NationStates Jolt Archive

“Ladies and gentleman,” President Sarah Sacker began as she looked out over the assembled members of the diplomatic corps and the international press, “most of you are doubtless aware of the recent changes in this country, under the Eaton, Ochiang and Kairis governments. Most of you are also aware that, during this period, our foreign policy has been to stress continuity with the old Danaan High Kingdom. Most of our major foreign relationships have been left essentially untouched over the last two years. Perhaps one might even say that the Confederated Peoples has been largely inactive on the international stage. The reason for this is obvious enough. We didn’t want the international community to believe, on the basis of drastic changes in both domestic and foreign policy, that we were unreliable or unwilling to honor our commitments. Likewise, we were keenly aware that many foreign policy changes, once made, are difficult to unmake. Given the high passions and relatively chaotic politics of our recent history, we found it prudent to wait until a calmer and more reflective time before undertaking any serious changes in policy.

“Happily, that moment has arrived. Confederals are now secure in their constitutional, political and legal institutions and thus ready for a corresponding fresh start in foreign policy. Many other nations, in similar circumstances, have chosen to start with a clean slate, throwing out all pre-existing treaties and agreements and beginning again as though they had just entered the international arena. It is for those nations to decide how well a strategy like that worked for them. I will say that it would be both rash and undesirable for this country. Treaties are binding covenants. They are not eternal and sometimes nations reasonably withdraw from them when the situation which led to their initial adoption changes, either unilaterally or in consultation with other signatories but this is not something that should be done casually, certainly not something that should be done simply for the dramatic effect of starting afresh. Likewise, our existing relationships exist for a reason. We have strong historical, political and cultural ties with many other nations which are embodied in our various treaties and agreements. A fresh start in foreign policy does not mean we wish to abandon any of those ties.

“Nonetheless, it is important that the Confederated Peoples recognize the differences between the new Confederated Peoples and the old Danaan High Kingdom or the old United States of Laneria. It seems to me that the largest difference is that in heritage, in culture, in history and in sentiment, the Confederated Peoples is a post-colonial state. In fact, given the disappearance of Tanah Barung, the Confederated Peoples might well be the largest post-colonial social democracy in the world. It would be hard to overestimate the effect something like that has on foreign policy considerations.

“Another important consideration is the growth and the development of the Western Atlantic region, a region which now extends, as odd as that sounds, well beyond the Western Atlantic proper. Whereas once we were fairly isolated geographically, our region is now home to 21 nations with a broad array of different cultures, climates and political systems. Each of these nations brings its own strengths and its own problems to the region.

“In light of all of these changes, I am announcing that the Confederated Peoples is now launching a major effort to resume an active place in the world and to develop a foreign policy in tune with its new position. In addition to a whole host of specific initiatives, our new diplomatic push will have three main components: Consultation with all friendly nations regarding the current state of relations, an active effort to normalize relations with nations with which we have at present no contact and systematic efforts to bring together the liberal democratic world, the social democratic world and the post-colonial world, all three of which the Confederated Peoples belongs to, to form a new democratic peace and to work on a common, comprehensive strategy for dealing multilaterally with the dangers of the modern world. I will now open the floor to questions.”

A young man stood "Jordan Villarreal, LNS Satellite News, President Sacker it has been some time since the former government of the Confederated Peoples normalized relations with The Free Republic. Will the changes you have spoken of have any bearing on relations with The Free Republic? If so, what will those changes be?"

Mr. Villarreal looked around as he asked the question, he was unsure if a Vaadian Embassy had actually been established , and if there was an ambassador present, it had been a long, long time.......

A woman raised her hand. "Melanie Sykes, Midlonian Broadcasting Company." She said nodding.

"How will the Confederated Peoples cope against states that are considered "post colonial", especially in regards to extremist groups and states who may wish revenge upon what they may still regard as a colonial power, and against any rogue states and even free market arms dealers that may fund and supply those groups?"

Sacker smiled at the Vaadian. "Well, Mr. Villarreal, normalized relations with the Free Republic are in no danger. However, the formal normalization of relations seemed to be the end of the Danaan High Kingdom's relationship with your country. We would like to establish a deeper level of contact and a more substantive relationship."

Sacker then turned towards Melanie Sykes with a curious expression. She wasn't quite sure what the woman was getting at. "Well, the Confederated Peoples has a good or at least a neutral relationship with every former colonial power which settled or controlled the various Members. Just recently a delegation specifically from those communities which had formerly been Knootian colonies traveled to Knootstadt to meet regarding certain shared aspects of their cultural heritage and there is a possibility that a formal cultural arrangement might result from that. It should be remembered that, while a large majority of the Confederal people and a slight majority of Confederal Members are post-colonial in history, demographics, culture and identity, there are also a few former colonial powers among Confederal Members and there are also many thriving European settler traditions within the nation which still identify with the former colonizers as much as with the post-colonial world so it isn't as if an us versus them approach is typical of our people. This history has given us a certain advantage is working with decolonization projects and in mediating between the two sides. Right now, for example, we're talking with Iansisle about a possible role providing material assistance and mediation in their Quit Gallaga program although no details are yet definite.

Mr. Villarreal nodded recording the answers with his smart phone to have them directly uploaded to LNS' News Satellites. After President Sacker had finished answering the Midlonian (dreadful people he thought) question, he asked a follow up.

"President Sacker, what form would your administration like deeper relations with the Free Republic to take? What areas exactly would you be inclined to make more substantive arrangements in regards to the Free Republic? Do you believe that your close ties with The Democratic Dutch Republic and Iansisle would hinder deeper relations?"

"I'm not going to discuss any specific proposals to the press before discussing them with the Vaadian Government. What I will reiterate is the commitment of this government towards rebuilding the democratic peace, a peace which has to include Knootoss and Ilek-Vaad, Xirnium and Kaitan-Leagran, Iansisle and Gallaga. We don't expect it to be easy but we are confident in our ability to work with a wide variety of nations without at the same time endangering our relationship with other nations who might not get along them as well. We're not looking to join a particular block or to deepen the divisions within the democratic world but to work constructively with others. I think Iansisle is a particularly good example. We didn't simply say we like Iansisle so let's get closer to them. In fact, our relationship started with a resolution by the Chamber of Delegates condemning Iansisle's colonial project in Gallaga. Iansisle replied by pointing to the fact that they were working on decolonization and constructive help in that area would do more good than condemnation and that's what we're now talking to them about, ways to help in a peaceful decolonization program designed to leave a stable, democratic and secure Gallaga. I think, and I hope the Vaadian people would agree, that decolonization is a worthwhile thing and part of what we're trying to do is to get away from judging whole nations, dividing the world into people we approve of and people we don't no matter what the specific issue, and to instead work with the whole democratic world and the larger international community on important issues such as decolonization, democracy, sentient rights, taking care of our environment, protecting out oceans, ending trafficking in persons, fighting international terrorism, ending child sex tourism and other issues of common import," Sacker said.

The Snefaldian Ambassador to The Confederated Peoples, His Holiness Lanwiddick BrendingnaÞ, rises.

"It is with happiness that the government of Snefaldia recieves this news, and I wish to iterate the wishes of the Snefaldian people that good relations and connexions with the Confederated Peoples be maintained and improved, for the benefit of both our nations."

