NationStates Jolt Archive

THIRD WORLD SOLIDARITY CONFERENCE

For too long, the Majority World has been marginalized. Most of the world’s people live in the “Third World,” the developing countries. yet global politics and economics are dominated by the rich. Alone we are weak, but together we can be strong and self-reliant.

Some time ago, developing nations held a conference at the City of Golden Agate. That historic summit brought us together. Now, it is time for another gathering of the developing world.

The people and governments of Tanah Burung, Hell Bovines, Larkinia and Xikuang invite all developing nations and friends to gather in the city of Matebian in Tanah Burung. Matters to be discussed include:

-- economic & political cooperation among developing countries
-- development programmes and foreign aid
-- the terms of trade with rich countries
-- environmental and human rights standards

RSVP in this thread.

Cho-to-ki wishes to sign up, although there is a chance that we will be sending our notoriously untimely delegate to the conference. This time, however, we will do our best to ensure that said delegate attends the conference on time.

*BUMP!

My National Defence (small military force that protects my nation. kind off like a police force) Leader will attend

Dictator
The Red Bat
Dragonia

To: Tanah Burung Diplomats
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Conference

While pressing affairs of state keep us from sending a delegation, we offer the government of Tanah Burung our moral support and would ask if we could be updated on conference proceedings.

The Federation will gladdly send a delegate to this conference.

We at The Weegies would be most glad to send a delegate to this conference.

Yugi Yamamoto, Foreign Ambassador of Germanicapan, is here and ready to converse. 8) and should we let a person who's a dictator of a country get in on this? is your country really interested in the needs of the 3rd world? why r u guys sending the leader of your police force in ur police state instead of the president or ambassador?

We will donate 5 Billion Dollars to be divided equally among all nations who attend the summit, as part of an increase in foreign aid we are planning.

Yugi Yamamoto, Foreign Ambassador of Germanicapan, is here and ready to converse. 8) and should we let a person who's a dictator of a country get in on this? is your country really interested in the needs of the 3rd world? why r u guys sending the leader of your police force in ur police state instead of the president or ambassador?There are after all plenty of dictatorships in the third world.

I will gladly attend this conference on behalf of the Oglethorpian government.

Gordon Newell
Foreign Relations Bureau
The Federation of Oglethorpia

~~Note from High Chief Quetzalcoalt~~

Despite the fact that I am right now attending a Diplomatic Summit in Rotovia, I will send my viceroy, High Lord Coyotepec along with delegates to attend this conference, if it is alright with you.

High Chief Quetzalcoalt
Ruler of the Confederate Aztec National League

The Federation of Hrstrovokia would like to send it's delegation to the conference on behalf of our region, The Boardsies!

On behalf of The Allied States of Lusaka, President Derek Igomo is pleased to announce the dispatch of International Development Secretary Livingstone Miyanda to represent the country at this gathering of nations.

http://www.nationstates.net/images/flags/uploads/lusaka.jpg

(Derek Igomo being Derek Igomo, Mr.Miyanda will travel to Tanah Burung aboard the nation's sole C-5 Galaxy aircraft. The price of aviation fuel has nothing to do with the nation's economic situation, damn it!)

The Republic of Sesiderbrugge will send a small delegation with Plenipotentiary status to the conference.

The people of Watfordshire send Gretta Cullinaen, Environmental consultant and Herald of Watfordshire to take part in the proceedings.
We also politely refuse our 'share' of the 5B$ kindly donated to the conference by Feline, but appreciate the gesture.

Quick OOC Bump: Shall we give it some more time to see people arrive before we start the conference? Tanah Burung has to be away until the weekend, so I'd quite like to let people filter in and not start in earnest until they return. Is that acceptable to all of you?

ic:

The Most Serene Republic thank Feline most sincerely, but we must also decline our share of the donation generously offered to the Conference., However we invite Feline to take part in the discussions once underway, and perhaps to make a contribution to the DNAC Central Fund, should they deem it an appropriate part of their aid plans.

OOC: Fine for me, I'll probably be tied up with the Attican Empire over a couple of days anyway - not sure how that'll go. Let more people sign up.

To our gracious friends and associates of the world:

Freebodnik V lauds this commendable proposal, and pledges to assist it in whatever way, keeping in mind that the penultimate goal of any civilised, modern society, is to help uphold human rights and freedoms. Freebodnik V shall send its most promising young representative - Eulalia 94825 - to this conference.

Sincerely,

http://www.fantahorror.com/portal/hal9000.jpg
The Governing Artificially Intelligent Mind Network,
First Speaker and MCP for the Community of Freebodnik V
"Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile."- Albert Einstein
Please enter, Comrade, The Revolution Betrayed by Leon Trotsky (http://www.marxists.org/archive/trotsky/works/1936-rev/index.htm)

OOC: I think we should wait for Tanah Burung to return before starting the conference.

IC:
The Grand Duchy Of Hell Bovines is proud to collaborate in the organization of this event. We think that this conference, like the one held on Golden Agate some years ago, will greatly help the poor or undeveloped nations of the world to defend their rights and sovereignity.
I, as the democratically-elected ruler of Hell Bovines, will personally attend this great conference and I'm really looking forward to visit the great land of Tanah Burung. We also thank the nation of Feline for its contribution, but we also politely refuse it and leave it to the nations that really need it.
Last, but not least, the government of Hell Bovines would like to contribute with $500 million. We know that its not a great sum of money, but it's all our imploded economy can afford.
Hoping this conference turns into a success,

Mooo IV, Duque of The Grand Duchy of Hell Bovines

Dear illustrious organizer of Tanah Burung,

Much water has flown under the bridge since representatives of the Commonwealth attended the Golden Agate conference on developing nations. Even if we have advanced much since that time - albeit technological development lags behind economic - the Commonwealth considers the likewise development of all other third and fourth world nations to be essential.

In such a spirit, I myself shall be attending your conference, joined by John the Lord MacIntyre, Ambassador First Class Quincy Johnson, and Dr. Benton Blayer.

I look forward to arriving in your glorious city of Matebian. Until then, you have Iansisle's friendship and admiration.

Hiresh Dhawan
The Right Honorable Prime Minister of the Commonwealth Combined Parliament
The Commonwealth of Iansisle

A very quick OOC note: i appreciate everyone being willing to wait until the weekend to get this started. I've also added Larkinia to the list of sponsoring countries in the opening post. Larkinia hosted the first developing nations summit, and the chairman of that conference, Takeo Katana, is now president of Larkinia.

We truly welcome this initiative. Apollopoli wishes to send a delegation consisting of our Foreign Secretary, Melina Mercury, and our Peace Secretariat, Marcos Glossolalia.

We are honored to a part of this new Solidarity Conference. It has been too long since the last conference in Golden Agate, I am looking forward to seeing many of you again.

In highest Sincerity,
Takeo Katana,
President of Larkinia

It would be my great pleasure to attend this confrence and learn about those in a lesser position than us (OOC: You're all screwed now :lol: ). I plan to be there from opening day, thank you for the invite.

http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2003-10/434717/Pres1.jpg
President Elizabeth Waitkus
Republic of Imitora
Nation of the Allied Powers Region
Chomh sean leis an cheo agus níos sine faoi dhó

How amusing. Look at the poor of the world. Thinking that they can make a difference. We expected better of Imitora, quite frankly. For shame, aiding them to persist in such illusions.

Listen well, 'developing nations', for this is the only time we shall speak. The common folk matter not, save for what they can do for the elite.. Only when you can accept that will you be on your way to true economic power.

Accept that the only way to get ahead is absolute rule. It is the destiny of all of humanity.

~ The Council Of Roania

-Prince Alexander Black
-Earl Dean Gray
-Earl Edmund Hyacinth
-Duke Leopold Darquis
-Baron Charles Stryke
-Countess Christine Hargreaves
-Cardinal Johannes Richelieu
-Baron James Moneth

To: Roania Diplomats
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Getting ahead

Well, in our system we have found that peasants who show exceptional ability are allowed to get ahead to the benefit of the Kingdom. As well, even a commoner in Vrak cannot be struck wantonly by even the King.

To: Roania Diplomats
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Getting ahead

Well, in our system we have found that peasants who show exceptional ability are allowed to get ahead to the benefit of the Kingdom. As well, even a commoner in Vrak cannot be struck wantonly by even the King.

To: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
From: Roanian Office of Foriegn Affairs
Subject: Re Getting Ahead

Indeed. And that is different from using common people for the benefit of the elite, how?

And if a King can not exercise his power, what good is he?

To: Roania Diplomats
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Getting ahead

Well, in our system we have found that peasants who show exceptional ability are allowed to get ahead to the benefit of the Kingdom. As well, even a commoner in Vrak cannot be struck wantonly by even the King.

To: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
From: Roanian Office of Foriegn Affairs
Subject: Re Getting Ahead

Indeed. And that is different from using common people for the benefit of the elite, how?

And if a King can not exercise his power, what good is he?

To: Roanian Office of Foreign Affairs
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Differences

None at all. In fact, our system may only differ slightly in some areas. But we note with concern at your ill tongue towards our King. We would have expected greater respect coming from a fellow monarchy.

To: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
From: Roanian Office of Foriegn Affairs
Subject: Apologies

There is no similarity between the office of Prince, and the diabolic office of king.

A king either has no measures against him, or no power. In our experiences with kings, they have proven to be horrible. You may say that your king is different, but after the last king of the Al-Roan line allowed Rasputin Macchiavelli into power, we have struck all traces of our old monarchy from the language and history. If you wish to say that your king is equal to Prince ((OOC: Think medieval Italian cities, and their Princes)), then very well. We apologise for any slight.

President Igomo chose this moment to fail-miserably-in-his-efforts-to-rise-above-it-all, by broadcasting to the nations of earth the Allied States Defence Parade in (and around) New Lusaka City.

Igomo himself travelled in a Zil limo at the head of the parade, before making his way to the balcony of one of the capital's four star hotels to deliver a speech. He spoke well of the governments seeking to develop the oppressed and neglected nation states attending the up-coming conference, but had little more than scorn for Roania's Council. The President pointed out simply that The Council was "wrong" and "unfit to lead". Igomo then announced the re-naming of the popular air-show portion of the parade. It would now be called the "Haaregrad Display", and coming days would see fly-overs by Lusaka's first VTOL jets, with the delivery of initial AV-8A and AV-8B Harrier units from Soviet Haaregrad.

Following his speech crowds were more than happy to make do with fly-overs by a B-47 Stratojet, four Mi-28A gunships, a pair of F-5 Freedom Fighters, and an aerial ballet by a quartet of YaK-130, before a parachute display was put on by the nation's elite Parachute Regiment, descending from a C-130 Hercules.

The streets were full of soldiers parading with polished M59/66A1 rifles, bayonets gleaming. Zil 131 trucks towed 130mm guns, UAZs raced by with machineguns pointed skywards, BMP-2s and 3s flanked columns of infantry. Igomo's smile was widest when for the first time Lusaka's Olifant L-2 main battle tank was seen in public. Four of the 120mm gun-mounting monsters headed a line of armour fleshed out by 105mm-gunned Olifant MkIs, and T-56(L) -the nation's effort at extension of the T-55's life-span.

(Of course there was no mention of the rate of Olifant L-2 production (only two more exist). Shots of literally hundreds of grounded helicopter gunships, jet aircraft, and of tanks did not come with (what would have been reasonably telling) captions reading "Pilots not available", "Aviation fuel sold seperately", or "Guided missiles coming soon- honest!")

International Development Secretary Livingstone Miyanda told those planning to attend the conference that Lusaka's Allied States Defence Parade was happening at this time by pure coincidence. He added that the background visible beyond the tanks and such displayed a wide paved road flanked by high-rise buildings, where just a few years ago, prior to Igomo's presidency, there had been a dirt-road winding through a shanty town.

(As per presidential 'request' he didn't linger on the source of the (splutterHrstrovokiacough) wealth used to bring about these wonderful advancements)

The Roanian council did not have a response on being threatened by a nation which couldn't afford to declare war, and probably owes money on all of its weaponry.

However, chemical weapons systems have been armed. Said Minister of War Edmund Hyacinth, "Sure, we can't do much more to that poor nation then they've done to themselves. Except laugh at them. Yes, let's do that. :lol: "

Outside, thousands of Legionnares assembled alongside war machines in a crushing display of how money and proper training can always win out over superior numbers.

Especially when one side spends 1/4 of its military budget on various WMD, and another 1/4 on R&D.

Celdonia sends it best wishes to the conference, and also an ambassdor, Ms Fiona Henderson as part of the Depertment of Overseas Trade Diplomatic Service.

Ms Henderson has however been brief to act primarily as an observer as we feel it would be innappropriate for a nation with sucha large economy to seek to unduly influence the conference.

One worsd of advice I would offer however, is that you ignore the rantings of Roania and the like. do not allow them to derail your conference by even responding to such nonsense.

Regards,
Celdonian Minister of Trade

Of course. Lusaka's non-response has been in the non-activation of its own chemical arsenal (because, insists Miyanda, such a thing does not exist!), although one junior member of Igomo's government did fail to hold in a "Ha!" as Roania wasted a piece of its beloved financial wealth.

Igomo was tempted to ask why in the living hell he should wish to declare war, but found himself too busy signing a massive trade deal with the African Commonwealth.

A prayer's as good as a bayonet on a day like this.

Of course. Lusaka's non-response has been in the non-activation of its own chemical arsenal (because, insists Miyanda, such a thing does not exist!), although one junior member of Igomo's government did fail to hold in a "Ha!" as Roania wasted a piece of its beloved financial wealth.

Igomo was tempted to ask why in the living hell he should wish to declare war, but found himself too busy signing a massive trade deal with the African Commonwealth.

A prayer's as good as a bayonet on a day like this.

OOC: According to the GDP calculator, you have barely enough money for your people to go day by day. Imploded? Quite frankly, it's not worth the effort it would take to colonise your poverty stricken nation. You certainly can not afford half the stuff you claim to have.

And the African Commonwealth is a september nation, I believe. Not much use to you.

ooc:Our economy is several steps above implosion, and the nation has an RP history which accounts for everything I have mentioned. As it happens, conquest of Lusaka by your nation alone would as you correctly assume, be economically hard on you. Crippling, even. I am clearly not here to fight, if you've actually read my posts, and it appears you may not have, as they are disclaimer filled ..and perhaps too indepth for you? Since this has apparently run its course as far as interesting ic development goes, and branched off into unfounded ooc babbling, I'd suggest any further questions or comments be delivered via telegram, for the benefit of this thread which 'belongs' to neither of us.

OOC: I'm sure it does. Where is fragile, then? I can't find the graph that explains that.

((I'm surprised, WoS, that you can get a fragile economy. Is that what you aimed for?))

(Of course. It wouldn't be terribly realistic for a nation to rise out of Zambia churning out forty thousand dollars per capita. Plus.. when have I ever made things easy for myself? Heh. My now primary nation still has biplanes in service!)

Let's end this ooc highjack and take it to tgs. Ignore my first one. Bit of a mistake, that.

To: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
From: Roanian Office of Foriegn Affairs
Subject: Apologies

There is no similarity between the office of Prince, and the diabolic office of king.

A king either has no measures against him, or no power. In our experiences with kings, they have proven to be horrible. You may say that your king is different, but after the last king of the Al-Roan line allowed Rasputin Macchiavelli into power, we have struck all traces of our old monarchy from the language and history. If you wish to say that your king is equal to Prince ((OOC: Think medieval Italian cities, and their Princes)), then very well. We apologise for any slight.

To: Roania Diplomats
From: Vrak Diplomatic Corps
Subject: Apologies

Apology accepted of course. Us monarchs do sometimes have a temper, eh? Perhaps one day, schedule permitting, you would do us the honour to pay a visit.

OOC: Ah, okay. You're getting into the Medici's :) As well, trying to wrap some RPs on my end.

How amusing. Look at the poor of the world. Thinking that they can make a difference. We expected better of Imitora, quite frankly. For shame, aiding them to persist in such illusions.

OOC: Who said anythign about aiding? I'm going to be the general opposition to it all.

BUMP for Thursday, and an official Thank You to Roania and Lusaka for their consideration. May I state formally now, if it hasn't already been understood, that the Conference is a peaceful, diplomatic gathering.

Thanks, and benedictions,

Y'i Lyamo, Qzixi Tashi, and Xiao Ngari, Xikuangese delegates to the World Solidarity Conference

Friday night bump. Will make a conference-opening post tomorrow. And also to underline what Xikuang said: this is a peaceful event.

Huzzah! Saturday morning bump, and I shall look forward to the opeing of the conference when I get back from the bookshop.

(ooc: clearly, you get up earlier than i do!)

The Third World Solidarity conference is now ready to get under way.

Tanah Burung welcomes the leaders of the Majority World to our country. We are a tropical nation, but the conference will take place in the mountain city of Matebian in the north, where the flag was first raised to signal our war of independence against colonial rule.

Your delegates are invited to land at Tiga Burung airport, where they will be greeted by members of the Tanah Burung collective presidency and taken by government blimp to the city of Matebian. This is necessary becuase Tiga Burung is the country's only airport capable of landing jets.

http://www.cddc.vt.edu/host/weishaus/skull-10/dhara-1.jpg
Hall of the Revolution, Matebian City

From Matebian airship field, you will be transported to the conference site, The Hall of the Revolution. The conference agenda is as follows:

1. Opening ceremony and vegetarian dinner.
2. Discussion of economic & political cooperation among developing countries
3. Discussion of development programmes and foreign aid
4. Discussion of the terms of trade with rich countries
5. Discussion of environmental and human rights standards

You may bring a small staff of secretaries, advisers and bodyguards, but no weapons of any kind are allowed in the conference hall. The city of Matebian will be secured by the Self-Defence Force, which is intimately familiar with the surrounding terrain, and our ballistic missile defence system will be at full alert. In addtion, the skies and coastal waters will be patrolled by our allies from the Free Republic of West Papua. In other words, this is a peaceful RP!

Feel free to go ahead and RP your arrival and/or conversation at the opening dinner.

Links of possible interest:

The Golden Agate declaration of developing countries and its signatories: http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=56073

Developing Nations Aid Commission:
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1096326

Tanah Burung World Fact Book entry:
http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1769858

List of delegates:

Tanah Burung: People's representative for foreign affairs & human rights Violeta Bi Bere; People's representative for social justice Father Constancio Ainaro, and other members of the collective presidency.

