol
Weyr Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8034660&postcount=17)
Vrak
Sentient Peoples
Largent
Liverpool England
The Atheists Reality
The Freethinkers
Excalbia
Sketch
The Intergalactic Trade Hub (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=422493)
Euroslavia (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9528987&postcount=48)
The Ctan
Tiburon
Pilon
Canaervon Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11526404&postcount=105) and Cheese (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=514080)
Xirnium
Interspace and Undersea Salavage and Recycling Cooperative of Commonalitarianism
Erlangen-Ansbach
Nitramda
Aerion
The Greater Kingdom of Midlonia



Ventuus - (Un-extant)
Sonaron - (Un-extant)
Free Magogia - (Un-extant)
Konania Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8094966&postcount=29) - (Un-extant)
Lavenrunz - (Un-extant)
Knootoss - (Un-extant)
Logostan - (Un-extant)
Tonissia - (Un-extant)
Khallayne - (Un-extant)
Terre DeAnge - (Un-extant)
Kongeriket Noreg - (Un-extant)
Etaros - (Un-extant)
Wazzu (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9802772&postcount=52) - (Un-extant)[b]







OOC: Signatory list to be updated as needed. If you have links to existing information on what trade you have available, please forward it along.

Hokay. So here's the deal. Just looking to set up something different here. No, not going to put up a new forum, not going to require folks to rp out every little detail, not going to force any sort of play on folks here. This is just an idea that's been kicking around for a bit that seemed to fit in with what I'm doing. Post here if you'd like to sign up, reach out, advertise services/product/etc, take it where you'd like. It's all up to people to do what they want with it. Use it as a plot device for things, a chance to make contact with people you wouldn't normally, come up with some rp ideas, what have you - open for whatever. Hope this provides some fun and interest for folks.

--Nathi's Player

To: His Excellency, Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade, the Dominion
From: His Excellency, Gary Landis, Commerce Minister, the Danaan High Kingdom of the Resurgent Dream

Your Excellency,
My government would be most interested in participating in the Trade Network Association, as a means of deepening our friendship with your own esteemed nation, developing better relationships internationally, and, of course, for the commercial benefits likely to accrue to all nations involved. We would wish to rent an office on Machiavelli Station and make use of the transportation services of Eidolon Technologies so as to further intrastellar trade, an area where our own transportation capabilities remain rather limited. We are also prepared to offer rather unique goods and markets available with access to the Dreaming.

After this program becomes more concrete, I intend to meet with business leaders and economic experts so as to decide on which specific exports to advertise through this Network and which imports to seek. Please expect a rather detailed document in the near future.

Sincerely,
Gary Landis

A message was delivered to the Dominion via Ventuusi couriers.

The Ventuusi Acquisitional Mining Coporation as well as the Ventuusi Nation glady accept the kind invitation of the Dominion to join in the newly formed Trade Network Association.

The VAMC specialises in mining, refining, transport and industrial production mediums, although we boast numerous other facilities in our various production positions.

Our pimary business positions:

Our mining resources stretch from a few small regions upon Earth to asteroid belts and indeed entire unclaimed systems, or claimed systems where we have bought the mining rights. If you need a material, chances are that we can find it, mine it, and refine it for you.

Our transportation is sturdy and reliable, mostly consisting of mining vessels that have been refitted for transport. This allows for vast cargo storage space combined with strong armour and enough armament to get us through to the consumer.

Our industrial production lines are extremely extensive, producing everything from mining craft to oil refining equipment, welding lasers to mircofusion reactors. If it is used in industry and you want it, for the right price we will either find our plans or research new ones, find the materials or buy them, and then build the product for you. All of our major industrial products come garunteed by VAMC's Insurance and Assets Division.

We, The Board and Parliament of the VAMC and Ventuusi Nation agree with all conditions as stated by Minister of Trade, Bernado di Medici.

Signed,
Tiryan Ven
Chairman and CEO, Ventuusi Acquisitional Mining Corporation
Chancellor, Ventuusi Nation
Patriarch of the House of Ven.

After reviewing the few requirements of this Trading Network, we feel that this association fits our trading needs without any attached agendas or harsh rules which may look down upon our trading practices which are limited to nations we trust.

As such we would be honoured to accept the conditions of this Trade Network Association and be a part of the signatory nations involved in making this venture work. Iuthia is always looking to open it's markets to new possibilities and help our people grow into a more multi-cultural society. It is our hope that our membership will help tha TNA prosper.

Thanks,

Trade Minister Fred Galwitz, Iuthian Trade Control

undersigned,

Lord General James deGritz, Leader of the Iuthian People

Message Beings....

The National Socialist Union of Iraqstan is most interested in attaching some of it's businesses and trade to this Trade network. In such there will be space for affiliate corporate offices on the corporate island of Isla Quatio in the chain islands of Iraqstan for any nations whom have business interests in trade with the Union.

Iraqstani state shipping is also available for hire by foreign nations to ship items to and from Iraqstan proper with reasonable prices and tarifs on goods coming and leaving the country.

Those that are interested in opening negotiations for trade or business with the National Socialist Union are encouraged to contact me in the Trade Ministry of the Reichstag Iraqstani.

Minister volskraat,
Reich Minister of Trade

Message Ends

TSMIT Broadcaster
Encryption: Triumvirate standard
Broadcast type: Open
To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Ministry of Trade, Trade Network Association Offices
Return transmission band: Open
IDENT: Devon Treznor - Treznor

Minister di Medici,

It is my pleasure to indicate my desire to join with the Trade Network Association. While my Empire already has strong economic ties with the Dominion, I like to think I know a good bet when I see one. You can be certain I'll be adding my signature to this paper.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v311/SpaceGhoti/Treznor/Devon.jpg
Devon Treznor
Emperor
<end transmission>

Dominion Ministry of Trade, Trade Network Association Offices:

The nation of Liebermonk would be glad to join you in this effort to create a trade association. The advantages and lenient rules appeal to the eye of the common Liebermonk citizen. Our nation and its citizens are geared towards making the best life for themselves through economic means, and would be willing to take any step that helps them upon the way. We have decided that the Trade Network Association would help our nation and all of its peoples.
Thank You,

Queen Lerathen, Liebermonk

Finance Minister Sprint, Liebermonk

--<Transmission Type: Standard Diplomatic Communique>--
-<Sender: Legislator Jack Kerrigan, FSS>-
-<Destination: Trade Network Association Offices, DDLN>-
--<Subject: Trade Network>--

The Federated Segments of Scolopendra is quite interested in joining this agreement. While the Knootian International Stabilization Treaty has been doing well with finding us new trading partners and new sources for resources, recent diplomatic and idealistic difficulties with the creators of the treaty have been causing our International Relations Section some concern. A non-binding organization such as this suits our needs perfectly, finding people to trade and communicate with without getting ourselves into potentially troublesome entanglements.

Of course, if we find anyone out through these channels that we may actually want to get entangled with, all the more benefit there. I do know that this will be one of the few things I've done so far which will make TME Industries happy.

http://www.weirdozone.0catch.com/projects/nationstates/scolopendra/jack_kerrigan.gifLegislator Jack Kerrigan
Advisor, International Trade Section
Federated Segments of Scolopendra

--<End Transmission>--

H.W.W. Broadcast Station
IdentSig: CEO Kargaah
Minister of Trade

Greetings.

This proposal has been brought to my attention, and I find the spirit and wording of this Trade Network Association to be quite promising. You can rest assured I will be willing to attach our name to this association. Our trade prospects have been a bit without variety these days; hopefully this will open up new avenues to explore.

CEO Kargaah

Opening Secured Channel 104...
Secured Channel 104 open...
Ready for Transmission...

Destination: Dominion Ministry of Trade
EYES ONLY For Bernardo di Medici

RE: Trade Network Association

The Izlon Commerce Bureau would like to apply for membership in the proposed Trade Network Association. We are especially interested in your ability to provide benchmark exchange rates for our currency, the dalon, versus multiple major currencies of the world. If possible, we would like said benchmarking to begin no later than one month from today.

Rayman Storna
CEO, Izlon Industrial
Chairman, Izlon Commerce Bureau

---
Transmission succesful...
Disconnecting...

Somewhere within the Dynasty Chambers...

It was actually quite the shock to the team at Indigo's personal office, to hear that the Dominion had chosen to seperate from KIST, and had started to promote this new organisation. Still, it was a very worthy opportunity, something which would be welcomed within these borders. Indeed, the people had a passion for money, business, and ventures abroad. This, like some others yet different presented all three, hence the excitement and support it recieved from most of the interested population. As such, the team at Indigo's office decided to make a statement, to the minister of the Dominion on behalf of Lord Blue himself. He had of course, consented; such a act without consultation first required the punishment of death.

"On behalf of Indigo Blue, our personal Lord and Master, and Lord over the Blood Dynasty; we would like to accept the invitation to become a signatory to this great organisation. Like KIST, it promotes trade amongst its members, and yet still it remains loose enough for real, freedom of trade. Such an organisation as this can only gain our attention here, and we can thank you personally for presenting such a fantasitic opportunity. Anyhow, if it is within your agreeance, we would like to request that the Blood Dynasty of Austar Union be recognised as a signatory to this organisation, and that we recieve full privililages and responsibilities that its charters hold within. Again, thank you, on behalf of Indigo himself and on behalf of the people of Austar Union."--From the Desk of Indigo

To: His Excellency Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade, the Dominion
From: Isabelle Folquet, Imperial Treasurer, the Pantocratorian Empire

Monsieur di Medici,

I am writing to convey the complements of His Most Catholic and Imperial Majesty's Government, and to advise that the Pantocratorian Imperial Government would like to become a signatory to and member of the Trade Network Association. It is our opinion that the Trade Network Association promises an opportunity to expand Pantocratoria's economic horizons.

Regards,

Isabelle Folquet
New Rome, Pantocratoria

To: His Excellency, Gary Landis, Commerce Minister, the Danaan High Kingdom of the Resurgent Dream
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Your Excellency,

We would be quite pleased to have your nation in closer partnership with the Dominion. Already we have been enjoying a sampling of each other's goods, and we are pleased at how things have been developing along that front. It is hoped that the Association will serve your needs well, and become an effective means for your markets to expand.

Space aboard Machiavelli should be no problem, once you let us know your needs - estimated square footage, any living spaces, docking rights, etc. (no, no need for specifics, we can work it all out no prob.)

I look forward to seeing your report, and the needed details for the station. Welcome aboard.

Sincerely,

Bernardo di Medici

To: Tiryan Ven
Chairman and CEO, Ventuusi Acquisitional Mining Corporation
Chancellor, Ventuusi Nation
Patriarch of the House of Ven.
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Your Excellency,

Thank you for your interest in the Association, and the detailed information you included in your missive. We welcome you to the Network, and hope that it will serve your needs well. I am certain that your mining and transportational offerings will be warmly recieved, as well as your technological and heavy equipment businesses.

Welcome to the Association - may it be a lucrative venture for all of us.

-- Bernardo di Medici

To: Lord General James deGritz, Leader of the Iuthian People
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Honorable Lord General,

We are thrilled that Iuthia would take an interest in our latest venture, and welcome you gladly as a signatory. Hopefully this will allow all of us within the alliance who wish to take advantage of it, the opportunity to expand our horizons a bit, and give our economies a healthy shot in the arm.

We appreciate the support, and look forward to coordinating our efforts as this Association expands.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Minister Volskraat, Reich Minister of Trade
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

We of course are pleased to offer the services of the Association to our allies, Minister Volskraat. Be assured that your offerings will be listed on the network for any and all to take advantage of. Thank you for your interest and support as we work to expand our contacts and boost our trade.

Welcome to the Association - we look forward to continued business with you.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Devon Treznor
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Your Imperial Majesty,

It is an honor to have you show an interest in the Association, and we look forward to continuing, and expanding our already strong ties with Treznor. Your insight and support will be greatly appreciated in this venture, and I hope that it will prove to be as profitable and stable as we have predicted.

My personal thanks, Imperatore.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Her Majesty Queen Lerathen of Liebermonk
cc: Finance Minister Sprint of Liebermonk
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Your Majesty, Honorable Minister,

Greetings from the Dominion. We appreciate your interest in the Association, and gladly welcome you aboard. We have always thought that broadening horizons and making new contacts was a strength, both economically and otherwise. We look forward to working with you to achieve our mutual goals of economic expansion and a healthy profit. We will be posting needs and offered goods and services on the board as they come in - feel free to make use of the service as best serves you.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Legislator Jack Kerrigan, Internal Trade Section Advisor, Scolopendra
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Advisor Kerrigan,

I cannot express how pleased I am to have you aboard. While we have enjoyed excellent ties with the Segments, it serves us well I think, to always have an eye towards expansion and growth. I understand all too well just how 'entanglements' and the political persuasions of a nation or group within it can stifle or complicate trade matters past what may truly be necessary. If I am to understand correctly, this and perhaps Machiavelli Station will serve to ease some of the unfortunate tensions that have come up on account of just issues. As one Trade advisor to another, you have my deepest sympathies in your efforts there, both within the government and among the various corporations. Best of luck in your endeavors. If there is anything I can do to assist, don't hesitate to ask.

Here's to a bright future, new horizons, and a healthy profit.

--Bernardo di Medici

To:CEO Kargaah, Minister of Trade, Sakkra
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Honorable Minister,

I am thrilled to have you express an interest in the Association. Hopefully this effort will give us all a much needed boost, and broaden our contact bases - which is the intent. I wish to thank you for both your excellent business, and all of the assistance you and yours have given us in our colonization efforts. Your products have been a godsend there, and both the colonists and our corporations here at home have expressed nothing but the highest regard for our Sakkran allies and our business dealings with you. It will be a pleasure to continue and extend our professional relationship in this new network.

May you walk on warm sands.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Chairman Rayman Storna, CEO, Izlon Industrial
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Chairman Storna,

We are pleased to accept your membership in the Association, and would be quite happy to make those arrangements that you require pertaining to your currency. Given our resources and connections, I think that we should be able to accommodate your needs in a satisfactory manner. We hope that this will be a profitable venture for all involved.

Welcome to the Association.

--Bernardo di Medici


ooc: This site here (http://www.sunsetrpg.com/economystatistics.php) developed by Sunset, is one we've been using as a basis for exchange rates etc. Thirdgeek.com is another, though it seems to be having problems off and on. Either way, though they do differ according to the preferences of their developers, they can give a basis at least to work off of for reference.

To: The Offices of Indigo Blue
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

We appreciate your interest in the Association, and wish to offer you a warm welcome. We have hoped that the freedoms offered herein would be one of the more comfortable perks of the organization, and as such have been pleased to see so many voice their approval of it. Consider your membership effective as of now - we look forward to doing business with you.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Isabelle Folquet, Imperial Treasurer, the Pantocratorian Empire
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Mademoiselle Folquet,

Please convey our return compliments and thanks on behalf of Her Imperial Majesty Nathicana D'Aquisto, Dread Lady of the Dominion and our government. We would be honored to have Pantocratoria as a signitory on this new venture, and look forward to working with you and yours as we endeavor to explore the opportunities we believe the Association will present to us all.

I note as well the common ties of faith our nations seem to share, though ours admittedly is one more of history and the current ranks of faithful Caltholics that make up the majority in the Dominion. If it interests you, I am certain I could send along the contact information of both our Minister of Religion, and the head of the Dominion Church, on your request, to perhaps gain a further understanding in yet another aspect of our respective nations.

We welcome you to the Association, and hope that you will find it to your benefit.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici


ooc: Hokay. Going to edit the top post to note signatories, and go from here. Basically, I don't expect anyone to -have- to play any of this out a certain way. This is, as stated, an opportunity for new contacts. What we do with them is up to us. We can just assume it all works, which is more than fine, we can base new rp's of it as time and opportunity allow, however folks want to play it is more than fine with me. I figure I'll keep this going as the official thread, where anyone can voice concerns, initiate contacts, etc. If it helps, more than happy to keep a running list in the first post there on who has what available to help ease research and offer up ways for folks to interact. Hope we can all have fun with another lil aspect of potential play. Thanks for the interest!

To Dominion Ministry of Trade, Trade Network Association Offices:

In short, due to the deletion of prior message by a Ministry Clerk whom we shall refer to as Jolt, and the large amounts of frustration which would incur if said message was attempted to be reconstructed, the Official Statement of The Ministry of Trade of Fodmodmadtol shall read as follows.

The Official Statement of The Ministry of Trade of Fodmodmadtol:

"Kay"

The Ministry of Trade
Minister Nanoo
Fodmodmadtol

The report arrives about two days after the missive. The entire report is very in depth, listing all goods produced for export, all desried imports, and all service related economic opportunities in the Resurgent Dream. However, the main points are as follows.

Goods We're Looking To Sell

Seafood
Produce
Lumber
Furs
Art
Music
Books
Handicrafts
Swords
Thorough-bred horses
Exotic animals
Gossamer
Ornithopters
Rubber
Silk
True Silver
Silver
Gold

Goods We're Looking To Buy

Industrial machinery
Computers
Fuel
Automobiles
Wire
Telecommunications equipment
Chlorine
Submersibles
Ships (sea, air, and space)
Ball bearings

Other

Dreaming access
Tourism
Great filming sites

Machiavelli Station

Tourism bureau office
Docking bay
Commerce ministry office
Storage bay
Three private company offices
Foreign Ministry Office
Fueling station
Science laboratory

The office was rather bright, as the blue sky outside told of a lovely day. Light winds from the south brought mild temperatures, a rarity in New Itaros at this time of year. Snow was melting quickly, and for the first time in a few days, children were being hustled to school. The sun had only been up several hours, and Ëtaros was awake before the sun had even risen. He peered out of the window in his office as he drank a small glass of apple juice, and thought hard. He had been thinking hard all morning. Liëssa is right...my economic policies are failing. But who is she to say? And who is she to dare challenge my authority? He scowled as he took another sip, and heard the tell-tale clomping of feet in the long hallway. This time, it was Sairalindë Tarsartír, his Consulacör of Economic Affairs. She knocked on his door quickly, waiting on his response. As he beckoned her to come in, the door was opened and she was holding a few folders.

"Did..I..interrupt you, Excellency?" He smiled at her, and responded, "No, no. I was just thinking." Sairalindë was one of his lesser-known staff, and he had not the time to get as close to her as he had with others. Therefore, she still resorted to formal titles and the utmost of professional attitude, which was what he wanted. He offered a glass, and she politely declined. He motioned for her to sit. She did so, and said, "I've been told by Consulacör Círyatan that you've requested to speak to me." He looked into her eyes and grinned. "I suppose she told you about our little confrontation?" She looked to the floor, as if ashamed. "I apologize if I have offended you, but she did tell me everything." He aimed to roll his eyes, but didn't want to hurt the elf more than he already had. Fragile bitch.. "Of course you didn't. I'm smiling, aren't I." He winked at her. This allowed her to smile a bit more, and she pressed on. "Excellency, it has come to my attention that you are currently in the process of questioning our economic policies." He looked at her questionably. "Our policies? Forgive me, but if there is any blame, it is mine, not yours. You only do what I ask, nothing more." She smiled faintly. He motioned to the apple juice again, "Sure you don't want any?" She shrugged, and poured herself some. As she drank, he talked. "My economic policies have indeed been questioned. Liëssa is of a noble and brave character, and confronted me. I believe you are aware of our latest ventures that are pushing the coffers further into debt?"

She nodded quickly. "Yes, such as the appropriated $2 trillion to prepare for the island we're soon to ask of the Hack, another $1 trillion that is owed to the Federation and DragonStar for their services--" He stopped her in midsentence. "I'm sure it was more than that.." She smiled. "With our latest budget appropriations, I was able to cut salaries and managed a few billion dollars extra, so I sent a letter here. I thought you had read it, but apparently not. Regardless, I inserted the money into Federation coffers just a week ago. The rest will go to DragonStar." He shook his head and smiled. "Good work. Anyway, so you don't have to go on forever, you know about Machiavelli Station, I presume." She nodded quietly. "And also the spaceports in Luin Anarórë." She nodded again. He continued, "Well, all of this has a heavy price. Therefore, I was telling Liëssa that I couldn't see how we could pay for anything else, at which point she harshly criticized my economic policies. She suggested raising taxes, what say you?"

Sairalindë handed him a folder, as if on cue. He took it, and opened it as she spoke. "Raising taxes, even marginally, may upset corporations and businesses in the country. Though it would give us a substantial boost to our coffers, it's a dangerous risk, observing the far-right economic views in the Erasat. Also, due to many free trade partners, our businesses may be forced to outsource, or move entirely, to keep a profit." He nodded his head slowly as he looked through the folder, which was a compilation of statistical data on tax rates in the Erasat, and improved business rates as they declined over the years. "For our economy, I would advise that if you raise income tax rates, that it only be below two percent. Anything higher could threaten our economic stability." She then handed him a second folder, with information on something called the "Trade Network Alliance". He arched a brow at it as he put down his glass. "And this?"