A pale, narrow-faced lady in early middle age, with thoroughly unfashionable horn-rimmed glasses perched on her owlish nose and a quietly amused expression around her eyes, rose and spoke softly, barely above conversational volume, so that the room had to strain to hear her.

‘President Sacker?’ she asked. ‘Thank you madam, Ingrid van Østerby-Angôlistàdal for Neúvenârta Wireless 3XV,’ the reporter announced, speaking with an aesthete’s cultivated lisp and with an undulating intonation that was distinctively Xirniumite. ‘My question madam concerns the tourist industry, which the Intelligencer’s well-known independent statistics unit recently identified as one of the most singularly important sources of revenue and employment for a significant number of the Confederated Peoples’ member States.

‘How seriously does your Government view the tourist trade and why, what does tourism mean to the Confederated Peoples, economically, politically, culturally? What plans or initiatives does your Government have to boost capital investment in mass tourism, do these plans or initiatives involve bilateral exchanges of culture? Has your Government considered expanding passenger and freight air and ship services and with whom? What implications does the Confederated Peoples’ latest foreign policy thrust promise for tourism? Is the Confederated Peoples a worthwhile tourist destination and why?’

Sacker smiled slightly as she regarded the Xirniumite woman. "As you doubtless know, you've asked a number of both complex and expansive questions. I'm afraid I won't be able to answer them all in detail here. What I will say is this. Tourism is obviously very important to any foreign policy dedicated to strengthening ties with other nations. No tie is more important than direct people to people contact. Many major tourist attractions are Confederal Parks and the Confederal Park Service provides an extensive array of services to help keep them accessible and enjoyable. We will also soon be introducing an electronic tourist visa available to citizens of Xirnium, Pantocratoria and Knootoss who simply want to take a holiday in the Confederated Peoples which will remove both a lot of expense and a lot of redtape from travel. Our environmental programs play a large part in keeping many of the CPRD's great natural landscapes intact for the enjoyment of tourists. We provide a relatively safe environment with an extremely low crime rate. There is no red tape associated with travel within the Confederated Peoples."

Iansislean attendance at the press conference itself was rather sparse, limited to Henry August himself, one assistant to the ambassador, and a young, rather nervous reporter from the IanCorp Wire Services. He had been dying to ask particular questions, especially as the subject of Gallagan independence was taken up, about how the Resurgent Dream felt regarding the recently completed transfer of power from Thomas de Fenne, the last Governor-General, to Hiresh Dhawan, the first president of an independent Gallaga. With help from Confederal advisers, the process had been relatively smooth, although continued irredentism about those unincorporated areas, either ethnically or traditionally Gallagan, which lay outside of Iansislean authority might cause some concern.

Some Confederals might be interested to see the emergence in Iansisle of a rather similar multi-national quasi-state. The new Iansislean Federation was nowhere near as cohesive as the Confederation of Peoples, as the members all conducted independent diplomacy and were not bound to any specific reaction in the case of war, but it did much to strengthen and improve economic ties that had been shattered by the Revolution. The Federation consisted of Iansisle proper, the new Gallagan Republic, as well as small republics in Noropia, Troobodia, and Tharia. There is, however, debate about how large of a degree Iansislean military aide played in the 'popular revolutions' in Tharia and Noropia, which converted them from strongholds of royalism into centralized republics on the Gull Flag model, as well as how free was little Troobodia, a small island nation of less than 500,000, in choosing to align with the Federation. There is also the lingering bad taste of Nicodemo Ranalte's virtual constitutional dictatorship in Iansisle, which had its roots in a coup d'état, no matter how progressive and popular the general-turned-president is.

Nonetheless, #3 Jameston Place had determined that securing continued good relations with the Confederation was essential to the slow reintegration of the Gull Flag Republic into the international community. The Revolution and subsequent regicide had shattered long-standing relationships with countries such as Calarca, Larkinia, and Valinon; it had caused wars with Effit and Magnus Valerius; and it had severely strained relations with Pantocratoria, the Confederation, Walmington on Sea, and Knootoss. The successful Quit Gallaga program had helped to restore some faith in the revolutionary government, but Ranalte and his foreign director was not willing to gamble the Confederation's good will on an assumed continuation of the status quo.

The Confederal Foreign Ministry received a note from the Iansislean embassy, requesting a meeting between Henry August and a high-ranking Confederal officer to enumerate the relationship between the two states as they embarked towards seemingly brighter futures.

An Austarian representative had not, unfortunately, been able to formally attend the announcement due to various time constraints placed on those dedicated to the mission in The Resurgent Dream. A statement was issued by the UCSAU's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on the other hand, about their positioning toward the Confederated Peoples and their decision.

" We wholeheartedly support our friends the Confederated Peoples in these matters, and wish them success in their endeavor to re-invent themselves and their policies according to their relatively newfound beliefs and values. The Unione of Capitalizt States personally hopes that we will be able to continue to foster such our mutually beneficial relationship, according to the needs or desires of both governments. "

" Via this missive, we would like to informally invite a representative of the Confederated Peoples to attend a charity function to be held in the Richard Hoffman Conference Centre, Anatoba City on Saturday, $Date. We would hope that during the course of their stay, they would be available to discuss with a counterpart of theirs from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade the challenges our nations face in this next chapter, and any means of cooperation that might prove further helpful in the development and positioning of our relative nationstates. "

The Confederal Council Chamber had a certain undeniable old world charm to it. The heavy oak chairs reeked of the high society of two centuries ago and, indeed, they had been donated by the old Lanerian Government, having been the personal furniture of the Duke of Worthington at the time of the Lanerian War of Independence. The chairs were arranged around a large table which had chairs for sixteen people although only three sat there as Henry August was escorted in.

Sarah Sacker was a woman in her mid thirties. She still had an athletic figure, although she was progressively getting softer around the edges. August might or might not know that she had captained her women's Association football team at university. Her face was still youthful and her smile bright but her features were beginning to mature. Her complexion was a rich brown. She was dressed in a dark blue trouser suit, likely not especially fashionable among Iansislean women of the day.

John Palmer was a rather large man, heavy on both fat and muscle and one might expect from someone whose life had involved both hard work and hearty eating. He was a white man but his skin had a slight tan. He was dressed in a rather simple brown suit and sat quite comfortably in his chair. He didn't seem the sort of man who might ever dress to impress.

Waihoroi Paraha, on the other hand, was wearing a double-breasted dark blue suit perfectly tailored to his trim figure. He raven hair had a great deal of body and his smile was charming. He looked perpetually relaxed. His skin was on the lighter side of coffee.

Sacker was the first to look up as Henry entered the room. She rose and offered her hand, followed by the other two.

After the smiles and handshakes were over, Sacker and the other Councilors resumed their seats. Sacker then gestured for Henry to sit, "Thank you for joining us, Ambassador."

Henry August's face was marked with the years he spent under the Gallagan sun, tanning his skin to a leathery texture beset by a myriad of tiny lines. He had lost his left arm in one campaign in the subcontinent or another and the sleeve of his suit was tucked into a pocket and stuffed with straw. He had been well schooled, as were all Iansislean diplomats -- even the former soldiers pressed into the foreign office during an emergency period -- in the social differences around the world and did his best not to show any emotion at the notion of a woman president, the very idea of which was almost unthinkable on the socially backwards Shield.