Xikuang: Y'i Lyamo, Qzixi Tashi, and Xiao Ngari

Hell Bovines: Grand Duke Mooo IV

Larkinia: President Takeo Katana

Cho-to-ki: Yu Pok Tong

The Red Bat: National Defence Leader

Free Outer Eugenia

The Weegies

Germanicapan: Foreign minister Yugi Yamamoto

Oglethorpia: Gordon Newell, foreign relations bureau

Aztec National league: High Lord Coyotepec

Hrstrovokia

Lusaka: International Development Secretary Livingstone Miyanda

Sesiderbrugge

Watfordshire: Gretta Cullinaen, Environmental consultant and Herald of Watfordshire

Freebodnik V: Eulalia 94825

Iansisle: President Hiresh Dhawan, John the Lord MacIntyre, Ambassador First Class Quincy Johnson, and Dr. Benton Blayer

Apollopoli: Foreign Secretary, Melina Mercury, and Peace Secretariat, Marcos Glossolalia

Imitora: President Elizabeth Waitkus

Celdonia: Ambassador Fiona Henderson

West Token

Any country with an embassy in Tanah Burung is welcome to send observers.

Presidential Residence
12:03 AM OST: Los Polverines, Porlamar, Oglethorpia

Newell sat behind his large mahogany desk, in front of it Charles Bolton of the Intelligence Bureau.

"Third world solidarity conference in Tanah Burung," Newell started. "Want to come?"
"Intelligence Bureau is slow, i'm sure they won't mind if I go," Bolton replied.
"Good, then. We need to leave in 17 minutes to head for the airport."
"Alright," Bolton said, getting up and leaving the cluttered Foreign Relations Bureau office.

Newell leaned back in his office chair, propping his feet on the fine desk.

Tanah Burung...supposed to be a beautiful country. We'll see, Newell thought to himself.

12:18 PM OST

Newell awoke to a start, Bolton waiting in the door.
"I'm comin', i'm comin'."

Both exited the office, walked down the long hall and saw a waiting black Kuruma Hermes.

Newell got in one side, Bolton in the other, the driver revving the throaty V8 and heading off towards the Los Polverines International Airport.

Los Polverines International Airport
12:57 AM OST: Los Polverines, Porlamar, Oglethorpia

The black Kuruma Hermes pulled up to the waiting Amalgamated Bizjet-12, the fine snow-white aircraft sitting on the tarmac, it's engines already running.

Bolton exited the car, followed by Newell. "After you," Newell said, letting Bolton enter the lavish government transportation jet.

Soon the Bizjet-12 was in the sky, headed towards Tiga Burung.

---

Soon the Bizjet-12 was on the ground, in Tiga Burung.

---

OOC: Yay.

BUMPZ0R

Tiga Burung Governor Frank Klees stood on the airfield, waiting to welcome the visiting dignitaries, and sweated quietly in the heat. Klees wasn't among the members of the collective presidency given the important jobs up in Matebian: a younger man, he had been fobbed off with the official greeting job. With him were a band prepared to play the national anthems of all the vistors, and a crowd of groupies for various foreign figures.

As the Ogelethorpian jet landed, a few girls ran to the front. "Gordon Newell!" they squealed. "He's a babe."

Klees came forward as the band played the Oglethorpian anthem. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sir," he said, offering an outstretched hand. "Welcome to Tanah Burung; your blimp awaits."

Newell shook the man's hand firmly.

"Lead the way," Newell said, followed by Bolton, whom awaited to be introduced by Newell.

As if there were some level of ESP between the two, Newell introduced Bolton.

"This is Charles Bolton, of the Intelligence Bureau," Newell said.

OOC: Yay! I was really looking forward to this! :D
IC:

It was a sunny afternoon in The Grand Duchy Of Hell Bovines. The duque Mooo IV, democratically-elected ruler of Hell Bovines, was pleasantly smoking a cigar and chatting with (or I'd rather say 'speaking to') her wife, the duchess Fussyball - A non-sentient house hamster.

Mooo IV: "...so I told the human: "Remember that cereal with milk you had this morning? Well, I pissed on it! Pasteurize that, bitch!". I can still remeber the horrorized look on his face and... Hey, honey! Are you listening to me?"
The duque looked at the cage were the female house hamster, his wife and the duquess of all hell bovines, was sleeping.
In a common country, a humanoid cow marrying a house hamster would be something odd. But not in Hell Bovines - Here, marrying housepets was something as commmon as travelling in bus.
"Not, you are not listening me. As usual", the duque said to himself.
Suddenly, the duque looked at the time. "Oh...I forgot! We should be travelling to Tanah Burung to the Third World Solidarity Conference. I'm really looking forward to this. We must hurry if we want a good seat!"

A few hours later the presidential airplane, "The Winged Cow" (shaped like a cow with wings), was landing in the Tiga Burung Airport in the enviromentally-stunning city of Matebian.
The door of the old plane opened and, from a cloud of cigar smoke, the siluettes of 5 benevolent cows walking on their hinds appeared. They were the siluettes of The Duque Mooo IV, 2 ambassadors, 1 aide and the duque's representative, Civic Starcow.
The duque was wearing his traditional clothes: a dark-red tunic, his golden staff and his silver crown. On the duque's shoulder, the duchess Fussyball was taking a nap.
Tthe duque gave a look to the beautiful mountainous landscape and exclaimed: "This country is so beautiful that I almost feel at home"
Then, the huge talking cow was greeted by a group of Tanah Burungians. Before letting them say anything, the cow-ruler spoke first: "It is a true honour to be in such beautiful and friendly country."

Klees has never seen a talking cow before, but he's been well coached on how to greet the Duque. Excusing himself, he rushes over and greets Mooo IV, offering him a box of clove-scented cigars. "Courtesy of the people of Tanah Burung," he says, leading the Duque over to one of the waiting zeppelins.

"Duque, these are the delegates from Oglethorpia. The blimp 'Jerry Cornelius' will take both your parties to Matebian up in the mountains. You all honour us with your presence."

The airship sails north for a couple of hours, followed by others bearing other vistors, and deposits them in Matebian, where dinner is being prepared. This is of course vegetarian, out of respect for Hell Bovines. In the meatime, drinks are available. You may smoke on the terraces.

At the Matebian Airfield


From behind a crowd of Tanag Burungian teenage girls, entirely ignored, as they are craning to get a look at Gordon Newell ("What a hunk!" "I so know! He's dreamy!") a man approaches the arriving delegates. He is no taller than five and a half feet, of Asiatic appearance, rather dark of complexion, his coarse hair closely cropped. Though small, he somehow radiates a sense of presence: calm, directed presence, and a benevolence evident in his honest smile and in his dark eyes. He is dressed in a dark grey suit, a slightly modernised version of the traditional Xikuangese formal attire, an orange sash marking him as a member of the Xikuangese Buddhist clergy.

"On behalf of the Most Serene Republic of Xikuang and with honour to our gracious hosts, welcome to Tanah Burung." He bows from the waist, raising his clasped hands to his forehead. "I am Xiao Ngari, and I am most honoured to meet you."

Mr. Xiao assists in showing the delegates to their blimps, greeting new arrivals as they come.

At the Hall of the Revolution

"Are you absolutely certain there are chairs for them?"

"Of course, Qzixi. They registered in advance and they're seated just to the left of the delegate from Watfordshire-- em, Herald Greta Cullinaen."

"No, I mean are there chairs for them?"

The young woman looked puzzled. "I don't quite know what you're getting at." she said.

"They're bovines, Lhyamo. I don't think they can sit in regular chairs."

Ms. Yi'i's eyes widened in understanding, and she mouthed an appreciative o-o-o-h. "I'll get right on it."

At the Matebian Airfield


From behind a crowd of Tanag Burungian teenage girls, entirely ignored, as they are craning to get a look at Gordon Newell ("What a hunk!" "I so know! He's dreamy!") a man approaches the arriving delegates. He is no taller than five and a half feet, of Asiatic appearance, rather dark of complexion, his coarse hair closely cropped. Though small, he somehow radiates a sense of presence: calm, directed presence, and a benevolence evident in his honest smile and in his dark eyes. He is dressed in a dark grey suit, a slightly modernised version of the traditional Xikuangese formal attire, an orange sash marking him as a member of the Xikuangese Buddhist clergy.

"On behalf of the Most Serene Republic of Xikuang and with honour to our gracious hosts, welcome to Tanah Burung." He bows from the waist, raising his clasped hands to his forehead. "I am Xiao Ngari, and I am most honoured to meet you."

Mr. Xiao assists in showing the delegates to their blimps, greeting new arrivals as they come.

At the Hall of the Revolution

"Are you absolutely certain there are chairs for them?"

"Of course, Qzixi. They registered in advance and they're seated just to the left of the delegate from Watfordshire-- em, Herald Greta Cullinaen."

"No, I mean are there chairs for them?"

The young woman looked puzzled. "I don't quite know what you're getting at." she said.

"They're bovines, Lhyamo. I don't think they can sit in regular chairs."

Ms. Yi'i's eyes widened in understanding, and she mouthed an appreciative o-o-o-h. "I'll get right on it."

OOC: Thanks for caring much about the cows :wink:
IC:

After thanking Klees for the box of cigars and greeting Gordon Newell, The duque Mooo IV was greeted by Xiao Ngari. The duque replied: "It is also an honour to meet you. Great is to find more nations that, like us, care for the well-being of the third world and are ready to defend their sovereignity. I really hope this conference turns into a sucess. Also, let me introduce my wife, the duchess Fussyball" The bovine pointed to the female hamster that was sleeping on his shoulder.

Aboard Larkinia One, approaching Tiga Burung

An aide walked upstairs to the private Presidential Office. She knocked gently before walking in.

"Mister President, we are on approach to Tiga Burung," she said to the assembled men.

"Thank you Aieana," Takeo Katana replied before sipping his tea. "Gentlemen, I believe we should strap ourselves in for landing."

Several of the men stood up to leave, "Javin," Takeo said, "I need you to stay a few minutes."

The young man turned around and sat back down with his brother.

"Now Javin," Takeo said after a another drink, "please try to behave yourself. I'm still getting calls from Istar about those incidents at the bar."

"But Takeo," the young man replied, "Nothing happened, I had one drink before meeting with the high priestess. I swear."

"You're flirting with the barmaid was totally unnecassary."

"I was just being nice. She was..."

"... She was 16 Javin! Jesus, I don't know why I keep you on staff..."

"I didn't know that," Javin said in his defense. Christ, this is just because mom liked me best.

The two men continued to talk as the plane touched down.

Edit: TB, I'll be glad to punch up a speech for Katana, give me a little time to get working on it.

Also, let me introduce my wife, the duchess Fussyball" The bovine pointed to the female hamster that was sleeping on his shoulder.

OOC: Thanks for caring much about the cows


ooc: Of course we care about the cows!

"I would not dream of arousing Duchess Fussyball from her repose. She looks so comfortable." Mr. Xiao smiles broadly. "Indeed, I assure you, though in my homeland we have seen much economic growth, it will change nothing as regards our determination to uphold the right of developing nations to freedom and autonomy. I hold high hope that this confeence will be every bit as successful, if not more so, as the Conference on Trade with Fragile Economies, its predecessor."

For Katana, the band strikes up in force. They seem to have learned this national anthem a little better than some of the others. Klees is a bit in awe: this is, after all, the only foreigner to be named a Hero of the Revolution in Tanah Burung, for his role at the last Third World conference. "Your Excellency, a thousand times welcome," he says as the Larkinians disembark.

---

At the conference hall, preparations for dinner are beginning. Some of the finest chefs in Tanah Burung have been asked to put their hand to vegetarian dishes. Food has been donated by the Agricultural Cooperatives. Rice abounds, but tofu, noodles, handcrafted gegetable pastries, and imitation meats almost indistinguishable from the real thing, are all present too. Everything is spiced carefully to add flavour but not offend the stomachs of foreigners used to blander foods.

Acting as host is Violeta Bi Bere, the people's representative for foreign affairs and human rights, and as such one of 11 people who share the job of President of Tanah Burung. She is a shortish, elderly woman dressed in a long red robe trimmed in black and yellow who carries a cane but seems not to need it.

Currently, she is calling for some large couches to be brought out of storage. "Make 'em shurdy," she orders. "Strong enough to support a cow. But dainty enough to look pretty in the official photos."

The black and silver Gulfstream V-SP slid through the air effortlessly, gliding in towards Tahnah Burrung. Waitkus sat back in her seat, looking out the window as the ground approached.

The tires chirrped as the plane hit the ground, rolling slowly to a stop at its designated spot. The door opened, and the automatic steps descended down to the tarmac, and two Imitoran Secret Service Gold operatives, clad in thier light armor, descended the ramp, M5AA rifles at hand. Following were two more silver operatives, wearing the standard black suit with white shirt. And not to far behind was President Elizabeth Waitkus, wearing a tastefull red dress, her medium length blode hair done into a neat pony tail, blowing lightly in the wind.

Lusaka's C-5 carried International Development Secretary Livingstone Miyanda, a secretary, and two over-sized bodyguards. The valuable transport aircraft was escorted by an AV-8B Harrier and an F-5G Freedom Fighter, which were assigned in light of the unstable regions across which the Galaxy must fly in order to reach Tanah Burung, rather than as a reflection on Lusaka's lack of faith in the competence of security forces in that nation itself. (Well, to be honest Igomo probably just wanted to show off about the fact that his nation now operated the famous Harrier 'jump jet') The escorts hoped to be allowed to refuel and await the return of the delegation.

A smiling Miyanda bounced down the deployed ramp of the huge transport aircraft, his ropey figure skirted by the two huge bodyguards each wearing on their hip a pistol which they would be willing to give up once it was apparent that Miyanda's position was sound. The little greying secretary scurried along behind, dwarfed by the other men who were all over 6' compared to his barely 5'8" standing.

How amusing. Look at the poor of the world. Thinking that they can make a difference. We expected better of Imitora, quite frankly. For shame, aiding them to persist in such illusions.

OOC: Who said anythign about aiding? I'm going to be the general opposition to it all.

OOC:Good.

IC: As a fellow Catholic nation, and a major supporter of un-excommunicating Tanah-Burung, we are sending observers.

The dark blue state jet of Apollopoli, made a smooth landing after flying endlessly for 17 hours from Apollopoli to Tanah Burung. As the plane came to a stop, the hatch opened on to a flight of stairs standing on the tarmac. Out came a woman and a younger man. Melina Mercury, the foreign secretary looked fatigued from the flight, but also from her age and her extensive political experience which has gained her unsurpassed reverance and respect in her homeland. Next to her stood Marcos Glossolalia, the youngest of the Glossolalia family in politics and also the most inexperienced. This is Marcos' first visit to an outside country on 'official state business' and with his pairing up with the revered Melina Mercouri, he hopes that he will learn a thing or two about diplomacy. Remarkably, these two diplomats were the only people who exited the plane. This diplomatic mission was noticable lacking any security convoy, reflecting the state of security in Apollopoli.

For Katana, the band strikes up in force. They seem to have learned this national anthem a little better than some of the others. Klees is a bit in awe: this is, after all, the only foreigner to be named a Hero of the Revolution in Tanah Burung, for his role at the last Third World conference. "Your Excellency, a thousand times welcome," he says as the Larkinians disembark.

Takeo stood with Javin at the top of the Airbus as the stairs met the ground.

"You see," he told Javin with a wink as the security service operatives checked the view, "You too can be adored like this once you do something important."

Javin smirked back at his older brother.

The two men walked down the steps as the band broke out in the Larkinian National Anthem, and Takeo met Klees with a smile and a handshake.

"Governor, it is a priviledge to meet you," he said warmly. "This is my younger brother, and special attache Javin."

(OOC: Sorry I am a little late, I have been out of town and the computer I am on now only has about 7 hours of internet service left. I'll be back in town tom. night, so I wont post again until around 8:00 PM Pacific time.)

A Rotovian jet touches down in Tiga Burung Airport. As the jet's doors open, a dark, long haired man wearing a linen shirt and black pants steps out of the jet. He looks arround, and walks down to the ground...He thinks to him self "Damn, if the economy doesn't pick up again soon in the ANL, we'll make the third world look rich. We need to stop experimenting with capitalism and socialism and stay solid on something."

He gathers him self, and annouces:

"I am High Lord Coyotepec, viceroy of the Aztec National League. It is an honor to be here and I look forward to both meeting you all and accomplishing much, as we have at the Conference in Rotovia. I love the moutians, reminds me of the ski resort at home." He thought to him self.

"It is my pleasure to meet the honorable leaders of Tanah Burung. We shall hope that peace, prosperity and scientific advancement shall take place in all of our countries."

The Hrstrovokian delegation arrive aboard HAF IL-76s late in the day. Foreign Affairs Minister Ibaraki heads the team.

Mr. Ibaraki has asked that the Hrstrovokian delegation be excused any engagements with Tanah Burung officals until tommorrow, the group is quite tired.

Mr. Ibaraki also seeks to meet International Development Secretary Livingstone Miyanda before the first discussion.

Mme. Gretta Cullinaen, attired in the Shiree ambassadorial red face paint and ceremonial horns, arrives flanked by two female attendant students from the Union of Tourism & Massage and two male Military dancers. They request a space within the grounds of the conference to erect their teepee.

"I would not dream of arousing Duchess Fussyball from her repose. She looks so comfortable." Mr. Xiao smiles broadly. "Indeed, I assure you, though in my homeland we have seen much economic growth, it will change nothing as regards our determination to uphold the right of developing nations to freedom and autonomy. I hold high hope that this confeence will be every bit as successful, if not more so, as the Conference on Trade with Fragile Economies, its predecessor."

The duque replied, with a smile on his bovinian face: "I also wish this conference turns into a sucess. Despite our imploded economy, we are not here for the aid - we don't want it. We are here to help other 3rd world countries in defending their rights against the bigger powers. I really have the feeling that this conference will be as successfull or even more than its predecesor."
Suddenly, the duque looked at Mme. Gretta Cullinaen, from Watfordshire, who was trying to erect a teepee.
*I hope those horns are artificial and not from a real cow*, the duque thought to himself worried....

As each leader arrives, they are escorted to their blimp and transported to the Hall of the Revolution, where food and drink are now being served. At the door, they are greeted by Violeta Bi Bere, the official host for the dinner.

(Anyone arriving, please feel free to start mingling with the other dinner guests, and we'll get the conference under way after that.)

The Xikuangese and Hell Bovinian delegations find themselves on the fastest blimp, so they can join in greeting the other dinner guests at the door. Klees decides his greeting duties have gone on long enough, and jumps on board the blimp that is carrying the Larkinian party.

Bi Bere is waiting at the door for the co-sponsors. With her are the other members of the Tanah Burung delegation to the last developing nations summit, also members of the collective presidency, Markus Rumbiak and Father Constancio Ainaro.

The Xikuangese have been in Tanah Burung for some time already to help in the planning, and she merely says: "Thank God you're here! I think the food and chairs are under control, but there's so much greeting to do! Thanks again for everything you're doing!"

"Duque Mooo, what a real pleasure to see you again! And your charming wife! Congratualtions on your marriage. As i promised, we're vegetarian-only tonight. If you'd like to smoke, the terrace is ready for you. And Duque: congratulations on your new football team, I watched them play Tanah Burung recently and i think you can expect great things from them. Although, maybe they need to lose those robes?"