She grinned. "That," she said, pointing inside, "is the Trade Network Association, founded by the Dread Dominion." He began to catch on, but played dumb so he didn't have to read through every bit of the folder. "And?" She enthusiastically carried on. "And it might be the boost we need right now. You see, the Dominion just recently withdrew from KIST, and figured it would start its own trade network, hence the name. A number of nations are already joining it, and I see great prospects for the future if we sign up as well." He looked through it, and wanted to hug the elf for her great work. "You, my friend, are getting a payraise, effective next week." She smiled, and thanked him. He stopped her on her way out. "Oh, please do send them a letter of our acceptance." She winked, "Right on it, Majesty."

To: His Excellency Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade of the Dominion of the Dread Lady Nathicana
From: Lady Sairalindë Tarsartír, Consulacör of Ecnomic Affairs of the Erasat des Etaros

Dear Excellency,

I must commend your nation for its excellent work in establishing a new trade bloc in which nations may take the opportunity to expand and grow as they see fit. This economic opportunity will allow a bright future for many nations, including the Erasat. Recently we have been troubled by budget woes, but I sincerely believe that with VERITAS, KIST, and now the TNA at our disposal for economic prosperity, we will see ourselves arise from a forming slump.

I also must thank you for the diplomatic opportunities this will provide, for I am sure that it will mean inevitable greatness for all those involved. You will surely see our nation as a signatory of the Trade Network Association, and I cannot wait for the bountiful rewards that will come of it.

Thank you, and may your ventures be successful,

Lady Sairalindë Tarsartír

Weyrik Board of Estimates meetings were short, usually. When they were not, the board members would send out for a professional caterer, have interns and secretaries bring out the blankets and pillows, and sit for days on end until the matter was resolved. The Board of Estimates was very thorough; it happily very rarely had anything to be thorough about. The seventeen members of the Board of Estimates sat in their high-backed leather chairs, around an oval table that could have comfortably seated thrice that number.

"Those in favor of initiating contract negotiations with the Trade Network Association?" the Board Director asked, sounding completely bored. Few outside the Board of Estimates’ offices within the Tower of Kings knew his name; the position overshadowed his persona. Fifteen hands went up. The Board always had divisions, which was why it did not operate via a unanimous vote. All that remained was to have someone draft the letter, and gather all the associated files. The board meeting moved on, discussing the economic damage caused by the recent events within Earthbound Weyr, and what else they could do to restore the current recession. The Weyrik Stock Exchange was unstable by virtually anyone's measures, but the current ups and downs were extreme even for the Board of Estimates...

*****

To: Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade, the Dominion
From: Weyrik Board of Estimates, Tower of Kings, Weyr
Re: Trade Network Association

The Kingdom of Weyr, and the United Weyrik Prefectures, are highly interested in the Trade Network Association, and would like to request to become a signatory within said association. The Kingdom of Weyr has no trade restrictions, although some Phyles do have minor restrictions on certain imports.

The Kingdom is currently capable of importing fusactor-compatible radioactives and volatiles; organic raws; foodstuffs, especially protein-based compounds; mithril; mit'ril; magLev drives; magLev-equipped planetary/aerospace craft.

The Kingdom is currently exporting sky and star craft including freight, military, and passenger interstellar, interplanetary, and planet-to-orbit vessels; translation drives; fusactor assemblies, including cryo plants and firien arrays; high-temperature, high-radiation shielded mining crawlers; Feed and Source material technologies; Instel superluminal communications technologies; leyNet communications technologies; thaumaturgic processing and data storage systems; patterning machinery; surplus non-automated industrial machinery. Non-standard exports include alchymical-trained personnel; translation-capable pilots; thaumaturgic development advisors and expertise; military services.

On a side note, the Kingdom would like to inquire into the possibility of acquiring space within Machiavelli station, to be used as a transit and exchange hub to complement Earthbound Station. The current estimated spacial requirements are for two or three berths, each capable of accommodating interstellar craft up to two hundred (200) meters by forty (40) meters by forty (40) meters in size, and several berths, each capable of accommodating interplanetary freighters up to forty (40) meters by ten (10) meters by ten (10) meters, with equipment capable of handling transfer of standard freight containers between the said interstellar and interplanetary freighter craft. Holding space capable of accommodating the load of at least a single Class-3 starlighter is also recommended in order to decrease the off time of starlighters berthed at Machiavelli station. Additional space would be necessary for fuel and maintenance subsections.

We estimate that approximately nine thousand (9000) square meters, with an overall overhead clearance of at least three (3) meters, will be required to accommodate the various workers and personnel associated with the freight transfers, and to provide space for Weyrean government offices.

In order to better serve the Weyrean public, the Board of Estimates would like to inquire whether or not it may sublease space within its leased territory to Weyrean and/or non-Weyrean entities.

Attempting in advance to answer potential questions, we have included projections for Weyrean import and export capacities, as well as estimated transport and transit capabilities of the several Weyrean shipping agencies.

Sincerely,
the Weyrik Board of Estimates

-Clever, isn’t it?
-No different than KIST, really. And we haven’t seen any big trade deals come out of that. Heck, the largest trade deal recently was with Ilek-Vaad, a non KIST member.
-Well, it’s good to have our name there.
-For garnering soft support and perhaps to put a softer face on the FKC…
-And a softer face that what we actually are, Minister.
-True.
-So, then. Shall we join? Certainly Hyperion Transport Systems is looking for new markets now that Mercury has dried up.
-Right. Hmm. I hear the Dominion has pulled out of KIST as well.
-Quite. This could prove to be interesting. What about any political fallout?
-I don't think that will happen. Loose associations such as this is what we prefer. If it starts to become overly bureaucratic, we can leave. And, most importantly, it's not a military alliance. As you know, we are very particular about those.

====

To: Bernardo di Medici ,Minister of Trade
From: Vrak Economic Affairs Division
Subject: The Trade Network Association

We are interested in this association. We would like to establish a representative at the main TNA offices in order to facilitate contacts. Details on major Vrakian corporations and their services shall be provided shortly.


OOC: I do suggest an off-site forum since one thread on the NS boards will, I think, prove to be cumbersome.

<TRANSMISSION Opens: Commerce Directorate Encryption>
<TO: MINISTER di Medici, The Dominion>
<FROM: MINISTER Williams, TCD, FSP>
<RE: TRADE Network Association>

Minister di Medici,

Given the past history of good relations between our two nations, and given our current trade arrangements, and given the Imperial President's commitment to world stability, and his view that cooperative trade is a way of achieving that goal, I have been directed to seek permission for the Federation of Sentient Peoples to join this Association at your leave.

With regards,
~Arthur Williams, TCD

<TRANSMISSION Ends>

To: Minister di Medici
From: Minister of Foreign Trade, Ilek-Vaad

The Free Republic is interested in exploring the possibility of joining this trade association. We were very disappointed in the KIST trade treaty and are leery about joining trade organizations as they are most often used to benefit a select group of businessess and nations.

I will be carefully reviewing this association and it's guidelines to see if it is compatible with the Free Republic's economic laws and guidelines. There will be no official ruling until after the Free Republic's elections in two weeks and a review by the Republican Council.

Dr. Sirdar Ali-Shah, Minister of Foreign Trade, Ilek-Vaad

To: Minister Nanoo, Fodmodmadtol Ministry of Trade
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Minister,

Best of luck on your Clerk issues - I understand just how frustrating communication glitches can be at times. Welcome to the Association. We hope that this venture will prove more profitable and less frustrating.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Lady Sairalindë Tarsartír, Consulacör of Ecnomic Affairs of the Erasat des Etaros
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

My Lady Tarsartír,

It is our pleasure to welcome you to the Association, and hope that the networking opportunities and contacts that are offered here will assist you in your endeavors. Our thanks for your kind words and your support. With such nations as yourself and others involved, I forsee a bright and prosperous future for it, and us all.

With Regard,

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Weyrik Board of Estimates, Tower of Kings, Weyr
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Board,

We are pleased to welcome you as a signatory in the Association - our thanks for your interest, and offerings. We will be certain to note them on the boards.

As for the matter of Machiavelli, it seems that you would likely be best served in space aboard one of the peripheral structures with perhaps your own docking bay. The cost on this will, understandably, be much increased due to having exclusive docking priveleges and an expanse of space. The structure itself will likely house several occupants such as yourselves, though each sector will have clear divisions, and their own resources, sporting space for docking, warehousing, offices/conference rooms, and some residential space. Shuttles will be required for passage back and forth between this outter structure and the main facility. Should this agreement be to your satisfaction, please complete the attached commercial lease agreement (http://home.mchsi.com/~ketri/wsb/links/lease.txt) so that we may begin work on getting your operations set up.

Please bear in mind that fleets as a whole will not be allowed to enter Dominion Space en masse, but will be required to move on a scheduled rotation, due to the expected traffic in the area. All rules and regulations of the station will be made available to you, and further questions in regards to them may be forwarded to our offices on Machiavelli. We look forward to doing business with you.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Vrak Economic Affairs Division
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

We look forward to working with you in the Association - welcome aboard. If I may, we are quite pleased that this venture has caught your attention, and hope that your corporations find it as profitable as we are predicting it will be for all of us. Once we recieve your information, we will get it on the boards for the rest of the group to take advantage of.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Minister Williams, TCD, FSP
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Minister Williams,

It will be a pleasure to work with you and yours on this latest venture. If I may offer my personal thanks for your continued support and interest. Again, a pleasure. Welcome to the Association - may it be the stable and profitable organization we have envisioned.

--Bernardo di Medici

(delivered with this message, a bottle of aged Gaja Sito Moresco, with his compliments)

To: Dr. Sirdar Ali-Shah, Minister of Foreign Trade, Ilek-Vaad
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Minister Ali-Shah,

We thank you for your interest in the Association, and hope that you will find it to your liking once you have had the opportunity for further observation. Should you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact our offices. I look forward to your response once the Council has had time to consider the option.

--Bernardo di Medici





(ooc: due to requests, HERE (http://s3.invisionfree.com/DLN_Biz_and_Trade/index.php?) are some trade forums for use if folks want. I'm still pulling some info together here, but ... there ya have it. It'll be in all my sigs as well as links to the two trade/biz threads here on NS.)

##Begin Transmission##
##To: Dominion Trade Ministries##
##Subject: Trade Network Association##
##From: Largentian Trade and Economic Ministry##

After reviewing the requirements, or more commonly freedoms, of members of the Association we have decided it would most likely be in our best interests to request membership to this association.

As you may or may not remember, like with Machiavelli Station, we are trying to promote more trade within our nation and this would be the perfect opportunity to do so.

We anxiously await your reply,
~Muriel Gehoring, Trade and Economic Minister

##End Transmission##

The form was filled out and sent back, when the Board of Estimates got around to it. There was an unfortunate problem of converting from hexadecimal to base ten, but that was solved in due time. Twenty four hours after being received, a response was drafted and streaming along to a repeater station, for conversion to a format that could be accepted by more traditional methods of communications.

To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade
From: Weyrik Board of Estimates, Tower of Kings, Weyr

Having read and processed the relevant documents, we find the terms of your contract acceptable. Moneys will be forwarded in a method agreed upon at upon initiation of the contract. We request that schematics of the premises to be rented be forwarded to the Weyrik Board of Estimates, prior to initiation of regular monthly payments, for confirmation.

At its current size, the Sol Fleet can be fully handled by Earthbound Station. However, we do request that a military craft of either Light Cruiser lesser classification be permitted to periodically inspect or dock at the premises to be rented. Machiavelli Station administration will be informed of these events.

Due to several concerns raised by private organizations, we feel it best to specify that high-grade fusactor fuel does include highly reactive substances, including Francium and Cesium, as well as radioactives such as Uranium and Plutonium. Weyrean storage and transfer technologies have thus far shown to be highly reliable. However, it has been our experience that non-Weyrean technicians do at times cause incidents that may cause severe damage and loss of profit.

We will compile and forward projected commercial and manufacturing capabilities of the Kingdom of weyr and the United Weyrik Prefectures within this fiscal year.

Sincerely,
the Weyrik Board of Estimates

<<Attached is a signed and filled out copy of the contract provided.>>

Liverpool England Finance and Trade Ministry Transmission
To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

We have received orders from the head of Government that it would be in the best view of Liverpool England to apply for entry into the Association, as we believe that it could only help our trade industry... it could not possibly have any negative effect on us.

Al Lockley Hamlin
Liverpool England Minister for Finance and Trade

This is a little basic for now because I've cut out the some of it from my NS thread, however it gives you an idea of the products that import well into Iuthia and the goods that we have to offer.

Iuthian Imports

Food Stuffs: Simple organic products. Strong import requirement.

Textiles: Unprocessed fabrics. Medium import requirement.

Liqours/Wines: Wine, spirits, ect. Low import requirement.

Luxuries: Perfumes, spices, coffee, chocolate, ect. Low import requirement.

Recreational Drugs: Tabacco, Canabis, Heroin, ect. Strong import requirement. Lower for stronger drugs. Note that Iuthia has contract with a couple nations, so we don't require as much for a while.

General Use Drugs: Medical use drugs only, both perscription and over the counter. Medium import requirement.

Furs: Includes leathers as well as animal fur. Medium import requirement for leathers, otherwise low.


Iuthian Export

Radioactives: Ores and by-products. Strong export capability.

Information Technology: Comminications equipment and Computers. Strong export capability.

General Electronics: Clocks, VRC, ect. Medium export capability.

Machinary: Factory and farm machinary. Medium export capability.

Automobiles: Cars, buses and civilian vehicles. Medium export capability.

Alloys: Industrial metals. Medium export capability.

Firearms: Small-scale artillery, sidearms, ect. All modern-tech. Low export capability. Represents surplus weapons, most weapons Imported from one nation.

Minerals: Unrefined rock containing trace elements. Low export capability.

Gold: Mostly mined for Iuthia's microchips, ect. Medium export capability.

Platinum: Mostly mined for Jewelery. Low export capability.

Gem Stones: Mostly mined for Jewelery. Low export capability.


Please note this is still being upgraded as I go along and trade isn't limited to these items... offer and ask for anything I don't mind. Also note that more then one person can supply and be supplied for each item. Oh yeah... and the majority of required goods are already assumed to be flowing in many cases, with about 60% of my requirements easily coming from my region. This is more or less just a way of keeping track of some outside connection.




Trade Nations List

Exporting to Iuthia

Hatchibombitar - Food Stuffs: Fish, Fruits

The Imperial Navy - Food Stuffs: General Food Items

CorpSac - Recreational Drugs: Cannabis, Tobacco
- General Use Drugs: Medical ect.
- Food Stuffs: Grain, Wheat, Fruit, Fish
- Trade Halted - Trade Embargo now in place

Scandavian States - General Use Drugs: Medical ect.

Tokarev - Food Stuffs: General Food Items

Tiawan - Food Stuffs: Vegatables, "organic"

Zvarinograd - General Use Drugs: Pharmaceuticals

Communist Rule - Food Stuffs: Beef

Mintar - Luxuries: Various best seller books, not pornography.

Edolia - Luxuries: Pornography for soldeirs... various.

Luxornburg - Food Stuffs: Wheat, Grain and Apples
- Wood products

Dyelli Beybi - Recreational Drugs: Tobacco
- Automobiles: "Economy" Value Cars

Knootoss - Recreational Drugs: Many various forms (large quantity)
- Luxurious Goods: Chocolates, ect.
- Foodstuffs: Cheese

Vrak - Textiles and Furs

Valinon - Foodstuffs
- Luxuries
- Liquor/Wines
- Textiles

Agrigento - Foodstuffs: wheat, corn, fruits, vegetables, grapes, potatoes, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, olives; beef, dairy products; fish
- Motor vehicles
- Textiles and clothing
- Transport equipment
- Chemicals; food, beverages and tobacco.

Lietuveska - Foodstuffs: wheat, potatoes, fruits
- Pharmaceuticals
- Textiles

Alcona - Foodstuffs: Beef, lamb
- Textiles/Furs: Wool, long fiber cotton
- Luxuries: high quality tea

Harlesburg - Textiles: Weaved Baskets (low interest)
- Luxuries: Gourmet Cheese (very low interest)

The Great Sixth Reich - Luxuries: German cultural products (very low interest)
- Liqours/Wines: German Beer and Wine (very low interest)
- Food Stuffs: German foods (low interest)

Sharina - Textiles: Mostly hemp and talan (cotton)
- Liqours/Wines: Wines made from Popilas, Banos, Tauiage and Gnarat
- Food Stuffs: Beef and Grain

The Resurgent Dream - Furs: Varied including dragon, gryffon, and basilisk leather
- Foodstuffs


Importing from Iuthia

Moontian - Radioactives: General Goods

Corpsac - Alloys: Iron and Steel
- Trade Halted - Trade Embargo now in place

Zvarinograd - General Electronics: Research Equipment, ect.

Communist Rule - General Electronics: General Items.

Mintar - Information Technology: General Items.

Scandavian States - Raw Materials: Iron Ore

Luxornburg - Information Technology: Radar Equipement

Hatchibombitar - Raw Materials: Iron Ore (plus components for Steel)
- Alloys: General alloys.

Dyelli Beybi - Radioactives: Nuclear waste

Knootoss - Machinery
- Alloys
- Minerals
- Gold

Vrak - Gold
- Automobiles
- Communcation equipment
- Computers
- General electronics
- Automobiles: Luxurious Cars

Valinon - Luxuries
- Liquor/Wines
- Gold
- Platnium
- Gem Stones

Agrigento - Crude oil and refined petroleum products
- Consumer goods
- Industrial raw materials
- Uranium

Lietuveska - Machinery
- Information Technology

Sharina - Automobiles

The Resurgent Dream - Computers
- Telecomunications Equipement

Begin Transmission.

Your Trade Network Association is acceptable to Free Magogia. We bring to the table extensive military technology and advances in the science of computers. We are searching for foodstuffs and raw materials. It is our desire that this Trade Association succeed and we wish you luck.

End Transmission.

So many nations, so many goods.

The Secretary of Trade smiled. It was nice to see some good capitalists still existed in the world... not the strange form of capitalism endosred by the government, or the or the insane capitalizm perported by others.

So much money to be made.

... Mmmm, money. The world is still a wonderful place.

to: {Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade}
from: {Department of Trade:Konania}

The Federal Republic has taken interest in this trade agreement. We, as all nations, see the benefits of peaceful economic relations, and seek joint membership in this venture as well as KIST.

Soon to follow is a short summary of our nation's current products and requested goods, as well as information on current trade routes to Jovian Konania and other extraterrestrial holdings.

--Department of Trade
Federal District, Avalon, Konanian Federal Republic

[ooc: As for the summary: it will come either as a list, or a link posted here. Either way, I'll probably post again so people know where it is. --Felix]

OOC: Iuthia, you can change the label of "Lietuveska" to "Luin Anarórë" due to name change and whatnot. Realistically, if you aren't aware of the situation there, the economy is basically in ruins since the War of Succession and stuff, so you can expect significantly lower levels of trade with the colony right now. However, soon enough you'll be experiencing the same levels as in the past. :)

I'll be posting my desired imports/exports soon.

[Listing, more or less copied from the Sisgardia forum:]

The Federal Republic is indeed intereted in trade with the Martian nations, through this agreement and KIST.

-------

*Industries:
In order of prevalence

Chemical Engineering
Tripera Chemicals

Information Tech/Communications
GlobalSTAR Communications

Aerospace
Advanced Aerospace Corporation
Interspace Corporation

Arms
Puma Arms Technology

-------

*Products

Electronics: Personal to large scale software/hardware, used for residential, commercial, and military applications.

Space Transportation: Interspace and Advanced Aerospace Corporations produce craft to transport large goods from Konania to Jovian Konania (Thebe Station; Konanian Ganymede). Both often work closely with the Konanian Federal Starfleet.

Communications: Konania spends a lot of money on communications and has established a "belt" of satellites in orbit, as well as a number of relay probes orbiting the sun between Earth and Jupiter.

Chemicals: Explosives, especially Octanitrocubane-- Octanitrocubane is an extremely stable, yet very powerful non-nuclear explosive that Konanians have been able to syntehsize in large amounts; it is used primarily for extraterrestrial mining. The Federal Republic will only sell ONC to nations that guarantee its peaceful use. [See link. (http://www.reciprocalnet.org/recipnet/showsample.jsp?sampleId=27344327)]

Construction materials: steel, timber

Tunneling machinery: Used on Ganymede and in Konania for construction and subterranean urban development.