"Madam President," he said, as smoothly as possible. "It is a pleasure to be received so pleasantly. I have President Ranalte's permission to convey his warmest greetings and those of the Republic as a whole. It was his hope that, by meeting with you, we might come to a tentative agreement to continue the normalization of relations between our two great states."

Sacker would have been genuinely surprised to learn that Henry was taken aback by her sex, a trait she shared with the last President, Viscountess Kairis. Both Sacker and Paraha had both been self-conscious about the racial sentiments of an old colonial soldier from a nation which was just now, very slowly, beginning to reform its view of race. The fact, obvious enough to anyone who took the time to think about it, that the Shieldian concept of gender roles was even more divergent had not occurred to any of them.

Sacker smiled slightly at his statement but glanced over to Paraha rather than answering herself. The Councilor heading the Department of Foreign Affairs gave that dazzling white smile as he regarded the gruff ambassador. "We can certainly agree to that. There are great cultural and political differences between our two peoples but we seem to be pursuing a rather similar path in international politics. It's the opinion of the Council that the best place to start might be to increase people-to-people contact. Perhaps some sort of cultural exchange...?"

Shieldian bluster about its racial prejudices often served to mask the extremely second-class nature of its women. Before the Revolution, women had not been allowed the vote and even Bradsworth's decision to expand them the franchise had been more of an 'accidental' side effect of universal voting rights meant to upset the traditional aristocracy-favoring imbalance than a conscious decision. It was perhaps less noticeable because Shieldian males cloaked their prejudice behind the old veil of chivalry and the myth of the 'fairer sex'. There had been several suffragette movements on the Shield, both before and after the Revolution, but with the wall of silence employed on the issue by the government publications and the presence of seemingly grander, more sweeping political topics pushed the advancement of women under the proverbial rug.

Paraha received August's full attention once he started speaking, but the Iansislean was kicking himself. Was the president the wrong person to whom to address that sort of statement? Had he breached yet another of those subtle rules of international etiquette which could not be fully taught?

"I would agree, Minister," August replied once Paraha had finished, "and I believe that President Ranalte would agree that our greatest obstacle to mutual understanding in the cultural gap of which you speak. As a matter of fact, the president asked me to scope out Confederal opinion on a program to start an exchange of students on every level between our two nations, as well as a program to promote mutual tourism."

Sacker nodded. "That could probably be arranged although we don't normally institute exchange programs for children younger than eleven or twelve. Even with a well controlled and safe environment, we don't think it's very good for them to be away from home so long. The older levels of primary education, secondary education and tertiary education should pose no problem though. It should also be fairly easy to arrange for programs encouraging tourism. I was also wondering if we might do something with sport. I'm familiar with Iansisle's reputation for football."

"Trying to relive your university career, Sarah?" Paraha asked, prompting laughter from both Sacker and Palmer.

Palmer smiled. "Just because you can't keep your eye on the ball doesn't mean no one else can be interested in sport."

Paraha turned back to Henry. The moment of levity had, at least on the Confederal side, reduced the tension which had built up. Paraha adjusted himself slightly as though to show he was getting back to business. "As you might be aware, although the Confederated Peoples doesn't often participate in major sporting events, we do have a gold medal figure skater, Diantha Palanthas, and other top level figure skaters. Perhaps there might be a Confederal figure skating tour of the Shield and a complimentary Shieldian football tour here?"

"I'd have to speak to the Director of Sports, Games, and Recreation, but I'm fairly sure that such an match can be easily arranged before the World Cup qualifiers start," said August. "I am equally certain that a figure skating tour of the Shield would be met with resounding success -- as you may know, our population quite enjoys their winter sports.

"I'm sure that President Ranalte will be glad to know that our two governments are so closely in accord on these issues."

Paraha nodded. He would much rather go see the figure skating than the football match but sport had always been something he more put up with as part of his job than enjoyed. "Alright. I think we have a basic plan: Student exchanges from the age of eleven up including university and graduate students, proactive encouragement of tourism and the two tours. The details can probably be easily relegated to..."

"I'd like to visit Iansisle at some point," Sacker said, cutting him off.

Paraha paused, his mouth hanging open perhaps a moment too long, a lapse in his near perfect poise. He took a moment to ingest the President's request before turning to the Ambassador. "Would that be possible?"

Paraha was not the only one in the room taken aback by the sudden request. August too had been hoping for a rather simple exchange program, not a presidential visit. If Sacker came to the Shield, it would mean a return visit by Ranalte would have to be paid. There would be great expense to Iansisle Potemkin-izing itself for the squeaky-clean Confederal delegation and August knew that Ranalte had always been more a man of direct action than one of the pomp surrounding international diplomacy. Nevertheless, there was no possible way that he could refuse a presidential visit.

"Would that be possible?" asked Paraha.

"Possible?" replied August. "Indeed, I should say that the Republic would be most honored to host you, Madam President. Er -- what time frame had you in mind?"

"At your convenience, of course," Paraha answered for the President, perhaps because he didn't trust her to answer. It might also have been simply because he considered the matter his business. The President of the Confederal Council, while representing the Council as a whole on important matters and thus frequently speaking outside her own Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, especially where Foreign Affairs were concerned, had a much weaker leadership role within the Council than did most heads of government if for no other reason than that she had no right to choose her Councilors but was rather appointed with them by the Confederal Assembly.

The Iansisleans might feel obligated by their own sense of protocol but Confederal protocol would not insist on a return visit by Ranalte since the Constitution, as of the last elections, no longer insisted on the tripartite head of state but instead established that the High King was in fact the head of state, even if he was more strictly bound by the written constitution than most monarchs. In fact, a visit by Ranalte might oblige a visit by the High King. Such a visit to the regicidal republic would doubtless prove even more interesting than the visit of a black woman President to the recovering colonialists.

"Of course," said August. His mind was racing with the implications of the meeting. "Well, Minister, Madam President -- I will need to contact Ianapalis to make the final arrangements, and will be able to contact you with the exact details after that."

August was attempting to signal his readiness to end his brief visit, mostly because he was certain that there would be a number of missives between his embassy and #3 Jameston Place once he left.

"Of course," Sacker said. "We look forward to hearing from you. Have a good day."

"And yourself, Madam President," said August, rising and giving her a brief bow before exiting.

Lanwiddick BrendingnaÞ was unusually easy to amuse, as evidenced by the look of simple pleasure on his face as he sat and watched the various reporters, ambassadors, and other general important folk passed by, oblivious to the fact that they were probably staring at him and his strange, flashy clothes. It was true that the soft blue embroidered damask robes tended to be out-of-place outside of Snefaldia, but by looking at the ambassador wearing them it was obvious he either didn't know or didn't care.