"President Katana! Many congratulations on your new job, I know there were some difficulties," she smiles, unsure how touchy this subject is. "I hear this is your younger brother: I'm sure, with someone like you to guide him, he'll be a force to be reckoned with!"

Bibere says to all of this group: "Markus wants to make an opening speech at dinner. I've begged him to be brief. Any of you are welcome to join him in saying a few words while our other guests eat."

As the others enter the Hall of the Revolution, they too are greeted by Bibere.

"President Waitkus, I'm honoured to make your acquaintance," Bi Bere says. "Do feel free to speak your mind, and please don't take it personally if I disagree!"

"Secretary Miyanda, welcome! I hear your transportation was of an impressive nature. I'm sure your words will be too."

"Secretary Mercury, Mr. Glossalia, it's wonderful to see you. Madame Secretary, if you look through the telescopes on the terrace, you'll be able to see one of the wind turbine farms we built with DNAC aid. I can't thank you enough for the DNAC initiative, and I look forward to hearign you present the DNAC to the conference."

"High Lord Coyotepec, sir, welcome to Matebian. If you like, it's possible to slip out briefly for some skiiing! I'm very happy to make connections with your country."

"Minister Ibaraki, welcome. I'm told your group is tired from its journey. Your rooms are ready, please feel free to lie down for a while. The Lusakans are over there, if you'd like a word with them before we get started with the official business."

"Herald Cullinaen, your presence fills me with joy. Of course you're welcome to pitch your teepees outside. It can get chilly overnight, would you like us to set up some heaters?"

The Roanian observers are greeted by Constancio Ainaro, the Catholic priest who serves as people's representative for social justice, who shows them where the on-site chapel is located, in case they'd like to make use of it.

.... Upon entering the reception, their buzzard-feather head pieces flowing behind them, the Shiree military dancers perform a series of acrobatic tumbles before Violeta Bi Bere, ending as Mme. Cullinaen approaches the Tanah Burungian representative with a warm smile.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintence, Mme. Bi Bere - we wish you every success with this conference"

The two Tourism & Massage students mingle freely with the assembling crowd and Gretta Cullinaen cracks a wry smile through her red facepaint as she observes some of the male delegates, particularly the younger of the smartly dressed Larkinians, taking great interest in their progress. Spotting Xiao Ngari, Gretta bows low before him.

"Comrade Xiao, I trust the renewed stability in Xikuang fills you with hope for your peoples' future. It is an honour to stand beside you, representing the solidarity and ideals of the CACE"......

Bolton and Newell were both enjoying the view on the balcony outside. There was a slight breeze, but it didn't seem to bother either of them.

Bolton finished off his scotch, setting it next to two other glasses on the handrail. "Fantastic country, Tanah Burung," he mentioned taking in the view.

"Certainly," Newell agreed; in hand he had a dark beer.

Alcohol was most popular in Oglethorpia, of course.

In the meantime, after a long flight involving three stops for transfers, two stops for re-fueling, and one stop so the pilot could ask for directions, Chotokian delegate Yu Pok Tong was now impossibly lost in the Tiga Burung airport.

Fumbling through her abridged copy of Tetemelayu to Chotokian Dictionary and noticing a suspiciously familiar terminal, Pok Tong blurted out, "Dammit! I've been walking if circles for the last hour! Might as well ask for directions..."

After picking a persyn at random, Pok Tong went up to a friendly-looking Tanah Burung citizen and asked in polite (if not broken) Tetemelayu for directions to terminal seven. After receiving her answer, she quickly made her way towards the boarding gate, hoping that none of the delegates would notice the lateness of her arrival.

OOC -- Yes, this post was thrown in to excuse my general real-life lateness

"Comrade Xiao, I trust the renewed stability in Xikuang fills you with hope for your peoples' future. It is an honour to stand beside you, representing the solidarity and ideals of the CACE"......

Xiao returns Greta Cullinaen's bow, smiling.

"Ah, Madame Cullinaen, the honour is certainly mine. It is indeed good to see representatives of the Grand Duchy of Watfordshire here. Indeed, the presentation of the CACE Economic Treaty is on our agenda for this conference, and your support will be most welcome and appreciated."

He gestures to bring Duque Mooo into the conversation. "Duque Mooo, this is Madame Cullinaen of Watfordshire. Madame Cullinaen, may I present Duque Mooo of Hell Bovines? I believe you will be seated next to each other at the Conference. But please, I forget my duties. The reception dinner is about to begin, and I can assure you, Tanah Burungian cuisine is nothing short of delightful. If you'll step this way."

He proceeds to lead the delegates, gathering up any stragglers who will follow, to the dining hall.

(Latecomers, please feel free to wander in and join at any time)

As the delegates take their seats, dozens of wait staff in crisp white suits move among them, never allowing their glasses to get below half-full, and a gemelan orchestra plays gently in the background. A chilled cucumber and avocado soup is served, with a spice that it's almost, but not quite, possible to identify. Somewhere between coriander and cumin, maybe.

Bi Bere walks over to lead Yu Pok Tong into the dining hall. "My apologies on the poor directions," she says. "The fault is of course all ours. I hope the dinner will make up for your difficult trip."

"Hey, wait up!"

A short woman with red hair in a green dress stumbles into the Hall of the Revolution just as the delegates make their way into the dining hall. Catching her breath, she proceeds to say "Friends, Comrades... Oh bloody hell, skip the fancy talk. I've buggered this up enough already. Meg Martinus, delegate for The Weegies. I'm sorry, I just was wandering around the city, so lovely, very friendly, when I noticed the time. Had to rush here, I'm afraid. I'm not too late though, so I trust I haven't missed anything important?"

"Nothing at all, comrade!" says Markus Rumbiak, also running late for dinner. "Enter the hall, my Weegie friend! I can highly recommend the simulated tofu pork satay!"

"I shall bear that in mind. Is there a seating plan? Or will I just place myself wherever there's a spare seat?"

Elizabeth sipped the soup (tee hee), suprised to find it chilled. She looked around her table, and around the room in general, trying to see what was going on. She picked up on the Larkinians, her brief told her they would be here, along with soem strange types. More specifically, the cow people. Intresting, she thought to herself, I wonder if htey taste as good as teh beef we get back home, she continued. She wondered if the persons at her able would might be up for convorsation

OOC: Any one specific sitting with anyone?

OOC: Uh, not specifically. At least, not my folks.

Elizabeth sipped the soup (tee hee), suprised to find it chilled.

OOC: Mmm... Gazpacho.... *ahem* Where was I?

Sit where you like. We're all jus' plain folks here.

Your second appetizer is the above-mentioned imitation pork satay. This is not pork, it is tofu product cunningly crafted to look and taste like pork. With it is a zesty peanut sauce.

Bolton and Newell enjoyed the dish; obviously fooled the trickery of the chef.

The delegate from Imitora found herself seated directly opposite Ms. Yi'i Lhyamo. Ms. Yi'i is a small, trim woman, dressed formally in traditional Xikuangese full, ankle-length dark blue skirt paired with a more Western style grey jacket. Her unrelentingly straight blue-black hair is cut just below the jaw, and is left to sit as it will. She wears octagonal wire-rimmed spectacles, and her narrow eyes close nearly to slits when she smiles, which she does, often.

"I hope you will find it to your taste, President Waitkus." she offers. "For myself, I am very much enjoying my stay in Tanah Burung, busy though we've been with all the preparations. It's a spectacular country. I do hope you'll get the chance to see it after the conference."

Meg takes a seat at the same table, and begins to eat ravenously.

"Mmm..m" *swallows* "Sorry, I haven't eaten since breakfast. It's been coffee all the way since then, excuse the jitteriness... I find Tanah Burung such a wonderful country, don't you? No wonder I was nearly late, looking around the city and all. I mean, it's one of the reasons I became part of the diplomatic service anyway, to see all the different cultures and ideas and different ways of doing things... Could you pass the bread, please?"

Elizabeth bit hessitantly into the pork, chewed, and swallowed. She imidieatly knew it wasn't pork, which was suprising because she didn't like pork. White meat had never been popular in Imitora, and as such, not many people really liked it. However, she ate it out of politness.

She smiled at the Xikuang delgate, took a ip of water, and responded. "Yes, it is quite beautiful here. I would much like to see the country before I leve," she finished, taking another bite of the food.

Mr. Qzixi passes a basket of freshly baked rolls to M. Martinus. "Please, do make up for your lost lunch." he says. "There is quite enough. And may I welcome you."

At another part of the table, Yi'i seems much more interested in her food than her cross-table counterpart. "Oh, you must. The landscape here is stunning, and the people-- well, one doesn't often encounter such openness and friendliness. This is a wonderful place."

Lhyamo pauses to take a big mouthful of the tofu satay, swallowing satisfiedly, before continuing.

"So, if you don't mind my talking shop, what are your hopes fpr the conference, President Waitkus?"

"My hopes?" Elizabeht asked, brushing her hair behind her ear. That you all see the futility of this, and realize that your money shouldn't go to a bunch of piss poor nations who need to stop bitching and get on tehir own two feet without being babied along. she didnt say. "Well, I'd just liket o seee where this goes, and maybe open up more diplomatic realtions with other nations," she said, befor taking another sip of water.

Lhyamo nods. 'So you're here mostly as an observer. That's fine. I hope you like what you see. For myself, I'm here in part to advocate on behalf of developing nations as regards autonomy, very much following in the footsteps of our delegate to the Conference on Trade with Fragile Economies-- Professor Kham was one of my teachers, you know-- and to advocate an economic treaty we hope will gather interest." She smiles again, mopping up the last of her peanut sauce with a bit of bread, which she devours.

Miyanda's almost spaced-out grin grew still greater at the host's mention of his "impressive transport". President Igomo would be pleased to hear that the Galaxy had (purportedly) made an impression.

Once the meal had begun Miyanda's stringy frame went through the food before him at an alarming rate.

He had been half prepared for a meal without meat- likely quite an expense considering that this is a third world solidarity conference- so he was quite happy to see the pork arrive. Being quite unfamiliar with tofu he couldn't help trying to picture the queer animal from which this cut must be taken.

Being generally one of the first to finish each course, Miyanda would sit with his clumsy looking hands folded before him, casting his gaze back and forth across the delegations. The smile remained, of course.

(ooc:Yeah, he is probably stoned. What of it? heh. I am going to attempt sleep, so Miyanda may be quiet. Quite likely I will fail in my aim and return shortly. We'll see.)

Lhyamo nods. 'So you're here mostly as an observer. That's fine. I hope you like what you see. For myself, I'm here in part to advocate on behalf of developing nations as regards autonomy, very much following in the footsteps of our delegate to the Conference on Trade with Fragile Economies-- Professor Kham was one of my teachers, you know-- and to advocate an economic treaty we hope will gather interest." She smiles again, mopping up the last of her peanut sauce with a bit of bread, which she devours.

"Exactly. I might have somethign to say here and there, but, mostly just to see wqhats going on." Elizabeth two finished the pork and penut sauce dinner, and took another larger sip of water.

The waiters begin to circulate again, picking up the satay and serving the rijstaffel -- mounds of saffron rice, surrounded with a selection of curries. Each delegate's plate is topped with the flag of their country, made from edible rice paper. "You don't have to eat yours, if you have laws against flag-desecration," Bi Bere says to the table at large, as she uses the Tanah Burung flag to scoop up a mouthful of lentil curry.

Such an international forum could be allowed to take place without any trouble makers, count me in.
Troublyest Maker :twisted:

"Comrade Xiao, I trust the renewed stability in Xikuang fills you with hope for your peoples' future. It is an honour to stand beside you, representing the solidarity and ideals of the CACE"......

Xiao returns Greta Cullinaen's bow, smiling.

"Ah, Madame Cullinaen, the honour is certainly mine. It is indeed good to see representatives of the Grand Duchy of Watfordshire here. Indeed, the presentation of the CACE Economic Treaty is on our agenda for this conference, and your support will be most welcome and appreciated."

He gestures to bring Duque Mooo into the conversation. "Duque Mooo, this is Madame Cullinaen of Watfordshire. Madame Cullinaen, may I present Duque Mooo of Hell Bovines? I believe you will be seated next to each other at the Conference. But please, I forget my duties. The reception dinner is about to begin, and I can assure you, Tanah Burungian cuisine is nothing short of delightful. If you'll step this way."

He proceeds to lead the delegates, gathering up any stragglers who will follow, to the dining hall.

After thanking Violeta Bi Bere for all the special attentions and being introduced to Madame Cullinaen from Watfordshire, the duque finally sat to enjoy of his dinner. He was enjoying his salad while looking at the other delegates with curiosity. Her cowish eyes stopped on the beautiful Elizabeth from Imitora, who was also looking at the duque with curiosity. *I wonder what is she thinking about. Anyway, she looks like a friendly person - I'll try to talk to her later*, the duque thought to himself.
He later forgot of his thoughts when the rijstaffel was brought in. "The flag is SO tasty" he said with a joyful smile.

Newell carefully set aside the Oglethorpian flag; Bolton proceeded to eat it, earning him an elbow to the ribs from Newell. Otherwise the two at contendtedly, neither seemingly bothered by the vegitarian meal.

Markus Rumbiak, a big man in a very inappropriate plaid blazer, strode to the front of the room. Rumbiak is Governor of Loro Sae province and one of the senior members of the collective presidency. The plan had been for no speeches to take place at dinner, but Rumbiak insisted on unleashing his rhetoric. Some of the other Tanah Burung representatives can be seen squirming in discomfort at various points during his oration.

http://www.abc.net.au/international/features/bowling_papua/pics/theys_eluay.jpg
Markus Rumbiak

"My friends, fellow representatives of the Majority World, welcome and well met!" he declaims loudly. "I hope you find the food to your liking, and that some of you will stay on and see something of our country when we are finished here. From the high fastnesses of Matebian to the hot lowlands of Ukun Rasikan to the holy places of Burung-yang-membuat-dunia and my own forested province of Loro Sae, our people would welcome you most heartily."

"Friends, fellow representatives of the toiling people of the earth, it has been long -- too long -- since the Developing Nations Conference in the storied and beatiful city of Golden Agate. Some of us were there; others are here for the first time at a conference of the developing world. The story that we began to write there, one of freedom from economic tyranny imposed by the rich, we shall write another chapter in that story here.

"Friends, fellow representatives of those whose voices are silenced, some of us were colonies once. My own country was colonized, brutally and viciously, its wealth stolen and its people enslaved. Today, colonialism is ended for us here, but neo-colonialism lives on. There are some countries that seek to keep our peoples as low-wage investment zones, as cheap labour, as markets for their industries. They may not be malicious, it is perhaps their corporations rather than their governments that try to control us through this new form of economic colonialism. Still, the cards are stacked against us.

"But, friends, we have the power to change all this. If we stand together and force a change in the terms of trade, we can make a difference. We can end the control of the world economy by corporations that care only for their bottom line. We can return control to the people of the world, to the people of all countries equally. I know we will take steps to that goal here."

"I thought there wasn't going to be any speeches yet." murmurs Meg to Mr. Qzixi "Oh well, it isn't as if I'll be complaining... This curry is delicious."

Meg stops for a moment, and sighs. "I hope the unveiling of the new treaty is going to go well. We don't need another blow to CACE at this moment. Especially with the goings on in mainland Aperin, SeOCC and Eugenia at loggerheads with each other, your country with its recent troubles, everyone on edge, and the WBO relations have never been frostier... I fear for the future of the CACE in international politics. We may end up a collossal joke...Which is why this treaty must go well. At least, I feel that way."

Elizabeth listened to the speech, eating teh food she had been given. Yeah, right, she thought to herself, sipping some water.

Eulalia arrived by sailplane, the light, slim vehicle silently approaching, like a giant soaring white albatross of aluminite and plastic and nanomachinery. It quietly touched down, light as a feather, with hardly a gust of warm air from the millions of tiny chemical energy-fired microturbines on the wing surface. Eulalia was dressed in a white gown and light cotton pants, and her plain brown hair was tied in a simple ponytail behind her. She took the nearest mass-transportation system to the conference hall and appeared wide-eyed and nervous.

She had never been to a formal international conference before, and the butterflies in her stomach were doing the can-can while riding on an elephant with parkinson's disease. And she was a little late.

She entered.

Upon hearing the speech, the duque started clapping, along with most of the present delegates. He, then, commented with Civic, her representative.
"What a nice speech. I really hope all this becomes truth soon."
In response, Civic muttered a 'yeah, right'. She wasn't paying very much attention: Her eyes were about to close as a consequence of not sleeping well the night before.
Suddenly, the cows saw a hungry-looking woman entering the room - she was the delegate from Freebodnik V

"I thought there wasn't going to be any speeches yet." murmurs Meg to Mr. Qzixi "Oh well, it isn't as if I'll be complaining... This curry is delicious."

ooc: oh, there weren't, but sometimes you can't hold a politician back. :wink:

Eulalia arrived by sailplane, the light, slim vehicle silently approaching, like a giant soaring white albatross of aluminite and plastic and nanomachinery. It quietly touched down, light as a feather, with hardly a gust of warm air from the millions of tiny chemical energy-fired microturbines on the wing surface. Eulalia was dressed in a white gown and light cotton pants, and her plain brown hair was tied in a simple ponytail behind her. She took the nearest mass-transportation system to the conference hall and appeared wide-eyed and nervous.

She had never been to a formal international conference before, and the butterflies in her stomach were doing the can-can while riding on an elephant with parkinson's disease. And she was a little late.

She entered.

Bi Bere rushed over to greet the young diplomat, forgetting her cane. She is possibly just as nervous, never havign acted as host before, but maybe hides her emotions a bit better. "Welcome, welcome," she said. "Please, let me show you to your seat. I'm curious, why is your country called Freebodnik V? Are there other Freebodniks?"

ooc: oh, there weren't, but sometimes you can't hold a politician back. :wink:

OOC: Oh, I know, I know... :wink: Just my little IC bit.

Bi Bere is waiting at the door for the co-sponsors. With her are the other members of the Tanah Burung delegation to the last developing nations summit, also members of the collective presidency, Markus Rumbiak and Father Constancio Ainaro.

*snip*

"President Katana! Many congratulations on your new job, I know there were some difficulties," she smiles, unsure how touchy this subject is. "I hear this is your younger brother: I'm sure, with someone like you to guide him, he'll be a force to be reckoned with!"

Takeo shook Bi Bere's hand then gave her a hug, "It's been far too long," he said with a smile. Then he shook Rumbiak's hand, "Governor. It's wonderful to see you again.

"Thank you for the congratulations. Yes, there were... complications," he said with a sad smile, "Some would call it a coup, depending on which version of Webster's you decided to read," he finished with a wink.

"Ummm.... yes, this is my brother Javin. I've already asked him to be on his best behavior during the conference, so I know how he won't do anything but be charming," he added.

"It's nice to meet you all," Javin smiled at them.

As dinner commenced, the two ate and talked with Bi Bere and Rumbiak. Then as Rumbiak rose to speak, Takeo flashed a wink at Javin and whispered, "This will be interesting."

