NationStates Jolt Archive

Voronej, Russian Federation

Great Voronej, the city that never sleeps was covered by a white blanket of snow. The eternal flame lit in memory of those that died for the Motherland was burning brightly on the Svarog square at the very heart of the ancient city. Across the street from the monument FSB agents were busy going through their routine right outside of the Rostov building, those walls saw many tyrants and leaders of free nations in the 500 years it acted as a place there Tsars, Premiers and Presidents of Pushka met foreign representatives. All was ready for arrival of long awaited guests, it was time for Pushka to change the world for the better once again.

OOC: Want to give all of you guys a chance to show that you're arriving, you can do the whole airport-meeting place routine. The airport's name is Yaroslavlevo International airport.

Yaroslavlevo International

The Alaskan aircraft arrives at the airport with the President on board. This was to be the first foreign visit by Ljungstrand. As the plane taxied to it position, Ljungstrand breathed a sigh and got up and exit the plane with his staff and security. He entered a waiting car and traveled to the location of the meeting, arriving at the Rostov buliding.

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Director of Foreign Trade, Dr. Jessica Brown shall be present along with her immediate subordinate and two analysts.

Anton Aleksandrov will be attending the Global Trade Line Summit and will be representing the nation of Nehrland.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs looked out as the government-owned Boeing 737-900ER taxied over to the reception committe at Yaroslavlevo International airport in Voronej. Into the lion's den, she thought as the airplane came to halt and the door opened.

After the security officer from the Foreign Ministry nodded the all clear, the Minister disembarked the aircraft and shared a few diplomatic pleasantries with the Russians who had been sent to welcome her to Russia, ignored the military honor guard the Russians had decided to send (she didn't ignore them on a principal basis, as Cotland would do the exact same thing - she ignored them because the mission she was on was one of peace, not war), and headed to the waiting car which would take her first to the Cottish embassy, where she would rest and recover from the long plane trip and get the latest updates from Oslo, before she would head to the location of the summit to represent the Realm.

Imamu Tatenda Itumeleng was full of vigor. This was, technically speaking, his first appearance on the global stage since being elected. The trials and tribulations of what many considered a civil war (read Land of Sin) were behind him and the country. He was determined to convince the world that the New African Republic (the new official national name) had not only survived but didn’t miss a beat. He was determined to prove that the NAR was still the epicenter of democracy and culture.

Itumeleng was young for presidential standards, elected at age 41. He was relatively small with a thin frame but with a surprisingly booming voice. His clean cut face was topped with a pair of quaint designer glasses which sat precariously off-balance on his nose. He also happened to be the first unmarried President of the New Republic.

He arrived in Russia welcoming the cold weather as a break from the usually humid Africa. He was looking forward to meeting the world’s diplomats and asserting himself, and his country, as a new major player on the global stage.

Rostov building, Voronej, Russian Federation

The conference room was very well decorated in white marble, numerous granite columns lined the walls supporting the massive ceiling that was laid out with a massive fresco of the Pushkan Imperial coat of arms. The important guests found their sits around a massive oval table, built out of black oak that stretched across the room. Every representative in the room was seated infront of their national flag that were tied between the columns at the wall. Igor Stepanov set at the head of the table, furthest away from the entrance, Russian Federation's flag towered over his head. After giving everyone several minutes to make themselves comfortable he rose and began his speech, he spoke in English which was considered the standard international language.

"Firstly I would like to extend my gratitude to all those who came here today. It is true that all of us are different, our nations have their own national goals and our own ways of achieving them, however I do believe that there is one thing that unifies us all and that is that regardless of the nation we serve, we want it to prosper. Unfortunately it is not often that an opportunity to cooperate on something towards that worthy end arises. However, The Global Tradeline project is such an opportunity. The idea for this project was born as a collaboration between ourselves and our colleagues in the nation of Brydog, our collaboration on the Chukotka-Alaska Line project will allow us for the first time to connect Eurasia and North America with an underground tunnel-bridge. The obvious question that arose was why stop there? The Great Eurasian Line has proven its usefulness on our continent, why not create a similar framework in the North and South America and join both in a single Global Trade Line, bringing overland trade from five continents together? This is why I brought you here today, it is time for you to choose if you want a piece of this pie and how big is the piece you want. Aside from agreeing to the general layout of the infrastructure for the project, I would also like to discuss granting an internationally recognized special economic status to the tradeline, co-funding the construction of the most important joints along the route, such as CALP and I would also like to accomplish signing of trade agreements between all those that are present here. Let me make it perfectly clear that we're not pushing anyone into this, first of all think about how this project will benefit your own nation, and remember we are willing to compromise if you are as well. So let me hear your current thoughts before we go into any deeper detail.

“Your details are rather vague. The Eurasian Line spans nearly the entire globe and is extremely profitable. What would be the difference between this line and the Eurasian one?”

Itumeleng didn’t want to cause too much hassle but the Eurasian line came with a hefty price tag and another line of similar nature might hurt its profitability.

Ljungstrand stood up and replied.

"This line would a continuation of the Eurasian Line. This line is to connect the Eurasian line with Americas."

OOC: Didn't I say that the Global Line is to connect the Eurasian line with the Americas through the Chukotka-Alaska undersea tunnel/railway/highway/cookies?