BrendingnaÞ was fairly tall, with shiny brown hair and deep blue eyes, matching his robes. His eyes were unusually large, giving him an eerie quality when he looked at you, and his mouth seemed rather wide, set off by his long aquiline nose, and when he smiled he revealed almost all of his perfect white teeth. His chin was neither strong nor weak, but his neck was very slender and of the same fair complexion as his face. As a whole, he wasn't ugly or classically beautiful, with his features combining in a way that made him striking. He embodied a Snefaldian saying that "the man who negotiates should be the focus of the meeting." And he was eminently qualified- before working in the foreign service he had been a famous orator and pedagogue.

In his head, while he watched and waited, he was running through a thousand things at once- economic rights, fair trade, corporate connections immigrant rights, air and sea travel rights... the general list of concerns an ambassador has. Foremost in his mind, though, were the prospects apparent with the Snefaldian space elevator that was now under construction- that, by far, would be a large draw for foreign business.

These questions and more ran through his head as he sat, waited, and watched.

BrendingnaÞ was shown in almost immediately after Henry left by staffers who were slightly surprised that he was waiting in the hall already. Sacker, Palmer and Paraha rose as he entered. Sacker stepped forth and offered her hand forth. "It's nice to meet you, Ambassador. Thank you for coming."

After Paraha and Palmer had also shaken his hand and everyone had taken a seat, Paraha began, "I hope that you're doing well, Your Holiness. To date, our relationships with Snefaldia have been fairly rudimentary, something we're certainly eager to correct. We can get to specifics in a moment but our general vision for our relationship with Snefaldia for the immediate future is one of what I like to call 'enhanced normalization.' By that I mean that there's no plans on our part, at the present time, to push for any major treaties but rather for the dozens of small agreements which make possible effective and safe travel between countries, reasonable if regulated commerce and an exchange of ideas allowing us to have a reasonably open relationship and for our peoples to get to know one another."

The ambassador smiled widely and shook the hands of everyone present, adding a bow for extra measure.

"I'm quite well, quite well, and very happy to be here. It's my pleasure. As far as the relationship between our two nations is concerned, I convey the wishes of my government that said relationship improve. To use your term, enhanced specialization would be an excellent concept."

The ambassador was also slightly surprised to see a woman in such a high position, though he definitely didn't show it or give it further thought. In a progressive society like Snefaldia's, the patriarchy was still largely in control- although women were increasingly becoming more active in society. The traditional domain of women had been the village and the men the field, but in the modern era there was still much adjusting that needed to be made. Aatem Nal had been closed to women from 1800 to 1895 in an ill-concieved move by the original Tuhran Bel. But Lanwiddick gave it no further thought.

"Ease-of-travel agreements and trade standardization are, of course, very important to the Centralized Mountain States. But foremost on our list, I confess, are economic issues. I speak first on this issue because it is the one most impressed on me by my superiors in Sargedain, and that is in reference to the recent start of construction on a supermodern space elevator (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13486110&postcount=17) in my country. Some background is necessary- the corporate entity building the structure is a private corporation, but Snefaldian law has special requirements on use, specifically that the company has exclusive use of the site for the time it takes to recoup the investment, with an additional five years to make a profit, at which point the structure will be nationalised."

He paused, to make sure his hosts had time to digest, before continuing.

"As it stands the Kømyë group will be in control of the site for the next 15 years, but my government is already looking in the long term. I must now be frank- Snefaldia is not a rich nation. We lack the capital to put a space program into use or fully capitalized on the possibilities the skyhook could bring. This is where my government is looking to you in the spirit of mutual friendship."

He paused again, this time to wait for questions.

Paraha frowned slightly, looking thoughtful. He glanced over at Sacker and then at Palmer before turning back towards the ambassador. "I believe that Confederal corporations might be interested in investing in this project but it seems that this discussion is somewhat premature. What exactly are you hoping for from the Confederal government with regard to this matter?"

Lanwiddick shook his head.

"I'm afraid I haven't made myself entirely clear, and cut myself off before I had fully elucidated. Ideally, my government is looking to open the space elevator for international use, but at this stage our connections aren't as good as we would like- I mention it merely as an indicator of my government's intent. Before we go for the meat, as it were, we would like to have a series of concrete trade and travel agreements in place."

"The plan set forth by my government in regards to travel is one of open borders. Citizens of the Confederated Peoples bearing valid ID may enter Snefaldia after registering their entry and information with our government, with the usual precautions taken... the Tuhran Bel has even suggested valid Confederal picture IDS as adequate entry requirements, doubling as a work visa. I confess, though, that such an arrangement would be unprecendented with my government and we are unaware of any other type of arrangements. If you currently have similar programs with other countries we would be happy to look at them and decide if they are appropriate."

Sacker frowned slightly, "I appreciate the generous offer but I'm not sure that we'd be able to recipricate fully so early in our relationship. As you know, our nation has had quite a few security problems in the past."

Paraha nodded, although his smile didn't fade, "What we can offer is a more acessible on-line visa program for Snefaldians, temporary no-fee casual labor visas, a proactive tourism ad campaign and student and cultural exchanges."

BrendingnaÞ also nodded. "Quite understandable. As a plenipotentiary, I can make the necessary arrangements- unless there are other suggestions on travel, I can have an agreement to that effect drawn up within the week. It is indeed best to start small. Are there any concerns you would like to address before I move on?"

"I don't think so," Paraha said. "It's a fairly simple matter. I'm sure that the specific proposals your people draw up will be just fine."

"What other matters did you wish to discuss?" Sacker asked.

"Basic economic agreements." Brendingnaþ said. "We would like to establish basic Fair Trade agreements on food, textiles, and natural resources produced in both of our countries, as well as open our borders to any companies wishing to operate in Snefaldia. As a UN member-nation, we follow the letter of their civil rights laws as well as some of our own that exceed the requirements of that body... but it is also our policy not to extend Free Trade rights to countries outside of the United Nations... we are philosophically opposed to unrestricted Free Trade with any and all comers. It's not that we don't distrust your civil rights record, it's that the requirements of the UN on civil rights are much more strict among members, and can at least be verified."

He paused, looking at the three.

"Of course, that's not to say that greater trade freedom will be granted later. We've just opened trade with the Xirniumites on the same sort of agreement I've just outlined, and if things go well Free Trade may exist in the future. But as it stands now, the economic well-being of the majority of the Snefaldian people is more important than unfettered Free Trade."

Palmer tensed briefly, glancing towards Sacker who offerred a reassuring smile. He nodded and leaned back slightly in his chair. Only Paraha actually spoke. "What exactly would be involved in these Fair Trade agreements?"

The Snefaldia noticed the momentary contraction of one of his hosts, but proceeded nonetheless.

"Our policy is to trade with countries that adhere to workplace safety standards, do not engage in predatory practices, do not artificially inflate their currency, sell products not made with slave labor or by workers paid less than a working wage. There are other parameters, but they are quite detailed and I'm afraid I can't adequately explain them all. If there is an... issue, with these policies, however, I'd be happy to answer any questions you have."

"That should pose no problem," Paraha said simply and to the point. "We don't do any of those things."

The tension was not lost on the ambassador, who blinked his wide eyes and leaned forward, assuming a more cautious tone.

"I'm glad... but are there any concerns? I admit that I am not the most familiar with your country and it's history, and I beg your forgiveness if I've unintentionally offended or referenced bad blood. Please let me know if you have anything to say on the subject- the entire point of such agreements is that they are bilateral, of course."

