Art of the Possible

[Et_Absoluti]

We echo the thoughts of the Confederate Government, and pledge ourselves to keeping sovereign American states free from the aggression of outside nations.

 

[Shadowbound]

Hey,

Korea, sign this treaty.

The Empire of Japan and the Korean Empire, henceforth referred to as the signatories, pledge themselves and their people into a relationship of perpetual brotherhood and harmony.

• The signatories agree not to restrict trade or travel between their nations in any unreasonable manner beyond that which is necessary for basic security of the state.
• The Korean Empire will engage with the diplomatic advice of the Empire of Japan, to better coordinate their efforts towards international peace, in all matters.
• To assist with the modernization of the country, a Resident-General will be appointed by the Empire of Japan to advise the Korean government on financial and administrative matters.

Shadowbound

 

[Masada]

The British Government categorically rejects the Confederate Governments attempt to win for itself an entire Hemisphere in which it can expand the malign institution of slavery.

***

The British Government notes with concern the Japanese terms handed to Korea.

 

[Shadowbound]

We feel our terms are quite reasonable, given our ongoing military relationship with Korea and our significant economic investments in the country. Japan has a demonstrated history of support for Korea's efforts to modernize and establish its sovereignty, and we simply seek to position ourselves in such a way that we can continue to do so with maximal efficacy.

 

[Crezth]

Seventy seven years ago these words were put to by the hand of the Great Statesman George Monroe paper and issued to all the nations of Europe:

“The occasion has been judged proper for asserting, as a principle in which the rights and interests of the United States are involved, that the American continents, by the free and independent condition which they have assumed and maintain, are henceforth not to be considered as subjects for future colonization by any European powers... We owe it, therefore, to candor and to the amicable relations existing between the United States and those powers to declare that we should consider any attempt on their part to extend their system to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous to our peace and safety. With the existing colonies or dependencies of any European power we have not interfered and shall not interfere. But with the Governments who have declared their independence and maintained it, and whose independence we have, on great consideration and on just principles, acknowledged, we could not view any interposition for the purpose of oppressing them, or controlling in any other manner their destiny, by any European power in any other light than as the manifestation of an unfriendly disposition toward the United States."

Though many years and incredible turmoil has changed the shape of these two continents, these truths still resonate with those of us who have thrown off the foreign yoke of oppression.

As such, we of the Congress of the Confederate States of America reaffirm these statements, and call upon all the Nations of the Americas to do the same.

The Mexican Republic condemns this doctrine especially as espoused by the Confederate States of America. When the nations of America were fighting for their freedom from Europeans, perhaps, these words had meaning - but now the threat to the independence of American powers doesn't come from Europe but from the Southern Republic. Affirming these statements are tantamount to rolling out a red carpet for Confederate mischief and filibustering in absence of the regulation of the civilized world.

 

[Nuka-sama]

The government of His Most Imperial Majesty notes with concern over the treaty between Japan and Korea, noting long standing French interests in the region

 

[Immaculate]

Ministers of Commerce and State Lead International Trade Mission

In what promises to be a whirlwind tour of 6 nations on 3 continents, the ministers of commerce, Percy Williams and Foreign Affairs, William R. Day are leading a US trade mission to the nations of the Americas and Asia.

The Williams-Day US trade mission arrives in Mexico.​

Starting with a stop in the Spanish Caribbean colonies, the mission will then proceed to Mexico on their way to Colombia. From Colombia they will travel to Brazil and Chile. Finally, they will cross the Pacific and visit Japan before returning home.

The goal of the trade mission, which is expected to take 5 months and which will make use of three different ocean-going ships and multiple trains, is to allow US and foreign businessmen and investors to meet face to face and provide opportunity for increased coordination between private businesses internationally.

The Spanish Caribbean offers opportunities for US business interest that perhaps European Spain is less interested in. Obviously crops like sugar and cotton are welcome in the US, but so too are tobacco and finished textiles. The US is expected to export raw and finished metal products to the Caribbean if they can find, or create, the market for these goods.

Mexico is a favored stop as it offers a variety of raw resources, especially relating to agricultural textiles, the US requires and it is expected that its relatively stable and prosperous economy might be an excellent choice for private US investors seeking to secure a stable source of cotton outside of the CSA. Mexican mining operations might also be an interest while it is expected that Mexico in return will be interested in the import of industrial machinery from the USA.

Colombia is a more problematic state. It has only recently emerged from war and remains a significant gamble for American business and dollars, and yet with risk also comes great opportunity. Conversations between the US ambassador to Colombia and the Colombian leader, General Leon Crea, reveal that despite the instability of that nation, it remains committed to democracy and empowerment of its people. The USA, by supporting its industries and businesses, may bring prosperity and further empower everyday Colombians.

Brazil is also a problem, especially in the face of its significant slave population. But like Colombia, Brazil is a state in dynamic change. General Arthur Guimarães, like his Colombian counterpart, assures the US of his nation’s dedication to democracy and to ending slavery. And while investment in Brazil, at least in the short term, is not expected to be significant, many consider the contacts made at this time will serve as building blocks for a greater future once General Arthur Guimarães makes good on his promises.