*Cultural

Architecture: One of the most commonly exported elements of Konanian culture.

Cloths, dyes: While most are synthesized, many of Konania's textiles have been produced the same way for its entire history; the same process is used to make uniforms for Konania's public schools.

*Resources [Me and VortexCorp had a thread about this once...]

Most resources are from the Konanian South; Canterras/Eilior Mountain regions.

Diamonds, other gemstones: Used for sometimes luxury; Diamonds are used for drilling and construction.

Iron Ore

Copper

Salt

Some fossil fuels: Oil, Natural Gas, Coal. Usually processed chemically

******

Requested:

Medicine: Konania is currently experiencing a shortage of many vaccines, especially in the Konanian Basin and the remote Canterras regions.

Agriculture: Executive departments in the Federal Republic have projected that produce yields will not be enough to feed the entire country in the next few generations, even with genetically engineered plants. Because of this, Konania is looking for experienced agricultural engineers to design advanced botanical systems.

Gravtech: Konania has had success in the control of gravity, but is looking to import more of this technology.

International cultural elements: Cusine, artwork, architecture, literature.


--Department of Trade

--Department of World Affairs

Avalon, Konania

To: Muriel Gehoring, Trade and Economic Minister, Largent
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Minister Gehoring,

We are quite pleased to welcome you to the Association, and hope that it will serve your needs to your satisfaction. With all the current members already operating within, you should have quite the selection to begin intruductions with. Thank you for your support and interest - we look forward to a profitable future.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Weyrik Board of Estimates, Tower of Kings, Weyr
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Honorable members of the Board,

Please find attached the schematics you requested, as well as a basic overview of station policy. * As stated, we have no problem with military vessesl occasionally docking, but they will be expected to follow the same proceedures as anyone, and the storage or transference of weapons by foreign entities will not be tolerated. Other manners of resupplying such as food or medical, goes without saying. As noted previously, any and all traffic in and out of Machiavelli will be closely monitored, and recieve an escort to and from Dominion-controlled space.

The storage and handling of your fuel types is your responsibility, and according to your lease, any and all damage to the facilities due to mishandling will be your responsibility to cover as well. We reserve the right of inspections to assure ourselves that things are being handled in as safe a manner as possible, but so long as the proper precautions are being taken, we forsee no problems, other than the issue of security that has arisen.

Given the current state of affairs in Arda, and the delicate nature of relations between the Five Kingdoms and the Dominion, we will require an undefined time period to further analyze the situation before allowing clearance for your nation to lease the space we have on hand for you. There is plenty of room, and no rush as yet. As a token of good faith, we will hold that section for you for now while our agencies run their checks. We trust you understand the necessity of such inconveniences, and will be patient with us while we complete the necessary paperwork.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Al Lockley Hamlin, Liverpool England Minister for Finance and Trade
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Minister Lockley,

Thank you for your interest in the Association. We are pleased to welcome you to the organization, and hope that you will find it to be a profitable venture. I will add your nation to the signatory list, and get your name on the network immediately. Welcome aboard.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: The Nation of Free Magogia
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Greetings, and many thanks for your interest in the Association. We hope that the networking available here will benefit you, and that you will find what you're looking for in trade. Your information will be added to the net. Welcome to the Association, and may the future be a profitable one for all of us.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Department of Trade, Konania
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Dear Sir/Madame,

A pleasure to have your support and interest in our latest venture, and for the detailed information. Consider it taken care of, and welcome to the Association. We look forward to seeing business and trade grow and exapand as we continue to add to the network. Again, our sincere thanks - here's to a prosperous future.

--Bernardo di Medici

*(to be posted later due to I'm still writing it up)

(Tag to become post when I have some time...need to eat...:p)

To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade
From: Weyrik Board of Estimates, Tower of Kings, Weyr

We fully understand the current political problems associated with the situation. Although it is belief of the Weyrik Board of Estimates that politics and warfare should be kept independent of commerce in order to both benefit the people and prevent unnecessary loss of profit, we understand that this belief is not shared within the multiverse. As such, we find all of the conditions and the space offered acceptable, and will be ready to assume the contract as soon as you deep it possible to do so.

Sincerely,
the Weyrik Board of Estimates

The director of the Board watched the sun set over the spires of Wye City from his office. It was a pretty sight, both enhanced and ruined at the same time by the clouds of thaumaturgic and mundane pollution that at times accumulated over the great city. Dealing with foreigners always brought up so many new problems. Military and trade did not mix, unless you were selling weapons to both sides and those sides were far away from your manufactories; this was the basic law of trade, at least as he saw it. Why others kept on breaking this law, he did not know. Weyreans did it, too, but not at the expense of so much potential profitable commerce. Still, he could wait. Weyr planned in terms of centuries, as some said both in praise and in insult of the Kingdom.

To his Excellency Bernardo di Medici
Dominion Minister of Trade

I hope that this letter finds you in excellent health, doubtless enjoying the sublime weather in your clement country.
With intention towards developing more space based research principally but also with the general idea of improving our economy, I have been instructed by the Imperial Council of Ministers to put forward our desire to join this trade association.
The long standing good relations of our countries makes this a pleasurable offer to make, one which I believe will be greatly mutually beneficial.
respectfully
Prince Karl von Eisenhart
Minister of Foreign Trade

One more response here ....

To His Royal Highness, Prince Karl von Eisenhart,
Lavenrunz Minister of Foreign Trade

Your Highness, my thanks for your good wishes. I hope that my reply finds you in equally pleasing health and circumstances in your fine nation.

I couldn't be more pleased with your inquiry, and will be happy to do what I can to assist in any way I can in your efforts - please do not hesitate to ask should there be something you need. I believe this will prove to be a wonderful economic boost for all of us, not to mention offer a different venue to explore new introductions and possible ties. It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Trade Network Association. May it serve your purposes well.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici

<<<<- To Dominion Minister of Trade, Bernardo di Medici->>>>
Bernardo, my government would love the opportunity to join such a promising organization as this, and feels that we have much to offer, in everything from mere minerals to the more exotic foodstuffs. We look forward to many years of trading with the other signatories, and possible diplomatic relations with the Dominion itself.
<<<<<-Signed {Movodor Alarin}, current ruler of The Atheist's Reality.->>>>

Chiewab Amagamalated Pharmaceuticals Company, number one in the pharmaceuticals industry within the Sketchian empire; a most unusual on the part of a company so usually keen on delicate maneuverings and political foreplay, decided to express an interest with this "Trade Network Association" being gathered around the dominion. It took considerable greasing of many palms within the Sketchian bureaucracy to obtain the rights to deal outside the empire. Normally, such critical industries, especially ones that operated with what was considered "sensitive state information", such as government military contracts, were prohibited from taking on contracts from any non-allied entity. This was severly limiting in the the fact that there were but a handful of acceptable buyers outside of Sketch. On the other hand, the government always paid extremely well, and never ran out of new contracts to hand out. Given the unique industrial laws within the empire, outside competition was a null concern, and with the near monopoly of a handful of industrial giants, new upstarts were always crushed before they began. Still, it was not a complete monopoly, there were two other pharmaceutical giants to contend with; they raked in profits annually off of stolen (from Chiewab's standpoint) contracts. A nuisance to the industrial giant, and one they wanted to put an end to. Access to the outside market, as extra-empire trade was often called, was the card they needed. With the additional profits unattainable to the other companies, Chiewab could slowly grind its competition to dust.

A message was sent to the Minister of Trade, Bernardo di Medici, regarding Chiewab's inclusion to the Trade Network Association. Enclosed was the flowery language so often used with politicians, language that has helped Chiewab gain many favors in the past.

"We are pleased to announce that the Sketchian Empire has seen it fit to give us exception to the arcane export laws of old. Thus being no longer bound by such ancient and outmoded constraints we now humbly request enttry into the Trade Network Association being sponsored by the illustrious Dominion."

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

Several other companies also sought this oportunity to increase their foreign prescence.

Nubian Design Collective, a large scale customization industry dedicated to the development of devices that conform to client's aesthetics and values. This means not so much the production of actual product but the application of aftermarket modification to existing products made by other companies.

Mitrinomon, an exclusively private sector specialty shop for "contracted help" (ie, bountyhunters, hitmen, other underground professions). They produce highly customizable weapons and armor. One of their primary customers is the Tenloss Syndicate.

Tenloss Syndicate, an abberation in the Sketchian legal system. The "company" specializes in crime syndication through legitimate business fronts, usually exclusively "export" oriented businesses (tolerated due to strict adherance to laws while within Sketch), is often refered to as the Tenloss Foreign Investment Consultation Firm. Tenloss brings a whole new meaning to the term "organized crime", arranging all its contracts with guarantees and keeping through records on "business partners". The Syndicate is perhaps one of the most reliable "hired help" available anywhere; even being used by SKetch's own blackops from time to time, for those particularily dirty tasks.

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

The individual panderings of the companies was not lost on the watchdogs of Sketch. Save for Chiewab Amagalated, and to a lesser degree, Tenloss, the ministry of trade kept a casual watch on all businesses within the empire; not wanting to be too overbearing and supressive of potential profit making. However, the Trade Network Association, being sponsored by the Dominion was of special interest. Not in of its self, but rather, its sponsor. Chiewab believed it to be a brilliant coup that it had managed to convince the bureaucracy to allow the compnay to operate outside. The truth of the matter was that no amount of bribery would have worked if the hierarchy had not had another reason to allow it to happen. To say that relations have been "cold" or "less than desirable" with the Dominion was an understatement. At best it was non-existent, at worst, well, it was best to assume that past offenses have not been forgotten. Foreign relations was going to watch this one very carefully.

ooc: apologies for not keeping this more current - rl issues have really been sapping my time and energy.

To The Honorable Lord Movodor Alarin,
Leader of the Athiest's Reality

Exotic foods are something we happen to have a rather large market for, here and abroad. It seems many are anxious to have the opportunity to sample things out of the ordinary - and the better price they can get them at, the more willing they are to sample. As for the minerals and ores, raw trade goods have always had a large market. Not every nation has been blessed with ample resources, after all. I think we could find a comfortable niche for you within the Trade Network. We look forward to having you aboard, and hope that the Association will prove to be a mutually beneficial endeavor. As for more diplomatic relations, I will forward your intents to Minister Evangelista Ravanelli, Dominion Public Relations, who will be better able to assist you in that regard. Welcome to the Trade Network!

--Bernardo di Medici

The humble nation of Logostan sees fit she join this Trade Network to further international relations. My nation would appreciate acceptance into this esteemed Association. Thank you.

Sincerely,
President Mackenzie Mason

We are interrested in a free trade Legion and would be happy to join


GOODS

Autos
Aircraft
Beef Products
Computer Technologies(esp Mainframes)
Media Products (ie Cameras Studios etc)
NEEDS
Farming Equipment
Vegetables
Pork
Fruit

Official Communique

To whomever it may concern,

As a nation that enjoys the benefit of and indeed depends its economic survival upon the free flow of trade between nations, we find ourselves in a position where joining the Trade Network Association can be considered to be an excellent step forward in establishing trade and commerce links with the many other varied, developed economies of the world, improving access to our home and foreign markets for our own and international firms.

As such, this may be considered a formal request to be accepted within the Trade Network Association, with our legislature currently debating the required domestic legislation, we now feel that our request should be submitted in the hope of successfully joining such an organisation as this. We await your reply in good time.

Strength, Courage, Honour, Unity

Sir Theodore J. Barham
Prime Minister of The Freethinker Commonwealth

ooc: apologies for delays in answers - Sketch especially, seeing as you've been waiting a while. Haven't forgotten, just need a bit more time to pull things together on this end. Getting set for a move to a new house, end of school for daughter, parents coming in over the weekend, work ... I'm swamped. Thanks for the patience, folks.

OOC: No rush, Nathi. I'm sure people don't mind waiting at all. *gives you Multi-Tasking SuperMom Award* :P Good luck with everything and stuff.

OOC: Sorry I didn't see this earlier; I hope joining late isn't a problem.

The Honourable,
Bernardo di Medici,
Dominion Minister of Trade

Dear Honourable Minister,

On behalf of His Imperial Majesty's Government, I would like to extend our sincerest greetings to the Dominion and express the Holy Empire's interest in joining the Trade Network Association.

The Holy Empire of Excalbia has long been committed to free trade and the development of mutually beneficial trade relationships.

We look forward to developing new trade relations with interested nations.

To our prospective trade partners, we can offer advanced computing solutions, including artificial intelligence networks, advanced data storage, bioneural computer processors and naval ship and weapons systems. Our markets are open in variety of fields, including consumer electronics, machinery, motor vehicles and aircraft.

I look forward to your reply, at your convenience.

Sincere Regards,
Sir Harrison Grasis,
Minister of Commerce and Trade

ooc: whatever time you need Nathi, I know how sporadic my own posting is. Gonna be at a wedding this weekend anyways, woot!

"You cannot possibly be serious."

The older man across the table shrugs, and offers the younger a wry smile. "Yes, actually, I am. You've read the outline. You know how we've set this up. It's an opportunity, Tony, and you can't deny it."

"It's a bloody disaster waiting to happen. We are not giving them access to our markets, Bernardo. Absolutely, in no way is that acceptable." Antonio Pellegrino, Dominion Intel Minister, frowns darkly as he sips his wine. Of all the idiotic schemes, this took the cake in his book.

"Ah, but you see," di Medici replies smoothly, exhibiting some of the charisma that got him (and helped him hold) his position of Trade Minister. "I haven't said anything about giving them access to our markets. Think, Toni. The Trade Network Association is just that - a network. There are no binding ties. There are no strictures stating who anyone must trade with or recognize."

He takes some time sampling the pasta rustico on his plate, letting the implications settle in before continuing, ignoring the fact that Pellegrino is still frowning as darkly as ever.

"So, we allow them on the boards, we let those trade with them who will. And we observe them. And who interacts with them in turn. This has very little to do with government intrigue on the surface, Toni. It has everything to do with making money. I am no traitor - I have no intention on giving any money to Sketch until we get the green light from upstairs. However, being the patriot that I am, I also have no problem with allowing my little project to be used as a listening post." He nods to Pellegrino, washing his food down with a brief sip of wine.

"Think on it for a while, no?"

Antonio watches the other man intently, not blinking. Potential? Possibly. But ample risk as well. The less they had to do with Sketch likely the better. He knew well enough that di Medici, for all his talk, was an opportunist. He was the sort of whom it was said would never sell his own mother into slavery - not if he could rent her out at a higher profit. A bit harsh perhaps, but ...

"I'll think on it. After I've had the opportunity to discuss it with Nathicana. And do a bit more research," he finally offers grudgingly. "No promises."

Bernardo just grins.

-- -- -- -- --

To: The Honorable President Mackenzie Mason of Logostan
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Dear Mr. President,

Allow me to welcome you to the Association. It is our hope that you will be able to find those connections you are looking for, as well as boost your profit margins in the process. I believe that this will be a mutually pleasing venture, and hope that the network serves you well.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: The Trade Department of Tonissia
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Dear Sir/Madame,

It is a pleasure to grant you access to the Trade Network. We look forward to assisting you in linking up with those markets that you have indicated are most desireable to you, both import and export. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our offices.

Best regards, and with high hopes for a profitable future,

--Bernardo di Medici

To: His Excellency, Sir Theodore J. Barham,
Prime Minister of The Freethinker Commonwealth
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Honorable Prime Minister,

We are thrilled that you have chosen to show an interest in our little venture. Thank you for your kind words, and your support - we hope that your expectations will be adequately met, and look forward to working with you via the unique opportunities the Network offers.

Welcome aboard - may the association serve you well.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: Sir Harrison Grasis, Minister of Commerce and Trade
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Dear Sir Grasis,

We appreciate your interest in the Association, and gladly welcome you aboard. We look forward to working with you to achieve our mutual goals of economic expansion and a healthy profit. We will be posting needs and offered goods and services on the board as they come in - feel free to make use of the service as best serves you.

--Bernardo di Medici

To: The Trade Department of The Aristocratic Oligarchy of Sketch
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Dear Sirs,

We thank you for the interest your businesses have shown in the Trade Network Association. After careful deliberation and much thought, it has been decided to accept them in, as we have every nation who has wished to make use of the network.

Please be aware that due to the somewhat delicate position our respective governments are in, in relation to one another, that Dominion markets will, regretably, remain closed to Sketch interests until such time as past difficulties have been resolved to our satisfaction. There will of course, be no limit as to who else you may interact with in the network, aside from the individual choices of those participating.

We hope that these arrangements will work to your satisfaction, and that your businesses will find the Network suitable to their purposes.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici

To the Dread Lady Nathicana

My dear Nathicana, I'm very glad to write you this letter of gratitude for your assistance of the previous year at the start of Schlabel's Government. In that time taxes have been reduced, the budget balanced and the new Ministry of the Environment has begun its work, reducing dangerous emissions and improving the lives of ordinary people. These are exciting new days for Lavenrunz!
In part we owe this time to allies and friends like you, who gave us not just your assistance but your prayers and guidance. For that, for all your kindly acts, I am forever grateful.
Your friend
Aurora von Sachshausen.

Curse not being able to post just a quote in here!
To Aurora von Sachshausen,

Dearest Aurora, your letter was very much appreciated, and I thank you for your kind words. I am pleased that what little we were able to do was of some assistance. It would seem things are off to a wonderful start. I couldn't be happier to hear how pleased you are with where Lavenrunz is heading. It is always a thrill to see hard work and long efforts pay off - and in this case, I would say it is very well-deserved. Congratulations - and please, pass on my regards to Herr Schlabel on a job well done.

As for owing, my dear, I'll have no talk of that. Helping is simply what friends and allies do for one another. It is our pleasure to have the opportunity to do so. For all your support and kindnesses, I too am forever grateful. I wish you continued success and happiness in the years to come. You began your leadership as a young girl, no doubt - but I want you to know how proud I am of the woman you have become.

In friendship, and with warm regard,

--Nathicana

To: Dread Lady Nathicana, of The Dominion
From: Lady Destra nos Thiendrel, of Arcadia, Euroslavia.

After carefully reviewing the details of the Trade Network Association, and discussing it with the members of the Cabinet, it is within our best interest to join this organization, in hopes that trade may develop between our nation, and the nations that have joined it. Trade is seemingly the first action two separate nations start before opening relations, so it was deemed necessary that joining this organization may be the beginning of new relations with the current members, as well as improved relations with nations we have already come into contact. We thank you for starting such an organization in the first place, and we wish you the best of luck in managing it.

Our trading imports and exports are:
Imports: Oil, Textile, Steel, Iron Ore, Copper, Gold, Automobiles
Exports: Wheat, Rye, Corn, Vegetables, Beef, Computer Technology, Wines, Pharmaceutical Drugs, Farming Machinery

Again, we must thank you for this opportunity, and I hope one day, we may meet, Nathicana.

In Honour,
Lady Destra nos Thiendrel,
Free Dictator of Euroslavia

Lady Destra nos Thiendrel,

I must say I’m pleased that you have expressed an interest in our little venture. It would be our pleasure to have Euroslavia join the Association, and I have no doubt that both our nations could benefit greatly from the additional trade avenues.

We’ve had more contact with Euroslavia than several of our current signatories, so please do not be put off by a lack of strong formal relations. Meeting new business partners and nations friendly to our mutual interests or aims is the primary purpose for creating this unique network.

I will forward on your information to my Minister of Trade, Bernardo di Medici, so that he can get you set up on the trade net and forward you all the pertinent information on how to use it to maximum efficiency. May I present my personal welcome to the Trade Network Association. I look forward to a profitable future for both our nations – and to meeting face to face once we’re able to arrange for such.

--Nathicana D’Aquisto
Silly inability to post a quote without any other text ... grr, argh.

To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade
From: A’Delon Charmond, Executive Overseer of the Intergalactic Trade Hub


Greetings,

We recently asked to join the Machiavelli Station but were denied. In the return communication, we were directed to the Trade Network Association in hopes what we have to offer would be accepted by the members. We decided to follow up on this recommendation by your very Office.

The ITH is a system of interconnected wormholes governed by a non-political entity set up by the Balrogga Empire to take advantage of the technology we developed to provide trade nearly instantaneous transportation to the markets of our members. There are no military ships allowed from any nation. To ensure compliance we have formed the ITH Police Fleet to make sure the freighters of our members are safe from piracy and to keep any nations from using this system to transport their forces to another world, even their own. We are repaired to use our own navy to prevent this from happening if the fleet we have already dedicated is not enough. Also, we can close down the Local Gate within 10 minutes if it is necessary. The 10 minute time period is to ensure the merchant ships are clear of the system so none would be trapped within it.