"No, no, there's no prob..." Paraha started to say.

Palmer cut him off with a snort, "It's insulting for an advanced social democracy to hear concerns that its standards on labor rights, environmental protections, consumer protections and other issues of economic rights might be lower than those of the United Nations which is, quite frankly, a neo-liberal and conservative organization."

"No insult was intended," Sacker said rather firmly. "We have no problem with any of your requirements." She glanced over at Palmer who simply shrugged, his expression still hard.

Paraha tried to ignore the tension, smiling again as she leaned forward, "I think we have an agreement in basic principle. The details can certainly be negotiated. Anything else you're interested in?"

Brendingnaþ was quick to assume a conciliatory posture, genuinely apologetic.

"I meant only to outline my own nation's requirements, which actually exceed those of the United Nations to which we belong- which is why the only nations we engage in free trade with are those which we are required to."

He sat up more straight, continuing.

"While our nations may not agree on the role and makeup of the U.N.- my government's policy is that the UN is a helpful organization for advancing meaningful social chance. I again confess that I was unaware of your nation's policies. Such is the nature of diplomacy."

He smiled at the President as she spoke, nodding.

"Yes, absolutely. I look forward to the finalization of the agreements. As of now that is all I have on my agenda. Unless there is anything you would care to discuss, Madame President, I'll take my leave."

"Thank you, ambassador," Sacker said. "There's nothing else at this time." She rose to offer her hand once more.

Taking the President's hand, he bowed to the other dignitaries present and took his leave, exhaling deeply as soon as he got out of sight.

You nearly poisoned diplomatic relations with an important new connection. he thought as he headed for his car. Next time you go in for negotiations, try not to fuck up and mention unpopular organizations.

As his driver took him back to the embassy, however, he thought more about the country to which he was assigned, and decided he wasn't so much in the wrong as was Mr. Palmer, who had been decidedly undiplomatic in his accusation. Not that there was anything to be done about it now, Lanwiddick's secretary assured him he had done the right thing in conciliating and explaining official Snefaldian policy. At least in the future he would know to avoid certain topics. His least favorite part of diplomacy was the dance of words.

Back at his desk he called in for a scribe to take down tapes of the meeting and sent down to the legal department to draw up a draft treaty. At least he had achieved that much.

Shortly after the Snefaldian left, the rest of the Confederal Council entered the room, taking their seats. Flora Haber, the Socialist in charge of the Department of Justice, was a rather thin old woman who always seemed in good spirits. Linda Inouye, the Progressive Democrat running the Department of Education, was a forty-something Asian woman dressed fashionably in a professional and somewhat subdued suit. Daniel Aiona, the Progressive Democrat at Defense, was a short, somewhat rotund Asian man with a pair of wire-rim spectacles. Benjamin Horono, the Democrat at Energy, was a thin, bookish Asian man. John Lingle, the Democrat running Environment, was a thing, bookish white man. Victoria Cayetano, the Liberal running the Department of Finance, was a rather plump woman with a pair of broad-rimmed glasses, raven hair and rosy cheeks. George Kobishigawa, the Democratic Concordance head of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship, was a charming, older man with a grandfatherly smile. Sir Nelson King, the Conservative Democrat at Infrastructure, looked quite the landed gentleman with an expensive but conservatively tailored suit and a certain air of unspoken condescension. They were also joined by Conservative Democratic Senator Michael Pryor, chair of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Progressive Democratic Deputy Haley Musgrove, chair of the corresponding committee in the Chamber. Only once all these people were assembled was the Xirniumite ambassador shown in.

Engaging in a type of amateur machiavellianism of manners had always been a popular pastime amongst Xirniumite diplomats, and in particular amongst Närväryners and Neúvenârtans, the former of which included the ambassador to the Resurgent Dream. One especially time honoured technique for unsettling foreigners was the use of aloof, darkly whispering groups. As the Snefaldian ambassador emerged from his meeting he would have witnessed its use first hand, encountering several clusters of elegantly-dressed Xirniumites conversing in their complacent dulcet tones.

What exactly they were saying was unclear, although from their sober glances and frowning expressions one was expected to infer that they were no doubt scheming and plotting and gossiping. Most of them ignored the tall, blue-robed gentleman from Snefaldia, although some, including the deputy head of the mission, Lady Célestina za Haldàthiel, her second secretary political, Valère Saulcânet, and the assistant defence attaché, Corvette Captain Lucrétia Villâreth, exchanged perfunctory but not unfriendly greetings with him. When he took his leave these great men and women of affairs, shrewd, duplicitous diplomats, continued to wait, chatting quietly and importantly in the hall that they had invaded like a flock of water-fowl descended on a lake. They hovered about expectantly, whispering like pale ghosts. The ambassador was not there.

The ambassador to the Resurgent Dream, Isidóre Anthélme za Nalstâlarin, was not a frivolous man, although he was cursed with a frivolous name. In the High Speech of Ancient Xirnium it meant war-tooth, the legacy of a slightly mad family of Angâmarian country squires. He like many Xirniumites had chosen to interpret the insistent Confederal request for a short informal consultation as something like an insult. The Bright Republic was not one of those countries associated with the Resurgent Dream only vaguely through long-defunct treaties and with whom she almost never shared any contact. The Bright Republic was not a bright-eyed new acquaintance brimming with eagerness to begin formal relations with the Resurgent Dream. She was a haughty and envious nation with a well-established alliance, and had only just recently participated with the Resurgent Dream in a conference on the creation of a new international organisation for the Europe-Atlantic.

Whatever meaningful outcome a fifteen minute survey of their alliance might yield, za Nalstâlarin could not fathom. It was utterly frivolous. It was tedious. To be treated like any of the Resurgent Dream’s other contacts was beneath the dignity of the Bright Republic. If there had been any doubt as to the ambassador’s displeasure, it would have become increasingly obvious as the minute hand chased the hour across the clock. All the while, the Xirniumite diplomats continue to talk softly in the hall. When za Nalstâlarin finally arrived he was frightfully, contemptuously late.

Though barely forty-five the ambassador seemed nearer sixty, with a sullen temperament and morose features. He was almost completely bald save for a short crescent of black hair at the back of his head, greying at the ears and temples. Cold hands inside frozen gloves clasped one another behind a splendid fawn-coloured morning coat with square tails, deep gauntlet cuffs and gilt brass buttons. He was quite fastidiously elegant, meticulous in appearance. The ambassador was thin and very tall, pale, of mild yet icy and reserved manners. The most striking traits one noticed on his countenance were that of a prominent nose and sharp, ironic lips, his gaze suggested that of a wintry sun, without warmth yet bright. Those given to physiognomy would have found in that face the poisonous traces of a bored and dissipated life spent in the Senile Republic. One was reminded of the image of an evening wolf surprised with blood about its snow-white muzzle.

If za Nalstâlarin seemed embarrassed at his lateness he did not show it, finishing his cigarette before quietly requesting that an attendant announce him. Politely, he kissed the members of the Confederal Council on their cheeks and with his wiry hands pressed their own.