The United Federation of Eurasia, sends Foreign Minister Hammad ibn Fadlan to the summit to represents the views of the Federation on the matter. For the most part he is for expanding the line to the Americas.

“Your details are rather vague. The Eurasian Line spans nearly the entire globe and is extremely profitable. What would be the difference between this line and the Eurasian one?”

Itumeleng didn’t want to cause too much hassle but the Eurasian line came with a hefty price tag and another line of similar nature might hurt its profitability.

"Just like our friend from Brydog said, the Global Line Project is not about competing with the Eurasian Line but rather to expand the Eurasian Line into the Western Hemisphere by constructing similar infrastructure in the Americas and joining the two through the underground tunnel, the Chukotka-Alaska Line project. I am sure you realize the advantages of over land trade rather than trade by sea?"

The United Federation of Eurasia, sends Foreign Minister Hammad ibn Fadlan to the summit to represents the views of the Federation on the matter. For the most part he is for expanding the line to the Americas.

OOC: You can just say he is already there.

Itumeleng was a bit embarrassed. He pushed upwards on his glasses resting them high on his nose, a nervous tick he always had. Nevertheless he still had his concerns and since nobody else seemed willing to voice theirs, he continued.

“Of course, my mistake. That does, however, bring up another concern that I, as well as all the shareholders, have. “

He looked ever at Dr. Jessica Brown who was watching him as if she knew already what he was going to say.

“There has been some alarm at the instability of certain regions in South America. Certainly an investment of this size would require some sort of guarantee of its safety. With that being said, I have a nation to report to, and with the Empire’s somewhat…spotty human rights record I am worried that such a guarantee would come at cost of a human rights violation.”

Itumeleng was a bit embarrassed. He pushed upwards on his glasses resting them high on his nose, a nervous tick he always had. Nevertheless he still had his concerns and since nobody else seemed willing to voice theirs, he continued.

“Of course, my mistake. That does, however, bring up another concern that I, as well as all the shareholders, have. “

He looked ever at Dr. Jessica Brown who was watching him as if she knew already what he was going to say.

“There has been some alarm at the instability of certain regions in South America. Certainly an investment of this size would require some sort of guarantee of its safety. With that being said, I have a nation to report to, and with the Empire’s somewhat…spotty human rights record I am worried that such a guarantee would come at cost of a human rights violation.”

"Hmm, that strikes at the heart of it doesn't it? Like I said we all have different perspectives on things and this summit isn't about forcing nations to change their perspective, this summit is about making money for the countries of all of those present. We believe that money should be beyond morality, proper management of it requires a mindset devoid of emotion. But of course you may think differently. I will let Dr. Brown who is representing the Layartebian Empire answer you of course, but let me just say this. Regardless of what Layartreb does or does not do, nothing you can do can change that, however by investing in this project you can make your nation a lot more prosperous directly impacting lives of your many citizens for the better. So what does your electorate want? Do they want a government based on a vaguely defined set of morals, or do they want a government that creates more jobs and insures economic growth?"

Itumeleng stood with a perplexed look about his face. He was absolutely flabbergasted by the Russian response. He look around the room hoping to see the same terrified look about the representatives faces but, even more terrifyingly, was met with indifference.

“…well…morals of course. I…well I don’t quite understand what you are saying. Are you implying that money is more important than personal freedom and livelihood that certain inalienable rights come with a price tag? Economic success and human rights are not mutually exclusive. The Republic has the second highest GDP per capita (behind Layarteb) in the world while obtaining a high level of human rights and freedoms.

“Nevertheless you misunderstood my question all together. I wasn’t asking the Empire to changes its ways regarding internal affairs. I was asking how they would go about providing security in areas where there is high levels of instability.”

Igor's facial expression didn't change a slightest bit but inside he was a bit puzzled. The time for smiles and handshakes infront of the cameras has passed and the press wasn't present, and he expected everyone in the room to have a pragmatic mindset as a result. Regardless he had to change the flow of conversation.

"In that case lets not debate ethics, I am sure Dr.Brown would be willing to put your concerns at ease."

Dr. Jessica Brown sat comfortably in her chair as she listened to the various representatives spoke. The Russian representative opened the debate but had given little reason on just why it should happen. The reasons given were those originally stated years prior by the Germanian Reich when the Great Eurasian Line was first proposed and granted, that turned out to be a historical success, this idea had not yet sparked the Empire's interest much more than at the basic level. The Brinkians said it outright and said it first, "Your details are rather vague," and it was true, the Russian representative, Igor, was vague, too vague for the Brinkians and too vague for Dr. Brown. Ljungstrand from Alaska made it more of a point to give out more details. This line would connect the Great Eurasian Line to North and South America. There had been dozens of proposals since the Great Eurasian Line was first envisioned to connect them to North and South America as well as through Africa. It could become a global line but the costs were high, very high. The Empire had pledged two trillion dollars to the Great Eurasian Line and payments were finally finishing. How much would this cost?

The Russians and Alaskans wanted to extend the line to North America through the Barents Sea via an underground tunnel. It would have to be vast, as vast as the line, to allow for any sort of profitability. It would need several paths for vehicular and several paths for rail traffic. Shipping traffic could also be incorporated but all of these ideas were novel at most. There had been proposals over the years for this very same plan and costs were in the high billions just for the tunnel itself, never mind extending the line throughout the bulk of North America from end to end into South America.