After the speech the two applauded and Javin leaned to Takeo and added with a grin, "Certainly worth the price of admission."

"I thought there wasn't going to be any speeches yet." murmurs Meg to Mr. Qzixi "Oh well, it isn't as if I'll be complaining... This curry is delicious."

Meg stops for a moment, and sighs. "I hope the unveiling of the new treaty is going to go well. We don't need another blow to CACE at this moment. Especially with the goings on in mainland Aperin, SeOCC and Eugenia at loggerheads with each other, your country with its recent troubles, everyone on edge, and the WBO relations have never been frostier... I fear for the future of the CACE in international politics. We may end up a collossal joke...Which is why this treaty must go well. At least, I feel that way."

Tashi waits until the speech has been completed, claping politely with the others; the Xikuangese, it might be noticed, though they are seated apart, clap in unison.

"I know, I know. And there was no small incident in your own country recently, wasn't there? I hope affairs on that front are working out? Indeed, there has been a lot of trouble recently for Aperin and the CACE... well, the Coalition membership forms a strong alliance. I have every faith that at the end our solidarity will prevail over our troubles. But indeed, the economic treaty is of vital importance at this time. I'm pleased to see the CACE so well represented."

"Yes, it is. Us, you, Watfordshire... there's lots of us here. Although, we've had a recent economic upswing. Our economy is now at the recored level, for us at least" she smiles sardonically, "of "Developing"."

"Yes, there was a bomb. Terrible thing, not least because it's brought all the old lot back... Oh? The old lot? Well, what I refer to as "the old lot" are the countries that were involved with us a few years ago, when we first entered international politics. Principally, it's the Attican Empire, McLeod03, and Talaax. Although Talaax merely sent their condolences, the other two have sent... well, I have no idea what they've sent. Or what they're doing back in The Weegies. It's all very tentative at the moment."

At least one of the Xikuang or Weegies delegation notices a small, forty something woman, scan the crowd and then begin to approach them. she appears to be slightly flustered when she arrives. At an opportune moment she introduces herself.

"Hello. Fiona Henderson, Celdonian Overseas Trade and Development."

Being almost exclusively involved in the CACE trade network, it is very possible that some of the group will have met her before.

As dinner commenced, the two ate and talked with Bi Bere and Rumbiak. Then as Rumbiak rose to speak, Takeo flashed a wink at Javin and whispered, "This will be interesting."

After the speech the two applauded and Javin leaned to Takeo and added with a grin, "Certainly worth the price of admission."

Bi Bere looks over at the brothers. "I suppose now I'll have to play good cop with our more capitalist friends, now that we've heard from bombastic cop. If you'll excuse me, my dear ones."

She heads over to Newell and asks him: "Tell me, how is your organ-growing conference progressing? It's an area we'd like to get into, once our economy improves. After the number of banquets i've been too recently, a new liver might hit the spot."

"Tentative indeed. A condition I know very well. Of course, if there's anything we in the Most Serene Republic can do-- I know, we're very far away, but at all times we will stand beside our allies-- you have but to ask. The elections may pretty much shut the country down but we can still jump when we need to."

Qzixi Tashi finishes off his curry along with the last portion of the Xikuangese flag. "You know, I'd love to visit The Weegies sometime. I hear your climate is wonderfully tropical. It would make a nice change."

At least one of the Xikuang or Weegies delegation notices a small, forty something woman, scan the crowd and then begin to approach them. she appears to be slightly flustered when she arrives. At an opportune moment she introduces herself.

"Hello. Fiona Henderson, Celdonian Overseas Trade and Development."

Being almost exclusively involved in the CACE trade network, it is very possible that some of the group will have met her before.

Constancio Ainaro, a short man in a priest's collar, is handling greeting duties. "Ms Henderson, i'm very pleased indeed to see a representative from Celdonia here. We've been listening to your CBC radio broadcasts with great interest lately." He calls to attract a waiter. "Brother, some spiced lobster bisque for our guest, she must be tired from her journey."

"Ah, Fiona, so good to see you here!" Tashi says brightly; one of Xikuang's trade coordinators with the CACE, they have indeed enjoyed business relations and have frequently been spottend in the CACE Bar and Grill over a pint and a game of cribbage. "Please, there's an empty seat right here, do join us. You must be tired."

....."Duque Mooo - it is an honour" Gretta Cullinaen bows and tentatively clasps a hoofhand in greeting. "I was most impressed by your transport - such style is seldom seen, but please, tell me more about the nation of Hells' Bovines, I am most interested about the distribution of pasture and the the lifestyle of your subjects. We in Watfordshire are somewhat hedonistic in our appetities and as I noticed your penchant for cigars, I thought you might like to sample some of the finer crop of Shiree leaf after this evenings proceedings... should you care to join us in our teepee, you and your charming wife will be most welcome to enjoy its effects, along with the complimentary ministrations of Madeline and Yashmina, our Tourism and Massage students."....

....."Duque Mooo - it is an honour" Gretta Cullinaen bows and tentatively clasps a hoofhand in greeting. "I was most impressed by your transport - such style is seldom seen, but please, tell me more about the nation of Hells' Bovines, I am most interested about the distribution of pasture and the the lifestyle of your subjects. We in Watfordshire are somewhat hedonistic in our appetities and as I noticed your penchant for cigars, I thought you might like to sample some of the finer crop of Shiree leaf after this evenings proceedings... should you care to join us in our teepee, you and your charming wife will be most welcome to enjoy its effects, along with the complimentary ministrations of Madeline and Yashmina, our Tourism and Massage students."....

"It is my honour. I would love to pay you a visit at the beautiful teepee you have erected there. Thanks for your offer.", the duque replies.
"What can I tell you about my country? Well...let's see. If you get tired stop me, please. We hell bovines get a little enthusastic when speaking about our land." *winks an eye*
"As you may have noticed, we are a race of sentient cows who happen to love cigars and hay salads and we come from another world far from here, a world called 'Diablo 2'. But one day our world collapsed and we were miracously teleported to this world, the NS world. Here our civilization begun to develop, but we were colonized by a spanish-speaking human nation. They used us as cattle! Can you believe that? as cattle!
For many years our race forgot about liberty and resigned to be the cattle of humans. But then, under the guidance of the revolutionary hero Mooo Blackhooves, we made a revolution and kicked out the colonists.
Then we stablished our government form: An ecotopian grand duchy, that is, an enviromentalist grand duchy where the duque is democratically elected, where there is no private property and where the duque must ask all important decisions to its populace by referendum in a direct-democractic-like way.
We, then,lived in peace for 400 years. Then, I was elected duque and our country decided to break its diplomatic and political isolation. We are now a rather known nation of the international scene."
"Well, I guess that's enough about us. Please do tell me about your country..."

OOC: I guess that's more than enough info. :D But if you want more, you can always read the Hell Bovines' factbook entry: http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1752166#1752166

Miyanda's big hands flapped about as he applauded.
As a student of President Igomo's politics, he was quite impressed with Rumbiak's impromtu speech. He was generally quite excited about this notion of global upheaval.

Observing some of the stranger...ahem..people at the conference, Livingstone considered Maybe I should cut down..

Ever mindful of the humuliation the Commonwealth endured enroute to the Golden Agate Conference, the Prime Minister's new Bankfield Mk. IV aerotransport was checked from stem to stern before he was allowed to even look at it. At last, and with much fanfare, the small party departed from Shadoran Aerodock, making it to Matebian without major incident.

Once there, the small group - which only included one member from the Shieldian Empire, but two from the Dominions and one from a E.G.C. holding - disembarked, making their way as quietly as possible to the dinner table. There, they listened to Governor Rumbiak's speech, P.M. Dhawan with amusement and the Lord MacIntyre with terror.

During the short words, Dhawan cast his eyes about the assembled delegates, smiling as they lay upon the Katana brothers. He smiled and nodded at Javin, clapping as Rumbiak came to a close.

(translation: sorry I missed so much of this! It's been a hectic weekend, and I hope that I'll be able to devote more of my attention to N.S. as the week starts. Sorry again!)

Then, I was elected duque and our country decided to break its diplomatic and political isolation. We are now a rather known nation of the international scene."
"Well, I guess that's enough about us. Please do tell me about your country..."


..."Well, Apart from the lack of sentient 2 metre tall bovinoids, it would seem our nations have much in common!" Mme. Cullinaen exclaimed with pleasure. "The Shiree are a peaceful people, striving for enjoyable equality within our populace and also to furthering the causes of the oppressed peoples and workers of the world, who don't share the benefits of an enlightened figurehead such as yourself... I will not bore you with further details now (ooc: factfile entry, map etc. not quite complete), but I implore you to establish an embassy within our capital, BRightOn, once this conference has run its' course... and don't mind my horns - they are purely ceremonial and fashioned from ceramic. Now, please excuse me Duque, I must spend a minute with my colleagues from the CACE before the conference proper gets underway"...

..."Well, Apart from the lack of sentient 2 metre tall bovinoids, it would seem our nations have much in common!" Mme. Cullinaen exclaimed with pleasure. "The Shiree are a peaceful people, striving for enjoyable equality within our populace and also to furthering the causes of the oppressed peoples and workers of the world, who don't share the benefits of an enlightened figurehead such as yourself... I will not bore you with further details now (ooc: factfile entry, map etc. not quite complete), but I implore you to establish an embassy within our capital, BRightOn, once this conference has run its' course... and don't mind my horns - they are purely ceremonial and fashioned from ceramic. Now, please excuse me Duque, I must spend a minute with my colleagues from the CACE before the conference proper gets underway"...

"Great is to find that our nations are so similar. Of course, we would gladly establish an embassy on your capital and , of course, your nation is also invited to establish an embassy on our capital, Moo Moo Farm. Also, what a relief is to hear that the horns are made of ceramic. They were starting to scare the crap outta me." The duque replied.
After Mm.e Cullinaen left to talk to the other members of CACE, the duque thought to himself *cow, i really need to smoke one cigar*.
He slowly stood up and walked torwards the terrace to smoke.
*I hope there is somebody on the terrace to talk to*,he thought.....

Elizabeth listned, rather intently as a matter of fact, to all the goings on around her. Of course, she was trying not to get to involved in any of the convorsations. She watched as oone of the cow people left the room, and contimplated going out there, and knocking him off, for the general purpose of a cow that big has to have good meat. She decided against it, and continued to walk around, looking for something to talk do or someone to talk to. She had a slight feeling of being, well, out of place. Here she was, at a confrence full fo what seemed to be socialistic nations whowanted to, as the brief had informed her, give more and more to the less fortunate of the world, and in the mean time she was attemptign to negotiate a 4+ billion dollar deal for the purchase of productions and possible sale rights of Anti-Matter engines.

Seeing that the atmosphere was not rigidly formal, the two Lusakan under-secretaries had taken out mobile phones, and were trying to get reception (cue two little African men in dated-looking suits waving phones in the air above their heads and squinting at the displays)

Miyanda's smile was briefly interrupted as a thought struck him.

The lanky fellow rose, beret still in place, military-style olives slightly crumpled, and began in a quite restrained fashion to seek the attention of his fellow delegates and his hosts.

"Hmmm, interesting food." Coyotepec thought to himself. "Very interesting indeed. I never thought vegitarian food could be prepaired so well. Going from conference to conference has it's advantages."

OOC: The Katana brothers... I should have just made them my Japanese hit men. Well, there's always life after politics ;)

Bi Bere looks over at the brothers. "I suppose now I'll have to play good cop with our more capitalist friends, now that we've heard from bombastic cop. If you'll excuse me, my dear ones."

She heads over to Newell and asks him: "Tell me, how is your organ-growing conference progressing? It's an area we'd like to get into, once our economy improves. After the number of banquets i've been too recently, a new liver might hit the spot."

Javin smiled at her, "Bombastic cop? It was quite... fascinating actually."

Takeo nodded, "We'll see you in a few moments." he added.

Javin and Takeo watched as Dhawan walked in and sat down. "That's P.M. Dhawan, from Iansisle," Javin whispered to Takeo.

"Another one you managed to upset," Takeo said with a wry smile.

"Actually no, thank you very much," Javin said back and smiled back at Dhawan.

Seeing that the atmosphere was not rigidly formal, the two Lusakan under-secretaries had taken out mobile phones, and were trying to get reception (cue two little African men in dated-looking suits waving phones in the air above their heads and squinting at the displays)

Miyanda's smile was briefly interrupted as a thought struck him.

The lanky fellow rose, beret still in place, military-style olives slightly crumpled, and began in a quite restrained fashion to seek the attention of his fellow delegates and his hosts.

(ooc: oh, informality is the country's middle name!)

Rumbiak wipes perspiration from his face, his shouting completed, and spots what appears to be the only military man in the room. He strides over, his hand outstretched, and booms out: "Hello, hello. Excellency, or whatever you'd like to be called. Not too often we see someone dressed as a soldier in Tanah Burung. Reminds me of the war of independence. Tell me about yourself."

**warning: possible issue spoilers**

Apollopoli's foreign secretary and peace secretariat remained relatively quiet throughout the evening's procedings. They whispered in each others ears, they were both very busy and had to deal with national issues particularly calls for a term-limit on aged government members. This is particularly worrying for Melina Mercury as she was approaching the worrying age that was of particular discussion in morning news programs. Ultimately, they recognised that the most important duty at the moment is to attend this conference.


(OOC: Just roleplaying to explain my relative silence over the last couple of days. I thought i'd add reference to the new issue i recieved today :D But i should be around when it comes to the proper discussion .)

"Over-Secritarry Livingstyone Miyandaa!" The smiling Lusakan bean-pole replied, taking Rumbiak's extended hand and shaking it in a rather exaggerated fashion. "..Iiigomo Social Prrogress Parrty Goverrnment, The Illied Staytes of Lusyaka. Pleased to meet you Myster Rrumbiak." Miyanda droned on, speaking quite slowly and with a fairly heavy *almost* South African accent.

"Oy yav been instrructed ti till yi ov a ten miyllion dollarr donation 'to the confrince', made by an inonymous goverynment wiyshing to atone firr iits sins."

Miyanda didn't know exactly what the benefactor wanted done with the money, but he did go on to explain that the sum was currently waiting in a Lusakan account (where of course it had not been earning any presidential figures any interest at all).

(Yeah, I think I'll drop Miyanda's accent after this post establishing it. You can just imagine in future ;) )

(Yeah, I think I'll drop Miyanda's accent after this post establishing it. You can just imagine in future ;) )

ooc: For a minute there I thought I was reading Trainspotting in Dutch. ;)

"Over-Secritarry Livingstyone Miyandaa!" The smiling Lusakan bean-pole replied, taking Rumbiak's extended hand and shaking it in a rather exaggerated fashion. "..Iiigomo Social Prrogress Parrty Goverrnment, The Illied Staytes of Lusyaka. Pleased to meet you Myster Rrumbiak." Miyanda droned on, speaking quite slowly and with a fairly heavy *almost* South African accent.

"Oy yav been instrructed ti till yi ov a ten miyllion dollarr donation 'to the confrince', made by an inonymous goverynment wiyshing to atone firr iits sins."

Miyanda didn't know exactly what the benefactor wanted done with the money, but he did go on to explain that the sum was currently waiting in a Lusakan account (where of course it had not been earning any presidential figures any interest at all).

(Yeah, I think I'll drop Miyanda's accent after this post establishing it. You can just imagine in future ;) )

Well, thank heavens for that! Ii'll trrryie to imaygine it ijn the futuur. :wink:

Ten million dollars? Rumbiak thinks to himself. That would outfit a nifty gubernatorial palace. Someone would be sure to notive though.

"The conference costs are covered already," he replies instead, almost wistfully. "But I think there's a place for discussing possible gifts and aid on our agenda, maybe under the item on cooperation among developing countries. From everything I hear, it looks like getting money will be the least of our problems!"

Gretta Cullinaen, a sombre looking Military Dancer in tow, introduces herself to Meg Martinus of the Weedgies and Fiona Henderson; the Celdonian Representative.

"Enchanted to make your acquaintance comrades, I apologise on behalf of the people of Watfordshire for our lack of diplomatic endeavour to both your nations as yet. - please accept these gifts as tokens of respect from our humble people - I've no doubt you will enjoy the ingredients, the recipes and their effects"

The MD presents both ambassadors with a small intricately carved wooden box and a scroll.

..."Meg; Our greatest sympathies go to the people of Buchanan... Fiona, we are most impressed by the Celdonian automobile industry, I hear there are none better in Aperin - I'd very much like to discuss the possibilty with you, of importing some, and of course the relevant environmental issues involved during our stay"....

Unfortunately, Foreign Minister Ibaraki will have to withdraw from the summit. Boroglia has become a matter of increasing concern for the Government, and Ibaraki is needed to address Al Anbar on their mandatory imposition of learning the Arabic language in Central Boroglia.

Duty calls? We understand, and send best wishes to the people of Hrstrovokia.

Does anyone have chatting, scheming or the like to get done, or shall we proceed to the conference itself?

Proceed 8)

Bi Bere rushed over to greet the young diplomat, forgetting her cane. She is possibly just as nervous, never havign acted as host before, but maybe hides her emotions a bit better. "Welcome, welcome," she said. "Please, let me show you to your seat. I'm curious, why is your country called Freebodnik V? Are there other Freebodniks?"

Eulalia smiled nervously at the nice lady and gave her a short bow - unsure of what the best ettiquette would be. As they walked to her seat, Eulalia attempted to whisper over the crowd, stumbling over words in her apprehension.

"Um - actually that's kind of an - um - interesting story. You see, uh, w-we were f-founded by Puh-Puh-Professor Wohlsteinberg. He - er- was rather eccentric and he - he wanted a name that would kind of somehow relate to freedom and such, and since his m-mother was Russian, he got the idea that it should sound a little russian. An-and- the f-five c-comes from -uh erm- you see, well it's kind of like this - he was kind of a social scientist, you see (though you know he really was a nanotech scientist, um - right) and so- er - that is to say - he wanted to see what would happen if-if-if he f-founded several colonies - to see wh-which one would like err... f-function the best. So umm... yeah... I guess that's all to it..."

Her voice trailed off towards the end, her pale cheeks bright red as she turned her eyes down in embarrassment.

Bi Bere rushed over to greet the young diplomat, forgetting her cane. She is possibly just as nervous, never havign acted as host before, but maybe hides her emotions a bit better. "Welcome, welcome," she said. "Please, let me show you to your seat. I'm curious, why is your country called Freebodnik V? Are there other Freebodniks?"

Eulalia smiled nervously at the nice lady and gave her a short bow - unsure of what the best ettiquette would be. As they walked to her seat, Eulalia attempted to whisper over the crowd, stumbling over words in her apprehension.

