A New Age of American Stability

[Michael McBride]

A note was hand delivered to the governments of the following nations and contained the following message:
Holy Empire of Ursalia
Texas
Cajun Federation
Holy American Empire
Republique du Quebec
New Spain

[quote]Dear Esteemed Leader,

I wish to invite you to a summit in Washington, D.C. to discuss the future of the Americas and American security. The Summit will be held at the rebuilt White House in Washington. We hope that you are able to make it. We feel that this summit will be able to change the course of history and shift the power balance of the world in our favor.

As always, your discretion in not discussing this with your allies or any other nation is greatly appreciated.

Signed,
[img]http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v650/That_Bum/thomasatkinsonasgeirsson.png[/img][/quote]

OOC: Just post your arrival at the White House itself.

[TheShammySocialist]

Prince Broussard of Acadia, only having been appointed Head of State for the Cajun Federation a few months prior, looked out the window of the Prussian blue sedan as the buildings of Washington, D.C. He had been to Washington several times before on business trips, he was no stranger to the Empire of Pravus Ingruo, he had grown up living through many administrations who had overseen and been the stewards of Louisiana and the surrounding states that comprised the nation he represented. His flight from Baton Rouge had been an uneventful breeze, as he finished reading his daily briefing, that usually amounted to almost one hundred pages of comprehensive statistics and technical jargon from a number of key advisers and secretaries.

The two-plane air convoy had touched down in Washington without incident, the trailing military transport aircraft, with the markings of the Federation Government carrying the Head of States' vehicle convoy. Driving into the city, Broussard stared quietly out the window, his entourage of a couple handpicked advisers looking at notes as the monarch seemingly daydreamed. Broussard had always enjoyed visiting Washington, it was a lovely city that was bustling but it had some sort of glamor associated with it. The waters of the Potomac had been shimmering as they passed by them on the way into the city, he had put aside his notes as soon as they had left the airport, and was just taking time for himself. The two vehicle convoy, the lead vehicle a Prussian blue sport-utility vehicle carrying the delegation's modest but well-armed security team, drove deeper into the city.

As they neared the rebuilt White House, one of Broussard's close associates, the Marquis Paul Tassigny spoke up, breaking the silence, "Rather quiet affair, there is sure to be more then just our delegation. Yet very hush-hush."

"These summits are usually well-publicized, I'm surprised there wasn't any tipoffs to the press upon our arrival at the airport," noted Lieutenant General Marcel Foch of the Cajun Federation Land Forces, he wore a dark blue Class A service uniform, and looked rather uncomfortable, despite the blasting air conditioning.

"As the note suggests, this summit is one of American security and the future of the western continents. These summits are private for a reason, they are where the real exchanges and deals are made, away from the public eye," noted the Marquis de Baton Rouge, Jacques-Louis Montcalm, a sharp-witted Louisianian who served as the Military Affairs Adviser to the Prince of Acadia. "Those public soirees are where we press flesh, make small talk, talk up our countries, and enjoy ourselves, we are here for a much more serious discussion of regional affairs."

"Or they turn into arguments over what direction we should all take," said Broussard with a smile, breaking his own silence with a clear of his throat before talking, and turning to look at his three cohorts. "I rather look forward to this discussion, I believe it will be productive."

"We can only hope, I'd rather hope we not antagonize someone so early in our nationhood," chuckled Montcalm, taking a sip from the small amount of wine he had been sparingly imbibing since they left the airport.

"We're too lively for that," said Broussard, with a reassuring smile, as the convoy approached the front security checkpoint for the White House. Upon having themselves cleared for entrance, and pulling up to the entranceway of the venue, he said quietly, "Shall we, gentlemen?" His inquiry received the nod from his three compatriots as the door was opened by an attendant.

Edited July 1, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[Michael McBride]

The group in the limo was led by courier to the East Wing. There, Emperor Thomas Atkinson-Asgeirsson, Dr. Leonard L. Church, and a host of diplomats from the Empire were gathered. The Emperor stood as the men walked in, smiling broadly.

"Gentlemen, welcome. So glad that you could join us here. Refreshments? Our meeting will begin as soon as the other delegations arrive."

[New Frontier]

Due to the summit's close proximity to Quebec City, La Republique sent a sizable delegation of high level officials that would normally not be sent to such a meeting. President Maxime Vigneault, Foreign Minister Cherie Lalonde and Assembly Secretary for North American Cooperation Gregory Ramos disembarked from the government's personal jet at a small, personal landing strip just outside of Washington D.C. Entering a limousine, the three of them perused the guest list as they rode to the meeting place.