Chile is a natural friend and even ally of the USA in South America. Its strong democratic traditions, proven political and social stability, and welcome of US dollars all mean it will no doubt prove a favorite of US companies seeking to develop contacts in the chemical and metal industries, with a particular focus on Chilean saltpeter, copper, and silver. The US is expected to assist Chilean industries with new technological marvels that will not only increase Chilean production but also bring considerable profits to both Chilean and US businesses.

Japan is a different mold entirely and represents for the USA a novelty and a route to Asian goods not easily found in the Americas. Meanwhile, for Japan, the US north-west promises access to metals and timber not easily secured in its home islands.

While it is difficult to judge exactly how much new trade and business a trade mission like this is actually likely to create, the names of several prominent American businessmen are listed amongst those partaking. Combined with the presence of two US ministers, its seems that not only the US federal government but its business community have high hopes for the inking of lucrative new agreements.

 

[Sonereal]

To: People of Brazil
CC: The World

We've informed several governments privately already, but we feel confident now to make the announcement that the Republic of Brazil will be manumitting all slaves within our borders over two years, which we believe will be enough time to provide the support to each wave of freed slaves to promote a positive transition.

Owners of slaves can claim a special standard deduction on taxes for each released slaves.

We will work to integrate the former slaves into wider society through education and infrastructure programs to inform slaves.

This will be a difficult transition, and one Brazil hopes to find international support in.

Argentina invites the nations of Great Britain and Brazil to Conference

Argentina extends the hand of peace, friendship and cooperation to the illustrious nations of The United Kingdom and Brazil. President Mitre has invited diplomats and leaders from both nations to attend the Conference to discuss the rampant instability among South American nations and will delve into other topics as well. The Conference will be behind closed doors, and the results will not be visible to other nations without the consent of all attending parties.

The Republic of Brazil is currently not interested in closed door talks about South America at this time.

 

[Immaculate]

To: People of Brazil
CC: The World

We've informed several governments privately already, but we feel confident now to make the announcement that the Republic of Brazil will be manumitting all slaves within our borders over two years, which we believe will be enough time to provide the support to each wave of freed slaves to promote a positive transition.

Owners of slaves can claim a special standard deduction on taxes for each released slaves.

We will work to integrate the former slaves into wider society through education and infrastructure programs to inform slaves.

This will be a difficult transition, and one Brazil hopes to find international support in.

The United States of America government applauds the wisdom of the Brazilian government.

 

[Justo]

That's true, but why would they, when a fuel-rich supplier can get far more than 1 EP per 100 Fuel?

If you have an alternate suggestion for the mechanic, I'm open to hear it, but I'm not completely prepared to scrap it without a single update having passed yet. Especially since researching proper oil production and reserves was a massive pain in the arse.

I think there should be a fuel storage limit for each nation and a cost for increasing the storage limit to encourage nations to sell fuel rather than just horde fuel which will likely be what occurs under the current method. If a nation goes over its storage limit then its production of fuel should drop as there is no economical reason to keep producing fuel (as what happens in the real world).

This should ideally lead to fuel being very cheap at the start of the NES (since there's low demand and quite a bit of supply) but the price should increase as demand rises (due to nations having larger storage capacity, larger navies, mechanized armies and air forces).

Edit: Another thing to consider is that large oil producers like Russia and the US can almost double or triple their EP from Oil based on some of the pricing that's going around. This would put their economies above France and Britain which seems a bit unrealistic given oil shouldn't be that valuable at this stage.

 

[TheLastJacobite]

Oooo Justo makes a good point.

 

[Blaze Injun]

Hey,

To: Confederate States of America
From: The Korean Empire

Treaty of Richmond
Article 1 provides:
There shall be perpetual peace and friendship between the President of the Confederate States of America and the Emperor Gwangmu of the Korean Empire and the citizens and subjects of their respective Governments. If other powers deal unjustly or oppressively with either Government, the other will exert their good offices on being informed of the case to bring about an amicable arrangement, thus showing their neighborly feelings.
Article 2 ... exchange of diplomatic and consular representatives
Article 3 ... Confederate States vessels wrecked on coast of Korea
Article 4 ... Confederate States extraterritorial jurisdiction over its citizens in Korea
Article 5 ... merchants and merchant vessels shall reciprocally pay duties
Article 6 ... reciprocal rights of residence and protection of citizens of both nations
Article 7 ... prohibiting export or import of opium
Article 8 ... export of "breadstuffs" and red ginseng
Article 9 ... regulating importation of arms and ammunition
Article 10 .. reciprocal rights to employing native labor
Article 12 .. students exchanges
Article 13 .. the usual most-favored-nation clause
Article 14 .. Confederate Navy may make use of Korean mainland ports for use as naval bases.
Article 15 .. Slaves are property and will be afforded the same protections
Article 16 .. Confederate States military units will be stationed in Korea to continue training of the Korean Army
Article 17 .. Korea & the Confederate States of America enter into a Defensive Alliance. The attack on one nation is a attack on both nations.