When Itumeleng brought up South America, particularly Mato Grosso and the Amazonian Control Territory, she took in a deep breath. This was to be expected, they were always whining about the Empire's handling of the situation. The whole world had whined about it but what did they know, they weren't faced with that threat. It was an internal, domestic affair and none of their concern. Human rights, she thought to herself as Itumeleng brought it up and droned on about accusations. The Russian had brought some sense into the room. He was right, it wouldn't matter what the Empire did, the line's profitability wouldn't be affected. The Empire would not allow the line to go into any troubled region.

"I can understand everyone's concerns about South America, particularly the Amazonian Territory and neighboring Mato Grosso. It is a volatile region in the world but no more than Somalia, Mr. Itumeleng. The only difference between our two troubled regions is that we have the presence of mind to tend to the region." She was sharp like a snake, biting at the very fabric of the United States' inability to contain the situation in Somalia. "Let me get back to this region first and address our primary concerns and that is cost. The Empire has spent two trillion dollars on the Great Eurasian Line since its inception and our pledge to that line is nearly completed. But money isn't the only cost. The Great Eurasian Line has become a hotly contested issue, thanks largely to the Nerotikans and these tensions have caused war on more than one occasion.

"In Kazakhstan, Layartebian military forces are permanently embarked to defend the line in that country. When the Germanians first envisioned the line, they didn't envision ever falling apart. Since then, the line has become a major issue throughout the world. Our policy in the Empire is to allow private industry benefit from that line and so too would this line. The biggest difference is that the Great Eurasian Line doesn't actually pass through any territory of the Empire except Ireland and we regard this as sovereign Layartebian soil, the same as we would if this Line would run through the heart of our Empire.

"What about security Mr. Itumeleng? That is a grave concern, especially for us. In the case of the Great Eurasian Line, each country is responsible for protecting the Line within their own territory and until the collapse of the Germanian Reich, this was really only members of the October Alliance and the Roman Empire. Only until recently, in the past decade or so, have these lands become controlled by other nations. Security there has been an issue and that is our concern here.

"To return to your concerns Mr. Itumeleng, we would not allow the Line to run through the Amazonian Territory until we felt comfortable enough to have it there. The biggest concern we must address out of all of these is our domestic sovereignty. As the Doctrine of Sovereignty establishes, what happens within the confines of the Empire is of our domestic concern. If this Line is an attempt to impede on our sovereignty or impose foreign laws or norms upon us, the Empire will be abruptly against this proposal." She sat back and let the comments sink in, now it was time for the rest of the representatives to respond.

“I have no intention of changing your policy regarding internal affairs and have never made a statement in that regard. My question, which you partially answered, was how you were going to handle it, not a statement of how you should handle it.”

He paused for a moment. She was direct and though she remained on the side of diplomacy she used striking wit to test those boundaries. It was a quality Itumeleng much enjoyed.

“Somalia is being dealt with, perhaps not with the quick first of the Empire’s standards, but it is, I assure you, being dealt with. Nevertheless it doesn’t play a significant role in the Eurasian Line and thus is not a threat to its stability.”

Things started getting out of hand, Igor has expected something like this but not that soon. He spread his arms in a calming gesture.

"Now, now ladies and gentlemen lets return to the main topic of this meeting. Im sure you've come here because you have at least some interest in the potential profitability of this project, not to trade accusations.

Now Mr. Itumeleng I hope that Dr.Brown's answer concerning the line's security in the Amazonian region has eased your concerns. It sounded very reasonable to me and the Empire of Layartreb has done a fine job of protecting the Great Eurasian Line so far.

And Dr.Brown, no one is trying to infringe upon your nation's sovereignty, believe me we all hold the sovereignty of nations we represent in highest regard and we understand there your concerns are coming from.

This project is about one thing and thats extending the Great Eurasian Line into the Americas. We have a very well developed continent of North America and the continent of South America that is a bit behind in development but for the most part its speeding along rather well. Both markets have great potential for all kinds of products, while at the same time the companies based on those continents would also benefit from increased trade with Eurasia.

The costs for this project will be massive, it would be foolish to attempt to sugarcoat it, however the benefits will outweigh the cost and this is something that will have positive effect on global economy for hundreds of years to come. And you know I am right then I say this, the Great Eurasian Line is already a successful example of a project such as this.

Now lets let others present here speak their mind."

"Igor, your plan is fantastic," started Roman Emperor Valerius in feigned excitement. "Except for a few things. We know nothing about the cost, the proposed route, the timeframe...you know, all the things that one would think makes up 'a plan'. I know so little about this that I can't tell if this is going to be a feasible project or another 'pie-in-the-sky' dream...perhaps I should expect no less from a nation that believed nothing would happen if they tried to melt a hole in the ice cap."

Valerius let that last comment sink in before continuing. "Having said all that, you tell us what it is you would like from us to participate in the project and we will examine it. The idea is great, but we are not going to participate in a project that has no likelihood of success."

Igor chuckled.

"Oh yes the ice cap misadventure, thats a nice touch Gospodin Emperor, a nice touch. I assure you that the administration that was planning that move is long gone."

Igor took a sip of water and continued.