"Um - actually that's kind of an - um - interesting story. You see, uh, w-we were f-founded by Puh-Puh-Professor Wohlsteinberg. He - er- was rather eccentric and he - he wanted a name that would kind of somehow relate to freedom and such, and since his m-mother was Russian, he got the idea that it should sound a little russian. An-and- the f-five c-comes from -uh erm- you see, well it's kind of like this - he was kind of a social scientist, you see (though you know he really was a nanotech scientist, um - right) and so- er - that is to say - he wanted to see what would happen if-if-if he f-founded several colonies - to see wh-which one would like err... f-function the best. So umm... yeah... I guess that's all to it..."

Her voice trailed off towards the end, her pale cheeks bright red as she turned her eyes down in embarrassment.

As Bi Bere led the new delegate from Freebodnik V to the proceedings, Yi'i Lhyamo- her earlier conversation partner gone- perks up, seeming to take an interest in the shy young woman. She intercepts Bi Bere and Eulalia, bowing from the waist, hands clasped.

"Welcome, friend; Eulalia, of Freebodnik V? Please do make yourself comfortable, and grab what you can food-wise-- the conference should be starting soon, and none of us should go on an empty stomach, especially if it's Tanah Burungian cuisine. I must say I've not had such a delicious curry in ages." She smiles genuinely, her heavily slanted eyes narrowing near to closed as she does so.

Checking to make sure stragglers had all eaten, Bi Bere headed for the doors to the conference hall. Rumbiak rushed ahead to throw them open with a flourish.

The hall is lined in mahogany walls, decorated with the flags of the states assembled. A large banner says, in Tetemelayu and English: "Konferansi Soldaritas Dunia Ketiga -- Third World Solidarity Conference."

A large table in the shape of the number 3 awaits. Ushers show the delegates to their places, arranged alphabetically around the table. A few vacant places remain for late-comers.

Bi Bere swiches on her microphone. "Friends, welcome again. Your presence honours us.

"Our first item is means of political and economic cooperation among the countries of the Third World. We are pleased to have some developed states present among us, and they of course have the right to speak. But this item is meant mainly for the countries of the Third World themselves to share ideas and experiences. My colleague Rumbiak has already shared his thoughts, and he may speak again." Though i hope not,, she thinks to herself. "I now declare the floor open to others."

The Iansislean delegation, which when compared to its predecessor was tactful and quiet, lowered their napkins and followed the crowd to the meeting hall. Dhawan edged his group over towards Javin's as they walked. Old alliances were as vital to keep up as new ones were to form.

"We got it? How much...YAHTZEE!" Elizabeth shouted into the reciever of the small Nokia. She looked around suddenly, hoping she hadn't disturbed anyone, and proceded into the confrence hall with the rest of the delegates.

Takeo Katana looked around the room, starting with Governor Rumbiak, half-hoping he would have something more to say.

Javin looked around the room, ending with Governor Rumbiak, hoping he didn't have another outburst hiding inside of him. ;) Then he saw P.M. Dhawan heading his direction, and smiled at him in relief.

my name is kurtis and its been nice to meet all of u......... im the person in charge of warstreet and i need help to keep it under control........... so if any body would like to be my allie just give me a hola 8)

While the students from the University of Tourism & Massage make flirtatious chatter with the waiters and the two Shiree Military Dancers practice light sparring on the balcony, Gretta Cullinaen makes her way purposefully to the conference hall with the other delegates.

After everyone has taken their seats and Bi Bere finishes her opening speech, the Watfordshire ambassador quickly rises to speak.

"Fellow delegates; Comrades and 'politicians' alike - my only sorrow in addressing you, is the need to have to make such a distinction.
Whether all of you had time to digest the words of Monsieur Rubinak during our delightful meal; I for one, was most impressed by his sentiments.

Our own people - the Shiree, though existing in a simple fashion compared to some of those whose representatives are present, consider ourselves lucky enough to eat as well as we all have this evening. We consider ourselves lucky enough to have friends and allies prepared to stand by us and to 'watch our backs' - for all of us here realise that no nation can expect to survive alone.

Whether the people who we are here to support - whether the oppressed workers of the world must stand up against those who control their destinies in their infantile search for profit, or can obtain their freedom and equality through such diplomatic initiatives as we may contrive within this very hall... it is clear that by our presence we mean to strive for the latter. Yet while my words may sound hollow to some, and while they remain empty without the actions required to fulfill them; it is our fervent hope that the initiatives that the CACE will bring to this conference may benefit all of our people, in an attempt to bridge the gap between those who have, and those who are in such great need. In peace, I salute you all, on behalf of the people of Watfordshire."

Mme. Cullinaen bows low and retakes her seat. Her speech though confidently delivered, betrays the inexperience and naievity of her nation as a whole, but meets a polite applause from her Xikuangese, Celdonian and Weegian companieros.

We are glad to see that nations from all backgrounds--economically developed to those who are strugguling--to unite and try to address the problems of the third world and give them a voice in the corrupt, dog-eat-dog world. I hope we accomplish much during this meeting and will be able to help the third world...

Takeo and Javin applauded as each speaker ended. Takeo pulled out a small PDA and punched up the notes to the speech he might give later.

Let's see, if I move the graph about 'treating everyone as human beings" up here...

Javin looked around the room at the different groups, capitalist and socialist, and wondered if these groups would get anything accomplished.

As a delegate from a fellow third world country, I sympethize with your cause. However, I do not see how this can easily be accomplished. With such diverse cultures and different policies, how do you hope to go about creating this peaceful union so easily. If this is in fact accomplished, how do you hope to oppose the large threats of the western and european worlds? I cannot join your cause until I feel the support is strong enough.

Comrade Fouad Saluki, with a couple of bodyguards from the newly-created SPS a pace behind him and scanning the crowds, greeted the delegates from the other CACE nations, and the representatives from Tanah Burung.
"I'm sorry to have waited this long to come, but i was somehow taken up with the domestic trouble we're experiencing right now." With these words, Fouad nodded the black arm-band he wore as a symbol of mourning.
"But i'm not here to talk about my country. I hope we cna make real progress towards eradicating poverty in the world."

Meg stands up, her eyes flashing about the room.

"I think most *glances over at Imitora* people here would agree that the main question this conference has to address is: "What is to be done?" Now, while rich and powerful countries brag about their so-called free trade agreements, which are about as open and honest as any WBO meeting *pauses, while a little smile flickers over her face*, as usual, the little countries, the poor countries, have their economies sucked dry by the insidious global corporations that seek only vast profits. We believe that this is not the way it should remain. Even capitalist Third World countries must admit that, come crunch time, their fragile economies are the first to go down the tubes as the powerful countries seek to protect their profits."

"But we are at loggerheads. We believe that the only way forward from this situation is socialism. But we are aware that not all countries here consider that the case. Which leaves us in an awkward position. Which is why the CACE have developed an Economic Treaty, for those who wish to trade with the CACE, but wish to remain capitalist, although, reforms will have to be made..."

"If one of the other CACE delegates would wish to further detail the Economic Treaty?"

The duque was finishing his cigar, when he heard noises - The conference was about to begin. He rushed torwards the interior of the beautiful building and joined his fellow bovinian delegates, then, the group of wacky-looking cowpeople walked into the conference hall.
After Bi-bere's, Cullinaen's and other delegates words, the duque also stood up to speak:
"Hello, fellow delegates, heads of state and ambassadors. For those who don't know me, I'm the duque Mooo IV, ruler of The Grand Duchy Of Hell Bovines and it's a true honour for me to be here today. My nation can still remember the Golden Agate conference and how that conference helped the poor and developing nations to defend their rights and sovereignity; I can remeber how it helped my nation and others to free themselves from the chains of the so-called free-market policies and modern globalization and so, I make a vote so that history repeats itself here.
May we, the poor nations of the world, rise our voices against those of imperialism, colonialism and neo-colonialism. We mustn't let the big and powerful nations dictate what we should or shouldn't do. Let this conference be a sucess, like its predecessor, and let we clear the skies of the clouds of imperialism."

The duque sat down and opened a bottle of tequila he had brought with him.

Most of the Iansislean delegates - excluding the Lord MacIntyre, who was asleep - squirmed in their seats at Gretta Cullinaen and Meg Martinus' speeches. While Iansisle certainly wasn't a supporter of the WBO, or any other international economic alliance for that matter, the Commonwealth's well-known pro-business policies (including supporting the East Gallaga Company's claim to the north-east quadrant of his own homeland) made Dhawan feel like an outsider.

Dhawan still clapped politely as Meg sat down, but Dr. Blayer looked ready to start shouting rhetoric back at the Weegian delegation. Ambassador Johnson held him back slightly by the shoulder, and the Gadsanian minister soon calmed down. However, Ambassador Johnson - with Tarriff disgraced and shuttled into the Ministry of Commonwealth Relations, Grand Admiral Tri busy back in Ianapalis, Baron von Numerhammer in exile, and the Duke Klapston dead - was the sole Iansislean delegate who had attended the Golden Agate conference. He was therefore responsible for making sure the other delegates didn't make asses of themselves.

He caught Dhawan's arm as the Prime Minister started to rise, forcing him back into his seat and allowing the Duque Mooo IV to speak before them. "Remember, Minister," he whispered, "that many of these countries, especially Hell Bovines, are time-honored friends of Iansisle. Whatever you do, don't allow yourself to be dragged into an economic argument! Talk about education, help for one-legged orphans in warzones, or anything but economics! That's where the last conference got held up."

The Lord MacIntyre started snoring slightly, and Johnson elbowed him in the ribs. Smacking his lips, the Iansislean nobleman rolled to one side in his chair without opening his eyes. Johnson could have cried.

Dhawan smiled knowingly, and whispered back, "Don't worry, Quincy. I know what I'm doing," with an assured smile and rose as the Duque sat back down.

"Ladies, gentlemen, and honored non-gendered delegates: greetings from the Iansislean Commonwealth! I am Hiresh Dhawan, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth Combined Parliament and the head of His Iansislean Majesty's government." Dhawan paused. "There has been much talk so far about one economic system or another, and which would be the most appropriate for lifting the impoverished gathered here -" Johnson slapped himself on the forehead "- but, is that really what we have gathered here to discuss?

"Honored representatives," Dhawan continued, his voice strong and clear, "This is not the forum for rehashing stale arguments or throwing about the finger of blame. We are here not to advance our own petty political agendas; we are here on a much higher calling. We cannot, and as long as I stand for it, Iansisle will not, allow bickering and tired political debates to stand in the way of the advancement of the third world.

"Maybe a socialist following would be the best to help those who have been oppressed for so long. Then again, maybe a free market approach would be the best. But really: who are we to dictate the terms?

"Ladies and gentlemen, the Third World is capable of making its own choices. However, we must not neglect that which allows them that right: their own education.

"Many of you may be sitting there thinking, 'How is it possible to have a non-biased education, when the issues of economics and politics remain so near to any teaching?' Simple: once again, leave things up to the nation receiving help. Iansisle would prefer that its teachers came from nations such as Celeborne or Oglethorpia, but who are we to interfere if someone else would prefer Seocc or another CACE member?

"For the last time, I implore the conference: this is too important to let personal politics get in the way. Forget your own personal biases, in economics and other areas. We are here to help each other, not unleash a finger of blame and bicker about where it should fall."

Dhawan resumed his seat, noting that even the Lord MacIntyre had awoken.

Father Constancio Ainaro stands. As people's representative for social justice, he is along with Rumbiak and Bi Bere one of the members of the Tanah Burung collective presidency. A short man with ash-white hair, he speaks softly and diffidently. Ainaro is responsible for education, the top priority of the government of Tanah Burung.

"My friends, the final declaration of Golden Agate set up some means of cooperation.* One was the International Education Fund, by which some of us have been swapping technical expertise, teachers and students. I'd like to suggest that we take the next step in that direction here.

"Each of us has some areas in which we excel. My country, for instance, has been developing expertise in genetic engineering of food crops which can feed larger numbers of people, and we also have expertise in alternative energy generation sources like wind and solar power. But in other areas, we are technically backwards. Rather than depending on rich countries for technology, I suggest we move towards pooling our expertise.

Ainaro fingers his priest-collar, which may be a little too tight. "I propose that we now agree to establish a Third World University, in which professors and technical experts from all sorts of developing countries teach, and where tuition is free of charge to students from the Third World. Tanah Burung would be prepared to be the home to such a university, and we would be willing to bear the costs of construction. We suggest that pledges to the developing nations' International Education Fund could be enough to make this wide-ranging education available for free to all comers from developing countries, regardless of ideology or level of development."

His speech finished, Ainaro sits down, hoping the idea will fly.

* declaration text is at http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=56073

...


"Hear, hear!" applauded Mr Xiao of Xikuang. "While we of Xikuang have our own very strong leanings on economic policy, the words of my colleague of Iansisle are well met. Friends, let us not allow this conference to devolve into the well-worn arguments with which so many of us are tiredly familiar. Let us abstract ourselves from these differences and ask how we, in all of our cultural and economic diversity, can work together to improve the lot of our neighbours as we do so for ourselves. It is a given that we will have our differences. To work together is, indeed, the only option that will achieve results, at least for this and quite probably many successive generations."

"The suggestion to avoid ideological infighting is well taken, and we thank our friends from Iansisle for making it," Bi Bere says. "Our current topic is means of building solidarity among Third World nations. We have had an exchange of views and my government made a proposal in the field of education. We now make a further proposal, that Third World summits be held on a regular basis, that we agree before we leave to hold another summit in another country. If there are no objections, we will submit both these proposals for a vote at the end of the conference.

"We'd also like to mention here that members of the developing nations conference have access to a fund controlled by developing nations themselves, which currently has the sum of 300-billion World Dollars ($600-billion US) available for aiding our own internal development."

Before sitting, Bi Bere asks: "Does anyone have more to say on building solidarity between our countries before we move to the next item, on development aid?"

Xiao speaks:

"Xikuang will support the creation of a Third World University, but perhaps such a university should not be centralised. It may be a positive initiative to set it up as an open university, with branches in any developing nations participating in the programme. I feel that this will greatly enhance teh accessibility of the university to many people, for whom travel costs might be a serious hindrance, and will create far more places than might otherwise be possible. Xikuang could host such a branch, and we have resources in education made available to us through our association with the CACE which are not always available to developing nations. We would be pleased to be part of such a programme.

"As to the notion that Third World Summits be held on a regular basis, I agree wholeheartedly. I have the authority to offer to host the next conference in Xikuang, if that is agreeable."

Saluki speaks:
"Comrades, ladies and gentlemen....since our Xikuangese friends have mentioned the idea of a Third World University, we would like to suggest providing ressources and teachers. While, of course, that may pose a symbolical problem-paternalistic colonialism imagery and all that-we believe we should go beyond the mere appearances; any aid sent to such a project would be entirely in the control of whatever instance runs the university, and it is vital for the Third World's economic development that it be able to have a supply of well trained upper echelon management, as well as more doctors, without a major drain on it's limited ressources. But why not refine the proposal even further-have the University train teachers who could then return to their original country to teach in subsidiary colleges(possibly set up with aid from a special fund) of the TWU? would not this allow many more access to education than simply a collectively organised university?" Fouad makes to sit down, then half-rises again and tosses a document onto the conference table. "Here are estimation of aid we could donate to this project, both to the countries themselves and to a centralised fund, dependant of course on the fund's needs. I trust you'll find them suitably generous."
[OOC: assume it is, indeed, generous. Not enough to fund the project on it's own, but sufficient to ease the demand on the beneficiary nations, and under the TWU's control, and no strings either (although some will probably be earmarked for specific spending needs, but nothing to our advantage...yes, i am a nice guy :P) ]

I think a University built and ran by the third world would be good, but we would have to charter it to be somewhat appeasing to all nations of the third world...Anyhow, I fully support this and we will send supplies and although I am not promising, I hope to send some of our professors to teach.

(OOC:I'm going out of town for the next two days, I'll be back on Monday. Until later, take care)

Elizabeth sat back in her chair listening to everyone talk, realizing she was surrounded by socialsts, communists, and liberals, everything she, as well as most everyone did in Imitora. She sighed quietly, and listened as the delegates continued blabering on about solidarity peace, and funds to the third world.

Ainaro rises again to his full 5'1" and says softly: "Yes, an open university concept sounds like a useful plan. We could share many resources through distance learning. I do believe that the very large sums already pledged to the developing nations International Education Fund -- and the funds just pledged so generously by Cirdanistan too," he nods to Saluki, "mean that the problem of financing such a university would be easy to find.

"We are prepared to offer teachers, which we have in abundance, and teacher training, and to pledge an additional sum. We will certainly construct a Third World University campus here, and students from Tanah Burung will no doubt flock to other countries with campuses. I think administration will be simple enough, but we can also assist in that area if needed."

The duque drinks a little more of tequila and stands up: "The Grand Duchy of Hell Bovines concurs with the plan of the creation of a third world university. We will happily provide teachers and psycologists to give support to the teenagers. Both of this professions are pretty abundant in my country.
We also agree with Xikuang's sugggestion, as we also think the third world university shouldn't be centralised, and so, we offer our nation to host one of the branches too."

I welcome any branches of this proposed university into any of our cities. To get a listing of our 5 biggest cities, check out the lower quarter of http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1670086#1670086

Takeo Katana stood up after the Duque, "I agree. We made education one of the pillars for development of the third world previously. To that end, we would like to give a grant of 2 billion NuYen to jump-start development of these branches. We would also like to offer real-time broadcasts of classes at various Larkinian universities for credit until necessary professors are hired and trained.

"In addition to this, we would like to offer any students attending these universities, should they be interested, the opportunity to attend any of the universities in Larkinia at the same cost of attending a branch school in their country.

"Upper level, universities are necessary for the development of scholars and diplomats, scientists and engineers, but we must not overlook the younger students, for whom the opportunity to learn to read and create must be nurtured and prepared for college. To that end, we will also support a fund to help with the creation of elementary and high schools to prepare the scholars of tomorrow."

"Freebodnik V concurs with the reasonable and honourable idea of creating a Third-World University," Eulalia murmurs, staring at the MVU in her palm - the assent of the people of Freebodnik V scrolling across its little blue screen.

If you don't mind me asking, what is exactly considered third world? I mean, the UN classified my economy as being "Fair", is that considered to be more like 2nd world? Sorry, I've only been on NS for about, oh let's say exactly 1 month ago.

Two billion nuYen? Ainaro thought to himself. How much is that? Oh, to live in a country with freely convertible currency. Never mind, two billion of anything must be quite a bit. Looks like funds are not going to be a problem. The support was overwhelming, and the dream of a Third World University seemed certain to come true. He fingered his rosary, saying a small prayer of gratitude.

If you don't mind me asking, what is exactly considered third world? I mean, the UN classified my economy as being "Fair", is that considered to be more like 2nd world? Sorry, I've only been on NS for about, oh let's say exactly 1 month ago.

Generally, a weaker economy (say developing or below) but it can also mean a former colony, or a technologically less advanced country. Basicly if you RP as being third-world, then you're in, even if your economy has risen (there are some RL third-world countries, like Singapore, that are no longer poor, but the history gives them some right to claim the title anyway). I changed "developing nations" to "third world" in the title to make it more flexible.