I believe you might still have the data files I sent earlier but in you do not, I will enclose them with this communication also.

Sincerely,

A’Delon Charmond, Executive Overseer of the Intergalactic Trade Hub

Balrogga Empire, Earth



Enclosed Datalink:

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=422493

To: The Dominion of Dread Lady Nathicana
From: Ministry of Trade & Economic Affairs

Dear reader of the Trade Network Association,

It is a most fortunate event we have stumbled across this truly unique and most profitable organisation. We hereby apply for membership. Normally we would have attached a longer message, but since we don't issue statements very much like our colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs do, I'll keep this short and to the point.

Imports: Wheat, barley, cotton, beef, veal, chicken, vegetables, (tropical) fruit, disposables, high-tech articles (mp3 players, computers, notebooks etc), natural gas, seeds, fertilizer, pesticides.

Exports: Gold, silver, platinum, copper, zinc, iron ore, steel, plastics (polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, polycarbonate ... [OOC: most things listed here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Plastics)]), oil (limited quantities).

Yours truly,
Minister of Trade & Economic Affiars, Lancelot du Lac.

Dr. Andrew Aiso scowled at himself. Even now, durring breaks of the MFTA meetings, he didn't have a break. And he thought he had worked hard BEFORE the plague! But now with the reorganization just getting started, his tiny little make-shift ministry was supposed to handle all it's huge bureaucratic ancestor did and...more?

Hmmm, Trade Network Association, why hadn't I heard of this before? After another few hours of researching by his staff, the answer came back to him durring another break.

The "Dread Lady's" Regime control it he realized with distase, No wonder no one made a fuss of it. They just snubbed their nose and pretended it didn't exist. God, how far away from our corporate origins have we come?

Further research told him just how much. The trade agreement was clean, just about perfectly, neutral, soaked in ethinol and scrubbed with a wire brush until raw clean. And they ignored it out of some sense of superiority? The thought discusted the interm trade minister more then fascist regimes did.

Recognizing his own strong emotions on the matter, he gave himself a few days to calm down and think the matter over before making a decision....

"...Yonda? Are you sure this letter is supposed to go to this Medicini guy?" Aiso called to his secretary in the next room over.

"Medici." the call came back, then "No." A few seconds later, Yonda was standing in the doorway between the two offices. "But it was their Ministry of Trade that opened the Offices, and Bernardo di Medici is apparantly the current Minister. Of course, our information is still all Pre-Plague.

"Not even an abstract break." he mumbled to himself, scowling again. He didn't notice quickly ducking back out of the room to chuckle. Instead, he got about to writing his reply.


Dominion Minister of Trade, Bernardo di Medici;

I am writing to you regarding the Trade Network Association. I am afraid that due to human error, my nation was apparantly unaware of this organization before. But the TNA's growing importance and my nation's growing need has brought it to my attention.

I'm afraid my nation has recently experianced a terribly deadly epidemic, and much of it remains under self quarentine awaiting results of biological testing by MFTA member nations and corporations. However, several national assets have remained un-exposed and continue to trade on a limited basis.

As my nation reorganizes, it will require trade partners to ensure it's future viability. Ongoing MFTA membership is a start, but the Trade Network Association's guidlines offer individuals in my nation more incinitive to pick up again.

On behalf of the Union of Wazzu, I hereby request to join the Trade Network Association and open up non-contaminated Wazzu assets to trade. These assets include this ministry at the Martian DUMA Offices, the Jovian station Olympus-Corsica (with it's links to The_Wick and LRR institutions), and several small mining and buisness establishments scattered throughout Sol.

Current exports would be limited to (Sunsetti) condensed hydrogen fuel, various heavy metals, and advanced made-to-order materials.

Current wanted imports include unique foods, uranium, medical products, and common household items.

I wish to make it clear that my government wants NO aid, only trade, and for the time being only trade with non-infected areas of Wazzu. It is our hope that the MFTA bio-testing results will come back quickly, and we will be able to resume full trade both within that organization, and within this one.

Regards,
~Dr. Andrew Aiso, Wazzu Minister of Trade


Dr. Aiso looked over his handwritten letter, nodded to himself, and handed it off to Yonda for personal delivery.

"But Drew, we don't have the resources for personal messenger anymore!"

"Fine!" the Dr. scowled, "Then type it up and send it electronic! I've gotta get back to the meetings."

Yonda did just that, correcting the spelling mistakes in the process, and no long afterwards, the message was sent.

To: The Trade Network Association,

The Empire of Khallayne is interested in joining the Trade Network Association (TNA) in order to better expand the Khallaynan economy and to better bring the Empire out of isolation.

Note: All state media and communications are managed by the Khallayne State News Network, which is also considered a government office and a Media Corporation.

Her Blessed Majesty Empress Diane al’Von Rystal I, Empress of the Khallaynans, the Daughter of Heaven, Protector of the State, Defender of the Faith, Descendant of the Prophet, Ascendant to Yellow Heaven

It had been … surprising, the latest batch of requests – to say the very least. Some were known, some were unknown, but to Bernardo, this was moot. What was important was the expansion of trade. He didn’t care so much about the political underpinnings and such of some of the applicants – after all, this was business. Let the politicians bicker and fuss all the liked. He was in it to encourage trade, to broaden horizons, and make new business contacts. With this in mind, he began answering the letters.

*Chi non risica, non rosica, he thought with a smile.


To the Honorable A’Delon Charmond, Executive Overseer of the Intergalactic Trade Hub:

Indeed, I’m pleased that you chose to look into this option. I want to make clear however, what the Trade Network Association is, and isn’t, in case there are some misconceptions, before going forward.

We are just what the name states – a network, not a governing body or anything of the like. We provide a linking service for our members in hopes to promote a more smooth avenue for trade – we do not make trade agreements for any of our members.

Each entity, nation, or individual participating in this network has access to all the lists of resources available for trade by other members. Each member is responsible for arranging their own trade on account – we only provide resources and well, networking to help assist. It is not within our power to grant gate locations or the like, nor authorize the entry of any such fleets, police, military, or otherwise – such arrangements for transportation are up to the individual members. We will only intervene on request to assist with talks or mediation if required, no more.

So long as this is clear, I will be happy to add your organization, and in doing so, your many members, to the network in hopes that this will prove to be a profitable venture for all who choose to avail themselves of it.

I’m afraid at this time, in keeping with our previous missive, that for now, Machiavelli itself remains a non-option, but hope that in the future this may change. This will not in any way affect your use of the network, or access to the resources of the Trade Network Association, as they are quite separate entities.

Please find attached instructions on how to access the network and get started.

Best of luck, and welcome to the Association!

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

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

To the Esteemed Dr. Andrew Aiso, Wazzu Minister of Trade:

It would be a pleasure to extend the resources of the Association to you and your nation. Please accept our condolences on your recent tragedy – we hope that a viable solution will be found.

I believe that with the proper disclaimers and protections in place, that other members should have little reservation in availing themselves of a new market opportunity – I am certain that given what you have to offer, and what many of our members have to give that equitable arrangements can be made.

Please find attached instructions on how to get connected with the network, and get set up to take advantage of our resources. We hope that they will be of assistance both now in your time of need, and later when things have hopefully stabilized.

Welcome to the Association.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

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

To the Khallayne State News Network in response to Her Majesty’s request:

We are pleased that you have shown an interest in our Association, and look forward to assisting you in utilizing the network to your best advantage. Please find attached instructions for how to get set up in the system.

My you find the Network both useful and profitable as you take your fist steps towards a more open relationship with your fellow nations. Should you have need of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our offices. We look forward to doing business with you – welcome to the Association.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade




Translation: Nothing ventured nothing gained.
Guffingford – replied via tg.

Will add to the lists - attachments would pretty much be login information etc - this all is pretty much what you make of it with others, and is designed to be an economic and potentially an rp tool for those who'd like to utilize it.

CEO Kargaah looked at the dossier before him, brought in by his comely (for reptilian tastes) assistant Zzeert. "Are you sure this is a complete form? Seems to be lacking certain .... things."

Using a clawed finger, Zzeert ran it down the side of the hardcopy file. "It's what the Emperor's Skeen has cleared as allowable for public information. What we offer, what is needed and the like. Nothing of intense technological needs. Mostly just raw resources."

Kargaah set both his eyes back on the files, leafing through them slowly. "Very well, then. I'll send this update, and see who bites." With that he placed it on the screen of his organic computational system, and allowed the organics that reside within it to do their jobs. After they read and copied the manuscripts, he composed a message.


To all interested parties within the Trade network Association,

The following is an update as to the items we can offer for trade, as well as what we are interested in acquiring.

Exports:
Silicates, semi-precious stones, silver, iron, nickel, tin, construction materials, cobalt, livestock (of a fashion) and root vegetables.

Imports: Grain, textiles, petro-chems, strontium, lead, soft wood lumber.

May you walk on warm sands.
CEO Kargaah, Trade Minister of all Sakkra

To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade
From: A’Delon Charmond, Executive Overseer of the Intergalactic Trade Hub


Greetings,

I am happy to receive your latest message. I fully understood that the network meant when I asked for admission. It is my desire to present the service of the ITH to those who belong to this network so they can make their own decision. I also understand the Network is not responsible for anything, only the individual members.

I greatly thank you for providing this opportunity to allow others to discover the service we might be able to provide them so they can make their own decision.

Sincerely,

A’Delon Charmond, Executive Overseer of the Intergalactic Trade Hub

Balrogga Empire, Earth



Link to the Intergalactic Trade Hub:

http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=422493

To our esteemed associates in the Trade Network:

Word is out that Syskeyia has been dabbling in a bit of economic warfare (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=451704).
While usually we wouldn't pay too close attention, we've noted that certain
nations with which we've had comfortable enough relations in the past may be
in need on account.

Given this, we offer up the possibility of looking into filling in the gaps
left by the Syskeyian refusals by interested members of the Association.
Knootoss in particular is of interest, given our prior membership in the
KIST accord.

In any case, should any be so inclined, we encourage you to make the proper
inquiries. One nation's poor economic choices can sometimes be another's
gain, no?

May your coffers be full, and your trade partners many,

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Similarly open message to the Trade Network:

I'd like to thank the Dominion Minister of Trade, Bernardo di Medici, for his alertness in bringing the issue of Syskeyian trade to the attention of the Trade Network. As of yet, the Foreign Economic Policy State-Secretariat is not sure what exactly the repercussions will be of this new Syskeyian policy with regards to trade-related matters but it would appear that the 'anti-Market idolatry' bill will affect at least some businesses in Knootoss.

The Knootian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently in the process of a) ascertaining the scope of Syskeyian restrictions and the extent to which they affect Knootian trade, specifically b) the legal status of these policies, given the existence of a bilateral treaty between the Dutch Democratic Republic and the Republic of Syskeyia restricting such practices c) the extent to which the Syskeyian government is committed to a policy which violates sentient rights by discriminating against specific religious beliefs.

I can, however, already reassure the network that the effect on the Knootian economy is negligible: Knootoss maintained a long-standing embargo on the Republic of Syskeyia which was repealed at the instigation of the Syskeyians just prior to their invasion by the Reich (which in turn made trade impossible). Any losses incurred will have been losses in potential trade - especially in the rebuilding of southern Syskeyia.

As always, the State-Secretariat of Foreign Economic Policy appreciates increased trade with all nations, especially those in the Network. We are especially charmed by the prospect of finding alternative Markets for high-quality Knootian products that may lose out in future Market prospects as a result of recent actions by the Republic of Syskeyia.

~David Davinci, State-Secretary of Foreign Economic Policy

Forever New Frontiers

TO: Dignified members of the Trade Network Association
FROM: The Nedalia Government

Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms./(Everything in between),

We hope this letter finds you in good health. Let me give you a bit of a background run-through before I get into the details. Recently, Nedalia along with Lamoni and Khazaron invaded the country formally known as Latao over in our region of Atlantian Oceania. The result was an overthrown government, coupled with an area that became officially a part of Nedalia. Called the "Western Territories", it houses approximately 400 million citizens, and is roughly 2/3 the size of mainland Nedalia.

The war, while relatively pain-free in terms of casualty count for the invading parties, had a devastating impact on the infastructure of ex-Latao. Whole cities were burnt to the ground, and metropolises that use to contain over 10 million people now resemble ghost towns. A third world country would be ashamed of infastructure such as this.

However, the Nedalian economy continues to go from strength to strength, and we believe we have the capabilities to turn the Western Territories around. The natural beauty and abundance of resources in the area cannot be denied; indeed, it is one of the most picturesque regions in the entire AO. The government has decided to begin construction only in one place for the time being, however; the site that will hold the future state capital of the Western Territories, Tramonte. Situated on the eastern banks of the Wataniyah Lake, Tramonte used to be a medium sized Latin city with a population of 2 million. Now however, it is a desolate, gray place, so construction will begin from the ground up.

The Tramonte project is indeed a grand one. The final estimated population that Nedalia wants to have in Tramonte is between 8 million to 9 million, and it wants all infastructure and facilities top class and state of the art. Any offers to do with any part of this rebuilding process will be considered. We would require a brief introduction of the company interested, its origins, its specialization. We would also require what it is the company would be interested in doing in Tramonte. We urge you to act upon any idea you may have, as we want to make this city one of a kind. Thank you for your time.

Ms. Randa Holcomb
Nedalian Minister of Foreign Investment

To: David Davinci, State-Secretary of Foreign Economic Policy
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps - Economic Affairs
Subject: Recent events

We would like to know exactly what the Order of the Invisible Hand is about, their goals, history, and membership. If you could provide us with that information we would be most grateful.



OOC: Or I can put this in another thread if so desired.

ooc: I'm just fine with additional information being put here. Details on the Invisible Hand would likely be both of interest and help to any Association members pondering getting involved - no problem whatsoever. Will be posting more detailed responses when I'm not at work - just wanted folks to feel comfortable rp'ing what they'd like. Business after all, isn't just about the money. Game on!

{Open Transmission}
{TRANSMISSION ENCRYPTION: Diplomatic, Secure}
{FROM: Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima, Ministry of Business and Economics}
{TO: Trade Network Association, Open Channels}
{SUBJECT: RE: Syskeyian Trade-Ban}

Whilst I cannot directly comment on the Syskeyian Trade-Ban itself, for reasons I would rather not explicdly be inclined to comment, I certainly thank Bernardo di Medici for bringing the matter to the attention of this association, and would like to make it publicly availble that I will indeed be contacting certain representatives of Knootoss in particular, to finalize and promote a greater trading relationship between ourselves.

On the same note, I will also be contacting representatives from Guffingford, as I am certain that they too might be relatively affected by the trade-ban.

With Respect,

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b370/AustarUnion/Nationstates/Miscellaneous/b472e4d7.jpg
Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima
Ministry of Business and Economics
{Close Transmission}

*~/~*~/*~/

{Open Transmission}
{TRANSMISSION ENCRYPTION: Diplomatic, Open}
{FROM: Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima, Ministry of Business and Economics}
{TO: Minister Randa Holcomb, Nedalia}
{SUBJECT: RE:}

Your proposal appears to be... interesting. If you were to forward the specifics to this address direct, I would be happy to forward them and post a contract offer on our Government Services Board. From there, it would be between you and the corporation in question.

With Respect,

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b370/AustarUnion/Nationstates/Miscellaneous/b472e4d7.jpg
Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima
Ministry of Business and Economics
{Close Transmission}

TO: Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima, Ministry of Business and Economics, Trade Network
FROM: Randa Holcomb, Nedalian Minister of Foreign Investment

What remains of the unknown Latin city will be demolished to the ground, and a brand new city that will hopefully hold up to 9 million people will be built from the ground up. We are interested in companies who can do anything involved in construction of the city, whether it be roads, sewage pipes, street lamps, real estate properties (luxurious and otherwise), electricity, water pumps, airport construction, facility management, the list is endless. Anything that can be thought of, that might be of use to a new city will be considered. We hope to have clarified the matter somewhat.

To: Ms. Randa Holcomb, Nedalian Minister of Foreign Investment
From: Darius Underwood, Elegant Solutions Inc. Foreign Investments Department
Topic: Ground Up Reconstruction
Unencrypted

Ms. Holcomb,

Word of your governments reconstruction of the capital in ex-Latao has reached my desk, and one thing in particular has perked our interest here at Elegant Solutions. You see, the products we want to offer you center around an optical power grid. Since most nations already operate electric power grids, they are not interested in costly conversions. But building from the ground up means this city, and potentially new cities around it when it is complete will not incure these costs.

While your nation could become one of the first on Earth, and indeed in Sol to reap the comparitive benifits of an optical power grid, there is more to Elegant Solutions interests in your nation. Most company personel are currently contained inside qurantine, so Nedalian citizens will have to be hired to create the industry in Nedalia to carry out our goals. In short, Elegant Solutions is looking to create a new and lasting investment in your nation and it's peoples.

If you are interested in a full workup of our ideas and goals, and in creating new technical jobs in the hurting Western Territories, please contact us as soon as possible. I look forward to working in your country.

-Darius Underwood, Elegant Solutions Inc.

-{Open Encrypted Diplomatic Link}-
-{To: TNA}-
-{From: Muriel Gehoring, Trade and Economic Minister}-

In light of the Syskeyian trade-ban I would like to make it public knowledge that Largent will be more than willing to step in and aid any nation affected in any way they see fit. Since it has come to my attention that the nations of Knootoss and Guffingford are two of these said nations I will be contacting representatives from there immediatley however should any other nation be in need of a trade partner Largent would be more than happy to help.

I will also feel inclined to thank those who brought the matter to my attention, namely Bernardo di Medici.

Respectfully Yours,
~~Muriel Gehoring, Trade and Economic Minister

-{Link Terminated}-

{Open Transmission}
{TRANSMISSION ENCRYPTION: Diplomatic, Open}
{FROM: Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima, Ministry of Business and Economics}
{TO: Minister Randa Holcomb, Nedalia}
{SUBJECT: RE:}

Thankyou. I have already posted said information on our public forums for review. You can probably expect some form of response from one of our corporations soon.

With Respect,

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b370/AustarUnion/Nationstates/Miscellaneous/b472e4d7.jpg
Lady-Director Mika Hiroshima
Ministry of Business and Economics
{Close Transmission}

*~/~*~/*~/

H & D Construction Incorporated, the Pavillion Offices, Anatoba City, the Federated Autocratic States of Austar Union

"Thankyou all for attending on such notice," began Stuart Bell, CEO and Leading Director of the H & D Center. "But as I'm sure that most of you are aware, for such an opportunity as this I couldnt resist but to push back a few schedules a bit."

Some quiet chuckles ensured and an ever so slight murmers came and went for just a second.

Stuart continued with a grin, "I trust that you have all recieved the attached memo; that is, the one I sent out just yesterday alongside the one which told you about the meeting today." His eyes drifted from person to person, gauging their response individually. "All I can really say, is that I would like to hear some people's thoughts on the matter."

Almost instantly, a hand raised from the back. "What I dont understand," came a curious sort of voice. "Is the section which addresses said manpower. I mean, what exactly can we expect, to ship out Austarian Engineers and / or, construction workers?"

Stuart shook his head, "No; I expect that we will likely to sub-contract back to their own military, or workforce even. H & D will more likely to take on the role as chief organiser, slash educator if many of them dont have the skills. Essentielly, we will be obtaining the contracts, and hiring workers from a local pool. The military in this example was just one idea." He looked about the room. "Anything else; any concerns?"

"What about the sheer size and scale of the operation itself?" asked another voice, also from the back. "Probably my biggest concern would be that H & D just wouldnt be too capable enough to handle building something like this. I mean, what the government is basically asking for is to wipe the whole thing out and start again. Cities just arent built in a quality fashion like that, and to be frank I'm not too sure if we could even find a labour pool big enough to not spread the thing over years upon years." He paused. "You have to admit at least though, this is pretty huge."

"It is huge," conceed Stuart, still reasonably confident. "But we'll manage. I will be considering an option I wouldnt have normally expected to, to perhaps incorporate a minor clause into the agreement that the construction efforts will be headed by H & D, and that we have the strength and power to choose relevant sub-contracting, specialist corporations. Some of them will of course remain as Austarian, and some of them, well; the Union just doesnt have anything so readily available to export said services internationally. We'll really just have to see how the market plays out."

"And as for the labour pool?" asked the voice again.

Stuart nodded. "I can already appreciate the difficulties we may or may not have with that sort of situation. One of the major issues is for the fact that said peoples who live there will be ultimately, busy running the city to support the city itself. Any others who might be able to commit to the construction efforts, may even be uninterested themselves." He gave a weak smile. "The best we can do ultimately, is to just make a major campaign for workers within Nedalia itself, and see how we go. If there are any issues, we can tackle that bridge when we come to it."