"But yes, I apologize for being a bit slow on giving up all the details. Lets get to the specifics then shall we? We estimate that the construction of the Chukotka-Alaska tunnel will cost 1 trillion rubles. The Federation and our partners from Brydog already have the financing planned out. We will create a company owned by both our states to oversee the construction from both ends. Once the construction is complete the company will then be tasked with maintenance and trade traffic management. Thats how it is as it stands right now, if however any nation here becomes interested in direct investment into the project we are prepared to open up some shares for purchase. So let me know before we leave here today if you are interested.

Now moving on to the project on a grander scale. We're not going to try to tell you how to run your show, signing up for this project doesn't obligate you to construct the infrastructure within your own nations in a certain way its up to you how many railroads, roads and pipelines you want to build and in what way you want to build them. What we do need in order to coordinate our efforts is for you to give a list of companies you will be employing in your construction projects so that we can establish communication between those companies and the ones taking care of construction in other nations. This is so they can come together and insure that their design plans correlate at the borders with each respective project member nation. We can't run an estimate of cost to each respective nation, it will obviously vary depending on your geographical location.

Security of the line is also up to you, let me emphasize this again, we are not interested in this project infringing on anyone's sovereignty.

The last point is to grant the Great Global Trade Line the same economic status as that of the Great Eurasian Line. So thats the basic summary. Any questions?"

Igor awaited patiently for someone in the room to reply.

Dr. Brown looked up from her pad the moment she heard Igor speak of the jointly owned company and then about individual companies. She was confused. "Mr. Stepanov, you are contradicting yourself. I would ask for some clarification. You speak of a jointly owned company between Alaska and Russia that would oversee management and construction of the line yet you are requiring a list of companies of construction. Are you saying that we are able to use domestic companies to construct the line or will this jointly owned company be responsible for construction? The next question is standardization. I trust that track gauge, pipe diameter, et cetera will be standardized throughout the line itself?"

"Maybe I need to request a translator, English is my second language, forgive me for not being clear enough. As I've stated the tunnels that will connect Chukotka and Alaska will be created by a joint Russia-Brydog company, but as I have also stated there is more to this project then just those tunnels. Transportation infrastructure of both American continents will need to be expanded, which is up to the nations that are located on those continents. Thats there my request for a list of companies comes in so that we can organize communication between those companies to coordinate those efforts. For example we will probably contract the LAARTrans corporation to expand the network of roads and rails within the Latin American Autonomous Republic which as you know is a subject of Federation. LAARTrans will need to communicate with Layartebian companies so that the road that they're building on LAAR territory will be continued by a Layartebian company on Layartebian territory. I hope this clarifies it.

Standardization doesn't seem to be a problem, where never has been any official agreement but last time I checked majority of us have already set the same standards. Unless transportation safety becomes an issue I don't see a problem."

OOC: Ah common, lets not get that deep into it. Whats your nation called again?

You know what if the going of this summit is going to be this difficult we might as well bury it.

OOC: Republic of Alaska

OOC: Just delete or edit that last post and thats what I'll be calling you from now on. The EII list just calls you Brydog which is what I went by, you're also called Commonwealth of Brydog in your factbook.

OOC: I changed my NS IC name and i have not updated yet.

OOC: All good, sorry for causing a misunderstanding.

OOC: also, that not my nation factbook, it's something else. But yea, I rp in both NS and E2. E2: Alaska, NS: Wolfenhalle.

Dr. Brown nodded her head, "That is what I thought you had said but clarity was necessary. Moving on then shall we? Presently I have not been convinced of the ultimate benefits of this line over the costs. The Eurasian Line was not nearly as expensive as this line will be and given recent problems with Ukraine, this is a major contention issue."

"The benefits are the possibility for substantially increased amount of global trade as a result increased growth in global economy and creation of relationships between nations worldwide based not just on trust or political affiliation but also on shared capitalist values. This line allows everyone to increase the amount of trade with everyone else, meaning that everyone benefits. As such this also creates a stability structure for global politics based on simple economics. For example, if a part of a line gets compromised all the nations that benefit from that line will most likely come together to fix the problem not because they are bound by any formal alliance but rather because they want to keep making money. To smaller nations it will be a form of guarantee of security, because any attack on them might disturb global trade and the bigger nations will benefit more from the economic aspect because they have more products to trade with. This will also aid the cause of diplomacy in our foreign affairs. Now of course a time may arise then a certain rogue nation's leadership decides to shut down a portion of the line running through their land against the benefit of their own people, but the network if constructed properly should be large enough to make sure that the routes are diversified and there are no bottlenecks. That is also the reason why we're offering a portion of the Chukotka-Alaska Corporation for purchase, because thats a possible bottleneck and us selling off a portion of the company is sign that we want to build up trust. If several nations own a piece of it, then we ourselves can't simply nationalize it. I hope I've been clear, but please ask questions so we can avoid any misunderstanding."

"Mr. Stepanov, we're fully aware of the dynamics of the line and of its intentions. That is a given. We're not certain on how this particular offspring benefits the Empire itself in this part of the world. Save for the Russian Federation, the Empire trades with all of its neighbors in North America and South America and has free-trade alliances with them that are already established. We already have trade routes between them established, constructed, and maintained." Dr. Brown added.