Signed: Emperor Gwangmu of the Korean Empire


To: The Japanese Empire
From: The Korean Empire

Korea would like to extend a hand to Japan as the friend that nation has become. But Japan handing us a Treaty and saying sign it is a bit strong. If one looks at history. Korea has more friends then Japan. But first the Japanese-Korean Treaty of Friendship.

1. The signatories agree not to restrict trade or travel between their nations in any unreasonable manner beyond that which is necessary for basic security of the state.
We agree to this unless it effects the Treaty of Richmond

As for 2. & 3.
Korea would gladly except any advice and welcome a Resident-General appointed by the Empire of Japan to advise the Korean government on financial and administrative matters. But we are under no obligation to follow advice that harms the future of the Korean Empire.

I hope that Korea & Japan can sit and make a formal treaty with respect & friendship.



Blaze Injun

 

[thomas.berubeg]

To: Confederate States of America
From: The Korean Empire[/B]

Treaty of Richmond
Article 1 provides:
There shall be perpetual peace and friendship between the President of the Confederate States of America and the Emperor Gwangmu of the Korean Empire and the citizens and subjects of their respective Governments. If other powers deal unjustly or oppressively with either Government, the other will exert their good offices on being informed of the case to bring about an amicable arrangement, thus showing their neighborly feelings.
Article 2 ... exchange of diplomatic and consular representatives
Article 3 ... Confederate States vessels wrecked on coast of Korea
Article 4 ... Confederate States extraterritorial jurisdiction over its citizens in Korea
Article 5 ... merchants and merchant vessels shall reciprocally pay duties
Article 6 ... reciprocal rights of residence and protection of citizens of both nations
Article 7 ... prohibiting export or import of opium
Article 8 ... export of "breadstuffs" and red ginseng
Article 9 ... regulating importation of arms and ammunition
Article 10 .. reciprocal rights to employing native labor
Article 12 .. students exchanges
Article 13 .. the usual most-favored-nation clause
Article 14 .. Confederate Navy may make use of Korean mainland ports for use as naval bases.
Article 15 .. Slaves are property and will be afforded the same protections
Article 16 .. Confederate States military units will be stationed in Korea to continue training of the Korean Army
Article 17 .. Korea & the Confederate States of America enter into a Defensive Alliance. The attack on one nation is a attack on both nations.

Signed: Emperor Gwangmu of the Korean Empire
Signed: President Tillman

 

[EQandcivfanatic]

In regards to fuel supply, we already have a massive supply and relatively low demand. Venezuela for example is more than willing to underbid any other offers at this point (contact your local representative for details!). Venezuela as an NPC has no desire to hoard its stockpile and is more than willing to sell. If other powers choose to hoard, well, that's their prerogative. Maintaining a strategic supply of fuel is a sound military and economic policy pursued by numerous RL nations. As for costs, we'll have to see where things up, but as stated, Venezuela is more than happy to underbid any offers any of you may have from another power at this time.


Statements on the Confederate Declaration

From: Colombia

We agree in spirit with the statement by the Confederacy, but would like to warn our South American brothers of the equal insidious threat of Confederate and American imperialism. Through their corporate and economic machinations they seek to further undermine our sovereignty in the truly greatest threat to our national sovereignty. Furthermore, the United States especially seems willing to cooperate with the great imperial powers of Britain and France to force their will on others.

From: Ecuador

We follow with the Confederacy and reaffirm the Monroe statement.

From: Haiti

The Confederacy's recent statements are nothing more than a cover for expanding and developing the fiendish slave trade in the Americas. They are aware that only through cohesive international action will the blight of slavery be removed and seek to prevent the wise powers of Europe from helping end this atrocity.

From: Venezuela

We stand by the Confederacy in reaffirming this declaration.

 

[Immaculate]

The United States of America is concerned by the signing of the Treaty of Richmond and in particular articles 13 and 15.

We hope that Korea will remain open to USA trade.

We once again state, unequivocally, our stance AGAINST slavery, be it in the CSA, Korea, Venezuela, Nicaragua, or elsewhere.

We wish to make it absolutely clear that we will not abide trans-oceanic shipments of 'slaves'.

 

[ycleptic]

Is it too late to join? I'd like to play Columbia.

 

[EQandcivfanatic]

@ycleptic: Welcome to the forum, and no, it is not too late to join. Colombia is yours if you want it.

 

[Immaculate]

@ycleptic, i will forward you the existing USA-colombia diplo.

Also, welcome!

 

[Nuka-sama]

France expresses great concern over the Treaty or Richmond

 

[Shadowbound]

Japan feels the Treaty of Richmond causes irreparable harm to its relations with Korea.

It has severely damaged the standing of Korea among the international conmunity.

It has made Korea into a dagger pointed at the heart of Japan.

It is marching the Korean future towards the ovens!*

*Too far? Probably.