The snippets of conversation za Nalstâlarin might pick up as he approached the meeting room were not pleasant ones. A voice lamented how quickly the Confederated Peoples "went through" Xirniumite ambassadors. Another voice was joking about an emergency shipment of unaccented vowels. The room went completely silent when the Xirniumite actually entered and the formalities of receiving him were done with an icy, even hostile, politeness. The Confederals resumed their seats and sat in silence for at least five minutes. Za Nalstâlarin was not offered a seat. Finally, Paraha spoke, his voice like ice, "While we were waiting for you, I instructed our ambassador in Naèräth to lodge a formal complain with the Ministry about your unprofessional conduct. If you are late again without proper notification, you will not be received. If you are late a third time without proper notification, you will receive no further invitations and your government will have to decide if it wants an ambassador incapable of convincing his host government to speak to him."

"I was against admitting you this time," Palmer said, his icy expression cracking into an amused smile as he watched the Xirniumite. "This sort of born to rule, passive aggressive, childish attitude that Xirniumite ambassadors seem to think themselves entitled too simply isn't allowed anymore. If Xirnium wants an alliance, it had better see to it that it's represented by people who act like it. We're not as desperate for your affection and approval as you might think we should be."

‘My apologies if my tardiness caused undue offence, nothing could have been less intentional,’ explained za Nalstâlarin, after several moments in which he remained quiet and inscrutable. ‘There was a rather unfortunate, personal matter that required my last minute attention and that I could not avoid seeing to,’ he lied. The Närväryner culture of non-accountability ran deep. ‘I tried to call ahead but it seems there was some kind of communications failure that meant my message was not conveyed.’

The ambassador searched inside his morning coat, and retrieved at length from the pocket of his satin brocade waistcoat a slender cigarette that he kept unlit but which he played with between his narrow, pale fingers. He sighed.

‘I’m particularly concerned you felt so strongly about the matter that you took the most extraordinary step of a lodging an offical complaint with my Government,’ za Nalstâlarin continued. ‘You do me a dishonour, the Ministry will be alarmed at the suggestion that a mutual understanding could not be reached. But let us not dwell on disharmony, when the purpose of our meeting is international friendship.’

The ambassador lifted the cigarette so that the others could see and a polite smile twisted at the corner of his lips. ‘May I?’

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF DAYTANISTAN

To: Waihoroi Paraha, Councillor for Foreign Affairs and Trade
From: Amad Noosh, Supreme People's Commissioner of Foreign Affairs, Trade, Literature, and Sports

Councillor,

On behalf of the Supreme Daytan People's Council, with whose authority I write this letter, and in the name of the workers and peasants of Daytanistan, greetings.

I write to your excellency to investigate the possibility of establishing between the Democratic Republic of Daytanistan and the Confederated Peoples of the Resurgent Dream a trade agreement whereby fixed quantities of Daytan exports, of whatever type selected by the Confederated Peoples, may be exchanged for an agreed upon value of basic food and medical aid and/or the raw materials required for large scale infrastructure projects.

The Supreme Daytan People's Council directs me to suggest, for instance, an annual exchange of some one thousand metric tonnes of poppies for approximately eight hundred millions of Confederal dollars worth of polio, tuberculosis, measles, VODAIS and other similar medications. These medications would allow the children of the workers and peasants of Daytanistan to be treated for diseases which affect altogether too many of them, and are tragically frequently fatal despite the effective treatments available in other countries. Should this particular offer not be acceptable to your excellency, the Supreme Daytan People's Council hopes that you will instead make a counter-offer along similar lines which will best mutually benefit our two great and glorious nations.

In the event that your excellency is positively disposed to this request, the Supreme Daytan People's Council also enthusiastically invites Confederal archaeology teams to Daytanistan to investigate the sites of the Great Council meeting which ended the Troubles and saw the crowning of the first Shah, and of the battles of the civil war which raged prior to that meeting. These sites have not been open to foreign archaeologists since the reign of Mamood Amad Sha, and were little explored even at that time.

Sincerely,

Amad Noosh
Supreme People's Commissioner of Foreign Affairs, Trade, Literature, and Sports

Palmer's expression remained rather gruff. He wasn't satisfied by the Xirniumite’s attempt to save face, taking it less as a defensive measure and more as a continuation of the rather insufferable superiority complex the ambassador seemed to have. He started to speak, "That isn't allowed in..."

Sacker cut him off, her own expression still cool but no longer cutting, ‘Certainly. Please have a seat.’

‘Thank you, madam,’ replied the ambassador, lighting his cigarette with the snap of his silver lighter. He held the open case to the others. ‘Can I offer anyone a smoke?’

No one took him up on his offer. After a brief pause, waiting to see if anyone else would respond, Inouye said, ‘No, thank you.’

‘That’s quite alright, my dear, it’s a dreadful habit,’ replied za Nalstâlarin as he became wreathed in whorls of blue-grey smoke. When he crossed his legs he revealed the exaggeratedly pointed shoes of a fashionable Värdlingén lable.

Inouye arched a brow ever so faintly at being called dear. A small smirk tugged at the corners of her lips and she leaned back a little in her chair, crossing her legs. Haber leaned forward slightly as she adjusted her papers in front of her, 'I suppose it doesn't particularly matter where we begin so I'll go ahead and start. The bilateral extradition agreement seems to be working well, from our end at least. However, there are areas where Atlantic justice remains grossly deficient, namely with regard to the law of the sea. It seems to me that the Eternal Republic would be a natural partnet in moving forward on that issue.’

‘May I ask if you are referring to the civil jurisdictional concerns usually settled under the maritime customary law or to international cooperation on fighting piracy and slave trading?’

‘To international cooperation on fighting piracy and slave trading and also to the protection of natural resources and habitats not within the jurisdiction of any state,' she answered.

'Naturally we would have to view the text of any treaty seeking to codify laws regarding the protection extra-territorial resources, but my government would be broadly interested in developing such a framework if it were widely adopted. A regional authority could govern the exploitation of the high seas with a view to giving regard to the interests of the international community.'

Haber nodded, looking thoughtful for a moment, 'It can perhaps be breached within the framework of the recently established organization. We'll have to see if we can bring Pantocratoria on board as well. There'd likely be resistance from Aerion.'
'Since any regulation in this area would naturally inhibit free enterprise, it is essential that the major signers to the framework include as many of the great powers of the Europe-Atlantic as possible. The absence of Aerion or Knootoss would be fatal to the initiative, I fear.'

'I believe Knootoss would not necessarily be adverse,' Paraha said. 'They tend to have a reputation for a much more extreme form of neoliberalism than the actually practice. Knootians enjoy environmental protections similar to those we enjoy.'

Inouye leaned forward once more, adjusting her papers and planting her black heels on the floor, 'Educational programs are also going well. I do have one new idea to add on behalf of some of the Member education ministers I've spoken to. A number of Confederal Members are close enough to parts of Xirnium that travel is relatively convenient. I think that we might be able to give younger children than can participate in the full exchange program a culture experience by providing supervised field trips to important historical and cultural sites within a reasonable distance.’ The ambassador tacfully refrained from commenting on the conservationist policies of the Resurgent Dream.