"What about your ally's territories on the Eurasian and African continents? There are companies there too with many products and services that can make the Empire's market more competitive. And again, we're not telling you you need to build new roads, if you can expand already established routes and link those up to the ones that will be stemming out of the Alaska-Chukotka tunnel, all the better for you."

"Mr. Stepanov, as a fluent speaker of English myself, your English is just fine," started Valerius. "What really needs a translation is your logic. You speak of the Chukotka-Alaska Corporation as if it were a finished deal, but then you speak of offering a stake in it to each of us. Are you saying the CAC will become a joint-venture amongst all of us? Because that makes sense. Then you talk about all of us providing you a list of companies that will operate this 'line'- whatever it is- even though none of us have even signed on to the project. How then, are we supposed to know who's going to sign up for this? We haven't even offered the project to prospective companies because there is no project."

Valerius continued, the sarcasm not even being hidden now from his voice. "Then you talk about security...please tell me how a tunnel increases security. Does it come with weapons too? Because that would just be totally awesome! Plus, if the whole world is connected to the line then there's no reason for the 'smaller countries' to feel secure, because their enemies are already on the line and thus an enemy attack wouldn't shut down the line at all. All it means is that the 'smaller countries' are slaves to the big ones, because the smaller countries can't shut down a network the big countries need and one the smaller countries also rely on, because the big countries provide all their wealth and they've got some pretty big toys too.

"Oh, and the economic deals...you speak like they're already in place. They're not. A tunnel won't change that. A tunnel is a tunnel, it's not an economic deal. If we need to organize trade deals to get this thing to work then maybe we should do that.

"I'm sorry, but if this is your poor excuse for an organized network then you can count the Roman Empire out. My cat has better organizational skills than you do...and he can't even stay in the litterbox."

Igor spoke calmly.

"As I have said CAC will be funded by Republic of Alaska and the Russian Federation, if however any of you are interested, we will open up a number of shares for purchase at a later date once the company is established. Now on to the list, you have asked me to describe what participation in this project will entail in case you choose to participate. Which is there that list of companies comes in. Its not something you have to provide today its something that you will need to provide in case you choose to participate in the project. Since the project is still in its planning stage, I assumed that everyone here understands that then I am describing its details I am speaking about the future, not the present. I am out of ways to make myself anymore clear.

I have mentioned granting the line, as in the roads, pipelines and railroads that will be classified as part of the GGTL, a special economic status much like the one Great Eurasian Line enjoys.

As far as trade agreements go thats the business of individual nations and their foreign policies, we can sign trade agreements with nations we're interested in at another time."

OOC: Guys are you actually reading what Im saying? Do I need to use more punctuation? Cause you seem to merge different parts of it together until the meaning is completely different.

OOC: Guys are you actually reading what Im saying? Do I need to use more punctuation? Cause you seem to merge different parts of it together until the meaning is completely different.

OOC: I'll admit, your words are hard to follow along, and every new post something "new" pops up. This does have the feel of a project you're making up as you go along and that's not a good sign.

OOC: Can't say anything to that. I suck at giving written presentations, I just never had any practice.

Dr. Brown knew just about every trade route that ran through the Empire and those that connected to the Empire. The trade routes that moved through Africa and into Europe and Asia and subsequently into the Empire were already established routes. Many of those in Africa crossed the Atlantic Ocean, where it was shorter. Moving goods from Africa all the way through Russia and into North America would add significant lead times. The only beneficiation the Empire could see was the United Eastasian Republic. Crossing the Pacific wasn't treacherous by any means but the added benefit of the line could alleviate some of the concern during summer months, when the areas to the north were largely open. Still, this was putting all of the Empire's eggs in a single basket. If the Empire and Russia ever went to war, the trade route would be shut and the Empire would be in trouble. It wasn't a project the Empire wanted to invest all of its resources in, especially given the turbulent nature of the Russian Federation. "Mr. Stepanov, I must agree partly with what Emperor Valerius is saying. I can see the overall benefit of this proposal and I can understand the nature itself of the C.A.C. The issue that is holding myself and my country back is establishment.

"Let me be more clear. The Roman Empire, the Russian Federation, and the newly formed League of American states are the only current countries that border the Empire in North and South America. The Empire has been trading with the Roman Empire since their inception and we have established routes that are vital to our continued success. They could be expanded, it wouldn't hurt but it also isn't totally necessary and the cost may not justify it. The relations between our two nations has been turbulent and it would be worthless for us to enter this endeavor without a free trade agreement between our respective nations as I am sure you would agree? I cannot make that agreement here so the very best I can offer you, here, is the possibility of that nothing more and nothing less. I'm sorry but you must understand that I am not a Cabinet member. The last of them, the League of American States, is a fragile matter still. As you've watched, with the turbulent times there and the direct involvement of the Empire, the progress and status of any sort of similar deal with that country is not within my liberties to say." She adjusted her posture and took a small sip of water. Turning to everyone at the table, she continued. "I must commend all of the parties here on their cooperation. The fact that everyone has come to this meeting shows progress, a willingness to cooperate that extends beyond history and borders. This is a good idea. A very good idea. In so far as its foundations are concerned. I must agree with our Roman friends that the details seem too inconclusive yet. There are no margins of cost, no ideas of time, and not much definition. As the Roman Emperor said, 'If we need to organize trade deals to get this thing to work then maybe we should do that.' That is a crucial suggestion. All of us here are not in the same boat, trade wise, with each other and our respective economies, while strong, are very different in their basic principles and their basic foundations. Unfortunately, because I am not authorized myself to guarantee any trade deals from the Empire I cannot commit to anything here. I can; however, listen to suggestions, proposals, and formulate an opinion that I am sure will be heavily weighted when I return to Layarteb City.

