(DNN) - First Major debate begins.

[Maelstrom Vortex]

ooc: Continued from here: http://forums.cybernations.net/index.php?s...t&p=1905297

ic:

It was a stormy day in Dragonisian City, the new Chairmanship debates were strongly under way in the Legislative chambers in full public view with a full invitation to all press domestic and international. A legislative moderator, a little known bureaucrat wearing a dull grey suit and black tie oversaw the discussion. The floor was opened to questions.

A question for all candidates to consider, and answer once they have had time to consider it. if elected, how will your foreign affars as regards to Promised Land be affected, if at all?

Ivan Dragoska noted, "Promised Land is part of the reason why we are. Such will not be forgotten. I see a continuation of previous relations as normal under my reign."

Kevin Oates chuckled, "The people of our nation have always been enamored with Promised Land and the memory of what they have done for us. I doubt I could do anything to change such even if I wanted and I don't."

Jake Owens shook his head, "We should stop viewing ourselves as in debited to foreign powers. Promised Land treated us well when we needed them, this is true, but that was so many years ago. They have in recent times often voiced opinions and thoughts that ran in contrast to our national interest. While I still see a strong and fruitful relationship between Dragonisia and Promised Land, I think it is time to get past the hype of the 'family bond' between states."

Tomy Smith shook his head at Owen's response, "Always willing to do insult to a wonderful contributor to our national interests and an even more wonderful business partner, eh Mr. Owens.. is there anyone you do trust outside of your own staff?" Smith retorted sharply.

Jake sighed, "Must we sling mud? I stated my opinion, won't you give yours now?"

Smith smiled, "I just did, they're a major business partner, we should continue to keep strong relations for them as they're mutually beneficial and they've done much to assist us in the past, despite a few departures over disagreements from a similar world view. I think a few of those times they were even right on the ball and we should have listened... but.. you know how the imperialists are..."

Dragoska spoke up abruptly, "Oh, and how exactly are we Mr. Smith?"

Smith gave a snide grin, "You never know when to take no for an answer from someone outside our borders!"

Dragoska retorted, "Smith was right, you really do like to sling dirt.. well keep slinging Mr. Smith.. just remember, that dirt may come back to bury you..."

The legislative moderator interrupted. "Gentlemen, I think that's enough for this question..."

Edited October 15, 2009 by Maelstrom Vortex

[Bacharth]

A reporter from Oðinsheim University asks, "How do you feel about the war between Varangia and Crimea?"

[Maelstrom Vortex]

Ivan Dragoska noted, "Not really that concerned, right now the most important matters have to deal with our internal workings. We need to put Dragonisia first in its recovery before we concern ourselves with other's wars. Part of my foreign affairs efforts will in fact be limiting the scope of our operations to what is in fact useful to us. I don't view much as useful right now given that most of the world has recently defaulted on treaties with the Dragonisian state in some form or other."

Kevin Oates picked up after Dragoska finished, "He's mostly right, but I think I differ in that I see any market willing to open its borders to our participation currently as a worthwhile effort as it could rebuild some of those broken relations.. some don't feel we should even work on rebuilding the burnt bridges as they feel utterly betrayed. I think it was a symptom of the most recent incarnation of the Empire attempting to over-reach as it usually does when it gets bloated. I also think it's important to keep a more regionally centered focus and not go on any grand campaigns as the old empires have."

Jake Owens commented, "Why should we care? Not like either did anything for us when we've ever called on them in the past." And that is all he said. That very undiplomatic comment got a few jeers from some of the members of the legislature. "You know it's true as much as I do." Is all he stated in response to the active crowd response.

Tony Smith shook his head, "Owens.. you're.. a remarkable individual." He continued, "I am not up to speed on the entire details of the dispute as it is a war so far away from domestic soil and as many of us are in the government currently we are very much hard pressed into the recovery of our state in various ways. Mine is the defense of the state, which since the collapse of the Empire we're held together by little more than international good will alone and that is simply a very honest and realistic notation of the facts. I believe that once we have recuperated and are more actively addressing international affairs we'll be looking into the behavior of both states and measuring their worth as business and trade partners. Given our defense industry will be privatized, those relations could be quite substantial in terms of trade and we'd be interested in looking into contracts with the most promising state.. if the war is still going at that time. How a promising relationship would be defined will definitely vary based on the ground and political situation is at the time we move to make any contracts so.. it could vary by the time it matter; but perhaps it gives you an inkling as to the thought processes which will go into making such a decision."