The ambassador stroked his narrow chin, and elevated his eyebrows at the councillor, looking at her as she shifted her legs curiously though the thin grey swirls of smoke. ‘Forgive me, my dear lady, what precisely was your proposal? A state funding programme?’

'An expedited visa process and arrangments to allow access to as many educational opportunities as possible,' she said. 'Opportunities to meet with a responsible person involved with a site of interest as opposed to simply a guide.
Opportunities to see important cultural performances arranged, but not paid for, by the relevent public bodies.'

‘I see. An expedited visa process of course is already in place by virtue of the pre-existing exchange arrangements. I shall convey the remainder of your suggestions to the education ministry, which would probably wish to coordinate this project. I am sure they’ll be most keen.’

'Well, these wouldn't strictly be exchange students. They wouldn't be attending actual classes, staying with Xirniumite families or anything of that nature. These are more...class trips...' she said. 'So I'm not sure the existing process covers the idea.' The ambassador dismissively waved his hand.

Inouye smiled slightly and glanced to her colleague. Aiona nodded and flipped through his notes for a moment, 'What would Xirnium consider to be the greatest military thread at the current moment?'

‘Is this a quiz, sir?’ asked za Nalstâlarin, exhaling smoke. He looked thoughtful for a long time. ‘Something is only a threat in so far as it is poorly managed. There are any number of extremist ideologies and terrorist movements indigenous to our region that might in the future pose a threat to civilian security in various nations of the Europe-Atlantic, though none of these credibly threatens the Bright Republic. Within our
geopolitical region, I believe we need no longer fear the rivalries between the great powers of our age. I no longer know what our greatest threat is.’

Aiona nodded, 'The GPE certainly seems to have vanished from world affairs, much to the relief of humanity. The Reich has also been essentially inactive. However, either of these powers could have a resurgence.'

‘The Greater Prussian Empire was always a far more pressing concern than the Reich,’ explained za Nalstâlarin. ‘It’s penchant for exporting conflict and terrorism posed a serious threat to international security. The Reich was eminently more reasonable a criminal state, and that is saying something.’

'The GPE is, of course, responsible for the most recent major terrorist attack in the region, the attack on New Rome during the Graves trial,' Aiona noted. The ambassador nodded in agreement and waited to hear where the Confederal was leading with this.

'What I'm trying to get at is...What sorts of defense cooperation would you like to see above and beyond the current guaranties of mutual defense?' Aiona blurted out.

‘I feel that we could start by sharing more sensitive information between our intelligence services,’ suggested za Nalstâlarin as he stubbed out his cigarette. He was begining to look less bored and more curious. ‘It is well known that the former Entente intimately cooperated in the field of intelligence gathering.’

'That is certainly doable,' Aiona said with a smile. 'We have a lot of date on terrorist organizations operating in the Western Atlantic and their support networks.'

‘I also believe there is cause for greater and more permanent links between our defence leadership,’ the ambassador continued. ‘In particular we should like a system of permanent consultation and notification. A cooperative architecture could allow greater communication between our general staffs.’

'I remember Aerion wanting to work on something like that for the Atlantic as a whole,' Pryor interjected.

'I do not think these proposals need necessarily be mutually exclusive,' za Nalstâlarin opined.

'Of course not,' Aiona said. 'I'm sure the details can be worked out. However, a regional plan, while not necessarily exclusive, might create concerns about redundancy.’ The ambassador gave a small shrug.

To: Amad Noosh, Supreme People's Commissioner of Foreign Affairs, Trade, Literature, and Sports
From: Waihoroi Paraha, Councillor for Foreign Affairs and Trade

Commissioner,

We are, in general, favorably disposed to your proposal. However, before moving towards the establishment of a trade relationship, we would like to create a framework of normal diplomatic relations within which this proposal and later matters arising from it or from other areas of mutual interest might best be negotiated. If this is agreeable to you, we would propose, pending the approval of the Confederal Assembly and of your government, to make Edward Klein ambassador to Daytanistan.

Sincerely,
Waihoroi Paraha

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF DAYTANISTAN

To: Waihoroi Paraha, Councillor for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Confederated Peoples of the Resurgent Dream
From: Amad Noosh, Supreme People's Commissioner of Foreign Affairs, Trade, Literature, and Sports

Councillor,

On behalf of the Supreme Daytan People's Council, with whose authority I write this letter, and in the name of the workers and peasants of Daytanistan, greetings.

It is agreeable to the Supreme Daytan People's Council that His Excellency Mr Edward Klein be appointed the Confederal Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Daytanistan.

A suitable area will be arranged in Yerbel for the construction of the Confederal Embassy. The actual details and expenses of the construction will be left to the Confederated Peoples. All security personnel and equipment are to be approved by the Daytan People's Army.

Along with the Supreme Daytan People's Council, I look forward to working with Mr Klein.

Yours sincerely,

Amad Noosh
Supreme People's Commissioner of Foreign Affairs, Trade, Literature, and Sports

APPROVED, ORDERED AND AUTHORISED BY THE
SUPREME DAYTAN PEOPLE'S COUNCIL
At Yerbel, 16 April 2008, as attested by
Farrokh Nugat
Farrokh Nugat, People's Councillor

The meeting with Abtians later that week was slightly different. Instead of throwing as many big names into a room as possible, the Confederals were taking a more specialized approach, involving only four members of the Confederal Council: President Sarah Sacker, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries; Vice President John Palmer, Department of Industrial Affairs; Daniel Aiona; and Waihoroi Paraha, Department of Foreign Affairs. The meeting was to be held in a conference room around an oval cherry table.

Sacker rose from her seat at the table as the Abtian delegation entered. She extended her hand to the leader with a soft smile. "I'm so glad you could make it."

The other three rose after her and extended their own hands, extending polite greetings before Sacker gestured for everyone to have a seat. She resumed her own place at the table and pulled a folder in front of her. "So, let's talk about the future of Ambara..."

The Abtian delegation was not impressive in size, either. Aorin Kelberath, President of the Republic, was of course leading the Abtian party, flanked by Alexei Lerov, Minister of Defence, the always charming Galina Fedorova, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the ever pedantic Georgiy Dabrishev, Minister of Economy and Finances. And, of course, the detail of aides to sit in the vicinity and do whatever work was requested of them.

The four dignitaries greeted the Confederals in a warm manner before taking their places behind the table, a number of folders appearing in front of them a the aides immediately vanished out of sight.

“A future that is of quite a great deal of concern to us, Madam,” President Kelberath said with a smile. “Especially in the light of the recent integrationist efforts involving Western Atlantic states. I believe your Excellency shall understand that whilst Abt is open for friendship and cooperation, we’d also rather stay out of any major engagements for now.”

Palmer muttered something which sounded suspiciously like "Me too" and Sacker gave him a chiding look before turning back to President Kelberath. To the Confederals, it had not been at all obvious that the President would personally come to discuss these matters. His presence was both flattering and promising. Sacker folded her hands lightly on the table. "No one wishes to pressure Abt into integration with the rest of the Western Atlantic. In fact, I think the term integration might be somewhat strong in describing the new organization, Your Excellency."