"The only authorization I may give here, today, at this conference is that the Empire will not impede or intentionally hinder any of the parties in this line whatsoever. Please, Emperor Valerius, let's allow the nitty-gritty details to be formulated, to continue, to be placed onto the table. I personally want to hear them."

Valerius wrestled with leaving in a huff because he didn't like being told what to do- especially from a minister inferior to him- and staying because logic dictated so. He ultimately chose to stay, only because he was a man of reason.

"Dr. Brown, you make a fair point," said Valerius. "I'll stay and see where this goes; but I want progress. So far this has just been a waste of my time and I frankly have better things to do if this goes nowhere."

This is going nowhere, fast...did not quiet expect this much resistance. Me and the Alaskans have miscalculated, perhaps we should have just started by building those damn tunnels and seeing what happens afterwards. The Emperor seems the most unreasonable, he expects me to pull trade agreements out of thin air? Those agreements require trust, this project in itself is designed to build up trust among all nations participating but at this moment there is no trust. After I repeated the same thing over and over I think they finally got the overall point of this project or at least they did partially. Somehow they don't understand that without their participation this project is nothing and I can not possibly know how much it will cost to each one of them on an individual basis. Neither can I know the amount of time it will take them to construct their portion of the puzzle. Should I simply lay it out for them one more time and watch it all fall apart in case they will once again refuse to understand me?

Igor thought to himself as he formulated what to say next.

"Thank you, Dr.Brown, Gospodin Emperor. Does anyone else have anything to say on the matter?"

"Mr. Stepanov, I think you've misunderstood the point of Emperor Valerius. If I may Emperor?" She looked over at him, hoping for some sort of reaction but there was none. "These tunnels, this line, this is a big commitment. A very big commitment. You see Mr. Stepanov, you'll have countries shelling out billions upon billions of dollars, taking over land to build the routes, and spending years dedicated to its construction. It will use resources that some countries may not necessarily be able to spare. And all of this without some sort of formal agreement. You can understand now why there is resistance. A trade agreement would be the first thing to create as that is a binding pact. What good is an already built line if no one is going to use it? It then becomes a waste of money and a black hole of maintenance. With a trade agreement you've got the foundations that you need and the line then becomes a tool, a byproduct of the agreement."

"I agree Dr. Brown," said Valerius, who sensed Igor's frustration. "Mr. Stepanov, it's quite clear the same administration that wanted to boil the ice cap is still around, if only in spirit. You come up with this idea but you've got nothing to support it. A tunnel is a slab of metal, nothing more. It doesn't breathe, eat, sleep (well, okay, I suppose it sleeps) or talk. People do; and people build that tunnel; and if you want to get them involved, you've got to give them a reason to get involved. We aren't going to build a tunnel that we can't use- it's nonsensical.

"Right from the get-go, all you've been doing is shouting 'We're going to build a tunnel!' and expect that's going to be enough to get us all on board. Guess what- it's not.Then you wonder why we're asking questions." Valerius paused for a moment with an exasperated look on his face. "I can't even believe I'm saying this but if you want to present a proposal you've got to have more than a single line. You've got to have a plan. I don't care about a tunnel- I can build one on the beach in Ostia. Give me a tunnel with an economic pact so that we can all use it and now we're getting somewhere.

"Honestly, did you come up with this over a couple of vodkas? Because your presentation is pathetic. Now I'm willing to stay and see if the assembled here can do the job you were supposed to do and come up with a plan to make this tunnel work. However, this poor excuse of a proposal is not making me want to conduct business with Russia. Ever. I mean, seriously, if this is the best the Russian government can do then I feel bad for the Russian people, because it's clear their country is run by a bunch of morons. We all learned the bare basics of project planning in high school (if not elementary). Apparently, it never gets taught in Russia. Lastly, tell Voronej to get off the vodkas and get into gear, because it's quite clear they didn't put in the work to make this proposal work."

Valerius stopped to take a deep breath in order to calm him down before continuing. "Now that I've said all that, why don't we all get vodkas and come up with a plan? That might inject some fun into this miserable experience. Who's with me?"

The Alaskan President stood up.

"I see our partner needs some help. I understand a economic pact is needed due to the fact that what use is a trade line when there is no one to use it. I say the first thing we must do, is establish the economic ground before discussing the line. Alaska is willing to establish economic agreements with the countries in the Americas, I hoping the Russian will too. Once the economics are taking care of then we'll work on the line itself."

http://www.russiablog.org/AbramovichBlueTie.jpg

Even through the Emperor's rant Igor remained calm.

"Gospodin Emperor, Valera, do I need to repeat myself for the 3rd time now? As I have stated over and over now my plan includes granting the pipes, roads and railroads classified as the GGTL a special economic status. Thats all a part of that formal agreement that you crave so much.