The gathering nodded, their opinions and thoughts coming to a general consensus.

"Motion to put for approval?" he asked the Board, being satisfied on each points.

"Aye," came a collective voice. It had been, and would be approved.

Closing the sale was the hard part.

CEO Stuart Bell
H & D Constructions Incorporated
$Street Address
$Actual Location, $Postcode

Ms. Randa Holcomb
Ministery of Foreign Investment
$Street Address
$Actual Location, $Postcode

RE: RECONSTRUCTION OF A CITY

The Most Honorable Randa Holcomb,

Might I introduce myself, I am Mr. Stuart Bell, Chief Executive Officer of H & D Constructions Incorporated. I am contacting you in interest, having recieved the details of your various contact offers via the Ministry of Business and Economics and their relevant public forum.

With an outlook to taking on the duties of "General Construction", I am more than confident that H & D will be able to provide solutions to cater for the needs of Nedalia, and your relevant Ministers and Peoples therein. If it would be possible at all to establish between ourselves a business meeting, I would like to discuss between ourselves my proposition. Perhaps if you find it appropriate with yourself, I would like to discuss the matter over dinner at $Expensive_Nedalian_Hotel, between a team of my staff and anyone whom you find to be relevant to the matter within your corresponding local and central governments.

I look forward to hearing your reply.

Yours Sincerely,

Mr. Stuart Bell
Chief Executive Officer

H & D Constuction Incorporated

P.S. Attached, please find a copy of our corporate portfolio, in which I am sure you will find yourself pleased with the work we have done. Thankyou.

[OOC: TG me from here-on in. We'll likely do an actual meeting via a seperate thread, and perhaps even the re-construction efforts in another--if all goes well. :)]

{OOC: Austar Union, noted. I will TG you ICly soon, and we could discuss starting up a thread.]

FROM: Ms. Randa Holcomb, Nedalian Minister of Foreign Investment
TO: Darius Underwood, Elegant Solutions Inc. Foreign Investments Department

I am pleased you have taken interest in The Tramonte Project, Mr. Underwood. Indeed, your offer on constructing an optical power grid has been met with interest here in Nedalia, and we are eager to here more about the technology, as we are unfamiliar with it. How does it work, and more importantly, how effective can it be? We would like some details on the subject before we discuss prices and whether Elegant Solutions will be given the contract to construct such a power grid in Tramonte.

That being said, as I stated, we are very interested to here more about your offer. Currently, there is no electricity in the area, so that is a primary function that we need to resolve as quick as possible. Heavy construction, as you know, cannot begin without electricity. We are eagerly awaiting your reply.

[Sent Via DIPLONet]
[To: To: His Excellency, Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade, the Dominion of the Dread Lady Nathicana]
[From: Mahesh Bhatt, Secretary of Commerce, the United Solaris Federation of Tiburon]
[Subject: Trade Network Association]
[Classification: Declassified]

Minister di Medici,

After recent negotiations with your nation regarding Tiburon's entry into the Trade Network Association, I am pleased to inform you that the General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly in favor of joining the Trade Network Association. We strongly believe that this will be another step in the path of mutual progress between us and the other Trade Network Association members, and hope to continue doing business with the Dominion and other Association states.

Sincerely,
Mahesh Bhatt,
Secretary of Commerce,
The United Solaris Federation of Tiburon

{OOC: Austar Union, noted. I will TG you ICly soon, and we could discuss starting up a thread.]

FROM: Ms. Randa Holcomb, Nedalian Minister of Foreign Investment
TO: Darius Underwood, Elegant Solutions Inc. Foreign Investments Department

I am pleased you have taken interest in The Tramonte Project, Mr. Underwood. Indeed, your offer on constructing an optical power grid has been met with interest here in Nedalia, and we are eager to here more about the technology, as we are unfamiliar with it. How does it work, and more importantly, how effective can it be? We would like some details on the subject before we discuss prices and whether Elegant Solutions will be given the contract to construct such a power grid in Tramonte.

That being said, as I stated, we are very interested to here more about your offer. Currently, there is no electricity in the area, so that is a primary function that we need to resolve as quick as possible. Heavy construction, as you know, cannot begin without electricity. We are eagerly awaiting your reply.

Darious Underwood looked upon the reply with some bit of joy. It was difficult to make sales when one's own working force was behind locked doors. But Nedalia's situation was unique. Not only could Elegant Solutions make a solid investment, but stood to make quite a bit of money. This could put the company back in the green.

Underwood shot a message off to various technicians and engineers to detail existing plans and got to work on a reply to Ms. Holcomb. Sometime later, when the plan was on his desk, he attached it to his own work, and sent it off for Nedalia.

[[OOC: message]]

OOC, wee place holder, too lazy to be adding an IC post right now.

Addressed to Bernardo di Medici, Public Domain

In the interests of broadening markets and opening our own markets to other nations, and with broad support from leading businesspersons, the Necrontyr Empire wishes to let it be known that it intends to join the Trade Network Association of the Dominion, and extends its formal request to that end, having consulted extensively on the matter within its own borders and administration.

Minister Sntr. Helkafëa, C’tani Economic Ministry

OOC: Placeholder, will formalize an IC post later.

To: His Excellency Bernardo di Medici
From: His Most Honorable Lord Parthos L'Envers

On behalf of the fair nation of Terre DeAnge, ruled by His Majesty King Dandre de la Courcel, Scion of Elua, I have been given permission to seek out to join this association. It is our opinion that the Trade Network Association would be in our best interest to expand our economic network with such a program.

Regards,

Parthos L'Envers

OOC: Just a note, I am still waiting for Syskeyia to respond ICly to my letter and I cannot reply here before he does. :/

It was encouraging to see allies as well as newcomers taking advantage of the opportunities the Association offered. The Sakkrans had always been excellent trade partners, and had been extremely helpful and supportive in many of the Dominion’s ventures, most notably of late concerning the Sslaa system and the colony there. A warm confirmation was sent in reply.

To the honorable CEO Kargaah, Trade Minister of all Sakkra:

I wished to send confirmation of your message to the Association boards, and assure you that the proper files have been updated in the system. Thank you again for your support and interest in the Association – it is always a decided pleasure doing business with you and yours.

I hope that business is booming, both nationally and with your own venture of H&K Enterprises. I recall being very impressed with what was shown at the trade show a while back, both in product and the impeccable style shown by you and your partner. Again, a pleasure. Do pass on my regards.

May your coffers be full, and your opportunities many,

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade


As for the Syskeyian debacle, it was surprising the activity that generated. Who knew?

To Mr. David Davinci, State Secretary of Foreign Economic Policy for Knootoss:

Our thanks for your reassurance, and our continued well wishes as the situation unfolds. We’ve known that an economy such as yours wouldn’t be devastated by one nation’s poor choices, still, any assistance we can offer is yours all the same. We will be watching the proceedings with interest, as we were not aware of the intricacies concerning the agreement. It would seem the Syskeyian response is even more inexplicable on account.

In any case, our doors are always open to you, should you choose to avail yourselves of the Network. If not, we hope that some of the introductions made independently will be profitable ones for all involved. Again, best wishes in your endeavors.

Respectfully,

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

What was also gratifying was to see how the members interacted and responded to requests from outside – which he of course had nothing whatsoever against. The Nedalian message is what came to mind primarily. While they had not asked for membership, they had asked for willing partners, and from what could be seen via open channels, it seemed partners they had found. Most excellent. Membership might have it’s privileges, but word of mouth and drawing business in for members to enjoy was priceless.

And then there was the new interest. Bernardo and the Dominion government had hoped the Association would be well-accepted, but to date, it had exceeded expectations. He couldn’t be more pleased.

To Mahesh Bhatt, Secretary of Commerce, The United Solaris Federation of Tiburon:

It is our pleasure to welcome your nation to the Trade Network, and we are pleased that your General Assembly has chosen to accept your recommendations to that end. Please find attached files with all the pertinent information, and instructions on how to get started.

We look forward to doing business with you, and hope that this arrangement will be a profitable one for us both. Again, welcome aboard.

Sincerely,

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To Minister Sntr. Helkafëa, C’tani Economic Ministry:

Salutations, and well-met. It would be a pleasure to extend the Association’s services to your nation. We hope that you will find the system helpful in extending your circle of trade, and developing new ties and opportunities. Please find attached instructions on how to get started, along with contact information etc.

Again, thank you for your interest and support. We look forward to seeing your involvement on the boards.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To His Most Honorable Lord Parthos L'Envers,

On behalf of the Trade Network Association, allow me to extend our greetings and acceptance of your membership. It is always a pleasure to offer our services, especially to those we have had no previous contact with, in the interest of trade and possible new relations. We hope that this opportunity will pay off for your nation, and that the opportunities you find will be many. Please find enclosed information on how to get started, along with the usual contact information and other useful features.

Thank you again for your support and interest in the program – may your coffers be full, and your trade partners many.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade





ooc: No worries, Knoot. I think we all know that trying to get a viable post from Sysk can be like drawing blood from a turnip sometimes. Sorry for the wait on this, folks – it’s been difficult to pull things together on my end due to irl issues. Been fun seeing the interaction all the same. As mentioned before, please feel free to use the thread for anything Association-related as you see fit. It's all welcome.

OOC: Third attempt to write this post... if my computer crashes or the power gets cut one more time, I'm going to scream...

To: The ministers responsible for TNA affiliation, TNA member nations
From: Mme Jacqueline Catala, Minister for Trade, Pantocratoria
RE: Responses to Knootoss surrounding Syskeyian boycott
CONFIDENTIAL - Do not disclose!

Your Excellencies and honoured colleagues,

This letter is in response to the recent correspondence regarding Trade Network Association member states potentially increasing their trade with the Knootian Republic in response to the Syskeyian Anti-Marketolatry Bill, a piece of legislation which proscribes trade with any corporation whose officers are members of the organisation which calls itself the Order of the Invisible Hand (henceforth referred to as the Order).

The Order is an organisation which has played a not insignificant role in the recent extreme political and economic destabilisation in the Excalbian Isles and in the North Atlantic as a whole, the which destablisation has brought Pantocratoria and its allies dangerously close to the brink of war with the Knootian Republic and its allies. While at this very moment talks are underway which we hope will bring this crisis to a close, and while the Pantocratorian Government doesn't endorse (or condemn) the Syskeyian Anti-Marketolatry Bill, we are concerned that our trading partners and fellow Trade Network Association members may be inadvertantly giving comfort to the Order, an organisation whose activities have significantly threatened Pantocratoria's national security.

The Order is an organisation linked to many members in the two major Knootian right wing parties, the SLP and the RCPK, including members of the Staaten-Generaal, and even members of the cabinet of both the present and previous administration. It has also been linked to the present administration of the Confederation of Sovereign States and is believed to have been instrumental in the policy decisions made by both the Confederate and Knootian Governments which have severely endangered Pantocratoria's national interests, its security, and the security of its allies.

We would not presume to ask member nations to alter their trade policy on the basis of Pantocratoria's national security. The Pantocratorian Government would, however, appreciate it if the other Trade Network Association member states considered the nature of the Order of the Invisible Hand and the potential political headway the Order could make whilst considering their response to the various correspondence circulated on the matter of the Syskeyian Anti-Marketolatry Bill.

Regards,

Jacqueline Catala
Minister for Trade
Palais du Parlement, New Rome, Pantocratoria

--< Open Transmission >---
--< Transmission Type: Standard Diplomatic Communique >---
--< From: Lord Kaiser Erik von Heller, the Empire of Kongeriket Noreg >---
--< To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade >---
--< Subject: Trade Network Association >---

Nice work you seem to have done with the treaty, and congratulations on having it operate so successfully. In this regard, I would like to approach you on the possibility that the Empire of Kongeriket Noreg would be able to join the Trade Network Association. It would certainly make a greater help in expanding our proverbial borders into an international political sphere. And in return, we hope to be able to offer your network a wide variety of trading opportunites. Please find attached to this message a [ datalist ] from which you might want to read for yourself and distribute among T.N.A. members for interest.

I look forward to your reply.

Signed,

-Erik von Heller
The Empire of Kongeriket Noreg
--< End Transmission >---

It was a slow and painful process, this venture out into uncharted territories. With generations of politics to overcome, it was a suprise that things have gotten this far at all. With its economy closed ever since its inseption, Sketch had always enjoyed the benefits of being self sufficient, without need to even have to care about anyone else. Howver, times were changing, the world demanded change, and change was going to come, whether Sketch liked it or not. With growth stagnating and the economy slowing, it was time to infuse some new blood before it was too late. One had only to look at history to realize the that fall of civilizations came from the inability to embrace change. With the powers that be painfully aware of their own precarious stance in the fickle nature of historians, so came the gentle winds of change; carefully guided and delicately breezed through, as to not cause too much upset.

First it was the Order, a collection of like minded nations gathered together under a common flag. New economic stratagems were tried and tested, not always to desirable effect. Once a happy balance was acheived, a new standard had to be established to deal with outsiders. Having been closed for so long, the nation found it difficult to accurately compare its own internal monetary system with that of foreign entities. Then came the curency unificationdeal with [the] Grendels. Sharing a currency base with another economic powerhouse already well steeped in the arts of money making brought Sketch to a whole new level. Some had thought that sharing a currency with another would leave Sketch vulnerable, but that could not be further from the truth. Instead, it solidified the Sketchian position on the world market, getting it the economic version of name recognition.

Now it was time for full emergence. Having spent decades locked behind closed doors, the Sketchian market was now wide open for investors. THe powers that be sought for full saturation. And what better place to get that than the venerable Trade Association Network? The Domion had a more than respectable track record when it came to business ventures, it also didn't hurt that a great many of the participants in the Trade Network were economic powerhouses in their own right.

All that was left to do was to fix that which had been ruined, namely the Sketchian reputation and goodwill. The currently held opinion of Sketch had not always been that of an overly beligerent and militaristic nation. There was once a time when that was not so. But ever since the Great War and its fallout, Sketch was considered persona non grata in just about every circle. Even acceptance into the alledgedly open and non-judgemental Trade Network had been given grudgingly and with great reserve. It was not unexpected of course. Steps had yet to be taken to resolve that situation, although the foreign relations department promised that it was "in the works". What would become of that promise has yet to be seen.

OOC: full thanks to the Tarasovka player. He truly WAS the KGB in a past life, remembering my old arguments better than I do. ;)

Proof: Knootoss joins the TNA (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8186862&postcount=5) and Nathi responds affirmatively to us joining (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8299765&postcount=6) in the thread where Nathi leaves KIST. Dated 13-02-2005. And here I was, already having resigned to being demented and remembering things that never happened.

The Tarasovka player also asked me to remind Panto that he has a certain Patriarch to talk to in addition to this interesting argument. ;)

I'll have a post up soon here after I bitchslap Syskeyias ambassador.

ooc: Gack! Molto bene grazie for that Knoot, Mikhail- truth, there's been so much go on I didn't even remember that ending up a result. o.o Pardon whilst I fix that rather aggregious oversight ... I'd depended on this thread for everything doing with the Network, go fig. I don't think aside from that offshoot that I've had anything directly relating to the Association outside here of any size. Thanks for looking into it - I've had my hands full on this end. >_< Will try and catch up as I can by the end of the weekend, hopefully.

<quietly tagged since my subscription tool seems to be MIA...will make into a formal post later>

To: Dominion Ministry of Trade
From: Office of the Lord High Treasurer

"The Grand Kingdom of Aerion's many megacorporations have many goods to offer, as well as many components industries. We are deeply interested in joining this Trade Network Association. We hereby submit our request to join this association."

Signed,

Aker Namwer
Lord High Treasurer

To the Lord Kaiser Erik von Heller, of the Empire of Kongeriket Noreg,

Greetings from the Dominion. We appreciate your interest in the Association, and gladly welcome you onboard. We have always thought that broadening horizons and making new contacts was a strength, both economically and otherwise. Please find attached instructions for how to get set up in the system.

We hope you find the Network useful, and look forward to working with you to achieve our mutual goals of economic expansion and a healthy profit. Should you have need of assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our offices. We look forward to doing business with you – welcome to the Association.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To the Lord High Treasurer Aker Namwer of Aerion,

Thank you for your interest in Association. We are pleased that your fine nation wishes to take advantage of the opportunities offered within our organization, and are even more pleased to accept your application. Please find attached instructions for how to get set up in the system, and do not hesitate to make use of the contacts listed there should you need any assistance.

May your corporations find the Network both useful and profitable. We look forward to working with them, and your nation – welcome to the Association.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade
Gosh I love how you can't put things just in quotes here ...

From: (Castellan) Amber M. Fotheringown, Deputy Head of State, Adejaani
To: Whom it may concern, Nathicana
Re: Trade Network Association

The Regime of Adejaani has, for many years, economically suffered. Although a prosperous nation, the costs of imports has crippled the manufacturing capabilities of the nation, apart from a robust (indeed, booming) aerospace sector. It is hoped by joining the Trade Network Association, the few quality exports we have available can be marketed, with the resulting feedback allowing us to create better, more competitive products.

But overall, we seek closer ties to all nations and hope that joining the TNA would also open us up to the world for tourists and the like.

Respectfully,
(Castellan) Amber M. Fotheringown, Deputy Head of State, Regime of Adejaani

Official Statement from the Etarosi Ministry of Trade:

The Erasati Republic would like to remind all nations within the TNA that we are once again a secure government. The current government has solidified its position and ensured that support from the populace is overwhelming -- any repeat of the past is highly unlikely.

Any nations interested in trade with the Erasati Republic may contact us freely. We have much to offer, ranging from IT to construction contractors to foodstuffs. Etaros, obviously, follows a strict free trade policy and we are very interested in anything that other members have to offer.

Signed,

Anastasia Koyaschev
Minister of Trade
Erasati Republic of Etaros

Now that is good news, Bernardo thought, going over the latest communications. It was always satisfying to see a trade partner resolving their political unpleasantness so that business could move forward. And with a recovering economy, business opportunities could be many.

And the government of Adejaani requesting membership – that had been unexpected, but of course quite welcome. It was amazing really, the varied nations who had decided that the Network was something that could be of benefit. He took no small amount of pride in the accomplishment, including having gotten his way on so many points concerning it within his own government.

As for success, that could only be measured in how well the system worked for those who were using it. So far it seemed things were working well. He hoped they continued to do so as he typed out his responses.

To Amber M. Fotheringown, Deputy Head of State, Adejaani

It would be an honor to include the fine nation of Adejaani in the ranks of the Trade Network Association. I hope that such a move will benefit your recovering economy, and that you will find the contacts and opportunities you need to bring about the rejuvenation you seek.

Since you have also mentioned tourism as a desire, if I may remind you of the services we offer in monetary exchange, if that might be of assistance, as well as, if I may be so bold, the interstellar transportation services of our own home corporations, for both commercial and passenger use. I am certain you will find many such services and offers from the other members as well, but I would be amiss if I didn’t take the opportunity to make some suggestions, no?

Please find attached instructions as to get yourselves set up within the system, as well as a guide to services and the usual quicklist of contacts and information. We look forward to doing business with you and yours – welcome aboard.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To Anastasia Koyaschev, Minister of Trade of the Erasati Republic of Etaros
cc: General Network List

We are pleased to hear that the Ersati Republic has overcome it’s recent turmoil and is once again open for business as usual. We hope that our trade partners will take advantage of this opportunity both to assist Etaros and benefit from the reopened markets. Please let us know if there is any further way the Association can be of assistance.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To: Anastasia Koyaschev, Minister of Trade of the Erasati Republic of Etaros

It is welcome news to hear of the recent stabalizing of the Erasati Republic and would gladly take this oppourtunity to extend an offer to begin trading with the Republic. We hope that you will see some sort of gain in the near future. We import as well as export a wide variety of items and I am certain that we could use a rather large amount of cunstruction contractors during the construction of new Largentian cities. We would also be able to supply you with things such as automobiles and other vehicles along with fossil fuels and agricultural items. It would also be possible to provide you with products from our large arms manufacturing sector but it would seem poor judgement in a region just coming out of tourmoil. Feel free to contact me at any time if you wish to take us up on this offer.

~Muriel Ghering
Minister of Trade


ooc:lalala, need some text to post the quote.

"Largent? I know I've heard of them before," mused the Eratis. Cyrus Kasparov was seated behind his desk, speaking with his Consulacör of Foreign Affairs, Xirnes Novalis. "I would certainly hope so, sir. Though Etaros has never really had any direct contact with the Largentians, several of our allies and friends are directly involved with them." He handed over files and information.