Aiona brought a hand up to his raven hair as he regarded the Abtians respectfully. "Your Excellency, I don't see any serious external threat to Ambara. I believe that the more pressing regional concerns relate to the Gulf of Vasconia, which Abt borders. Despite suspicions that we might do otherwise, the Confederated Peoples has made no new claims in the islands and has relinquished its provisional claim on the five unclaimed islands which lay between Abtian and Tartaran territory. We also continue to help with the development of Kaitan-Leagran. It is of great interest to us what Abt's policies towards the Gulf might be."

“The Abtian outlook on the Gulf is not overtly optimistic, and I shall be frank about it,” Alexei Lerov spoke up as this area concerned him more than others. “We know that the Confederation enjoys somewhat cordial relations with the Tartarian Empire. It is also true that our mother country, the Taraskovyan Empire, also has good relations with the aforementioned state. However, Abt is not bound by such facts and, in fact, has a cautious view of the Tartarian Empire, which we see as an oppressor of all freedoms from political to religious.”

The Defence Minister paused, with Foreign Minister Galina Fedorova immediately picking up. The mother of four looked both dynamic and younger than her age, which coupled with her diplomatic skills could only improve the message conveyed.

“Of course, Abt does not advocate the removal of Tartarus from Vasconia. Such a confrontational attitude is not on the agenda and will never be. However, the people of our little… I could even say tiny when compared to our neighbours… republic feel uneasy at having giants grow even more… gigantic, shall I say so, within their immediate vicinity.

“As such, we came here also to discuss this question, namely that of the unclaimed Vasconian islands, which the Republic would be interested in claiming as its own.”

She smiled and fell silent as President Kelberath inclined his head slightly.

“We consider this matter to be of outmost importance,” he said in a diligent manner that both underlined the importance of the position, but did not sound agressive in any way.

And then the Minister of Defence picked the Abtian intervention up again.

“I would just like to add that as far as Kaitan-Leagran is concerned, Abt cannot do much. As my economic colleague here shall confirm, the Republic has a whole array of issues at home to be able to contribute much resources to foreign states. However, what we can do is provide a security presence. Our soldiers have grown quite adept at anti-partisan and urban warfare during the War of Establishment, they could provide their experience to assist the effort on Kaitan-Leagran.”

Sacker pursed her lips slightly as though she were considering carefully, "As I said, the Confederated Peoples has no claim on those islands. We are not aware of any claim by any other nation nor are we aware of any ongoing negotiations regarding the disposition of the islands. However, we are also aware that we are hardly the only friendly power with an interest in the island. We would advise you to address this issue with Pantocratoria and Xirnium. Likewise, your offer to aid Kaitan-Leagran is one better addressed with that government than with this one."

The President's face became quite cool indeed as his Confederate sort-of-counterpart simply shielded herself from any meaningful answer by the age old bureaucratic trick. He did not at all appreciate the Confederates first taking responsibility for security in the area and now just dropping it off as if nothing ever happened.

"We... understand... I believe that there is no further point in discussing this matter, which we considered of outmost importance, during this meeting."

With that, he paused.

"As far as Kaitan-Leagran is concerned, the issue was raised by a member of your cabinet, Your Excellency. And whilst the Republic is willing to offer its aid, we are just as happy if we do not have to send our sons and daughters to a mess that is none of our concern. Our immediate concerns are our own economy and, as we pretty much only border the Confederated Peoples, I believe this is what we could discuss."

Sacker looked away briefly as if embarrassed. Palmer made his hands into fists on the table and focused his eyes on his increasingly white knuckles. Paraha looked at the Abtians in surprise, turning down to look at his notes. Only Aiona remained unphased, although his expression hardened visibly. "The Confederated Peoples recognizes the principle of Terra Nullius. I'm not exactly sure what else you might have expected or hoped for. Did you want us to first claim sovereignty over the islands and then surrender it to you? It is precisely because we wished to avoid the appearance that we had some sort of special right to give away the islands that we thought it prudent for you to discuss this directly with the other powers, which would certainly resent not being included. Why you seem to actively prefer creating diplomatic incidents to simply talking with other countries about things likely to be uncontroversial if done diplomatically is beyond me. I don't even have the first clue what you're actually asking for."

Sacker held up her hand with a resigned sigh, "Never mind. They aren't our islands. So what is your economic proposal?"

OOC: I consider the claim to have happened after this meeting, after the President returned from the Confederation and said: "Alright chaps, free game!" So, Aorin's reply shall be in accordance.

________________________________________________________

Aorin smiled and inclined his head.

"I am sorry if my words have caused any grievances, Your Excellency. Now that your position has been clarified, I believe that we can pass on to the more pressing issues at hand."

With that, the President became silent, giving a glance at Georgiy Dabrishev, Minister of Economy and Finances, the latter inclining his head a bit and proceeding to speak.

"What we seek, Your Excellency, is to improve trade relations within Ambara by lightening trade barriers and modalities along our mutual borders. However, Abt for now is not ready to completely open up to all foreign products, which explains our desire to keep matters... local, if you will. For this, we deem that a system of identifying Ambaran-made services and goods, as well as promoting the competitiveness of Ambaran based companies.

"And whilst with Abt it is not overly complicated, as we are pretty much Ambaran-only, the Confederated Peoples are, forgive my expression, spread all over the globe, with extremely economically powerful member states outside of Ambara that we would like, for now, to limit economic interaction with to shield our economy from the well established and powerful non-Ambaran Confederate economic players. In essence, what we seek is privileges for Abtian companies and goods in the Ambaran member-states of the Confederation, and the same privileges for Confederate Ambaran goods and companies in Abt."

Palmer frowned slightly, "That would be a bit difficult to arrange. Neither the economy nor the relevant public bodies are set up to do things on a Member by Member basis like that, but I suppose we are not opposed in principle. We would need to see a more specific proposal and we would need to consult with civil servants in our various departments, of course."

"It's also likely to pose a degree of political difficulty, getting something like that passed," Sacker noted. "Members not involved and those with heavy commercial interests in them will see it as unfairly discriminatory to give this access to their rivals and not to them. They'll make a strong argument that, as the Confederated Peoples is now an integrated nation, she should make her trade arrangements for the nation as a whole."

Palmer shrugged, "I'm not sure we need to worry about that just now. Let's see what sort of scheme is being proposed in a little more detail and then we can decide if and how it'll work on our side."

OOC: I am late, I am late, for a very important date…

However, you shall forgive me for not thinking the details of the arrangement through. I am but one man, the Abtians would have a host of experts, analysts, planners, etc to lay out the various procedures and whatnot. So… if this prevents the deal to go through, then I am sorry.
______________________________________________



“Well,” the Abtian minister cleared his throat as assistants passed over additional folders to all the dignitaries. “The proposed arrangement is both complicated and simple. Simple because the cornerstone of the arrangement lies in the place of origin of the product in question. Complicated because it will entail a system of checks and licensing. Now, pray, let me explicit the major points of the proposed arrangement…”

Georgiy paused for a moment before he allowed himself a lengthy time, plunged into various explanations.

Sacker listened attentively and then nodded. "I can't guarantee that I can get the needed support in the Confederal Assembly. I'll have to present them with the plan and work with the leaders of the various parties. However, I hope to get this plan or one similar in all the essential points agreed upon."