"Am I the only one kind of confused by this?" The gigantic Assembly Secretary for North American Cooperation stared at his companions. "Less than half of the American nations are included."

Vigneault, the senior member of the delegation, smiled. "I'm sure we'll find out the invitation criteria soon enough. Just try not to get into a shouting match, like you did at your last assignment."

Ramos chuckled as the limo pulled into the White House compound. "I'll try."

[Shadowsage]

The Holy American entourage, as usual would consist of a single high level dignitary and his assistant. What was different about this meeting was the fact that in practice, both were equal in power and represented the two factions in the ongoing internal conflicts of the Holy American Empire. Lord Admiral Andrew Wiggin represented the Empire of the Southern Rim, and Praefectus Julian Subiae, the Federal Government with which they were in conflict. (It was noted in the higher positions in the Loyalist camp that neither side wished for foreign intervention; the current arrangement was one created from the assent of both parties.)

"This seems oddly familiar to some other meetings we've been party to." Wiggin wondered aloud. His thoughts were interrupted by his opposite number laughing harshly.

"You haven't represented anything, reb. Not in a long time."

"We'll see about that, Federal dog."

The courier approached the duo and beckoned. After exchanging death glares, they followed and entered the East Wing.

[JEDCJT]

The Imperator had indeed received the message from the Ingruoian Embassy in Ursalia City, which was delivered by a special messenger to the Imperial Ruling Council. After reading over the message, James Norton contacted the Grand Vizier and told him that they would go to Pravus Ingruo to attend a meeting of the "utmost importance."

And so, the two of them were shortly on a unmarked jetliner that lifted somewhere off the outskirts of the capital. Several hours later, the two of them found themselves being transported through the Ingruoian capital, heading toward the White House. As Christopher surveyed the city, he couldn't help but remark, "The city is beautiful. Can you believe that mere a hundred years ago, this city was the capital of the first United States of America?"

"That I can believe." The Imperator stated. Shortly, the vehicle went through the front security checkpoints that thronged the White House, and were pulling up to the entranceway of the White House. The two leaders got out and greeted whatever Ingruoan assistants that might greet them, and were escorted into the White House.

Norton chuckled at the awestruck expression on Christopher's face as the Grand Vizier looked around at the interior of the White House while they headed in the direction of the East Wing. "Oh man, I need my own residence. Like badly."

"You will, my friend, you will...once the Imperial Palace is finished." Norton patted the Grand Vizier's back.

Edited June 19, 2011 by JEDCJT

[Yawoo]

Chancellor Croix would attend on behalf of his nation. He would need no fancy entourages, security personnel, or any sort of handlers - he was a man who knew what a secret meeting meant. God help the fools who brought high ranking generals, politicians or, god forbid, non-governmental factions. Michael shrugged his shoulders; what silly thoughts surely his counterparts wouldn't be so dumb as to bring attention to a meeting that was strictly marked secret.

Edited June 19, 2011 by Yawoo

[TheShammySocialist]

Broussard and his delegation bowed their heads, as they came level with the Emperor. "A pleasure, sir, to meet the granter of independence to our nation, that being said, it certainly has been awhile since we've eaten," stated Broussard, with a grin, noting that Foch had already made a beeline for the refreshment table. "I'm afraid that our government planes don't get stocked with peanuts and bottled water, not yet anyways," he continued, his smile continuing to hold true, his hands clasped behind his back as he talked to the Emperor.

[Michael McBride]

Thomas nodded to Broussard and was about to respond when most of the other delegations walked in. "Gentlemen, thank you for coming so quickly. Refreshments are to your left... while we are waiting on one nation still, New Spain, I would appreciate it if we can get started." A small round table had been set up, enough to seat the leaders of each nation's delegation (two people in the case of the HAE). The other members would have to sit in chairs around the table. Thomas took his seat, looking at the other members.

"Once again, thank you for heeding my call and coming so quickly. The world seems to be moving faster every year, and now is no different." Picking up a remote, he pressed a button and slides began to show on a far wall. "The South Atlantic Conflict, the Commonwealth of Canada, the United States of America, and countless other nations and situations currently threaten our world. There was a point in time when the Americas were the most stable continents in the world, free of foreign influence and masters of their own domain. I look to make them so again." Thomas turned to Chancellor Croix and the Federal delegation from the HAE.