Owens rubbed the bridge of his nose in dismay, "And you called me remarkable. You're willing to let our private industries outsource the very blood of my state. What should the people think Mr. Smith?"

Smith chuckled, "They should think about the money."

Edited October 15, 2009 by Maelstrom Vortex

[Bacharth]

Erik Betrakte, watching this debate, sent a message to Mr. Owens. "Truthful. You have my support, if foreign support in the way of campaign money is allowed."

[Maelstrom Vortex]

The private response to Erik Betrakte came through from Jake Owens,

We're well funded, but thank you for the offer. Since the elective process is not purely democratic, there is no advertising done. It's more attempting to appeal to the bureaucrats in the legislature, who are also elected based on non-democratic criteria such as prior public service along with a local government board review.

A meritocracy works very differently than a pure or representative democracy, although it is democratic in nature in the terms that the people decided they wanted a ruling body based on the criteria of skill, not just popularity and established this system. If you truly want to help, the best way would be a campaign of diplomatic discourse originating from your government betwixt yourself and the body of our legislature, giving your endorsement.

I do note, it could be both beneficial or a detraction based on how THEY perceive your state, so I encourage you to consult their voting record on any affairs relating to your state before you make such an effort. In conclusion, save your money.. grant your influence. I appreciate your endorsement.

Regards,

Jake Owens

Edited October 15, 2009 by Maelstrom Vortex

[king of cochin]

Gosree Times asks this question to all candidates,

"What is your opinion regarding Cochin and Dragonisian relations with Cochin. How do you view the recently signed Ratnagiri Accord by which Dragonisia has leased Ratnagiri to Cochin for a period of 25 years?"

[Maelstrom Vortex]

Ivan Dragoska began as typical in the cycle, "Not a bad deal. I couldn't imagine any other truly productive use for the land.. at least for some time.. if we didn't re-lease it. I'm very disappointed that Cochin wouldn't share the data on the sonar network though given it pertains mostly to Dragonisian security given the breadth of the Dragonisian coast that borders the Indian Ocean. Otherwise, a fairly reasonable deal given the current state of the land."

Kevin Oates sighed, "We can't dwell in the past, it was a bad breakup, but we got to move on. I think it's progress in the right direction and the good people of Dragonisia have been put through enough stress with the near global war as it is. It is time that Dragonisia became a co-operator, not a manipulator or source of intimidation. If that is what you want, I am your man."

Jake Owens rumbled, "They should have blasted the damn ships before they made harbor and torn up the rail lines. Those traitors could have cost us everything in our time of direst need. All the same, we have all we need here now, and I'll respect the agreement. It does give some benefit and will help expedite our recovery. I just think we should have chosen a better trading partners than those despicable cowards. I am sorry mam, but your government is full of a pack of liars who cannot honor a treaty." More jeers came from the legislature at this commentary. "Grow some ***** you bureaucratic *****." He responded to those jeering his commentary

Dragoska muttered, "You can be angry without being foul mouthed, comrade. Such an attitude won't get you very far on the world stage..."

Owens hissed, "We have every right to be angry about what they did to us."

Dragoska shook his head, "It was partly our own doing..

Tony snapped, "Can I respond now please?" The others respectfully quieted then he continued, "I think the deal wasn't enough. We have many viable industries and ports still available to be accessed by the people of Cochin. The age of Empires is gone, lets be done with it. It is time we move on now and perhaps we should look at other ways we should be of service to our neighbors. In doing so it improves both our security and our ties of trust with them. They will need us, we will need them.. interdependence is key.. it was the very lack of interdependence which caused the Empire we adored to fray at its edges and to devolve. That era should end. They should know we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week if the price is right and the need presents itself. With the favored trade statuses being granted between our states, now is the time for increased business activity between our states. I propose we extend free flow of labor and full free trade agreements to Cochin immediately along with criminal extradition, transit, and line of sight treaties enabling us to access their sensory networks and they to access ours for mutual defense.. while remaining completely independent states. The same for our other neighbors.. it shouldn't stop with Cochin and the world needs to know our markets are their markets.. so that competition will deliver to us the better deals."