The Eratis skimmed over the documents. "Hmm..they appear to be very restrictive in regard to social issues." He glanced up at Xirnes. "Any defense of trading with a nation that advocates such violations of human rights?" Novalis knew it was coming, but felt annoyed nonetheless. He was not the sort to be inspired by democracy -- he favored a dictatorship himself. "Sir, with all due respect, it is not the responsibility of the Republic to meddle in the internal affairs of other nations, so long as they are not a threat to our national security or the national security of allies. To deny ourselves a lucrative trade deal under the guise of philosophical supremacy would be stupid, to say the least. We have much to profit off of this, and I'm confident your democracy-loving Trade Minister would agree."

Kasparov nodded. "Yes, indeed. She made the same argument moments before I called you in. Very well. I will inform her to send a message to Largent. Koyaschev has suggested an export of construction contractors and AI constructs, as well as other sophisticated computer technologies." Novalis seemed pleased with this, and smiled to show his approval. Kasparov continued, "We will begin importing chemicals that will improve our crop yields in order to provide more room for urban expansion while maintaining what national forests we have left. They offered fossil fuels, so I will accept that as well. Do you find this reasonable?"

"Yes. The deal proposed will be extremely lucrative, indeed." Novalis stood and bowed slightly. Kasparov returned the gesture. "Thank you for your insight, Mr. Novalis." The alien simply bowed again before exiting the office.

To: Muriel Ghering, Minister of Trade of the Militaristic Union of Largent
From: Anastasia Koyaschev, Consulacör of Trade

I am most pleased with your speedy reply to the Etarosi call for furthered trade with partners and friends within the TNA. We are very interested in allowing trade between Etaros and Largent in hopes that it will benefit both of our economies. In response to your trade interests, Etaros is willing to export construction contractors, construction materials, and construction machinery. We are also interested in exporting AI constructs and holographic projectors, and/or the technology for both. In return, we would like agricultural-enhancing chemical products and the most advanced methods available, as well as importation of fossil fuels to help warm and light our homes, businesses, and offices.

The Erasati Republic is always open to extending this agreement to more resources.

With thanks and gratitude,

Anastasia Koyaschev
Minister of Trade

It was probably pure luck that the economic growth had come at a time where Largent would have to start exporting fossil fuels at reasonable prices. It wasn't so much that anyone cared, high prices meant more money, but in all fairness there is some form of ethics involved in buisness. The most important is, of course, never screw a friend. The Erasati Republic was stablizing and probably wouldn't have been too happy if they found out they were paying nine dollars for a gallon of oil but, times had changed, and, after all, Largent didn't use the stuff, they just sold it. Cold Fusion is really a magnificent thing.

As for the chemicals, well, there was a wide variety of possibilities. First of all, there is that whole idea of crop rotation and such to keep soils fertile but that only requires nitrogen and certain crops. No, that wouldn't do. If they wanted crops and lots of them they would have to turn to biogenetic enhancement. The specifics often gave those who sold the technology and substances headaches but, it was a rather simply concept. For each planet of the Solar System, the local resistance to crops was determined and a substance that farmers could inject into the seed was determined. The most effective, well, for Earth, where it was assumed most plants would be grown the substance was designated BH-109, so, large amounts were ordered for the trading.

What the Eratis had to offer was more intreguing that originally assumed but some of it was a little unecissary. AI and holograms for example, could be produced easily domestically but, with the current state of the economy it was starting to get a little cheaper to look elsewhere. So, in the end, was it needed desperately: no; would it hurt: certainly not. However, contractors and some materials would certainly be welcome around Largentian holdings and could be of use in the near future.


From: Muriel Ghering, Minister of Trade, Largent
To: Anastasia Koyaschev, Consulacör of Trade, Etaros

Excellent. We are fully prepared to meet your needs as soon as we obtain a little information. Firstly, if you would be so kind as to tell us where each product should be shipped we would gladly begin transporting it. Secondly, if for any reason you deem a direct trade route unsafe for whatever reason please inform us where you would like your shipments made to. As for us, all AI, holographic projectors, and technology can be shipped directly to our holdings on Earth I have attatched all the necessary files [datalist]. As for contractors and materials. For now, all these things will be needed on Neptune and its surrounding satelites. If you would ship them there that would be fine otherwise you could send them to Earth as well and we could continue by sending them to our various holdings.

We are gratefull to be of assistance and will inform you if we are in need of any other goods, and I hope you will do the same.

~ Muriel Ghering, Minister of Trade

OOC: Nine dollars a gallon? Surely you mean a barrel..Both seem extremely odd numbers for either situation. 0_o Telegram me the answer so we don't keep this going in the thread. :P

IC:

From: Anastasia Koyaschev, Consulacör of Trade, Etaros
To: Muriel Ghering, Minister of Trade, Largent

I apologize for not giving exact locations before, and I hope that you may forgive me for my error. All shipments should be sent to New Itaros, one of the largest Etarosi manufacturing and commercial cities that rests in a protective harbor off of the eastern coast of our nation.

Your requests for shipment locales will be promptly filed with Etarosi companies involved in this trade deal, as well as commercial transporting agencies. Our merchant space navy is capable of sending construction materials to Neptune, as well as transporting contracters and teams there. We are continuing research in order to improve the engines of our space vessels so that demands may be met at a faster pace.

With thanks and gratitude,

Anastasia Koyaschev
Consulacör of Trade
Erasati Republic of Etaros

ooc: I sent you an explination via TG, but dont worry about prices, they've dropped.

The Etaros reply didn't require one of its own merely a quick thanks and a 'You're Welcome' in response to their thanks. However, it did require a response in other ways. Firstly, plans for a third city on Neptune would be put into the works. Its exact purpose depended on a variety of things but that would be handled in due time.

The next task took place on Earth. Vast expanses of sand shoals were being stripped and treated to extract the petroleum within them as huge drills began to turn once again. It had been a significant time since the exportation of any fossil fuels was needed as black smoke rose over the barren landscape once again. The general consensus was, "if global warming stops me from shovelling in the winter, I say, 'more oil!'". However, it had been many years since waste management had been a problem and an even longer time since any fossil fuels were actually used so it really was an opinion that made no difference but at one point in time it had.

Within days the first of the cargo ships were fully loaded and ready to begin their journey to New Itaros. It seemed a little unecissary to use ocean liners so all the goods were loaded into large hoverships and sent to the commercial sight. At the same time ports, landing strips, and space docks were preparing for newly scheduled arrivals from all over the Sol.

[ooc: yeah, its basically just an ic reasoning for the ooc portion of my post, I dont see any urgent need to continue rping the trade out unless you plan to attack my ships...]

We would love to participate in this Network. If any are intrested in starting a Trade Dialouge MAKE AN OFFER, and We will make you an offer

ooc: Hello everyone, jumping in on the Jolt Forums again after a long absense. This is meant both as a short introduction for those who don't know me and an official notification of becoming a signatory of this trade network.

To:Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade
From: Issac Malisse, Speaker of the Council, Head Minister of Economy
RE:The Trade Network Association

Monsieur di Medici,

I have recently been informed of your Trade Network and am greatly impressed by what I see. I have spoken with both the CEOs of our major Megacorps and the Arbitrators and they have authorized me to officially open up the entirety of Pilon's goods for export to the nations in the TNA. We are interested in become signatories of this Network and hope to see greater trade relations not only between the Dominion and the Greater Peoples Hegemony, but also between the GPH and the other signatories of this network.

In particular I would like to point out our high quality expertise in the areas of Genetics, Medical Technology and Bio-Engineering that are our trademarks, at least in the Martian Community.

As a token of what we hope will be a long and fruitful relationship, we have sent you a sampling of Pilonese goods, 7,000 of our most popular lines of fruits, drinks, exotic meats, and vegetables. These are only a sampling of what Pilon has to offer and I hope that you will find them to your liking.

Your highest regards,
Issac Malisse, Speaker of the Council

P.S. we invite you or any interested party from this trade network to come and visit our splendid Underwater Arcologies on Mars. It is truely a unique sight and you will not forget the experience.

To the Honorable Issac Malisse, Speaker of the Council, Head Minister of Economy,

First, if I may thank you on behalf of the Trade Ministry for the exquisite samples you sent – I’m afraid we made a party of it, and invited a number of our compatriots. Rest assured, it was all quite well received. My compliments on both your taste in choosing, and your bountiful line of trade goods.

We hope that the Association will offer you the expansion you seek, and that this will be a profitable venture for all involved. Thank you for your compliments – we like to think that it is our membership that makes the Network what it is. We are merely the humble arbitrators.

Please find attached all pertinent information on how to access and utilize the Network, along with consolidated lists of members and their trade goods for your convenience, and the usual contacts and quick references. We look forward to doing business with you, and as per your most gracious invitation, arranging a visit at some point in the future – welcome to the Trade Network Alliance.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

ooc: apologies for the long delay - will update our lists accordingly.

From the central administration office of the Trade Network Association:

Our congratulations to our many esteemed associates on a successful year of trading. Reports as have been submitted from our trade partners are now available on the net for your perusal, as well as the latest updates in new ventures, markets, and products from our various members.

In celebration of the occasion, each one of the representatives should be recieving within the next day or two, a bottle of the latest red wine from the Rossetti and Barichello vineyards, a good two weeks before it will be made available to the public.

May the coming year prove to be as profitable as the last!

--Bernardo di Medici

ooc: bumpage as the last post kinda um ... didn't show properly. Weird. Besides, ought to be doing more with this anyway. Muahaha.

The Confederacy of Canaervon would be most interested in such ventures. If we can but help with such arrangements that would eb profit enough. More would just be delightful. Being but a humble nation of penpushers we would beg leave to join.

Rhyss Daffs
Druid ( First Circle) for Trade

To the honorable Rhyss Daffs, Druid of the First Circle, Trade,

We appreciate your interest in the Association, and hope we might be able to serve your needs. However, before any arrangements are made, we hoped you might be able to go into a bit more detail as to what you hope to trade for and with - we will be in a better position to assist if that is the case.

I look forward to further correspondance.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Aaaaand the obligatory text-outside-of-quote to make it all work ...

Over the last year, the Resurgent Dream's Ministry for Trade and countless private corporations had sent out literally thousands of product advertisements through the Trade Network Association. They had advertised book publishing, information technology, retail, arms, cheese, trout, soda, real estate, and private security and investigation, among other things. But now the Danaans were advertising for something a little less mundane.

Sabine Delfs, one of the most loved fashion designers in the Resurgent Dream, was coming out with her first retail line. Miss Delfs had designed clothing for the Grand Duchess of Shieldcrest, the Princess of Wintermore, and the Princess of Pele. Now she had a line of clothing for the average woman. While the Delfs Collection could be easily diversified and included short skirts, long skirts, pants, jackets, and other garments, it was organized around the professional yet old fashioned look of a blouse tucked neatly into a skirt coming down to mid-calf, done with a slight Delfian flair which just hinted at irony while embracing a certain iconic nostalgia. Delfs was making a serious effort to sell her line internationally and had used all the resources the TNA put at the disposal of Danaan businesses.

We have many things that we trade but I geel hardly worthy to lay before such high born dignitaries as are part of this - what do you cal it - thread, the good we poor people of Canaervon can offer.

We have heardm distantly, of this mighty congress of powerful traders and sought to learn more of the organization and how to become a speck of sand upon it shores.

Your response seems, after translation to offer none of the how or who or where that we had hoped might be granted us. We have books, the finest of quill pens in this or any universe. Cheese? The rubbings of Unicorn horns?
These are perhaps sought after by some.

The bigger picture with whom we should deal, should missions and trade factors (representatives) be sent, Embassies exchanged? These must be the foundation of trust. Who would trade for Edam if Gouda was free?

Is this done by forum or by telegram? What cost to join? I sek only this knowledge so that we may offer appropriate gifts so that we may
subsequently honour each of our new partners in the fashion they are due.

We are honoured that you speak with us, you help would indebt us.

Rhyss

on a fashion related postscript we are prepared to dispatch, Lord Medici, a three tiered long boat with Manxxwear jackets to you given the permission and directions requisite. for the letter of introduction to your association.

Bernardo arched a brow as he looked over the most recent communication concerning the Trade Network Association, more than a little confused.

“Perhaps they are unused to trade? And I’ve no idea what they’re going on about ‘high-born dignitaries’. We’re businessmen for the most part, representative of nobility or not. I’d thought the information on the Network (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8024666&postcount=1) was clear enough … ah well.”

To the honorable Rhyss Daffs,

Good lord, man. You needn’t bow and scrape here – we’re a rather loose group of corporate and national interests, all coming from various backgrounds and with a plethora of different trade goods to offer and that we stand in need of. The point is not to try and please any one of us, but to join, show what you have to offer, and to put out requests for what you need – as simple as that.

All the information you should need, which answers those and other questions you mentioned such as embassies, cost to join (which happens to be nil), and the rest is detailed in our original manifesto (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8024666&postcount=1) for the TNA, which I’ve taken the liberty to send along with this missive.

Gifts, as always, are at your discretion, and of course, not required – in spite of coming from different backgrounds, we’re all here to trade and do business, not to lord anything over one another, or play ‘who’s top dog’. On joining, you have all the rights and privileges as all the other signatories.

On a final note, one need not buy their way into the Association – it is free for the asking to those who wish to trade, though we maintain the right to deny entrance at our discretion to those with a ‘problematic’ history of interaction, or those who represent a potential threat (both have been very rare circumstances thus far).

I hope that this and the attached layout will help clarify, and assist in your entry to the Network, which we are more than happy to offer at this time. Please also find attached instructions on how to access the Network, to see what others have to offer and are looking for, and to make your own entries for the same. Welcome aboard – I hope it will prove to be a profitable venture.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

ooc: Honestly, if you read the initial post, this is just meant to be a vehicle for players to use at their discretion, and to perhaps link up with nations they might not normally. It can be as active or as passive as you like – think of it as a springboard for other trade and the like. Pretty much, it is what you make it – just an opportunity to expand.

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

The new line of clothing from Sabine Delfs created a stir among the fashion aficionados in the Dominion. Always looking for the latest styles and new trends, this opportunity was jumped on quickly, with many of the main distributors clamoring for the rights to sell.

Invitations were sent out for the designer to grace several fashion shows with both her appearance, and her new line, all expenses paid, over the course of the next year. With these, of course, come the questions about further offerings, seasonal lines, designer exclusives, etc.

Nathicana herself put in an order for several ensembles, having always had a preference for the professional yet feminine look, not to mention the skirt/blouse/jacket combo she was so fond of. And of course, those hoping to make a profit cashed in on this bit of info as soon as it came to light, pushing demand for the new line even further.

damm those translators.

It is our culture, our habit to esteem those of new, distant, and foreign lands. I meant no offence by the phrase high-born other than to denote you as a person, Herr Medici, of great worth. MOreover your association which we wish to join is a ( hoping they get this right) thing of noble and great beauty which we would like to adhere to.

A gift, freely and openly [and what could be more open than a public thread] given is no tribute - nor would we condone giving tribute.


Your message, evidently mishandled by some fool, seems to imply that your group requires posting of a manifest of all trade goods prior to acceptance into the community. My clerks are composing such a list as I speak and it will follow. Accepting that in a small confederacy such as ours the list will represent only thecommonality of trade goods. Each portion of the confederacy will from time to time have guilds, artisans, cheesemakes, and small industry not on the list.

THat would seem to meet the needs of your Association. I appreciate that older countries and cultures that have been doing this for some time will not see this as self evident. Your orginal post says, if we are reading it correctly, who has joined, and it has convinced us. It does not do more than that according to our readers. It says there are signatories... Yet it no where lists the articles they have signed. Multilateral semi-free trade might seem to be the outcome. We accept. It is your far wiser guidance we seek here.

Dear sir,

Begging your pardon, but the information you've been given lists in entirety how the system works. It is not a binding contract, nor are there articles to adhere to perse, it is merely a membership roster. How you go about your trade, in what manner you and any trade partners you gain from membership, what agreements you come to with them, are your business and yours alone.

The Trade Network Association merely offers a place for signatories to come together and more easily make initial contacts, as well as act as a mediator where needed, an easy source of monetary exchange, and a quick reference for trade information. We do not dictate the manner in which trade deals are to be carried out. That is up to our individual signatories.

The request for a listing of goods for trade and goods needed is merely to assist you in fulfilling the entire point of this organization - trade. If you choose not to do so, that is up to you, but it will stymie your efforts in getting involved. Basically, you get out of this what you put into it, plain and simple. You can be as involved, or passive as it pleases you.

It is not the size of your offerings that matters, it is simply getting yourselves noticed that does. We have representatives of nations and corporations and organizations both large and small - the Network is designed to serve all needs, not just the megacorps or powerful nations. Even within these there is room for niche products. The Network offers an opportunity to more easily access these markets - smaller groups might have difficulty managing this otherwise. It goes some way in equalizing the opportunities for all. What one does to capitalize on those opportunities is up to them.

I hope that this has somewhat clarified matters for you.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

I see now where the trouble began
Our clerks must have translated the word
participants or adherents as signatories.

Your wisdom and assistance has been invaluable.
thank you ever, ever so much

Rhyss

Ambassador Dana Collins couldn't help thinking of herself as a glorified trade consul. She was the official ambassador to an organization which was at best a loose network and to which not every signatory even sent a personal representative. Most of the other representatives weren't even styled ambassador. Collins didn't even have her own embassy. She worked out of the Danaan Embassy to the Dominion where Ambassador Archie Sale treated her more like his economic advisor than like an equal. Her title gave her the right to be addressed as 'Your Excellency' but had little more legal significance in a nation which didn't recognize diplomatic immunity. Collins couldn't help wondering if this assignment was punishment for her failure to prevent the Anti-Marketology Act when she was ambassador to Syskeyia.

At first, she had viewed her assignment to play hostess to a fashion designer visiting the Dominion as yet another humiliation. But the more she thought about it, the more she was looking forward to it. If her specific assignment was less than ideal, Dominion society itself left her little cause for complaint. The wine, the company, the opera, the cuisine, the fashion, all were first rate in Devras. Showing Miss Delfs around would give her an excuse to revel in all of those things and to share them with a woman rather prominent in her field.

Collins was a plump, fair-skinned, redhead in her late forties. At work, she normally dressed in locally designed and somewhat reserved suits and pantsuits. She could have been any functionary as she sat at her desk, looking over the information on the Delfs visit and reflecting idly on her situation. Lost in thought, she blinked once when one of her staffers entered the room. "It's time to go to the airport, ma'am."

After a series of consultations with Llewelyn ap Llywelyn (First Speaker for the Protection of Others), and Hywel Jones ( first Speaker for Commerce) and the state governments - and I hope this makes clear my long absence I have managed to arrive at a list of goods/services we would hope to trade, and some that we would like to aquire. I have listed the state from which each would be obtained.


Exports
Corn and to lesser extents barley and wheat. (Anglesey)
Cheese in more than 100 varieties
Horses (Dywed)
Rubber and Indigo (Gwent)
Sugar (Gwent)
Burgundy and Cabernet (Cork)
Steel And Tungsten (Powys and Flint)
Pineapple (Gwent and Sark)
Books (Llanddyno)
Wool, Cotton, Linens (Jersey)
Manxxwear (Man)
Whiskey (Jersey)
Gin (Jersey)
Oil and Natural Gas (Radnor)
Specialty Woods (Sandspit)
Naval/Maritime Construction (Cadomin)
Construction and Project management (Harliech)
Specialty Plastics (Radnor)

Imports
Some fruits are in high demand - apples for example
Weapons are not produced at the level required by a modern military
Electronic Goods

I hope this conforms to the format best suited to you

Rhyss Daffys

A message was sent to Canaervon, noting that their information had been updated (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8024666&postcount=1) in the system (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Trade_Network_Association) , with a note of thanks.

From Malthus Cruonis,
NCEO of the Interspace and Undersea Salvage and Recycling Cooperative.