"You both know what I am talking about. You were there for that age of stability. Now, I'm not looking to make our continents free of foreign influence... that has been tried and failed. I am looking to make sure that the Americas stay free from any MORE foreign influence, and that if there is a problem with an American nation, we take care of it ourselves, and don't allow a foreign power to do it for us."

"What I am proposing, gentleman, is NSATO, or the North and South American Treaty Organization. A military and diplomatic powerhouse, committed to the safety and security of the Americas above all else. The bloc would be MDAP for actions taken in the name of NSATO. It would not be for actions taken by nations who are a part of the bloc but do not request NSATO action. For instance, if the Empire gets into a war with Monaco, but does not request NSATO support, no one here would be obliged to help us. And even if we requested support, we would need a majority of members voting yes to commit that support. Now, if the bloc decides to attack someone or defend another nation not a part of the bloc as a whole, then everyone would be expected to contribute. Obviously if any nation who was part of the bloc was attacked, all members would be expected to contribute to their defense." Thomas looked around the table again.

"Your thoughts, gentlemen?"

[New Frontier]

Vigneault spoke up first, his words laced in a thick French accent.

"Why these nations for a bloc? By my count, roughly half of the American nations have not been invited. What bonds exist between these seven nations represented here, that we ought to form such an organization?"

[Shadowsage]

Wiggin replied to that. "Because from what I've seen, and I've seen a lot, Pravus Ingruo in any incarnation pulls no punches. They don't care about offending the little nations of the Americas by not inviting them. That's what this conference is; the movers and shakers and power-brokers got in. The personal fiefdoms and weak nations were cut out." He nodded in the direction of Emperor Atkinson-Asgeirsson.

"What we are looking at here is effectively the only way to ensure America remains American. This measure," he looked to the Praefectus, who nodded his assent almost disgustedly, "has the full support of the Holy American Empire."

[Michael McBride]

The Emperor nodded in the direction of the delegation from the Holy American Empire before turning back to Vigneault. "Our friends from South America are correct. This conference was called for the most stable, the most powerful, the most influential nations in the Americas. I see no reason to bring about the possible destruction of this bloc, should it form, by inviting nations who are unstable, or who choose to swing their imaginary power about. The United States and Commonwealth of Canada, inviting those nations would be a recipe for disaster. If this comes to fruition, we want it to be something that will last, something that will be stable, and something that will ensure our collective futures."

[New Frontier]

"I mean this with all due respect to both our hosts and the Cajun Federation, but what makes them a more fitting invitee than, say, Manitoba? Manitoba has existed longer and controls more land than the Cajuns."

[Michael McBride]

[quote name='New Frontier' timestamp='1308524623' post='2735058']
"I mean this with all due respect to both our hosts and the Cajun Federation, but what makes them a more fitting invitee than, say, Manitoba? Manitoba has existed longer and controls more land than the Cajuns."
[/quote]

"And in that time has done what? Nothing? We've hardly heard a peep from the Manitobans since their independence. While the Cajuns are newer, they have maintained an open line of communication. Further, we are more familiar with the Cajuns, both from our dealings with Louisiana and this current nation. Simply being around longer or holding more land does not make one more stable than a newer, smaller nation. Size matters not. Age matters not. Actions are what matters."

[b]OOC: Just a note, for all intents and purposes this meeting takes place before and concludes before the actions in the Geneva Accords thread. Your leaders are not in any danger.[/b]

Edited June 19, 2011 by Pravus Ingruo

[Owned-You]

King Enrique would receive the request and designate Ignacio de Soto to speak with his voice and authority at this secret convention of American Powers as he was personally overseeing some developments in New Spain. Due to inclement weather Ignacio's private jet would arrive a day later then expected in Washington. Touching down he departed to the location with a tiny escort consisting of a paige and two bodyguards. Ignacio remarked "I do hope I've not missed too much in the last day nor that I have been a cause for impediment of this summit." His young paige replied "I doubt it to be the case sir." Ignacio barely paid attention to the comment and soon was delving over thoughts on the summit. He would arrive at the White house room hearing only indistinguishable murmurings until entering the room. Ignacio entered the room making a quick statement "Good evening gentlemen, please pardon my tardiness the weather wasn't the fairest upon departure from the Capital of New Spain. Please continue with your discussions, I'll glean whatever I need as it goes along." then he took his seat and listened.