You want trade agreements? But at the same time you want this to work? I think I've been around on the global stage longer then you and I can safely say that tying trade agreements to a construction project is a sure way to loose half of your otherwise willing participants. Everyone got a political agenda, some don't want to trade with us, others don't want to trade with the Empire of Layarteb, for example. And thats all there is to it.

Granting the line a special economic status that will be the same in every territory regardless of any trade agreements is a way to ensure that even if everyone doesn't trade with everyone the participant nations of the line still benefit, because tariff costs are set and are low. Do I need to explain to you again how exactly this will benefit your nation?

That said of course as an initiator of this project the Federation is prepared to trade with anyone but we can't expect that from others.

Also you keep calling this a tunnel, which makes me think that you did not understand a word that I or anyone else have said. We, as in Russian Federation and Republic of Alaska are building the tunnel, regardless of the success of today's meeting. Forget about the tunnel, the tunnel doesn't have to concern you necessarily. All thats required out of the nations present here is to link up the roads and railroads coming out of the tunnel to their own transportation networks.

Thats it, thats the proposal, thats all I need from you today, take it or leave it, if you want to add something else to it or change it in any way go ahead we're willing to listen. My job today is to make sure everyone walks away happy, so we're willing to make adjustments to our plan if they are requested and justified.

Now that I said all of THAT. Lets all get a couple of vodkas and try to figure this out so both of us can walk out of here with our sanity still intact. Im with you."

Itumeleng remained seated. He had no intentions are really getting involved with this portion of the line despite the fact that he had trade agreements with all parties involved. While originally he was concerned with the morality of the project, or perhaps the lack thereof, he was now more worried about the complete disregard for diplomacy, especially that aimed at the Russian delegation. It was a troubling trend among TOA members to talk down to foreign dignitaries, again, especially to those from Russia. While at one point such distrust would have been justifiable it was now plain childishness. This was a meeting of economic unity in the hope of eliminating past borders. Now Igor was seemingly fighting for his life.

The meeting was a bit haphazard in Rome and Cotland’s defense and presented in a somewhat confusing manner but from what Itumeleng could make out each grievance was in some from addressed. Perhaps for fear of himself entering the feeding frenzy he chose to remain silent until the meeting progressed.

The Nehrlandi Representative spoke up, "I think that we all just need some time to think, a drink or two so we can be more relaxed, some private discussions, maybe we could just all relax and watch some tv for a couple of hours, catch some well needed sleep maybe? The atmosphere in here, well, seems a bit tense, and it has felt this way for quite a while."

"Yes, lets take an hour or so break and reconvene here after we've all cooled off a bit. There are drinks and food from all the countries represented here in the room to my right, so please go ahead and enjoy yourselves. Its your time to talk amongst each other informally."

Valerius took the break as his cue to head over to his hotel bar. He figured a few shots of good Russian vodka would be enough to get his mind reoriented for the meeting- and perhaps make the Summit go a lot quicker.

"The strongest stuff you've got," instructed Valerius to the bartender. As he received his drink, a woman approached him.

http://www.housemd-guide.com/season3/pixs/322house1.jpg

"Hi. You play a doctor on TV, right?", said the woman.
"No, that would be Hugh Laurie. I know, we look alike," answered Valerius.
"Who are you then?" replied the woman.
"I can be whomever you want me to be," said Valerius.
"Oh, you want to play games with me, huh? I love games." The woman then put her arm around Valerius.
Valerius gently pulled the woman's arm off him. "I don't think my wife would appreciate that."
"A husband never stops me."
"Oh I see. Adultery is common practice in these parts."
The woman laughed. "I'm not an adulterer."
"I don't know...you're married and you're hitting on me. It sure sounds like adultery, is that not? Am I missing something?"
"Yeah honey, it's called love...and I love you."
"You can't possibly be serious now...you've only known me for five minutes...and, you think I'm a British actor which I am not."
"Tell me something, do you love your wife?"
"Yes I do. Very much."
"How long have you been married to her?"
"It will be 15 years this August."
"That's a long time, honey."
"Don't call me 'honey', please."
"Fine...that's a long time."
"We've had our ups and downs, but I love her."
"You are very fortunate...I only wish I could be married to someone like you."
"Then maybe you need a change."
"That's why I want you."
"Because you're too afraid to deal with your own problems. You think that by hitting on random strangers at a bar removes all the problems you have to face in your marriage. Let me tell you something- all it does is make you wake up next to a new one."

Just then, Valerius saw a recognizable face. "Hey, glad you could make it!", he shouted from across the hall."
"I have to go," said Valerius to the woman. "It was nice talking to you."

OOC: Does anyone want to come to the bar with Valerius?

OOC: Right after I send my whole security team infront of a firing squad for letting a random slut assault a foreign head of state.

IC:

"Valerius, I see you're enjoying yourself, I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Igor wasn't insulted nor annoyed by Valerius's earlier rant. Igor was a pragmatic through and through, he saw a problem and he was going to fix it. Relations with the Roman Empire were an important topic beyond just this project. If Igor could have another stab at clarifying the situation and getting the Romans on board, he'd take it.