Malthus Cruonis,
As a representative of the Interspace and Undersea Salvage and Recycling Cooperative we welcome you. We have several divisions.
1) Recycling Division-- We can recycle all kinds of products, we have carbon 60 rippers for metals, titanium crushers, and nannite vats. This allows us to absorb and recycle a wide variety of materials.
2) Salvage Division-- We can salvage almost anything from almost anywhere, the bottom of the sea, in the orbit of a sun, in a radioactive swamp. We will help you get almost anything you may have lost.
3) Demining, bomb removal, and hazardous substance removal. Our job has put us in increasingly dangerous situations. We have experts who can handle the most dangerous materials. We will even recycle and reprocess your old nuclear weapons.
4) Licensed Mercenary Operations-- We are willing to do special operations to remove salvaged material from warzones, disputed territories, and similar areas. We have recovered nuclear submarines from deep waters, and done treasure hunting.
5) Archaeological excavation of deep ocean and deep space sites.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e221/Xirnium/arms1.jpg
Official Government Memorandum – Ministry for Trade and Commerce
The Eternal Republic of Xirnium

Tárië Aicassë Laë Nainányéna! – Until the End of Time!
To:

Bernardo di Medici
Minister of Trade
The Dominion of Dread Lady Nathicana

From:

Zoltán Aíre-Dâlóme
Minister for Trade and Commerce of the Xirniumite Government
The Eternal Republic of Xirnium


Dear Minister di Medici

Cordial greetings from the Eternal Republic.

I am writing to you for the purposes of indicating my Government’s keen interest in becoming a signatory member of the Trade Network Association. Following a careful review and examination, by select committee, of the costs and benefits of the proposed undertaking, the Xirniumite Parliament has determined that such a move will likely deliver broad economic and commercial gains to Xirnium, with the possibility of distinct advantages for specific market sectors.

In support of Xirniumite exporters, the Parliament of the Eternal Republic has recently begun pursuing what may be described with some justification as perhaps the most wide-ranging and ambitious trade policy agenda in Xirnium’s economic history. Liberalising global trade, in part through the negotiation of free trade agreements with key trading partners, is perhaps our highest trade priority. It is our hope and belief that the Trade Network Association shall offer an attractive means of facilitating just such an end.

Additionally, it is the personal desire of Prime Minister Gílda that membership with the Trade Network Association will provide the sturdy foundations upon which to base an expanded and fruitful diplomatic relationship with the Dominion; a nation that the Xirniumite Government has long held in high esteem.

I await your reply with great expectancy.

Yours sincerely

[Signed]

His Grace
The Rt Hon Zoltán Aíre-Dâlóme MP
Trade Minister of the Xirniumite Government and High Lord of Parliament
The Sovereign Parliament of the Eternal Republic of Xirnium

We are most pleased at this vast increase in trade. Prosperity indeed lies ahead for all engaged in this venture.
We have announced a full day of prayer and celebration On Lindisfarne Island in the anme of the Dread Lady for her intervention(?) in this matter.

What is ours, is yours, for a price

To: Mathus Cruonis, NCEO of the Interspace and Undersea Salvage and Recycling Cooperative
Re: Your recent missive

With all due respect, we are slightly confused as to the intent of your message. What exactly are we being welcomed to? We have scanned our records and find no evidence of membership – though we would of course be quite pleased to consider your application, if this is what the message was intended as. I’m certain there are any number of nations involved who could find a use for your services.

If you could, please clarify so that we can proceed?

-- Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To: The Honorable Zoltán Aíre-Dâlóme, Minister for Trade and Commerce of the Xirniumite Government, The Eternal Republic of Xirnium
From: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

Greetings and well met, Minister Aíre-Dâlóme.

First allow me to say how pleased we are that you have taken an interest in the Association, and to thank you for your kind words concerning both it, and our nation.

We would of course be pleased to have you join and look forward to doing business with you, and assisting you in getting started within the system. Please find attached in file all the pertinent contact information, keys, and instructions for setting up your accounts, and navigating the system, as well as the usual helpful hints, guides, and lists of potential markets for ease of use.

In addition, in our usual monitoring of the Jovian system, given our presence there and that of our allies, we could not help but notice your forward exploration efforts, and wondered if we might be of some assistance in that regard. The Dominion, and by extension my office, operates a large station at the Saturn L4 point named Machiavelli (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=392682), which has thus far been an unparalleled success. Given your interest, we wondered if you might have any interest in space aboard the station, for diplomatic, trade, or scientific offices, as suits your needs? If nothing else, it could offer a useful waystation between solar exploratory missions – we do not require that nations, or ships, have ownership or membership to make use of the amenities available there.

In any case, consider it an open offer for you to peruse at your leisure. In the meantime, if there is anything we can do to assist along these lines, or with the Network, please do not hesitate to contact us. Welcome to the Trade Network Association – we hope it will provide you with the tools you need for furthering your trade interests.

-- Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

A message was also sent along to the Canaervon representatives with thanks for their kind words and indeed, their rather surprising expression of thanks. Nathicana herself was more than a little taken aback at anyone in another nation celebrating, let alone praying in her name or on her behalf, all things considered, but sent along her sincere wishes for a continued prosperity as well, along with a large crate of prime Dominion cheeses, wines, and non-perishable confections for the Canaervoni to distribute as they saw fit. A small token all things considered, but meant well all the same.

To: Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade,
From: Malthus Cruonis, NCEO of the Interspace and Undersea Salavage and Recycling Cooperative

To the Honorable Medici,
We are very interested in joining your trade consortium. We would like to become members. I and my associates offer services and knowledge rather than raw goods. The previous message was the services offered by my company.

Regards,

Malthus Cruonis, NCEO


To: Mathus Cruonis, NCEO of the Interspace and Undersea Salvage and Recycling Cooperative
Re: Your recent missive

With all due respect, we are slightly confused as to the intent of your message. What exactly are we being welcomed to? We have scanned our records and find no evidence of membership – though we would of course be quite pleased to consider your application, if this is what the message was intended as. I’m certain there are any number of nations involved who could find a use for your services.

If you could, please clarify so that we can proceed?

-- Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e221/Xirnium/arms1.jpg
Official Government Memorandum – Ministry for Trade and Commerce
The Eternal Republic of Xirnium

Tárië Aicassë Laë Nainányéna! – Until the End of Time!

To:

Bernardo di Medici
Minister of Trade
The Dominion

From:

Zoltán Aíre-Dâlóme
Minister for Trade and Commerce of the Xirniumite Government
The Eternal Republic of Xirnium


Dear Minister di Medici

The Prime Minister has requested that I personally convey to you and the Dominion Government her kindest thanks and greatest appreciation for your helpful assistance, and for allowing the Eternal Republic the opportunity to enter the Trade Network Association. Your offer of further support was particularly well received by the Xirniumite Parliament; and I do not exaggerate when I inform you that the Dominion has never been held in higher regard by our august institution.

I have been informed that the technical Trade Network Association-related information so thoughtfully affixed to your reply has been duly conveyed to the relevant departments and offices of my Ministry. Please expect, within the next few days, a comprehensive series of Ministry of Trade and Commerce publications providing detailed commodity trade data and economic and socio-economic information concerning Xirnium. I hope that it shall assist businesses within the Dominion and other nations of the Trade Network Association in identifying lucrative Xirniumite markets to export to or invest in.

Your additional generous offer of services at the fourth Sun-Saturn Lagrangian point has been passed on to the relevant Minister, and it is my understanding is that she is highly exited by it. I expect that you shall hear from my colleague in short order.

Yours sincerely

[Signed]

His Grace
The Rt Hon Zoltán Aíre-Dâlóme MP
Trade Minister of the Xirniumite Government and High Lord of Parliament
The Sovereign Parliament of the Eternal Republic of Xirnium

**** *** **** *** ****

Within a relatively short period of time following Lord Aíre-Dâlóme’s response, the Ministry of Science, Research and Trade dispatched its own official letter to the Dread Lady’s Government. [link (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=11991134#post11991134)]

Some many months ago we made, through special effort (from the Canaervon Wikipaedia - Wight: Immediately off shore of Jersey lies the Isle of Wight. It is an experimental farmland run by the National University for development of new varieties in Cheeses, cows, and crops (predominantly for fabrics)) for a commission a full Slug of Epi Fol cheese. Obviously this can not have price placed on it. However, sadly, that nation has ceaed to exist. It peopel can no longer afford this treasure. Can we interest any of you in this treasure - at fire sale ( literally) prices?
Rhyss

I think the GPH of Pilon could use a new exotic type of Cheese to market to its clients.

How easy is the manufacturing process for this cheese and how much do you have available for an initial shipment. We would want to verify the popularity of the product before investing in large scale production of it.

NEWS From WIGHT!!
Fol Epi
In French means "wild wheat stalk" a fitting name for this unique cheese with perfect eye formation. Fol Epi is enrobed in a golden wheat rind made with toasted wheat flour.. Fol Epi is matured for three months before shipping. Fol Epi is decoratively embossed and has pleasant nutty and fruity taste without any bitterness typical of traditional Swiss.

Normally sold retail in scruples ( in rough terms a pound) we also sell wholesale in talents or slugs. ( 64 or 32 pounds).

As was said it was a special order. But Should it prove to your liking we can arrange for more regular production.

Rhyss
Second Circle, International Trade

We are confirming by Telegram with anyone who wanted this year's batch of Epi Fol. It is a very, very, rare commodity. There is much rejoicing over this new volume with such illustrious new trade partners. I am assurred by those in the first circle that were trade to increase to a certain level ( that target has not been sharted with me) we woudl be able to trade a small amount of Manxxware. There is, obviously, a certain amount of wariness for in the wrong hands its misue woudl be tragic. However if youwanted to be on the 'waiting list' please let us know. The only known shipment ever to leave Canaervon was made as a gift when we joined this most excellent Association.

The Red Waters Project

Pheonix Corp, the largest Megacorporation in Pilon, is currently seeking interested parties for The Red Waters Project. Please contact the office of Victor Simber, Co-Chairman of the Board, for additional information.

(copied from Mars Forums)
http://z4.invisionfree.com/The_Plane...showtopic=1127

The Red Waters Project, an opportunity.


A proposal for a major joint tourism and leisure centric economic development zone in the Hellas sea zone of mars with projected profits after the first ten years in excess of 30 trillion standard dollars.

The incorporated state of ZMI wishes to propose an international combine for the purposes of the effective monopolization and redevelopment of the Hellas sea front with intent for major re-teraforming and construction projects, not least the positioning of several orbital mirror complexes to raise mean local coastal temperature to Mediterranean standards and the use of major local field based cleansing systems to lower planetary contaminant ratios to not only healthy but very low levels in the Hellas area. This will not only have long term positive knock on effects planet wide but will also provide short term economic benefits as the construction effort goes ahead. In short the Hellas project is designed to directly balance out the economic damage done to planetary tourism and reputation by the Volarian incident.

This proposal for a joint economic development zone effectively would end any security issues over the area, further if granted free port status with limited if any economic controls we firmly believe that the Hellas development project could revolutionise the Martian spheres long term economic development and serve as a template for further joint major economic projects. In the long term we wish to extend the freeport status upwards to a major orbital to serve as a major free trade hub and the opportunities offered by this proposal in theory could multiply a thousandfold.

Primary proposals include a strip of domed cities before major field based atmospheric cleansing centres are completed and coastal cleansing and beach front forming is complete, a large scale effort to create niche resorts dotted along the coastline serving all races with a maximum of luxury or a maximum of value to suit all tastes and pockets. Further plans involve major vegasplexes, and major starport facilities.

Red Waters is an pertinent opportunity for the future joint economic development of the red planet.

Rhyss couldn't believe his luck. Four international contracts in 6 months was more than he expected or hoped for.

"Admittedly 3 of the 4 were really the same contract.
Well two of the four nations had even ceased to exist.
Nope - shouldn't - couldn't afford to think that way"

Then there was the trade secret problem. Could he really afford to give away the secret methods of Epi Fol Production? (A cow's milk cheese often made with a cheese mold providing a distinctive wheat ear pattern on the rind. This cheese is similar to Swiss style cheeses that have a rind dusted with a coating of toasted wheat flour. Inside the rind, pale ivory meat provides a somewhat nutty and fruity flavor, very similar to a Swiss style cheese. It is an excellent cheese for snacking or for serving with hearty breads, French breads, fruit, and in salads. It is also a cheese that melts well for grilling or melting on crackers.) There would certainly be a price if the orders stopped coming in.

The wicker cages on the yew trees after the Dread Lady ceelebration had distinctly looked like they had been occupied

"Nope - couldn't afford to think that way."
His agenda, that of his patron's remained unchanged. There was the tiny martyr that he would be changed if he was caught, his patron not so much.

Resolved irresolutely on this Rhyss ordered the dispatch of the messenger. A great nation - Pilon - woudl never forget those who helped it.

There was so much to do, and some, very little, time to do it. Their trade delegation would arrive soon he hoped. Tours of the Unviversity and the Library to arrange. He set the monks to copying the formula. There could be no turning back now.

We've moved! Canaervon is pleased to announce the newest sister project for memebrs of the Trade Association. A World Cheese cartel. With daily, growing, demand for export licences for Cheese - lead of course by Epi Fol we have contracted with Sandspit Council to begin the immediate construction of a made to order island, Frommage.
Any and all interested cheese traders are welcome to set up offices.

TO:
Bernardo di Medici
Minister of Trade
The Dominion


FROM:
Christina Adelmann
Minister of Economic Affairs and Technology
Minister of His Majesty's Government
Erlangen-Ansbach


The Empire of Erlangen-Ansbach and Peru would like to join this august organisation to further its foreign trade as well as promoting ties to likeminded and friendly nations.
The Empire's economic policy is provides for an efficient base for foreign trade. As long as foreign steered subdivisions meet our legal requirements, they're free to operate here.

C. Adelmann

To: Malthus Cruonis, NCEO of the Interspace and Undersea Salavage and Recycling Cooperative
Re: Membership

Given the clarification, I’m sure the group could benefit from your services. Welcome to the Network – please find attached basic contact and troubleshooting information, and guides to getting started. Please don’t hesitate to ask if you run into any difficulties.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To: The Canaervoni Trade Group
Re: Fol Epi Cheese and other trade items

We’ve been receiving requests from several groups who would like to purchase some of your rare cheese. Attached is a list of potential buyers and their contact information, and the amounts of cheese desired. In addition, I have three separate breeders who are interested in expanding their stock concerning your Dywed Horses, several vintners who are curious as to your alcohols, an entire crafstmans guild here in Devras who are curious as to your specialty woods, and the designing groups Mercati, Ferrara, Partuzzi, and Bernasconi would like some details about your materials as they prepare their new lines for the runway. We’ve included their contact information and what details they’ve given us to pass on as well.

Hopefully you can be of mutual assistance to one another. Again, thank you for your contributions to the Trade Network, and best of luck in your endeavors.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

To: Christina Adelmann, Minister of Economic Affairs and Technology, Erlangen-Ansbach
Re: Membership

It would be a pleasure to welcome you to the Trade Network Association. We have always thought that broadening horizons and making new contacts was a strength, both economically and otherwise, and look forward to working with you to achieve our mutual goals of economic expansion and a healthy profit.

Please find with this return missive all the information needed to get you started – contact references, instructions on using the system, the usual rules and regulations (thankfully few of those to fuss with), and current listings of products and services available. You should be able to get started and make use of the system immediately on signing in. Let us know if you have any difficulties in accessing or posting information.

Again, welcome to the Association, and thank you for your interest and support. May it be a mutually pleasant and profitable venture.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

The Red Waters proposal was an interesting one, especially given the renewed interest in Mars with the relatively new NDA holdings there. Bernardo knew quite well that given the purpose of the place, there would be a plethora of interests from the public sector, most likely investors, businessmen, and those looking to … diversify a bit.

Already he had been contacted by various individuals who had an inside track on things, and given the responses, things could get interesting. He made note of what needed noting for the records, making additional notations of his own in his private records, and sent a note of thanks along to the Pilonese for the opportunity they provided with it, and assurances that people would undoubtedly be in touch concerning the project soon.

This is such wonderful news. We are overjoyed to have a such a wealth of trade contacts for such wide and diverse purposes. We have, of course,developed a thread elsewhere on the trade in cheese, but remain devoted to the Trade Association. If our partner, Pilon, is willing we would be prepared to develop Frommage further to deal with all matters of trade rather than limiting it to cheese. This is no simple matter, being deemed to be diplomatic space rather than part of Canaervon, but we have no reservation about asking if this expansion is permissible.

Please note that effective immediately all trade in manxwear has been prohibited by law. Ships leaving Canaervon will be searched and the Snowdonia regional Council has been asked toi enforce this as well. This has been necessitated by misuse of the material for non-peaceful purposes. Presently lodged trade orders are merely suspended not cancelled.

Rhyss

From: President Nitramda
The people of Nitramda wishes to seek admitance to The Trade Network Association.

To: President Nitramda
re: Membership

We have done some extensive research, and though there is little to go on perhaps, can see no reason why your request should be turned down. As such, allow me to welcome you to the Association, in the hopes that the resources it has to offer with ready contracts, easy trade options, and seemless exchange will offer you a leg up on assisting your nation’s economic needs.

Please find attached all pertinent contact, guideline, and operational information, along with your key to the system. You should be able to get started immediately, opening up the Network for you and your nation’s businesses to take advantage of the steadily-growing trade options and partners available. Do not hesitate to contact our offices should you fin yourselves in need of assistance, and may this prove to be a mutually profitable and pleasant experience.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

As for Red Waters, more requests for further information came in, as well as a more direct request (http://z4.invisionfree.com/The_Planet_Mars/index.php?showtopic=1127&st=0&#entry1621776) from Genovese Securities, whom it seemed had a more … hands-on interest in the project.

ooc: For convenience, an update of the membership list as it currently stands, from post #1. Also, the TNA Wiki page (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Trade_Network_Association#Signatories) has been updated as well. Let me know if any changes are needed, grazie.

Signatories

The Resurgent Dream Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8033475&postcount=15)
Iuthia Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8075403&postcount=25)
Iraqstan
Treznor
Liebermonk
Scolopendra TME Industries (http://s3.invisionfree.com/DLN_Biz_and_Trade/index.php?showtopic=5&view=findpost&p=130282)
Sakkra Updated Listings (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9811200&postcount=55)
Austar Union
Pantocratoria
Fodmodmadtol
Etaros
Weyr Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8034660&postcount=17)
Vrak
Sentient Peoples
Largent
Liverpool England
The Atheists Reality
The Freethinkers
Excalbia
Sketch
The Intergalactic Trade Hub (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=422493)
Wazzu (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9802772&postcount=52)
Euroslavia (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9528987&postcount=48)
The Ctan
Tiburon
Pilon
Canaervon Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=11526404&postcount=105) and Cheese (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=514080)
Xirnium
Interspace and Undersea Salavage and Recycling Cooperative of Commonalitarianism
Erlangen-Ansbach
Nitramda



Ventuus - (Un-extant)
Sonaron - (Un-extant)
Free Magogia - (Un-extant)
Konania Trade Goods (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8094966&postcount=29) - (Un-extant)
Lavenrunz - (Un-extant)
Knootoss - (Un-extant)
Logostan - (Un-extant)
Tonissia - (Un-extant)
Khallayne - (Un-extant)
Terre DeAnge - (Un-extant)
Kongeriket Noreg - (Un-extant)
Aerion - (Un-extant)

It has come to our attention that certain domestic resolutions have created some tensions, even gone so far as to stop trade entirely between some of our members. We cannot stress enough how it pains us to see the flow of business between amicable nations so abruptly ceased over a question of sovereignty.

While no such actions will be taken by this organization, nor by the Dominion on the matter, we strongly encourage the involved parties to take the time to discuss their problems, to find alternate means of coming to an agreement, and to put a halt to any hasty actions.

In the meantime, should there be a need to help relieve any deficits by a member in good standing, we offer the information on the situation to our membership at large, to do with as they see fit.

Please see attached transcripts (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=518440).

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

As the Resurgent Dream maintained a permanent ambassador to the Trade Network Association separate from the ambassador to the Dominion, it preferred to have that ambassador respond to the organization in person rather than simply having the Secretary of Foreign Affairs send missives. The office was currently filled by Camilla Macaluso, a woman with years of lower-level diplomatic experience in the Dominion before being elevated to the status of an ambassador. Mrs. Macaluso was polite but firm in her words. "While the Confederated Peoples feel nothing but amity and gratitude towards the Dominion for the role it has played in facilitating increased commerce through the world, we must must object to the characterization of recent events, at least so far as they involve us, as a dispute over sovereignty. We do not dispute the sole competence of the government of the Commonwealth of Freethinkers to make and enforce laws within that nation's sovereign territory. What we have done is not to dispute their sovereignty but merely to exercise our own. There is nothing in the policies announced by the President last night which is likely to lead to any conflict more serious or destructive than a simple cessation of trade, a reasonable reaction to a new policy on foreign trade in Freethinkers itself and one fully within the competence of a sovereign state. Any Freestian economic actors now involved in our markets have been given time to extract themselves. There has been no sudden or unilateral seizure of foreign property nor will there be. Our policy is not unique. Our Government has, historically, limited or banned trade with a variety of nations for a variety of reasons. That is all we have done here. We would remind you that the purpose of the TNA is to facilitate desired trade, not to oblige any member to trade with any other more than it might wish. Our actions, therefore, violate no obligation to this body nor do they infringe on the sovereignty of any foreign state. We have made our decision. It concerns only our own territory. We do not ask that you agree with it, merely that you accept it. We are open to diplomatic contact and discussion with all parties excluding Allanea but we do not expect to revise our current policies in the immediate future."