[Yawoo]

Chancellor Croix addressed the assembly, focusing his attention specifically on the Holy American Empire delegation. "Honored leaders of the Americas, it is great to see you all once more. For those new nations among us, my name is Michael Croix, I am the leader of the Republic of Texas, formerly I rose to the rank of Chancellor in the Louisianan government prior to my loss in the election and subsequent fall of the Louisianan nation. Perhaps my first concern is not in regards to this proposed treaty bloc, but with our South American friends". Turning to address the Holy American Empire delegation Croix continued, "I would like to request that the Holy American Empire allow their Caribbean territories to hold a referendum on their future status be that as a member of your great nation or another. Surely, the Cubans are celebrating my return to power, seeing as it was I who built Cuba from little more than a backwater Tahoe province to a great territory. No doubt, may other Caribbean territories would like to have the chance to decide their own fate."***

"Beyond this, I would request that we change the name from the North and South American Treaty Organization to simply, American Treaty Organization or, A.T.O. I also have concerns about mutual allies involvement in American in relation to this organization. Surely, Emperor Asgeirsson, you will not push too hard to force the U.F.E. out of America after all you're close allies. This and other treaty entanglements will make this organization little more than one that prevents non-allied nations from touching America and that would just make this organization hollow"


***OOC: In other words, Shadow, I'm requesting you give me Cuba back as well as saying that it is time to end the HAE monopoly in the Caribbean. With respect, you have a continent to play with, allow other stable American nations to take over parts of the Caribbean. If you'd like the land to revert back to you just do what others do and create a doctrine such as the Harland Haiku.

Edited June 20, 2011 by Yawoo

[JEDCJT]

"I would agree with Mr. Croix here on the naming of the bloc to the American Treaty Organization (ATO) -- although I'm curious of why you are concerned about the status of Cuba and the Carribbean within the Holy American Empire, given that they had been a part of the HAE for years now." The Imperator turned to Mr. Croix and raised an eyebrow. "Is it because you used to rule Cuba, or is there something other? I'm only asking, of course."

"On that note, the proposed bloc has the full support from the Holy Ursalian Empire."

OOC: Yawoo, you silly imperialist you

And btw, Shadow does have a doctrine similiar to the Harland Haiku (actually two, if I remember correctly). I'd do a search for it, but I'm too lazy atm

[Shadowsage]

"Cuba was a great province of Tahoe prior to the Louisiana invasion. After the collapse of Louisiana, it was the Empire which assumed control in the face of anarchy and imperialistic powers attempting to gain a foothold in the Americas; as Monaco attempted when Puerto Rico similarly fell into a state of disarray. Nevertheless," Wiggin smiled, "a referendum will be held in Cuba concerning whether or not their allegiance belongs to the Empire. As for the rest of the Caribbean... The Land of a Thousand Swords was the last power to have a claim on the region. Those islands have been Imperial territory for decades. It would be much like demanding Berlin secede from Germany.

"Those core provinces also provide defensive bases and early warning for Imperial Center. There will be no consideration of deserting our responsibilities to the Imperial Citizens living in the Caribbean. Anything short of this would be a dereliction of duty to the people as a whole."

He took a breath before continuing. "Be that as it may, the naming of such a bloc does not concern us. However, for future reference the territorial integrity of the Empire can be discussed in a different forum." Wiggin finished almost bemusedly.

[Michael McBride]

The Emperor nodded to King Enrique with a warm smile before turning to listen to the Texan, Ursalian, and Holy American ambassadors speak. Though Thomas was slightly shocked by the bluntness with which Croix made his request, he guessed he shouldn't have been surprised. This was the Americas, the catalyst that had groomed politicians like Tom Dobbs and Michael Harland. Politicians who pulled no punches and were not afraid of insulting others to make a point. After the banter back and forth, the young Emperor spoke up again.

"The Empire supports whatever decision the Holy American Empire makes with its sovereign territory and would be happy to serve as an unbiased monitor for any elections that take place in Cuba. I'm sure my election officials would see it a great hardship to be transferred to such a beautiful place." A light laugh from Thomas followed before turning to Croix. "I must disagree with you, sir, on your assertion that this bloc would be hollow due to our close ties with the United Federation of the East. As I said before, it is not my intention to have this bloc pursue a "cleansing" if you will to turn our continents into "America for Americans". My father fought for that. Michael Harland fought for that. Tom Dobbs fought for that. The Tahoeans fought for that. And it never worked. It always ended with a compromising of principles, a weakening of resolve, and, in the end, a fracturing of the alliance. So I say why start down that path all over again? Why not say this time around, let's aim to prevent further expansion into the America's, rather than drive what is currently out completely. I believe that we can achieve the goals put forward here preliminarilly, by halting foreign expansion and keeping the continents stable. By doing so, we can grow our own power while the Europeans and Asians squabble. And we can ensure the safety and prosperity of our people and our continent for generations to come."