[VigilantWatcher]

A Curristan reporter stood up. "David Franks for the Curristan Times. What are the candidates opinions of Curristan?"

[King Kevz]

Valerie was satisfied with the candidates reactions after the terminated her private conference, she had gained valuable personal views on each candidate and had already made some assumptions based on their character. Of course having to ask questions in public wasn't what she had wanted to do by sometimes you had to adapt to the situation.

"What does each candidate think is the most threat towards Dragonisia's continued existance?" was Valerie's first question she had sent, signed by herself so that the candidates knew it was a nation leader and not some reporter asking the question.

Waiting for the answer in her office Valerie smiled to herself thinking of how the question might catch the candidates off guard seeing as how it wasn't the usual "what do you think of us" or "what foreign relations will you be following" question.

[Amyante]

Another reporter stood up.

"Jin Feng from Zargathia Prime here... What are your intentions concerning currently active memberships to international organisations, the Dragon Bloc and AUP in particular? Also, your opinions on the White Cross please?"

[Maelstrom Vortex]

A Curristan reporter stood up. "David Franks for the Curristan Times. What are the candidates opinions of Curristan?"

Dragoska smiled softly, "Given that Curristan is, by its bulk, a South American nation I can see them as a strong trading partner with very different resources than our own and perhaps a good tourist destination. In terms of anything more than that however, it would be difficult to accomplish because of the current world perceptions of Dragonisia based on its past leadership. While we might want to seek deeper ties the wisdom of such in the presence of international scrutiny is questionable."

Oates noted, "Unfortunately, my opinion differs little from Dragoskas on this particular issue. Perhaps I could add on that starting a cultural exchange program might bring our people a little closer together in understanding even if deepening cultural relations might not be an option."

Owens shook his head, "Bending to the knees of other powers.. again. Is that all we do these days gentlemen? Curristan is an independent state, if it wants closer ties with us I would say it would be an international incident for an outside state to intervene in its foreign affairs. It may not be wise for us to approach them with treaties stronger than trade, but that doesn't mean they could not offer them to us."

Tony Smith grinned, "For once I agree with Mr. Owens, there's no reason we shouldn't be able to help Curristan.. even if we can't really ask them to help us."

"You're just looking for another market for your cheap guns Mr. Smith." Dragoska sniped.

Smith responded, "A gun is just a tool as any other.. and I wouldn't call the productivity of your own people.. cheap.. Mr. Dragoska."

Valerie was satisfied with the candidates reactions after the terminated her private conference, she had gained valuable personal views on each candidate and had already made some assumptions based on their character. Of course having to ask questions in public wasn't what she had wanted to do by sometimes you had to adapt to the situation.

"What does each candidate think is the most threat towards Dragonisia's continued existance?" was Valerie's first question she had sent, signed by herself so that the candidates knew it was a nation leader and not some reporter asking the question.

Waiting for the answer in her office Valerie smiled to herself thinking of how the question might catch the candidates off guard seeing as how it wasn't the usual "what do you think of us" or "what foreign relations will you be following" question.

Ivan scratched his head a bit, "I think the most dangerous threat to Dragonisia's continued existence is bad leadership. It's why I'm here. The world is watching us after this last incident with Tahoe for any mistake that might be used to justify the continued assault upon our nation and we do not need to give them reason. The arrogance of the old regime must die."

Oates picked up, "I actually think the greatest threat to us comes from within, there's a lot of turmoil over the secessions from the Empire and there are many radical elements that want to take up the mantle of vengeance. I think the next appointee needs to be strong in the area of domestic law and security to ensure these elements to not obtain the upper hand."

Owens chuckled, "We are no threat to ourselves. That's just nonsense. The people of Dragonisia are faithful to the core and would never forsake our government. They have every right to be angry over the secession and I think leaders that are hell bent on oppressing the few that are angry are in the wrong and the greatest threat to our security because they will stir up the emotions that need to be allowed to cool in their actions. If anything we need to increase our national defense and secure our infrastructure so that we might recover.. then we can consider what actions to take next in terms of those who have betrayed us."

Oates interjected, "That sounds like a veiled threats. I think I understand now what Dragoska was talking about. You really are a nut!"

Owens retorted, "I'm a nut? Is that all you have to say? I could say you're going senile but it wouldn't make for much of an argument..."