"I know its the off time but I couldn't shake the feeling that a simple misunderstanding occurred at the meeting. I am sure I can make the project details a little more clear over a couple of shots of Voronej's best. As they say in this Great land, 'if you can't figure something out, try again after a bottle or two'. So what do you say?"

Igor said offering the Emperor a handshake.

Dr. Brown departed the conference hall with the utmost intention of returning to her room, with her aides, and going over just what needed to be done when the talks returned. She would place a call to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, summarizing the circus she had seen before her noting the peculiar conduct of the Roman Emperor. The Ministry of Intelligence would find that rather amusing and they would begin digging around to see, whether or not, if Emperor Valerius had cracked or something to that effect. When the conference returned, she would be the bearer of news from the Empire, not necessarily news anyone wanted to hear but news nonetheless.

Dusty walked to the bar and sat down.

"Jack Daniels"

He took a shot and shook his head at the Roman's action. He was a mixed breed and you couldn't tell, half-Aleut and half white. He knew the advantages of the line but he made sure to protect the land. He sat planning the idea for the infrastructure for the project in Alaska. The nation didn't have many roads and the only way into the interior was by plane and dog sled. He had a plan for a highway from Wales to Fairbanks to service the line. He continued planning as he drank his whiskey and chowed on some crab legs.

OOC: Right after I send my whole security team infront of a firing squad for letting a random slut assault a foreign head of state.

OOC: I figured it was a hotel bar and it'd be pretty open...and, she could be married to a dignitary of some kind *shrugs*. Besides, it was the only bar shot with House that I could find.

I figured the thread needed a little levity.

IC:

"Valerius, I see you're enjoying yourself, I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Igor wasn't insulted nor annoyed by Valerius's earlier rant. Igor was a pragmatic through and through, he saw a problem and he was going to fix it. Relations with the Roman Empire were an important topic beyond just this project. If Igor could have another stab at clarifying the situation and getting the Romans on board, he'd take it.

"I know its the off time but I couldn't shake the feeling that a simple misunderstanding occurred at the meeting. I am sure I can make the project details a little more clear over a couple of shots of Voronej's best. As they say in this Great land, 'if you can't figure something out, try again after a bottle or two'. So what do you say?"

Igor said offering the Emperor a handshake.

Valerius accepted Igor's hearty handshake. "You're speaking my kind of language," emphatically pumped Valerius. "Hey," said Valerius to the bartender, "send us a few shots over here."

Valerius then turned his attention back to Igor. "Don't worry about her...she's just lonely. I get one or two of those a week...lets me know I've still got my charm, even if I make sure they go nowhere." Valerius then wore a sly grin. "It's good to be Emperor."

"Now, about this tunnel." Valerius saw Igor shake his head but ignored it. "You haven't really given me a reason to join in on it. Why should I or our companies participate? You spoke of a special economic arrangement...please, tell me what this is. It sounds like we're getting somewhere, I just want to know where I'm going.

"Excuse me." Out of the corner of his eye he saw Dusty. "Hey Dusty...why don't you come over here...we're all friends."

The Alaskan president picked up his whiskey and sat next to the Russian and Roman.

"Hi."

Igor motioned to the bartender.

"Мне Славянской, 200 грам, пожалуйста."
I'll take 'Slavyanskaya' vodka, 200 grams, please.

He then turned back to his guests.

"Hello Dusty, lets explain to Valera what the specific benefits of our proposal are for him, shall we?"

The bartender put the sizable glass filled to the top with vodka on the counter infront of Igor.

"By special economic benefits I meant no tariffs and no taxes on the goods shipped via the transport system that will form the GGTL. Very similar to what we have with the Great Eurasian Line. The idea behind it is that by removing taxes, you will thus inspire more trade between the private companies. Those companies will be getting more profits off their trade since their goods won't be taxed. That creates a very good economic environment. Capitalism is a beautiful thing, we provide the means for all those privately owned companies to trade with each other and they'll figure out everything else for themselves, all we have to do is watch our economies grow. Another part of course, just like in the Great Eurasian Line, I'd like everyone to agree to let all the goods through their territory, regardless of what the final destination of those goods is.

That said I am not in a position to try to force everyone to trade with everyone, my basic assumption was, that for example the Layartrebians don't want to trade with the Federation, but they might want to increase their flow of trade with UER and just based on that they would be interested in this project. The Federation of course is willing to let UER goods move through the portion of the line on our territory even though they are heading for Empire of Layrtreb, a nation with which we have certain political friction. Because even if we don't trade with the Layartrebians, this whole deal presents the Federation in a responsible light and overtime it will change minds and bring the whole world closer to being on the same page. The sound of money being made has that general effect on people. This is just a hypothetical example of course, but I hope you get the point.

The Line will also not only provide uninterrupted overland flow of trade between Eurasia and North America, but also North and South America. As you know Latin American Autonomous Republic is Federation territory and if this deal goes through and the infrastructure is built, well, North and South America for the first time ever will be able to have a major overland trade route which should pump up the volume of trade between these two continents.

As for the Roman Empire specifically. I've been approached by a group of Senators and Duma members, they explained to me how we should have a wider trade agreement between the Federation and the Roman Empire. The thing is I wanted to bring it up with you personally, not as part of a summit, so we could discuss it in more detail. But honestly speaking the notion has enough support in the Parliament to push an agreement through from our side, if you're interested in it."