OOC: :P 1 NY = $1.16 so the total is $2.32 bil.

-+Generally, a weaker economy (say developing or below) but it can also mean a former colony, or a technologically less advanced country. Basicly if you RP as being third-world, then you're in, even if your economy has risen (there are some RL third-world countries, like Singapore, that are no longer poor, but the history gives them some right to claim the title anyway). I changed "developing nations" to "third world" in the title to make it more flexible.

So I see, thanks!

Miyanda finally stopped smiling at an interesting looking curtain or some such and suggested that the annonymously donated $10million may as well go towards the open university project.

The Lusakan was begining to wonder from where all the money donated by other nations was to come. Are we the only relatively poor state here? If they all have the money to build these unis, why have they waited until now? Corruption? He didn't say as much, merely frowned heavily each time a.. less than powerhouse state chucked in a few billion more, or pledged to build/fund/maintain/staff this or that.


(ooc:I think Iansisle, was it? Gave a decent run-down on what makes a nation 1st/2nd/3rd/4th world just a few pages back, did they not?)

Elizabeth sat back in her chair listening to everyone talk, realizing she was surrounded by socialsts, communists, and liberals, everything she, as well as most everyone did in Imitora. She sighed quietly, and listened as the delegates continued blabering on about solidarity peace, and funds to the third world.
[OOC: you=liberal read a decent dictionnary, like the OED for instance. It's "only" the reference for what is and isn't english, you know ;) ]

If you don't mind me asking, what is exactly considered third world? I mean, the UN classified my economy as being "Fair", is that considered to be more like 2nd world? Sorry, I've only been on NS for about, oh let's say exactly 1 month ago.
[OOC: 2nd World is a rich as the first, at least in NS. The original split into three worlds was:
1st World: developped capitalist economies, i.e. Western Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand.
2nd World: The developped communist bloc. In NS this would mean that countries such as Celdonia , SeOCC and Cirdanistan(yay!woot! go me!oh and go Celd and S, to) would constitute the 2nd World.
3rd World: originally all non-aligned countries, but really designated non-aligned and semi-aligned poor countries, mainly former colonies.
Later a Fourth World was added, consisting of the ultra-poor underclasses existing inside the First. After all, if you're starving in the streets of America, you're not exactly in the same boat as Bill Gates, now are you?]

*connecting... connecting... to: Gretta Cullinaen >> connecting... Tah.. Burung interchange >>

re: proposed Third World Open University

message:

"¿Estas Gretta?...The Central Shiree Post Office in White Auk has sufficient space in which to base the administrative centre for studies in Arts & Culture. As you know the local Academi supports one of the largest bases for the Arts, so they can be wired in without too much trouble. Proposal for construction of a moderate campus has been cleared. - please inform projects administrators. Besos Grandesxx"

message ends >> connexion terminated*



Gretta Cullinaen stands and conveys the message to the delegation.
"There seems to be no shortage of funding for this project, and the Shiree have offered a considerable number of 'Bones' on behalf of Watfordshire - but this offer will not stand without certain reservations as to how they are invested. I hope we can soon discuss that in the next point on the agenda."

quick bow - nips out for a smoke

"We may as well hear about the reservations now," Bi Bere says, "while we're still disucssing the university."

Gretta Cullinaen:

'With all due respect Comrade, Our only reservations are simply to do with the politics and current international trade agreements of possible benficiary states within this, or indeed any other new program. I cannot comment further at this point, and would suggest nations wishing to benefit from such an undertaking may need to meet certain requirements. The people of Watfordshire place a great deal of emphasis on education, some might say 'to a military degree' and we would urge each nations application should be judged on its own merits'

Letila is hardly a 3rd world country, but if you need help, we will gladly give it.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mliêstôlkakûmek(Love all as you love yourself)
Racism-the other stupid ideology
Peace, love, and girls with small waists and big butts!
Letilan moths! Yay!
http://images.google.com/images?q=tbn:TEA1WL6tIGQC:w1.150.telia.com/~u15008589

OOC to Watfodshire: OK, gotcha. We'll get to that after the presentation from Xikuang then, i guess.

Mr. Qzixi speaks:

"If I may address this issue through addressing the concern voiced by my esteemed Shiree colleage, later in the conference, under Section IV to be precise, our delegation shall be presenting an economic treaty proposal which I hope will be of interest to a number of you. Perhaps this treaty could serve as guidelines for the requirements suggested, but as the presentation would be a considerable diversion at this time, perhaps it is best to agree now on the subject of the formation of a trans-national university system, and return to the topic once other matters to be discussed have come to conclusion."

Xiao Ngari now adds his voice: "Xikuang will support the motion."

Saluki rose to speak.
"While we really don't think a developped nation like ourselves should be voting, this is not the time or palce to determine this. People of all nations-regardless of their country's ideology which they cannot control- should have a right to education. Cirdanistan supports the motion."

"The motion for a third world university appears to have wide support, and no one has spoken in opposition" Bi Bere says. "As no one has objected, I believe the motion has been acclaimed by consensus. I will therefore include it in the final declaration, which can be voted as a whole at the end of the conference."

She scans the room, to see if anyone else has anything to say before moving to the discussion on development aid.

Kim Pak Tong rose from her chair to make a proposal --

"A problem of epidemic proportions in most Third World nations after starvation is the lack of access to adequate medical care. While the health problems of the inner city poor can be somewhat remedied by building up inner city infrastructure such as water treatment plants, institution of free health care and housing, etc. (assuming that they have the money to build such infrastructure), the rural poor often continue to suffer, even after land reform and the like.

Furthering this problem, there is a shortage of, say, 'humyn capital.' After having trained skilled workers such as doctors or medical technicians, they leave for more developed nations where they can receive higher prices for their services.

A solution to both of these problems would be the formation of a Third World Health Organization (TWHO or something more catchy). Such an organization would --

- send medical personnel to developing nations to train 'barefoot doctors,' who will receive a few months of training in the basics of medical care, and then work in their village (or perhaps re-directed to a village with a shortage of doctors if they choose to do so) and help prevent diseases and treat common afflictions that would otherwise result in the persyn's death.

- assist in the building of small, networked medical facilities in villages and urban areas that can be taken over by the local community (so they do not have to be dependent on the DNAC for medical needs).

- send engineers to train others to improve sanitation and if possible, alleviate crowded living conditions which allow diseases to spring up and spread.

In addition, we believe that a Developing Nation Agency for Agricultural Development should be formed to create food independence for Third World nations. We think that the use of permaculture gardening (employed by Cho-to-ki) is a good model to follow. In such a model, nearly all available space in urban areas is put to some agricultural or otherwise nature-oriented use, such as the planting of fruit trees, or small scale gardens. These gardens and trees are planted in empty lots, spaces between buildings, community parks, on apartment rooftops and other areas. With the exception of gardens grown on apartment rooftops, such gardens belong to the community that nurtured it. We must stress that this is not a government-run project (where bureaucracy would quickly overwhelm any government branch), but from the bottom-up.

In addition to providing additional food to the people, this lessens the stress on the environment in rural areas, where deforestation might be caused by desperate farmers. However, this project does require an initial investment to get the project 'off the ground,' so to speak, although any such organization would also fund project to build agricultural infrastructure that does not involve the permaculture model.

"Out of curiosity," Elizabeth finaly spoke up, "how much would these doctors going to said third world countries get paid? Or are you willing to pay for them to go to medical school?"

OOC:
Watforshire: I noticed the spanish in your post. May I ask you: Where are you from? 'cos I'm a curious argentinian :P

IC:

The huge bovinian monarch rose from his chair: "My nation fully supports the proposal made by Cho-To-Ki. We think that both health and food commisions are great ideas and, again, we offer our abundant cigar-consuming psychiatrists to the health commision team.
Also, we consider Cho-to-ki's permaculture gardening system a great idea and we are planning to implant it on our own land.
Finally, we suggest that this food commision, besides using the 'permaculture gardening system', also uses our 'rainforest ecological harvesting system', which consists of professional teams of people whose main task is to get into rainforests and collect tree fruits and berries that grow naturally there, in an ecological and enviroment-friendly way.
Thanks for your time."
The sentient cow sat and tried to drink more of his tequila, only to notice that the bottle was already empty.
*damn, I need to remeber buying more tequila for this conferences*, he thought....

"State-funded health care?" asked P.M. Dhawan, rubbing his chin. "What a novel concept!"

"A preposterous concept!" corrected Dr. Blayer. "Where would we get the funds? If we increase the required tithes again, Tharia may make good on its threat to have the T.S.P. start an anti-Commonwealth movement!"

"Be careful," cautioned Ambassador Johnson, leaning over to keep his voice low. "Despite its financial implications, this idea would seem to be very popular among the others who are present. Remember, we don't have to sign anything that would compromise the Commonwealth's security!"

"zzzzzzzz," added the Lord MacIntyre.

However, Dhawan shook them all off. "Gentlemen, I know what I'm doing." He paused. "And for right now, that is to wait. I don't want to spoil the good favor we've managed to curry quite yet."

"Hopefully, you don't want to spoil it at all!" grumbled Johnson, settling back into his seat.

Hearing the proposition for State Funded Health Care, the High Lord stands up and begins to speak...

"I think a state-funded health care system would be a great thing, it would allow for everyone to be insured without big buisness interfereing with doctors so the pacient can get good treatment. Infact, I will suggest to the High Chief, Quetzalcoalt to enact such a program because the ANL would be able to undertake such a project. However, State Funded Health Care would be a major hardship and to some a down right impossiblity for less deveolped and poorer countries. Let me say this, I do not oppose State Funded Health Care, but, I do believe that if this service is to start, it must be fair to everyone, meaning that the less developed nations have adequate care and the richer nations do not have to put forth copiuos amounts of money to support this undertaking."

"A problem of epidemic proportions in most Third World nations after starvation is the lack of access to adequate medical care. While the health problems of the inner city poor can be somewhat remedied by building up inner city infrastructure such as water treatment plants, institution of free health care and housing, etc. (assuming that they have the money to build such infrastructure), the rural poor often continue to suffer, even after land reform and the like.

Furthering this problem, there is a shortage of, say, 'humyn capital.' After having trained skilled workers such as doctors or medical technicians, they leave for more developed nations where they can receive higher prices for their services.

A solution to both of these problems would be the formation of a Third World Health Organization (TWHO or something more catchy). Such an organization would --

- send medical personnel to developing nations to train 'barefoot doctors,' who will receive a few months of training in the basics of medical care, and then work in their village (or perhaps re-directed to a village with a shortage of doctors if they choose to do so) and help prevent diseases and treat common afflictions that would otherwise result in the persyn's death.

- assist in the building of small, networked medical facilities in villages and urban areas that can be taken over by the local community (so they do not have to be dependent on the DNAC for medical needs).

- send engineers to train others to improve sanitation and if possible, alleviate crowded living conditions which allow diseases to spring up and spread.


Melina Mercouri, rises to reply.

" I would like to introduce the honourable members of this conference to the Developing Nation Aid Commission (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=36609). Under its charter (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1200563) the program has and will provide a wide range of aid for developing nations. Development is focused on a grass-roots, environmentally and econmically sustainable level, however it assists at a national level for projects such as infrastructure.

" The Commission is a politically impartial organisation, made up of 26 nations, that focusses on helping those who need help. A pre-condition for aid recipients is to allow DNAC inspectors full access to DNAC funded projects to ensure that funds are not misused by governments and other individuals.

"Ultimately, DNAC aims to achieve social justice within nations and between nations, so that all people may live in conditions that are comparable to that which are found in more developed nations."

OOC: more info can be found here http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?p=1706982

OOC: thanks to the nice segue from Cho-to-ki, we are now on agenda item 2, development aid.

Fr. Ainaro rises to reply for Tanah Burung. "First, let me say a word on the DNAC," he says softly. "The people of Tanah Burung are full of gratitude for the assistance of the DNAC. It funded our wind power generation project that has provided cheap energy to our growing population. And it funded our diplomacy training school which has allowed us the human resources to put this conference together."

"We are no longer eligible for DNAC funds since our economy is now ranked as reasonable, but we remain committed to the organization and have recently become a donor state on a small scale to its coffers. Its principles of mutual aid and its ability to bring together countries on all sides of the ideological divide make it an incredibly valuable organization, and we stand in admiration of our friends from Apollopoli for their iniatitive in creating the DNAC. The upswing in our economy is at least partly due to DNAC aid. The rest we credit to our slow-but-steady growth plan, which we shall highlight later on."

Ainaro sips from his glass of Matebian spring water. He is drinking the variety not laced with a mild hallucinogenic. "Let me now say a word on the innovative and brilliant health proposal from our friends in Cho-to-ki." Ainaro looks across the room at the Iansisle delegation, scanning them for signs of an outburst. These guys sent off some fireworks at the last developing nations conference, and if there's anyone likely to explode at the thought of a Third World Health Organization, it may be them. So far, the Commonwealth's delegates seemed to be quiet, although he thought he could discern some discord in their urgent whispers to each other.

"We would certainly support such an organization. Health care is an area where Tanah Burung certainly needs help. We're mainly rural and food production is at a surplus, so the permaculture idea may not be for us, but it's certainly a good one. But we need to improve our health care system. Help in trainig barefoot doctors would certainly be welcome."

Finally, Ainaro turns towards Elizabeth Waitkus. "Madame President, you've asked how such a project would be funded. The question is certainly a fair one. But I would hope that the generosity of the international communoty wold answer it with a resounding contribution of funds. Is it not better for the soul, if you will forgive me an appeal to faith, to give than to receive? Does aid not benefit the spirit of the donor as much as the body of the recipient?"

"If I may add a few words on the DNAC," Ms. Yi'i says, "I might vounteer that as aid-applicable signatories we were able to use DNAC funding to establish a programme in rural and removed parts of Xikuang very much along the lines proposed by my colleage of Cho-To-Ki. Universal healthcare had, of course nominally been provided by the government anyway, but owing to inaccessibility of certain areas and lack of facilities, many rural people found it difficult or impossible to get the basic services to which they were entitled. Under the programme, DNAC funds were used both to establish physical facilities and connections to accommodate the needs of rural communities, whereafter an appreticeship programme was initiated to train local people, establishing self-sufficiency as regards essential services in health care and education. The project was a considerable success. (http://www.nationstates.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=71301)

"Perhaps developing nations seeking to establish universal health care might do so as DNAC participants along the lines we have, or perhaps it might be advisable, in light of the importance of the provision of basic health care, to set up a fund-- perhaps in association with the DNAC-- whose sole purpose is the provision of funds and resources to help establish self-sufficient health care and to provide relief in case of emergency."

that reminds me thought Saluki we should give the DNAC a little donation, sicne we havn't been recipient applicable for a looong time... i wonder how much Aïsha's department would spare?
He reached quitely for his cellphone, and-as discreetly as possible in a corwded amphipheatre-called up the Praesident of Economics.

"Are there any more thoughts on the Cho-to-ki proposal?" Bi Bere asks. "If not, i will incorporate it into the final draft and it can be voted then, since no one has spoken in opposition to the idea."

She looks down at a note just passed to her. "Oh, and on a lighter note: All visiting dignitaries are invited to attend a World Cup qualifying match in Matebian Stadium between Tanah Burung and Hell Bovines tonight. I know the Duque will want to watch his team in action."

"The Bovines play football?" Lyamo says quietly to her two companions. "That will be interesting to watch." "Quite." mutters Ngari. "I wonder how they go about it? It seems it would be quite difficult, given the Bovine physiognomy..." "They can't possibly be worse than the Xikuangese team." Lhyamo points out. "My dear comrade," Tashi whispers, chortling, "nobody could be worse than the Xikuangese team."

Miyanda, and indeed the rest of the Lusakans stirred at the mention of a football match. Lusaka was in the grips of something of a craze- the sport was being used in Lusaka's peace-keeping action in Boroglia to foster good feeling and co-operation with the locals, and friendly matches with other involved nations were doing international relations the world of good.

The delegation was generally unsure where it stood in the conference. This was no one's fault as such, but when Lusaka decided to attend the conference its per capita GDP for the year was estimated at $2,000. By the time Miyanda was chosen to represent the nation in Tanah Burung that estimate had fallen to $1,000, and he had been informed by on of his secretaries (after much shouting "Hello? HELLO?" into hand-set and waving of mobile phone) that the estimate was now at an unprecidented high- over $4,000! Fractionally higher than its peak just a few months after the start of Igomo's government.

Miyanda wasn't sure if Lusaka still needed aid (most of the population still live in mud brick houses without regular electricity supplies), or if the generous popularity-whore Igomo would want him to begin talking of the nation's preparedness to give more.

New Lusaka City meanwhile couldn't decide if it should commit to major modernisation programmes, being uncertain if the economy would hold, or collapse next month, leaving roads that go nowhere, or hospitals without doctors.

She looks down at a note just passed to her. "Oh, and on a lighter note: All visiting dignitaries are invited to attend a World Cup qualifying match in Matebian Stadium between Tanah Burung and Hell Bovines tonight. I know the Duque will want to watch his team in action."

"Of course I will attend. It will truly be a pleasure to watch my team play in the middle of such beautiful scenery"

That night (OOC: I hope i'm not messing up with timelines) the duque watched its team play horribly and lose 2-0. He almost gets an ulcer (don't know if this is the correct English translation) and some people say he is about to firte his coach...

Ten of the eleven members of the Tanah Burung collective presidency joined the Duque in the stands. The game was played very clean, after Markus Rumbiak assembled the team in the dressing room and threatened that the presidency would re-legalize corporal punishment. "And then, i'll personally horsewhip any player who fouls a Bovine," he told them.

Tanah Burung took the match 2-0, and Rumbiak approached the Duque. "Care to place a small bet on the re-match?"

(ooc on timeline: let's say the meeting went on for a while, then broke for the night and those who wanted to went to see the game, while others milled about partaking of the free drugs and alcohol or else plotting their next move. Conference to reassemble in the morning for the final items, but do feel free to post on either the conference proceedings or the evening's recreation...)

Coyotepec left the conference room, grasping a note he had just recived. He was concerned, it only said "High Chief Quetzalcoatl had called you."
He knew that he might of offended the High Chief by demanding Universal Healthcare, but he rather face the music than cower in the conference room with some sort of bum excuse. As he picked up the telephone, he heard Quetzalcoatl speak...