Oates glared at Owens in response, he wanted to walk over and deck the younger man for attacking his age.

Tomy Smith filled in the uncomfortable void, "While the other candidates are plotting to kill each other I might say that I think the greatest threat to Dragonisia is currently unknown. There are always hidden schemes going about Bob that we are unaware of and the best way we can protect against such is to strengthen our CIA. Right now most of the world is relatively indifferent towards us despite this last near global war caused by the Empire. We are not lead by the same fools that got us into the predicament that caused the necessity of these elections. Indeed, there are undoubtedly others plotting against our state, jealous of even what little we have achieved, we need to seek them out and at least be aware of these plots before they can come to fruition, so that we are prepared and ready to spring the trap against our adversaries who would harm us."

Edited October 15, 2009 by Maelstrom Vortex

[Maelstrom Vortex]

Another reporter stood up.

"Jin Feng from Zargathia Prime here... What are your intentions concerning currently active memberships to international organisations, the Dragon Bloc and AUP in particular? Also, your opinions on the White Cross please?"

Ivan Dragoska cleared his throat a bit, "We will have to do a review of the recent actions prior to the 'War of Words' as I've come to call it over Texas.. since only one minor battle was fought for it over the Pacific at great detriment to our air forces and diplomatic ties. The more supportive organizations such as the AUP we will almost certainly stand behind. All the others we are going to be putting under a very skeptical review. As for the White Cross, it is a noble organization with a noble cause. However, given I have not seen it do ANYTHING for the cause of peace within the past.. year or more, I am going to also have to put it to skeptical review to see if continuing membership is worthwhile."

"Unlike Mr. Dragoska, I think the White Cross is an important organization, if I win I am certain we will remain a member. I still value our allies and believe that what caused our defaults with them was more the aggression of the imperialists trying to over reach even the ethical bounds of war in their campaigns abroad. It's time to stop the Imperial spin machines and we need to own up to the fact the war and the fracturing of the Empire was our fault, particularly Tidus Wilhelm's." Kevin Oates replied. "I admire Dragoska's patriotism, but he's defending a lost cause if he still want sto portray us as innocent."

Dragoska sneered, "You're putting words in my mouth now Oates, you better be careful what you say. I never said we weren't responsible."

Jake Owens kind of rolled his eyes and responded, "The treaties we have now are little more than tissue paper that were sneezed on by the world. They need thrown in the garbage and new treaties made.. that will not be treated in the same fashion." He noted simply, bluntly.

Tony Smith look dismayed, "Tissue papers? Is that all our potential partners mean to you? Think of the damage you'll be doing to our trade.. our economy.. to the lives of working men and women in the state and who have to commute abroad for work! You sir, are a fool thrice over and so help me, if you get elected, I swear I will work against you at every turn to stop your mad plans."

Jake chuckled, "Nice to know you're so willing to defy the will of the people, Mr. Smith."

Smith hissed, "I trust the people not to let a madman like you get the reigns of this state to begin with."

"We shall see." is all Owens replied.

[Amyante]

Jin nodded, jotting the answers down before moving on to her next question.

"Another one for all of you... Should you lose the elections, would you be willing to work with the winner if the result would be a better Dragonisia? Also, if you would win, would you be willing to work with the defeated candidates?"

She knew the question to be a pit of vipers, and going by the way the candidates were acting towards one another she mentally braced herself for the results.

Edited October 15, 2009 by Amyante

[Subtleknifewielder]

"No offense is taken at an honest opinion. One more question. Promised Land's biggest regret in the war was not being able to deploy units to the Empire's defense fast enough. Should you be elected, would you be willing to lease land for us to base a portion of our air force in Dragonisia?"

[kitex]

A Kitexian reported stood up " John Wilkins for the Kitex Weekly. Will the NAP/FTA with Kitex have to be re-negotiated? Are you open to an MDP with Kitex? Also what are your thoughts on the Kitex?"

Edited October 15, 2009 by kitex

[Maelstrom Vortex]

Jin nodded, jotting the answers down before moving on to her next question.

"Another one for all of you... Should you lose the elections, would you be willing to work with the winner if the result would be a better Dragonisia? Also, if you would win, would you be willing to work with the defeated candidates?"