A simple statement was released from the Dominion offices in response.

Nowhere did we suggest that The Resurgent Dream was operating outside its rights, or that it was obligated by the Network to trade with anyone it sees fit not to, and thus are a bit confused as to why they drew such conclusions.

Indeed, it is a matter of sovereign right, wherein The Resurgent Dream government has decided to punish The Freethinkers nation for their own choices and the exercising of their sovereign rights, while loudly proclaiming they are merely exercising their own. An interesting corundum, but a fact nonetheless.

What does concern us as a nation who happens to have ties to all involved there via the Network, is the seemingly snap decision to engage in such hostile actions without bothering first to engage the parties involved in any sort of dialogue to see if amicable ends could be achieved. It is the posture of the TRD government that is troublesome in our eyes, and the attitude of such flippant disregard of diplomacy that goes rather against the spirit of cooperation and trade we like to encourage within our nation, and the Network – not enforce. It should come as no surprise that our attitudes concerning trade should reflect strongly in the economic trade agreement we penned. This does not mean we intend to apply the same tactics in our dealings as those we disagree with.

Again, we would encourage dialogue over demagoguery, cooperation over castigation, and helpful versus harmful solutions. In addition, we continue to encourage others who have a need to step in to assist in taking up the slack where it can be managed, and remind members to have a care when making such far-reaching decisions. Trade, once lost, is sometimes difficult to regain, and bridges are more easily burned than built, after all.

As always, well wishes to you all, and hopes that the Network will continue to be a profitable venture for all.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade

"That does it." Macaluso said. "This is too patronizing to bear. I've spoken to the President. We're withdrawing from the TNA in protest."

"Ma'am?" asked the young man going through a file cabinet in her office. "Forgive me for saying so, but that seems a bit...well...rash on the past of the..."

Macaluso looked at him seriously for a long moment before finally allowing herself to break into a smile. The young man shook his head a little as he leaned against a cabinet. "I thought you were serious."

"Of course not. Our relationship with the Dominion is much too important to 'burn our bridges,' as the Minister says." She picked di Medici's letter up and handed it to the young man for filing. "That's why we're not going to respond to this. Well, we're not going to continue the debate. We'll send a polite reply telling the Minister that we appreciate his advice, value our relationship and regret having to disagree with him in this matter. Anything else would just lead to increasing tensions and a war of words. We've said our piece. They've said theirs. Time to move on."

"And that's that?" the man asked.

"Well, if someone from the Dominion or even from Freethinkers wants to come have a conversation with me in person about this or any other matter, that's my job. That's why we have a person here instead of just sending missives. But that's that for hurling public statements back and forth, at least on our end." she answered.

In a short statement, Phoenix Corporation cited support for the Dominion position concerning this matter.

Report for the Senatorial Permanent Committee for Organisation on ongoing trade relations, with regard to ports and trade routes and general overview of trade relations
Disc-class: Public.

In reply to your letter of the twentieth this month, I have undertaken, with my staff, to assess the trade links currently being practiced, and the relevance of this to continued funding for Duat port facilities.

As far as can be determined, around 75% of our trade goes through portals established both in our own outposts (especially sentinel two) and in foreign soil, both hired by foreign establishments in order to minimise their supply chains to us, and elsewhere. Due to the security concerns of host nations, a rising number of these are established in offshore non-fixed installations on Earth, remaining in international waters. This facilitates both customs inspection by the host-nation, population control, and for that matter, ease of destruction by missile.

Others, are of course, found in friendly ports, both sea, air, and space.

Elsewhere, conventional means are used to transport goods, both by ourselves and other nations. Conventional transport to the ports of Garm has not grown as we had expected due to our internal ubiquity of portal transport meaning the lower landing costs both in time and money of landing at Duat eclipse any potential gains in travelling to Garm, leaving Garm facilities essentially people-only.

A detailed collated summary of our external traffic from the department of transport and my own ministry is attached.

Overall, our balance of trade through these areas, discounting mandated goods transit to dependencies such as Indiastan and Delta Zeta Four, and standing agreements and arrangements, including development aid, and bilateral agreements such as those with the Yvressi craftworld, stands as follows (again, detailed numbers are appended in statistical simulacrum form):

Foodstuffs:
Surplus:
Alcohol, non-food
Apples, Excl. Cider
Bananas
Cassava
Cereals, Other (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Coconuts
Fish, Various (See Se29d classification regulations)
Honey
Infant foods, various (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement & Public Eleemosynary Expenditure Act)
Maize (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Millet (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Oats (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Onions (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Potatoes (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Rice (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement & Public Eleemosynary Expenditure Act)
Root Vegetables, Other
Rye (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Sorghum
Sweet Potatoes (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Various Fruits and luxury foodstuffs, Eldarin Ecosystem (See Yvressi Export Agreements)
Vegetables, Other (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement)
Wheat (See Indiastan Cereals & Foods Standing Agreement & Public Eleemosynary Expenditure Act)
Yams

Defecit:
Aquatic Plants
Beverages, Alcoholic
Beverages, Fermented
Bovine Meat
Butter, Ghee
Citrus, Other
Cloves
Cocoa Beans
Coffee
Cream
Dates
Fats, Animal, Raw
Fish, Body oil
Fish, Liver Oil
Fruit, Other
Grapefruit
Grapes, Excl. Wine
Lemons and Limes
Mutton/Goat Meat
Oil-Crops, All save Coconuts
Oranges and Mandarins
Other Meat
Pepper
Pimento
Pig Meat
Plantains
Poultry Meat (See Se29n classification regulations)
Processed Vegetable Oils
Spices, Other
Sugar Beet
Sugar Cane
Sugar, Non-centrifugal
Sugar, Raw Equivalent)
Tea
Tomatoes
Tree Nuts
Wine (See Se29a classification regulations)

Commodities, General:
Surplus:
Air-conditioning and temperature regulation devices (See Indiastan General Trade Standing Agreement)
Aluminium bars, rods, angles, shapes, sections
Aluminium oxide, excl. natural alumina
Aluminium plates, sheets, strip, foil
Aluminium sulphate
Aluminium tubes and pipes
Aluminium wire
Aluminium, unwrought
Aluminium, unwrought, primary
Aluminium, unwrought, secondary
Aluminium-base alloys
Aminoplastic resins
Ammonia (N content)
Andalusite, kyanite and sillimanite
Angles, shapes and sections (total)
Angles, shapes and sections, 80 mm or more (heavy sections)
Angles, shapes and sections, less than 80 mm (light sections)
Aniline
• [Viewer has activated ‘List Snipping Function’]

Defecit:

Hard coal
Hard coal briquettes
Heavy leather
Hides, Cattle and Horse, Undressed
Household Ware of other ceramic materials
Household ware of porcelain or china
Jackets, men's and boys'
Jute fabrics
Jute yarn
Knitted fabrics
Knitted sports shirts
Knitted sweaters
Knitted undergarments, excluding elastic
Lamps, electric (excluding fluorescent tubes)
Leather footwear, children's
Leather footwear, men's
Leather footwear, women's
Light Leather
• [Viewer has activated ‘List Snipping Function’]

Specific Commodities of Interest:
Surplus:
Base Materials, general (See Se2d classification regulations)
Computational Devices, Industrial (See Sa2a safety and security regulations)
Computational Devices, Recreational (See Sa2a safety and security regulations)
Cybernetic Implants, Cosmetic or Enhancive (See Ha1b classification regulations & Public Eleemosynary Expenditure Act)
Cybernetic Implants, Medical (See Ha1b classification regulations & Public Eleemosynary Expenditure Act)
Drugs, medicinal (See Ha1a classification regulations & Public Eleemosynary Expenditure Act)
Drugs, recreational (See Ha1a classification regulations & Sa9a safety and security regulations)
Gravitic Atmospheric Vehicles (See Sa1a safety and security regulations)
Living Metal, general (See Se2a classification regulations & Sa2d safety and security regulations)
Power Supply Systems, Large Scale Infrastructure (See Sa2c safety and security regulations)
Powered Armaments, all (See Sa1a safety and security regulations)
Starships and Space Vessels (See Sa1a safety and security regulations)

Defecit:
Bows, all types
Firearms, antique (See Sa1a safety and security regulations)
Horses, all types
Land vehicles, all types
Literature and Art, Various
Mystical devices (See Ha92d classification regulations & Sa16a safety and security regulations)
Pets, Various
Powered Armaments (See Sa1a safety and security regulations. Especially purchased from Tor Yvresse Craftworld)
Sea vessels, all types
Swords and inert weapons

[...]

Yours,
Minister Sntr. Helkafëa
Ministry Head, Ministry of the Economy

occ: Gah, forgot to do this earlier. Anyhow, just trying to be consistent

IC:

Official Statement from the Vrak Ministry of Revenue

In accordance with the Royal Edicts issued forth from the Vrak Royal Secretariat which now has been reviewed by the Royal Chancellery, the following countries that have a trade embargo in effect from Vrak are the following:

****
The Vicious Seneschalty of Terror Incognitia
The Empire and Commonwealth of Questers
The Eternal Necrontyr Empire of The Ctan
The Supreme Commonwealth of Rosdivan
The Holy Arc of Jeruselem
The Holy Catholic Monarchy of Cherry Ridge
The Holy Empire of New Propagandia
The Democratic Soviet Republic of Kahanistan
The Divine Prussian Empire of Derscon
The Islamic Federated States of Ottoman Khaif
The Kalesic Democracy of Rejistania
The Protestant Triune Kingdom of Reichskamphen
The Prime Ministerialship of Bazalonia
The PDSR of Ariddia
The Star Empire of Steel Butterfly
The Sternreich of Skeelzania
The Free Land of Kesshite
****

From what we have been able to determine, only the The Eternal Necrontyr Empire of The Ctan is a fellow member of the Trade Network Association. We issued the Royal Edicts in response to our stance regarding the rebuilding of the rogue state of Allanea. We issue it here for the sake of transparency with our fellow TNA members.

Information on the Royal Edicts can be found here (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=12185515&postcount=50) and here. (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=12199872&postcount=87)

As well, trade with the Resurgent Dream is currently undergoing review due to their stance towards the nation of The Freethinkers.


[Great Seal of the Vrak Ministry of Revenue]
[Great Seal of the Vrak Royal Chancellery]

"This would be the same Allanea we recently invaded and burnt the capital of, right? You also appear to be tremendously out of date on the matter of 'The Freethinkers,' please find enclosed a year's subscription to a Freestian newspaper of your choice, so that you may become more informed on current events."

S. Department, Foreign Ministry

The missive from the Ctan was promptly filed away and forgotten.

To: The Dread Lady Nathicana, of The Dominion
From: Otho Gervasius Crusade, of The Ascendant Realm

Upon careful review of the opportunities presented by the Trade Network Association, the Five Civilized Nations would like to express its interest to join the association. As an economically diverse nation with substantial territories beyond the borders of the Sol System, we have experienced many upheavals due to insecure lines of supply and communication.

Our limited territorial holdings in the Sol System is at the forefront of technological progress. With what land we have, we have established an economic powerhouse built upon a foundation of continual innovation and invention. Unfortunately, we have little land available for full-scale agriculture. As such, we are only capable of producing some of the more essential grains and vegetables, requiring steady imports of fruit, livestock, and dairy products.

Sol System Territories:
Main Industries: Aerospace, Banking, Information Technology
Imports: Alcohol, Apparel (including Textiles and Footwear), Automobiles, Chemicals, Dairy Products, Energy (i.e. Natural Gas and Petroleum), Fruit, Machinery, Livestock
Exports: Civilian Aircraft (Helicopters, Passenger Jets and Turboprops), Electricity

Although our holdings outside of the Sol System are almost virtually self-sufficient due to the great distance from other regional powers and with only the tenuous link of a long serious of hyperspace gates spanning across light years of space, trading connections with the Sol System would be useful for the purchase of historical artifacts (read antiques) and Native Sol System Fauna and Flora not found on our holdings.

Extra-Solar Territories:
Main Industries: Aerospace, Armaments, Electronics, Genetic Engineering, Information Technology
Imports: Historical Artifacts, Foodstuffs, Native Sol System Fauna and Flora
Exports: Armaments (i.e. Weapons, equipment, etc.), Consumer Electronics, Precious and Semi-Precious Stones

May our partnership be filled with opportunities.

Signed,
By My Hand
Otho Gervasius Crusade
-Duke of Cala
-Regnant of the Ascendant Realm of the Five Civilized Nations

The Kingdom of St Samuel wishes to request admitance to The Trade Network Association

In truth, the Vrakians paid little head to the going ons in Allanea since, well, they were beneath contempt. Hence, the likelihood of appearing to be behind the times. But someone saw it important to revist the patronizing note from the Ctan and find out exactly what was going on in Allanea.

Once it was learned that Allanea was, and likely still is, undergoing restructing and that the Ctan was behind it, the embargo was quietly dropped. It certainly did not mean that relations would be suddenly warm and fuzzy, for the Vrakians had long memories.

Of course, the others on the list were also undergoing review. Since Allanea happened to have received oodles of aid from the other countries, it remained to be seen if they would once again step in and rebuilt that rogue nation. Therefore, the embargo with them remained.

====

Official Announcement from the Vrak Ministry of Revenue

The embargo with the The Eternal Necrontyr Empire of The Ctan has been lifted. Trade with the Ctan has now been placed on the Ministry's Restricted List.


[Great Seal of the Vrak Ministry of Revenue]

To Bernado di Medici
Dominion Ministy of Trade
Trade Network Association Offices

Minister di Medici,

Since the Federated Imperium's admission to the Triumvirate, we have enjoyed closer relations with member states, and while trade has increased between our respective markets, we have yet to enter into any formal arrangements. With that in mind, and a burgeoning market based around our Martian holdings, we believe that it is time to expand our horizons, so to speak, and both increase accessiblity to our own markets and exporting our products further abroad.

Having examined the services offered by your Association, we feel it would be the perfect venue to continue to open our markets to the international stage, and we would be honored should we be accepted to this organization.

If it is also possible, in my position as CEO of Atla/Ljosa group, we would be interested in leasing a small space aboard Machiavelli Station, for the purpose of easier distribution and receipt of goods in the Saturnian system. I would be happy to discuss arrangements concerning such.

I do look forward to doing business with you and the Association in the future. Attached, is a brief concerning current import and exports in the Martian Sphere.

From the Desk of Vierun Muraan
CEO, ATLA/LJOSA Group
Minister of Trade, Federated Imperium of Kajal

The Four Worlds and Territories of Kajal
Current Trade Pacts: MFTA, MPA contracting member, Triumvirate of Yut, VERITAS

Exports:
Consumer Goods: Mostly Everything
Defense: Trailing Edge weaponry, combat gear (both common infantry and mechanized), spacecraft (system defense craft, corvette through frigate classification).
Computers: Advanced optronics, computronium, limited AI/VI development.
Software: As required. Comparable to Zero-One efforts but on average inferior to such.
Information: select data from SYSNET, reconnaissance and surveillance for approved buyers/polities
Infrastructure: Transportation (Martian MAGLEV systems, etc), cities, utilities, etc.
Consulting: Private shipwright services, municipal engineering, joint project development.
Ecology: Environmental and Life Support, limited ecological restoration (primarily joint efforts with Zero-One)
Foodstuffs: Limited share FoodSat agrisatellite ownership, generalized CHON product, cultural items.
Genetics: "Life Extension", medical treatments, military applications (primarily goose chase projects)
Cybernetics: Implanted non-medical and biological replacement; psionic/biotic amplification implants.
Culture: Arts, Performance, sculpture, etc.

Imports:
Consumer Goods: Wide variety, again, mostly everything.
Foods: General foodstuffs, cultural dishes, etc
Raw Materials: Price dependent, whatever's required.
Medical: Limited equipment, training, consulting, all concerning non-Kajali medicine.
Genetics: Limited, mostly anything related to current genetics programmes.
Technology: widespread consumer/commercial level imports, often combined with native product.
Information: Data from both military and commercial networks, augmenting national sources.
Science: anything and everything that could be useful, legality negotiable.

To: His Excellency, Bernardo di Medici, Minister of Trade, the Dominion
From: The Honorable Harren Riztak, Trade and Business Advisor

Mr. Medici,
My country, in my opinion, is a great one. It has it's flaws, but we believe the people are first. That is why I always say yes to elections. However, that is beyond the point. I will be frank, Mr. Medici, my country is in an economical crisis. That doesn't mean we are at lack of resources, however. Our government is against MultiNational corporations because we believe they cannot be trusted. We have many things to offer, but we do not want anyone to abuse our opportune. I would like to enroll into your organization as a standing member, but I will not take anything to hurt my people, or what is dear to them.
Thank you,
Harren Riztak
Trade and Business Advisor
Telos-Peragus



Current Trade Pacts: None

Exports:
Consumer Goods: All natural household goods
Defense: Contract soldiers, engineers, military planes/helicopters
Computers: Nano-engineering, Hardware inspection, in-flight electronic ammenities
Software: Navision databasing, home software products and games, flight auto-pilots
Information: Spying on anyone deemed suspicious, free of charge, recon. spy planes
Infrastructure: Flight, ergonomics, organics
Consulting: Construction projects, software building, plane inspection
Ecology: Open environment, owned by government, up for sale.
Foodstuffs: Native cultural extensions, cattle, chicken, sheep, general crops
Genetics: Nanobots proved to cure deadly diseases and destroy tumors.
Cybernetics: In-Human GPS systems, human-computer communication
Culture: Performing arts, cultural dance, painting, sculpting


Imports:
Consumer Goods: Varies per region
Foods: General foodstuffs, cultural dishes, etc
Raw Materials: Anything needed, or passed by resolution to purchase
Medical: Hospital hardware, general neccessities
Genetics: Limited, mostly anything related to current genetics programmes.
Technology: Consumer imports
Information: Data from both military and commercial networks, augmenting national sources.
Science: Anything pertaining to helping continue the human race, negotiabley.

ooc: Apologies to the two latest posts in answering this other problem before I answer you, and in taking so long to reply - I was out of town for the holidays, and am barely catching up with things now. Thank you for your patience.


From the Offices of Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Trade Minister

It is with deep regret that we announce that the Pilonese membership in the Trade Network Association has been temporarily suspended pending a review of the situation concerning their recent ‘Freedom of Movement Act’ (http://z4.invisionfree.com/The_Planet_Mars/index.php?showtopic=807&st=0&#entry3283240) and the threat level implicit in allowing DNA theft of any potential trade partners.

All Pilonese transactions, trade, and assets have been frozen, until such time as this issue is resolved. The Dominion takes the privacy of our citizens, and our trade partners very seriously, and find this breach to be entirely unacceptable. As we do not wish to be party to the continuance and enabling of such practices, these are the steps our government has decided to take at this time.

Any questions concerning this matter may be addressed to my office, and I will answer as best I'm able. You are of course, free to continue your trades with Pilon if you see fit - you will simply need to make use of direct contacts, rather than the convenience of using the Network until such time as we come to a resolution.

Again, we apologize for any inconveniences, but in the interests of national sovereignty and the protection of ourselves, and our good partners here, we feel such steps are, at this time, necessary.

--Bernardo di Medici

Midlonian Diplomatic and Economic Corps, Office of George Hillcrest, Minister for Foreign Policy and Economics, Greater Kingdom of Midlonia.

Per l'Attenzione Di Bernardo di Medici, Ministro di Mestiere di Dominio

Dear Sir,

After fully reviewing the Trade Network Association and it's goals the Government of the Greater Kingdom of Midlonia, under the auspices of His Most Midlonic Majesty, King Hykar The Second do so formally request to join the Trade Network Association for the benefit of our peoples and economies.

Yours Sincerely

George Hillcrest.

To: The Trade Network Association Membership
Re: State of the Association

Currently all systems seem to be running at nominal, with no real problems on the horizon. We have added several currencies to our database, and continue to keep the system updated with the daily changes in exchange rates.

As always, new opportunities to trade are uploaded for your perusal via your individual membership logins, and should you require any assistance in breaching any gaps due to unfortunate diplomatic issues, we stand ready to act as mediators if necessary.

We at the Trade Ministry wish you and yours well, and look forward to an even more prosperous fiscal year ahead.

--Bernardo di Medici, Dominion Minister of Trade


Yes Jim, you're in - sorry for letting this get lost in the shuffle.