Quetzalcoatl: "So I see you are a champion of Universal Healthcare. I'm glad you support something, but, I would have responded to a less drastic approch."
Coyotepec: "Yes sir, I understand. I was just trying to get my point across."
Quetzalcoatl: "I allowed Parlament to vote on the resolution, it passed, 234 to 126. Now it is up for me to either sign it or veto it.
Coyotepec: "What are you going to do?"
Quetzalcoatl: "You know me, I'm a liberal, I will most likely pass it. However, this means that our federal government will become too big to be considered a confederacy, we have to decide on a new government system before enacting this."
Coyotepec: "Certainly. So, what are we going to do."
Quetzalcoatl: "I have assigned the top Aztec lawyers, politians and warrior-generals to top secret conventions to draft up a charter for a new governmental plan. Until something solid comes up, however, the ANL will remain a confederacy."
Coyotepec: "Sir, I just want you to know that this is a step in the right direction. How is the conference in Rotovia?"
Quetzalcoatl: "It's going pretty good. An incednt involving one of the diplomats halted the signing of the treaty, but, for the most part, everything is alright."
Coyotepec: "Thats good (pauses for a second) I have to get back, I'll talk to you later."
He disconnects the phone and takes a walk in the mountains...

ooc:


(ooc on timeline: let's say the meeting went on for a while, then broke for the night and those who wanted to went to see the game, while others milled about partaking of the free drugs and alcohol or else plotting their next move. Conference to reassemble in the morning for the final items, but do feel free to post on either the conference proceedings or the evening's recreation...

Free drugs and alcohol, you say? MOST interesting!

May I then formally propose a Conference Hiatus in the interests of social RP for a while? It will give me time to write up the presentation of the Econmic Treaty. I'm awfully busy until the weekend and have myself embroiled in all kinds of NS messes. ;)

ooc:

Yes, a short social hiatus is what i had in mind. The next item is on trade, so your presentation can kick us off once you're ready.

But, if anyone wants to post late comments on anything that's been proposed so far, please go ahead. Flexible time: a NationStates tradition since 2003.

Ten of the eleven members of the Tanah Burung collective presidency joined the Duque in the stands. The game was played very clean, after Markus Rumbiak assembled the team in the dressing room and threatened that the presidency would re-legalize corporal punishment. "And then, i'll personally horsewhip any player who fouls a Bovine," he told them.

Tanah Burung took the match 2-0, and Rumbiak approached the Duque. "Care to place a small bet on the re-match?"

(ooc on timeline: let's say the meeting went on for a while, then broke for the night and those who wanted to went to see the game, while others milled about partaking of the free drugs and alcohol or else plotting their next move. Conference to reassemble in the morning for the final items, but do feel free to post on either the conference proceedings or the evening's recreation...)

"It was a good match...", the duque told to Rumbiak "....I never could believe a football team could be so friendly as yours was: There wasn't even one single foul! But I don't know why, your players seemed to be kinda nervous"
"Anyway, I accept your offer about that bet! Let's say... 500 USD and a bottle of the fanciest champagne"

Coyotepec looks at the beautiful mountains, enjoying the snowy scenery. He walks along a trail for a couple of hours and finds a small town among the great mountains. He walks into the town, as sees a small little club. On the sign infront, it read:

GAME TO NIGHT: TANAH BURUNG VS. HELL BOVINES
AFTERWARDS: ROCK SHOW

"Hmmm, the game might be interesting. And like everyone else in the ANL, we are ready for a good rock show." So he walked in, ordered some tequilla and watched the football game with great curriosity (while the ANL knows about football, it is not a widely played sport). After the game, he sat back and watched the band perform. "Pretty good stuff. Good, heavy guitar riffs." He drank some more tequilla and after the concert was over, complemented the band members. No one knew who he was or where he was from, but to Coyotepec, that didn't matter. 12 AM was approching. As he began to leave the little town, he realized that it was very late and he should get a ride there. He called up a taxi to take him back to the conference room. He got back at 1 AM.

To the organizers of the conference:
Hello there, we are a new nation on this world, but we feel to belong to the third world. We are a race of sentient dolphins who can ocasionaly shapeshift into human form.
Is too late for us to join your conference?
If we are allowed to join, our only request is that swimming pools are available to our delegates - although we can shapeshift into human form, we can't keep the human form for much time.
Yours,

Inky, first among the weredolphins

Heck, we've got sentient Hell Bovinians in the house, let's get the water mammals in on the action too! Come on gang! ;)

I don't see why not. Perhaps we could set up an underwater televideo link off the coast, if that would keep your delegates most comfortable... (looks at co-organisers)

Gretta Cullinaen, after trouble getting a link to Watfordshire returned her nations' response to Bi Bere. (The economy of Watfordshire has improved over the last quarter and currently rates in the UN as 'Strong') We would be delighted to offer a team of our medical specialists to provide training and a sizeable sum of 'Bones' to contribute to the projects coffers.

We hope that a hundred members of our Medical Practitioners Union, equipped with General Practitioners qualifications and additonally specialising in Acupuncture, Shiatsu and Chi Kung; will be most useful in establishing a training program from the bottom up.

The night sky sparkled above the architectural silhouettes of the Burungian conference halls. A merry glow and the sound of excitable human (and Bovinian) interaction permeated the darkness from the teepees on the conference lawns, until the sun had started to colour the eastern horizon once more.

The Lusakan delegation had enjoyed the football match, as well as certain freebies, and in the wee small hours had snuck back into the stadium, and could be found laughing uproariously, as body-guards played secretaries in a two-aside match that put Miyanda in net.

The secretaries were winning due to an abundance of penalties..

To the organizers of the conference:
Hello there, we are a new nation on this world, but we feel to belong to the third world. We are a race of sentient dolphins who can ocasionaly shapeshift into human form.
Is too late for us to join your conference?
If we are allowed to join, our only request is that swimming pools are available to our delegates - although we can shapeshift into human form, we can't keep the human form for much time.
Yours,

Inky, first among the weredolphins

With two of the co-sponsors already agreeing already (and i cant see Hell Bovines objecting!), we will of course make facilities available for your delegation. A nation of dolphins certainly labours under the disadvantages of the third world! Let us assure you that the killing of olphins, whales and other sentient or semi-sentient ocean dwellers is strictly forbidden in Tanah Burung.

A teleconferencing link off the coast of Tiga Burung should be possible to arrange. Transportation by blimp to Matebian may be more difficult, as it takes more than six hours to make the flight from the coast. Nevertheless, we would welcome our Dolphin friends.

"Ah, good," sighed Dr. Blayer as the meeting started a break. "Some time to talk to you, Mr. Prime Minister." He turned his grey eyes straight to Dhawan's black ones, narrowing them. "I suppose you know what the Big Three's response to all this nonsense will be?"

"Nonsense, Dr. Blayer?" asked P.M. Dhawan, feigning ignorance.

"Yes, sir, nonsense. All this 'empowerment for the proletariat' nonsense. Yes, it's all well and good - but it won't sit for ten seconds with IanCorp or RM&M," continued Blayer, waving his finger at the Prime Minister. "And you know the sole reason the Big Three stay behind the moderate government is its stance on laissez faire economics. Listen too long to this socialist ... rhetoric and they could swing behind His Majesty's Rightest Opposition!"

Dhawan smiled at the worried Minister of Finance. "Don't worry, Benton. I don't for one second intend to let the Big Three topple my government. Come now; there's a game of football to be watched. Seeing as how the Bovinians are involved, it should prove most interesting." The Gallagan gathered up his notes, setting them inside a brown attache case, and set off after the other delegates.

With two of the co-sponsors already agreeing already (and i cant see Hell Bovines objecting!), we will of course make facilities available for your delegation.

Of course I don't object! It is great to find fellow non-humans living on this world. We assure you that the nations participating at this conference are very respectful of non-humans and that we will make all efforts possible to make you feel confortable.

To the organizers of the conference:
Hello there, we are a new nation on this world, but we feel to belong to the third world. We are a race of sentient dolphins who can ocasionaly shapeshift into human form.
Is too late for us to join your conference?
If we are allowed to join, our only request is that swimming pools are available to our delegates - although we can shapeshift into human form, we can't keep the human form for much time.
Yours,

Inky, first among the weredolphins

With two of the co-sponsors already agreeing already (and i cant see Hell Bovines objecting!), we will of course make facilities available for your delegation. A nation of dolphins certainly labours under the disadvantages of the third world! Let us assure you that the killing of olphins, whales and other sentient or semi-sentient ocean dwellers is strictly forbidden in Tanah Burung.

A teleconferencing link off the coast of Tiga Burung should be possible to arrange. Transportation by blimp to Matebian may be more difficult, as it takes more than six hours to make the flight from the coast. Nevertheless, we would welcome our Dolphin friends.

Thanks to all the organizer nations for such understanding. I will personally attend the conference, accompanied by Clicky , my faithful assistant and by Felkas, my loved wife.
We thank you for carying so much about our welfare, but there is no need for complicated teleconferencing links - we can keep our human form for at least 14 hs. The only thing we need is a nearby swimming pool to revert to dolphin-shape every now and then and clothing for when we are in human form.
I hope to meet you there and that we can work out the problems of the third world together.
Yours,

Inky, first among the weredolphins

It was a beautiful night in the coastal city of Tiga Burung. The moon was strangely shiny and a cool breeze was all around, bringing a magical sensation to the land.
Suddenly, three dolphins started to swim very near the coast, almost into the land. One of the dolphins, Inky himself, was wearing a silvery collar with a stattuette of a dolphin incrusted on it. Another dolphin was carrying a handbag attached to his body like a belt, but besides this, the dolphins were fully 'naked'.
The creatures got nearer and nearer the coast, and a group of curious people started to gather around to investigate the strange creatures.
Suddenly, the full moon seemed to shine brighter than ever and, to the eyes of the amazed humans, the creatures begun to shapeshift. Under the moonlight, their skin turned pinkish, the tail divided into legs, the hands appeared, the bottle-nose shortened and dissapeared.
When the mistical process was finished, three humans were standing there, on the sand.
Except for the deep black eyes and the black hair with random white, almost silvery spots, they looked like normal humans and they were exhausted, as they had come swimming all the way across the ocean to reach Tanah Burung.
Except for Inky's silver collar (which had now turned into a pendant, representing Inky's role as the leader of the weredolphin clan confederacy) and for Felkas' handbag the three weredolphins were completely naked and feeling cold.
Many tanah burungians couldn't help but stare at Felkas, Inky's wife. She wasn't attractive to humans while in dolphin form, ut in human form she was gorgeous. Her deep black eyes had the sparkle of intelligence on them and that, combined with her long black and white hair and her beautiful body, gave her an image of attractiveness and mistycism.
Finally, Inky broke the silence: "Hello, friendly people. I'm Inky, leader of the weredolphins, and its an honour for us to be in your beautiful nation. By the way... can you give us some clothes?.."

"It has already been arranged." said the Xikuangese woman as she and and one of her compatriots, he wearing an orange sash, stepped forward bearing comfortable, dignified robes deeply dyed in the Tanah Burungian style for each of the Weredolphins. They wait politely as the Weredolphins don ther robes, before the man in the sash speaks. "I am Xiao Ngari of Xikuang; my companion is Yi'i Lhyamo. My delegation has the honour to be co-organisers of this conference. Welcome to Tanah Burung, and welcome to the Conference."

"It has already been arranged." said the Xikuangese woman as she and and one of her compatriots, he wearing an orange sash, stepped forward bearing comfortable, dignified robes deeply dyed in the Tanah Burungian style for each of the Weredolphins. They wait politely as the Weredolphins don ther robes, before the man in the sash speaks. "I am Xiao Ngari of Xikuang; my companion is Yi'i Lhyamo. My delegation has the honour to be co-organisers of this conference. Welcome to Tanah Burung, and welcome to the Conference."

"Thanks for your friendliness, noble Xiao Ngari. It is an honour for us to be here. I hope this conference can serve to solve the problems of the third world.", Inky replied.
Suddenly, Felkas interrupted: "It is my honour to be here, too. I'm Felkas, wife of Inky", she said. "These robes are very nice, friends. You made us a gift and I think we should give a gift to you in return" She opened her handbag and took a large, golden coin from it. "Here, take this beautiful coin as a gift of our people. We have many of them inside the sunken galleons of our land"

Ngari accepts the coin with a careful hand, admiring the workmanship. "Truly, we only offer what we can, no recompense is necessary. Your gift is very generous. This is truly a fine work of craftsmanship, very beautiful. On behalf of the Conference, I thank you."

"Perhaps," Lhyamo says, "this piece should be kept on display in the Conference Halls, in celebration of the solidarity between the natons here gathered. Its beauty should be widely shared and appreciated."

Ngari accepts the coin with a careful hand, admiring the workmanship. "Truly, we only offer what we can, no recompense is necessary. Your gift is very generous. This is truly a fine work of craftsmanship, very beautiful. On behalf of the Conference, I thank you."

"Perhaps," Lhyamo says, "this piece should be kept on display in the Conference Halls, in celebration of the solidarity between the natons here gathered. Its beauty should be widely shared and appreciated."

"That is a wonderful idea", said Felkas while smiling. "In that way, all the people can enjoy the coin. Anyway, do what you want with it - It is now your property."

"Shall we go into the blimp?", asked Inky. "I can't wait to participate on this conference. Although I fear I will have to wait until tomorrow."

(ooc: i'd normally be resisting accepting any form of magic, shapeshifting etc, and don't want to take fantasy nations here, but the addition of a race of dolphins is a great idea, and Weredolphins is clearly a good writer, so i'm setting my reluctance aside this time. Also, i like the name Inky. :wink: )

Forewarned, a blimp awaits to take the dolphins & the Xikuangese welcoming party to the Hall of the Revolution in Matebian. This is a luxury blimp with a small pool on board, so the guests should be comfortable enough during the long flight.

As the blimp touches down in a Matebian morning drizzle, Violeta Bi Bere is there to greet it. "Welcome to the mountains," she says, bowing to the guests. "We hope you will be confortable here. We have no swimming pools in the city, but it is only a short walk to Lake Ramelau, where you make make yourselves at home."

"Hmm, that is interesting...I wonder how the others will take this." Coyotepec puts the phone down. Part of him is happy, the ANL just had a great sucess, but the other part is nervous, how would the rest of the delegates take the news. He walks down to the hall and begins to talk:

"The UN has just catagorized our economy as being "strong". Our GDP has hit the $2,000,000,000,000 mark (http://www.pipian.com/stuffforchat/gdpcalc.php?nation=Aztec%20National%20League&defenseprovided=1&defense=15&militarybudget=1 (note: this might be out of date) and we are doing better than we have ever done before. I hope you will accept our nation being in the conference and will let us stay here. We are not a nation that will take advantage of not so fortinate nations. We were once a basket case economy, but, we've raised up. Also, I here by declare that we will donate money to DNAC."

No third world nation will be penalized for improving its economic standing! Congratulations on your strong economy, and please continue to take part. No doubt the DNAC will be glad of the contribution.

I am glad to hear that you will allow us to remain here, but, unfortinatly, our economy (not yet stable) has taken a down turn and is back as being rated as "good"(anti-corporate legislation). I am glad though that our economy is still doing good, for a nation that is so young. I will still donate to the DNAC.

BREAKING NEWS---CONFEDERATION DISOLVED, AZTEC NATIONAL LEAGUE NOW UNITED SOCIALIST UNION OF STATES!

Today, in a shocking news, the Aztec National League's parlament, giving into public demand, has disolved the confederation and had implemented a new government through out the nation. Please read http://home.earthlink.net/~spectrechris/id17.html to see their new charter.

OOC: Sorry to all of you as I won't be able to post very frequently. I'm having lots of exams at the moment and , so, I don't have many time. I will continue posting, but my posts won't be so frequent :(

IC:
We congratulate The Aztec National League because of their great economic boost! We also hope that the aztecs feel confortable with their new government form and we congratulate them for becoming socialists, like us.

After watching the match and greeting the new weredolphin delegates at the beautiful city of Tiga Burung, the duque returned to his hotel, ready to take a good nap and wait for the conference to continue at the next morning....

(ooc: i'd normally be resisting accepting any form of magic, shapeshifting etc, and don't want to take fantasy nations here, but the addition of a race of dolphins is a great idea, and Weredolphins is clearly a good writer, so i'm setting my reluctance aside this time. Also, i like the name Inky. :wink: )
OOC: Thanks! :D . Yeah, Inky is a nice name indeed.
By the way, my congratulations to aztecs too...


Forewarned, a blimp awaits to take the dolphins & the Xikuangese welcoming party to the Hall of the Revolution in Matebian. This is a luxury blimp with a small pool on board, so the guests should be comfortable enough during the long flight.

As the blimp touches down in a Matebian morning drizzle, Violeta Bi Bere is there to greet it. "Welcome to the mountains," she says, bowing to the guests. "We hope you will be confortable here. We have no swimming pools in the city, but it is only a short walk to Lake Ramelau, where you make make yourselves at home."

After being greeted by the xikuanguese delegates and by the duke Mooo the 4th, from the hell bovines, both the xikuanguese and the weredolphin delegates entered into the blimp. As the blimp begun to fly, one could see the excitement on the weredolphin faces - It was the first time they had flied on any vehicle and, as Clicky said "...It's a wondeful sensation, but I'd rather swim...".
When the blimp finally arrived on Matebian, the dolphin-people were greeted by the friendly Violeta Bi Bere. "We will surely be confortable here. Thanks for carying so much", they replied to her with a smile.

After greeting her, the weredolphins left their luggage (which was, except for the small leathery handbag, none) at the hotel room that was asigned to them, and then, they went to the beautiful Lake Ramelau to relax and release all the stress of the trip.....

BREAKING NEWS---CONFEDERATION DISOLVED, AZTEC NATIONAL LEAGUE NOW UNITED SOCIALIST UNION OF STATES!

Today, in a shocking news, the Aztec National League's parlament, giving into public demand, has disolved the confederation and had implemented a new government through out the nation. Please read http://home.earthlink.net/~spectrechris/id17.html to see their new charter.

"We congratulate the ANL both in their improvement of their economy and their transition to a socialist union. We know how hard it is for many third world nations making the transition to socialism. The changing economy of our country almost destroyed our economy before we got it back on track. Although, we have never been imploded. Which was lucky. Only now are we able to improve our economy once again."

We are glad to find that so many nations are still open to us despite the move to socialism. I was afraid that it would cause horrible tensions like the Cold War. Our nation is handling well with the transtion, our people are embrasing the new government, reciveing great services (our nation was 186th in the region today for Healthiest citizens). Let hope that prosperity is plentiful for all of our nations.

Morning. Dawn here in the mountains is quite spectacular. A few early risers watch it, and the Tanah Burung delegates sit outside, sipping cofee and planning the day.

"So, we're talking about trade today," says Ainaro. "Could be some fireworks, i'm afraid."

"Well, your turn to chair the meeting," Bi Bere laughs. "Good luck with that."

"No reason for a fight," says Rumbiak. "All we have to do is agree to the trade treaty when Xikuang presents it."

"You know quite well we don't all agree on that point, Markus dear," replies Bi Bere. "I'd like to expand trade with all of the countries here, not just the socialist ones. And i don't want to give up our current trade deal with Knootoss."

"Ah, to hell with them," says Rumbiak, getting up to leave. "Why the hell did we ever sign a trade pact with those colonialists anyway?"

"Oh dear," Ainaro says softly as his colleague's back vanishes around the corner. "Perhaps i should be more worried about my own delegation than the others."