She knew the question to be a pit of vipers, and going by the way the candidates were acting towards one another she mentally braced herself for the results.

Dragoska stroked his beard a bit, "I am not sure our concepts are very compatible. I'm willing to give them an advisory role to voice the opinions of their constituency, but they will have to capture at least 20% of the vote to qualify for the advisory role or for me to feel there is sufficient merit for them to be on my staff."

Kevin Oates thought about it a momment, then nodded, "I'm willing to match Dragoska's designs for advisers."

Owens shook his head, "I think my ideas stand in to stark of contrast to my opponents, I feel they'd only get in my way and add to the bureaucracy of the government. Besides, we do not need any spare politicians draining the public coffers that are unnecessary on the staff rosters."

Tony Smith chuckled, "Way to get the opposition out of the way Jake. Sure shows what kind of ruler you shall be. Iron Fist, Dark heart and all."

"It is only my will to serve the people of Dragonisia in the optimum capacity which would make me want to remove you from beneath their fingernails, Mr. Smith." Owens glared.

Tony Smith finally addressed the question, "I will respect as adviser only the person who is second in the polls. The other two will have to wait for the next election cycle to be heard."

"No offense is taken at an honest opinion. One more question. Promised Land's biggest regret in the war was not being able to deploy units to the Empire's defense fast enough. Should you be elected, would you be willing to lease land for us to base a portion of our air force in Dragonisia?"

Ivan Dragoska thought on this a moment, "Promised Land has been one of our few loyal allies through thick and thin, even if we were to cut all relations, I'd say they would be the exception in my book. I don't intend on cutting all relations, just most.. I am going to have to take a knife to the fat which has built up in our diplomatic corps."

Kevin Oates replied with the answer already on his mind, "Definitely. It would help Dragonisia in its defense, employee more of its people at facilities designed to cater to the operations of the base, and would reap both security and economic rewards. We would be fools not to."

Owens sighed, "Though the offer is appreciated, with Dragonisia's rising strength we should be able to defend ourselves. I question many of Promised Land's historic geopolitical moves including its history with bio-weapons.. although their reforms are showing progress, it still shows even they have questions of trust and merit which need resolved before I can say for certain we would want their military on our soil."

Tony Smith nodded, "I agree with Oates, but would ask if Promised Land would reciprocate and perhaps even offer to be a second line of defense in their own wars that could be called up under contract. It would maximize the business potential in the relationship that way."

A Kitexian reported stood up " John Wilkins for the Kitex Weekly. Will the NAP/FTA with Kitex have to be re-negotiated? Are you open to an MDP with Kitex? Also what are your thoughts on the Kitex?"

Ivan Dragoska thought on this, "Kitex has been a good and persistent friend to the Empire, even though we have not talked to them much ourselves they have been very persistent in their contacts with Dragonisia historically. I know a NAP and FTA would definitely be possibilities, the MDP would also have to be examined."

Kevin Oates nodded, "I agree with Dragoska, but I think we should definitely sign the MDP and I would even push for transit rights and a cultural exchange."

Owens shrugged, "I am not sure it is in our benefit at this time to be entangling ourselves more in the global weave when we have so much to focus on domestically. Perhaps in time, I agree with my comrades in that Kitex has been one of the more loyal states to Dragonisia and has proven their relationship to be strong with us, but timing would be important. Perhaps a little in the future this option could be explored in more detail. When both Dragonisia has more to offer Kitex.. and vice versa."

Tony Smith looked at Owens, "Paranoid and a bit to cautious.. I would do all that has been mentioned by Mr. Dragoska, but I would go further by offering contracts for the defense of Kitex by our private defense industry, not just our national defense as part of an MDP. I think the costs of a cultural exchange may be to high given the distance between our states, I'm not sure many students or travelers would want to spend so much money traveling so far from home and I expect the demand for such a program would be low, It would have to be more thoroughly examined by a tourism board."

Edited October 16, 2009 by Maelstrom Vortex

[Subtleknifewielder]

Tony Smith nodded, "I agree with Oates, but would ask if Promised Land would reciprocate and perhaps even offer to be a second line of defense in their own wars that could be called up under contract. It would maximize the business potential in the relationship that way."

"We wouldn't want to put you under an obligation that you might not be capable of fulfilling, but we would be willing to let you if you are able to do so without sigificantly hurting your own economy."