The dawn was indeed spectacular. The colors in the sky looked as if someone painted strikes of peach, yellow and light blue, a perfect background for the snowy mountains. This scerene view was what could be a total condtradiction to the agenda of today. Yes, trade can be quite the heated disscussion. It was a cold morning, nothing the High Lord couldn't handle. He looked arround, just taking in the scene. He knew that he needed to be prepaired for anything in the upcomming talks. He walks into his room, turns off the CD player, despite the fact it was playing one of his favorite classic rock songs. "Let's hope the day is productive." He thought to himself. He puts on his jacket and gathers his files. After that, he begins to walk down to the conference room...

Dhawan awoke the next morning and stretched, shaking his head. He got up and walked to the window, at last dislodging the final cobwebs from his mind, and thought about the day ahead.

Economics...there's no way this isn't going to get ugly. He took the blinds up, squinting into the early morning light. Drat it all, I need a muzzle for Dr. Blayer. Look how upset he was last night - and that wasn't even pure economics!

Dhawan wasn't sure how he had gotten thrust into sheparding the bunch of nincompoops Parliament had voted to send. For all their recommendations, Dr. Blayer - and the Lord MacIntyre! - certainly didn't pull their weight. Ambassador Johnson was better, but Dhawan couldn't help wondering why Iansisle had repeated its mistakes of the Golden Agate Conference. Why couldn't the High King get stuck doing stuff like this?!

Still, now was the time to go try and keep his party from falling apart completely. He got dressed - not in any big hurry - and met up with the other three Iansisleans outside his door.

Javin woke up early the next morning, too damn early, it was still dark out. He rolled out of bed and threw on a tank top and shorts. He turned on the coffeemaker in the room and did some calisthenics to wake up.

He finished his workout and picked up a cup of coffee. He threw a towel over his shoulders and walked out onto the balcony as the first rays of the sun peeked over the horizon. He was glad to see Dhawan at the conference, at least he didn't feel totally alienated.

Sipping his coffee he let his mind wander.

What in Buddha's name am I doing here. I'm not a politcian.

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

In another room on that floor, Takeo woke up after a few hours of sleep. He turned on his laptop and quickly read the breaking international news stories while drinking his own coffee. He knew the conference was going to be hard today, especially with economic debate lined up first.

He could hear Javin's quiet workout in the next room. He smiled and thought it must be nice to not have to worry about politics or running a country. He'd brought, some would say drug, Javin into the government because he'd needed someone he trusted close to him.

He saw the sun coming up..

Well, I'd better get ready for today's 'battle', should be fun.

Drat it all, I need a muzzle for Dr. Blayer.

ooc: I'm not quite sure why, but this is my pick for quote of the conference.

IC:

Fuming, Rumbiak entered the secretarial pool's room to pick up his photocopies. "Bury 'em all in paper, that's the plan," he told a young man manning the copy machines. Rumbiak's eyes scanned the young man's lithe figure. "Hey, cutie, what's your name? If only i wasn't married already...."

Then his eyes fell on the newspapers. WAR CLOUDS IN APERIN! screamed the headlines. KNOOTOSS AND ALLIES RATTLE SABRES!

"Jesus, those damn imperialists," he said to the room in general. "That's torn it."

As dawn broke low groan could be heard from the dugout at the football statium. One of the under secretaries sat up with a start in the middle of the pitch just in time to see International Development Secretary Miyanda make his umpteenth attempt at rising. Livingstone (Miyanda) gradually lifted his head from underneath the subs' bench, as if this task were the equal of out-fighting a hippopotamus back home.

On shakily gaining his feet, Miyanda looked characteristically pleased with himself- an aesthetic which evidently did not accurately convey his true feelings at that moment. The groan echoed once more, and Livingstone painfully spoke. "I..feel like a..warthog shat in my head, Colin.."

"Who the f*** is Colin?" Came the under secretary's reply, and that in turn was met by a dismissive flap of Miyanda's over-sized hand.

"Come on Colin.." "I'm not.." "..let us find the others- we have to talk about economics.. I hope you have your pen."

The second under secretary was found under Terrence -the first of the two guards- who himself was quite unconscious, his position under the score-board given away by a trail of controlled (usually) substances leading up to that location.

The fith man, and second of the guards, seemed to have fared better than everyone else, and was eventually found outside the stadium, where the giant soldier was cooly displaying his reasonably impressive football skills. He achieved this feat of showing-off-to-some-local-girls with a ball liberated from the store room ("you need a new lock- the last one was depressed and shot itself" read a note on the door), and was apparently not impressed by being dragged away, lofting the ball as he did high over some near-by properties.

The Lusakans were feeling good, looking well, and ready to engage in a summit on 3rd world economics!







"...Does anyone know where the **** we are?"

ooc: grabbing spot for reply later. Sorry, folks, been *really* busy and the thing spontaneously decided to stop watching the topic for me. Again. I'll try to post tomorrow.

-x

The duque woke up, only to discover that he had a terrible headache. *I shouldn't have drinked so much tequila last night*, he thought, rather embarrased.
He stood up and putted on his beautiful black-and-red robe and his royal crown.
Then, the royal cow walked torwards a small cage where his wife, la excellentísima duquesa Fussyball was sleeping.
"Good morning, sweetheart. It's time to get up. Today we have the discussion about economics! It's great to have a chance to unleash my long anti-imperialist speechs"
The small hamster yawned and looked to the world through her small, sleepy eyes.
The duque grabbed her wife and placed her on his shoulder. He, then, grabbed a minuscule crown from the table and placed it on the duquesa's head. "How cute", he said happily.

Then, the duque went to the hotel's restaurant, where he met with the rest of the hell bovinian delegates. All the cows sat happily to enjoy the individual salads they had ordered.....

Just a question to the rest of the delegates. Are most of the governements at this conference socialist? If that be the case, maybe it will be easier to come to some sort of agreement on the economy issue.

Most of them are. Larkinia's got some socialist leanings on public policy matters, then again, we're not really the focus of the conference, so our role is limited to some advice and some "Rumbiak-esque" speechmaking ;)

(Iansisle is about as un-socialist as they come, I'm afraid. We follow a general policy of governmental non-involvence in private affairs. Note that this isn't my particular viewpoint, but rather an experiment in what an extremely libertarian government would be like. And it's much more fun if your country doesn't work properly :))

(Iansisle is about as un-socialist as they come, I'm afraid. We follow a general policy of governmental non-involvence in private affairs. Note that this isn't my particular viewpoint, but rather an experiment in what an extremely libertarian government would be like. And it's much more fun if your country doesn't work properly :))

(Although spending a little on an adequate police force might help :P )

(Bah! Enforcing the laws is an invasion of privacy and a civil rights infraction! ;))

There's probably a socialist majority here, although the degree of socialism will vary. Tanah Burung is a libertarian socialist country, or an attempt to realize what an anarchist country would look like, so maybe somewhere in between the CACE members and Iansisle.

And i'm looking forward to that speechmaking, Larkinia!

(Hmm, Actually, a few words on the basics of everyone's country isn't a bad idea all round....)

Wellll, as Miyanda would gladly explain to anyone foolish enough to ask a Lusakan about his fatherland.. Lusaka began in some respects a little more like Iansisle than it now appears.. it's all well and good when your economy's frightening, but when warlords move in and start extortion racketts, turf wars, and using private businesses as fronts for God knows what, it isn't so much fun (wait, I tell a lie, that was sort of fun.. but not so much for those living it). No one had much power. Warlords controlled a village here and there, and a white minority government controlled a handfull of cities.. to a degree. It moved along fine until we realised that everyone else was making more money than us, and Derek Igomo got involved in the on again off again civil war, which eventually over-threw the old post-colonial government (we never found out who our former colonial master was, actually..), things just.."happened".

Before newly er..elected..yeah.. President Igomo knew what had hit him two soviet powers were pouring money in to keep a capitalist empire out.. private enterprise was temporarily banned in order to attack the warlords' revenue and fronts, taxes went up to pay for a growing army which ate up the warlords' recruitment pools, and Lusaka woke up one morning a socialist democracy.

No seriously, we'll get around to the election this afternoon, when the government relinquishes control of industry.

Just you wait.

Oh hey look, theres some cows eating salad, hey everyone look at that...

Wellll, as Miyanda would gladly explain to anyone foolish enough to ask a Lusakan about his fatherland.. Lusaka began in some respects a little more like Iansisle than it now appears.. it's all well and good when your economy's frightening, but when warlords move in and start extortion racketts, turf wars, and using private businesses as fronts for God knows what, it isn't so much fun (wait, I tell a lie, that was sort of fun.. but not so much for those living it). No one had much power. Warlords controlled a village here and there, and a white minority government controlled a handfull of cities.. to a degree. It moved along fine until we realised that everyone else was making more money than us, and Derek Igomo got involved in the on again off again civil war, which eventually over-threw the old post-colonial government (we never found out who our former colonial master was, actually..), things just.."happened".

Before newly er..elected..yeah.. President Igomo knew what had hit him two soviet powers were pouring money in to keep a capitalist empire out.. private enterprise was temporarily banned in order to attack the warlords' revenue and fronts, taxes went up to pay for a growing army which ate up the warlords' recruitment pools, and Lusaka woke up one morning a socialist democracy.

No seriously, we'll get around to the election this afternoon, when the government relinquishes control of industry.

Just you wait.

Oh hey look, theres some cows eating salad, hey everyone look at that...

OOC: So what are you trying to say then? ;)

(I'm trying quite hard not to say very much at all.. talking an awful lot often seems the best way of ensuring that :) )

Oh hey look, theres some cows eating salad, hey everyone look at that...

Thanks for noticing us... :wink:

Hell Bovines is a wacky nation of spanish-speaking, huge humanoid cows. The nation is a socialist, non-private property allowing, direct democracy. (a mix of libya, vietnam, ancient greece, ancient egypt, the game Diablo 2 and hippism)
The people (or I'd rather say cows :D ) participate a lot on government decisions, which have to be aproved by the populace through referendums.
The nation is also *VERY* (And when I say very, I really mean it) enviromentalist to the point that it has practically no industries other than cigar-manufacturing and hay farming.
Finally, while the bovines are very liberal in the political aspect, they aren't so liberal in the civil one - for example: meat eating is banned.

meat eating is banned.

OOC: Really? If it weren't, would it be canibalism?

meat eating is banned.

OOC: Really? If it weren't, would it be canibalism?

*Remembers a Whitey Bighorns rant....*

Oh lord, don't let them get started.. Look! *points some random direction* It's Santa Claus....

(I'm trying quite hard not to say very much at all.. talking an awful lot often seems the best way of ensuring that :) )

First lesson of the diplomat: talk a lot. Second lesson: say nothing at all. Third lesson: say it with charm and/or style.

Some characters are more diplomatic than others.

Again, multiple apologies to you all. I've had a spate of busy days and certain affairs are taking up most of the time I can devote to NS. Some of you kow what I'm talking about, and the rest of you probably don't want to, but if you do, please TG me because it doesn't belong here.

I'm *finally* ready to present the CACE economic treaty if folk are ready to get started again. Ok with youse?

(fine with me...of course, I have no say whatsoever in the actual running of this thing, so you may wish to wait for T.B. ;))

The Iansislean delegates regained their seats, P.M. Dhawan shooting Dr. Blayer a warning glare.

ooc: I'll just wait for a couple or three 'yeas' to pop topic reply notifications in people's inboxes. Also, it's looking likely I'll be away over the weekend, and if that happens I'll probably be working Monday, and I'm out Tuesdays, so after tomorrow I might not be back on 'til Wednesday (with a brief Sunday night possibility).

*sigh*

Please go ahead!

The hell bovines finally arrived at the conference site and took their seats, waiting for the discussion to start.
The duque was very happy - He had just received the news that the citizenry of hell bovines had accepted a referendum and had changed the name of the nation: It was no longer The Grand Duchy of Hell Bovines, It was now The Ecotopian Grand Duchy of Hell Bovines...

OOC: From now on, nations with more than 500 million of pop. can edit their names! It's cool! :D
Have you edited yours?

ooc: I like being a Most Serene Republic.

ic:

The excellent breakfast showcasing a variety of sumptuous fruits and flavourful cereals provided by the Tanah Burungian kitchen staff completed, the delegates-- some rather the worse for wear after last night's festivities-- gradually filtered into the conference chamber, resuming their seats. As soon as it seems the delegates have settled into some degree of comfort and readiness, Ms. Yi'i Lhyamo rises to speak, her steady and clear alto unoffending to the ears of the more hung-over, while Qzixi Tashi and Xiao Ngari hand around papers to the assembled.

"Fellows:

"I would like now to open the discussion on the terms of trade between developed and developing economies. As you all well know, terms of such trade far too often create exploitative relationships between powerful economies and weaker ones, often bordering on if not directly amounting to the indentured servitude of the poor by the wealthy in the interests of serving profit before people. This is often allowed to commence in a climate of ignorance, the fact that commodities are products of sweatshop labour or of workers paid but a fraction of a living wage craftily concealed by a few immoral agents from a good-willed public that would not tolerate it if they knew; often perpetuated in the spirit of competition, for fear that should a market not exploit every resource, defining human beings as resources, it shall fall behind. This need not be. Attention to the condition of third-world exploitation is growing, and a call for an end to the vagueness that surrounds the formation of the relation between developed and developing economies is well in order.

"I would like to present to the Conference a treaty which was recently ratified by the Coalition of Anti-Capitalist Economies, of which Xikuang-- as are the nations of several representatives here present-- is a member. Most of you will be familiar with the CACE, but for those who might not be, let me give a brief introduction: the Coalition is a co-operative organisation of nations embracing non-capitalist economic models in the interests of serving the interests of people before those of profit, and providing a multinational economic platform from which we may trade under our own terms and support one another with regard to the distribution of wealth and resources, amongst other things. If anyone is interested, I have copies of the CACE Charter, but I do not wish to divert this discussion; in any case, an open CACE conference is currently being arranged, to which all interested parties are naturally invited, for the near future.

"The CACE economies have until recently been closed to any but CACE nations, but with the ratification of the treaty this has changed. Though as a matter of policy the treaty will not be offered to WBO member nations, we now open our economies to approved nations, anti-capitalist and capitalist alike, in recognisance of that both capitalist and non-capitalist economic models, if they place the interests of the people before those of profit, if they classify the people not as resources, but as the reason resources are developed, can work together to serve the same interests: the welfare of the people.

"The treaty is restrictive, and one may well ask what any nation has to gain by signing. The answer is simple: the CACE is a large organisation, comprising several powerful economies as well as those not so well developed, and as a non-monied autarchy, we have a vast amount of capital we ourselves do not use. By opening up our markets, we provide access to that capital to others. We further hope that the example set by what can only lead to successful and profitable trade will serve as a benchmark for other nations to follow."

"You should all have a copy of the treaty now. If you have any questions or comments, do please forward them, and I shall answer as best I can."


I. Terms of Compliance

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

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

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

II. Labor Requirements


A. Wages

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

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

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

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

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



B. Work Schedules

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

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

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

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



C. Workplace Environment

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

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

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

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

D. Labor Unions

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

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



III. Investment Requirements

A. International Investment

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

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

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



B. Domestic Investment

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

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

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



IV. Trade Requirements

A. International Trade

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

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

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

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

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

While I am interested in signing, I must ask some questions first. Should I t-gram to you or another member of the CACE or discuss them on the floor?

Constancio Ainaro, in the chair, says: "Ms Yi'i has invited quesitons and comments. Please feel free to ask away in this forum."

He looks about, and decides to ask the first question himself. Straight to it. "We can certainly see the benefits of this treaty, but are we being asked to end our trade agreements with all other countries outside the Coalition of Anti-Communist Economies? Or can we continue these under certain conditions?"

Infact, that is the same question I was going to ask. We have a few buisness deals with other nations outside the CACE that our vital to our economy. We would hate to cancel the deals, we have made a few allies out of those arrangements.

Yi'i nods. "A very fair question. Under the terms of the treaty, signatories would face firm restrictions on international trade, but trade with non-CACE nations would not be precluded, so long as the nations with which signatories maintained trade relations meet the criteria laid out in section II, and do not maintain economic relations with nations violating those criteria.

"The purpose of this treaty is to promote the basic human rights of workers worldwide. By opening up our economies to non-member nations, capitalist and non-capitalist alike, who share our commitment to the fair treatment of workers and who with us condemn the exploitation of workers and entire economies offshore, we hope both to encourage fair trade practices worldwide and provide an enviroment whereby less powerful economies could enjoy the benefits of trade with stronger economies assured that the rights of their labour force would be respected.

"I should note that it is a matter of current CACE policy that this treaty shall not be available either to WBO nations or nations maintaining trade relations with WBO nations. Apart from that, so long as your trade partners meet our critera, we would have no reason to ask you to discontinue those relations."

ooc: I'm away most of this weekend, but go ahead and post more questions and I'll get back to you, really, I will! (other CACEers in here feel free to pipe up as well)

Even with Ambassador Johnson's hand on one shoulder and P.M. Dhawan's on the other, it was all the Iansislean delegation could do to keep Dr. Blayer from de-seating himself after reading only a couple lines of the treaty. At last, as Mr. Ainaro finished speaking, he muttered, "Yeah, I got some," and relaxed in his chair. Turning to Dhawan, Blayer put on his best persuading face, and hit the Prime Minister with it. “Come on, Minister. You heard the stipulations of that treaty: it’s nonsense, pure and simple! Let me get up there, give it a broadside or two, please!”

Dhawan considered his bespectacled Minister of Finance with cold eyes, certainly not the ones he’d used while stumping for the Commonwealth Party out in Weshield. “Minister,” he replied, making sure to keep his voice low, “I will not allow Iansisle’s official stance at these hearings to be colored by your, or anyone else’s, personal opinion. This treaty is not being proposed as an ammendment to the agreement we signed at Golden Agate. Whatever I, you, or Ambassador Johnson may think about their delegate’s choice to campaign for a partisan agreement at a conference such as this, I will not lose what little respect we have managed to garner among the second-world nations present here. Now, please, sit back and be respectful of the proceedings, or I may be forced to replace you!”

Dr. Blayer did indeed sit back, but he also shook a warning finger at Dhawan. “I need not remind the Prime Minister, I’m sure, that IanCorp’s support of the Commonwealth Party grows thinner every moment. They may change their mind back to Free Trade at any moment, or, worse, a member of His Majesty’s Rightist Opposition Coalition.” Blayer smiled thinly, “And I’m sure I don’t have to remind the Prime Minister what that would do to his government.”

“The Iansislean International Telegraph Corporation may be influential, but it does not hold the floor at Jameston Place,” replied Dhawan in an equally cold tone. “And I act in the best interest of the Commonwealth, not its business interests. Now please, Dr. Blayer, hold your tongue!”

I am still interested in this, but I must think about sigining it. I must also negotiate with the ruler of my country too.