[Owned-You]

Ignacio sat there listening as the first of any talks he'd been witness to were concerning designs on Cuba from Texas citing long-past claims of a former country...when his own New Spain ruled the land in the great ages of long-past. Although, he did not see the use in making that statement as he felt this wasn't the time or place to discuss things in the first place.

"New Spain concurs with PI in supporting the HAE in whatever designs it may have on Cuba whether to support an election or not for the area." He lightly grinned at his fellow ambassadors before continuing. "Although I must agree with [color="#1C2837"][size="2"]Emperor Atkinson-Asgeirsson that this bloc of nations shouldn't be seeking to purify the Americas of nations bearing a banner from foreign lands...a strategy following that premise is simply going to lead to war and ruin for the continent. That isn't to say we should allow unopposed expansions into the Americas either, but rather within limits on our own terms. In fact, one of the Kings cousins formerly ruled in the Athenian Federation and it would be mistake if my grace were to spit in his face by taking anti-European measures." Ignacio paused gauging their reactions before finishing his thoughts. "With that all said, I feel rather apprehensive towards moving forward with this knowing that the Americas itself is an array of nations scattered over many lands; excluding the HAE to the South of course. It is for the lack of a better term less a united continent and more a system of holdings for men with designs on further conquests...this continent will likely end up moving to war at some point with the litany of powers seeking greater resources and a reunification of past-nations...one only need to look at the reincarnated United States of America to see that the sentiment is present. Thus I ponder, how will this bloc function to bring stability with the ever-looming guise of wars on the horizon." Ignacio finished his opening statements and drank a glass of scotch awaiting the ambassadors responses with candid interest...[/size][/color]
[color="#1C2837"] [/color]
[color="#1C2837"][size="2"](OOC - Pravus, King Enrique isn't present at this meeting...an envoy Ignacio is here on his behalf and acts with his authority at this conclave. Just had to make the distinction given you addressed [/size][/color][color="#1C2837"][size="2"]Emperor Atkinson-Asgeirsson as nodding towards Enrique, when it would be Ignacio.[/size][/color][color="#1C2837"][size="2"])[/size][/color]

Edited June 20, 2011 by Owned-You

[Yawoo]

[quote name='JEDCJT' timestamp='1308552461' post='2735674']
"I would agree with Mr. Croix here on the naming of the bloc to the American Treaty Organization (ATO) -- although I'm curious of why you are concerned about the status of Cuba and the Carribbean within the Holy American Empire, given that they had been a part of the HAE for years now." The Imperator turned to Mr. Croix and raised an eyebrow. "Is it because you used to rule Cuba, or is there something other? I'm only asking, of course."

"On that note, the proposed bloc has the full support from the Holy Ursalian Empire."

OOC: Yawoo, you silly imperialist you

And btw, Shadow does have a doctrine similiar to the Harland Haiku (actually two, if I remember correctly). I'd do a search for it, but I'm too lazy atm
[/quote]

OOC: I just think we need more nations than one in the Caribbean - stronger that way should something ever happen to Shadow. Not like you people think I'm soft spoken anyway

IC: "I fear there may be a bit of a misunderstanding here - what I am voicing is the Caribbean be given the ability to vote not just Cuba." Chancellor Croix paused as the Holy American Empire spoke,

[quote name='Shadowsage' timestamp='1308557987' post='2735707']
"Cuba was a great province of Tahoe prior to the Louisiana invasion. After the collapse of Louisiana, it was the Empire which assumed control in the face of anarchy and imperialistic powers attempting to gain a foothold in the Americas; as Monaco attempted when Puerto Rico similarly fell into a state of disarray. Nevertheless," Wiggin smiled, "a referendum will be held in Cuba concerning whether or not their allegiance belongs to the Empire. As for the rest of the Caribbean... The Land of a Thousand Swords was the last power to have a claim on the region. Those islands have been Imperial territory for decades. It would be much like demanding Berlin secede from Germany.

"Those core provinces also provide defensive bases and early warning for Imperial Center. There will be no consideration of deserting our responsibilities to the Imperial Citizens living in the Caribbean. Anything short of this would be a dereliction of duty to the people as a whole."

He took a breath before continuing. "Be that as it may, the naming of such a bloc does not concern us. However, for future reference the territorial integrity of the Empire can be discussed in a different forum." Wiggin finished almost bemusedly.
[/quote]

"My dear sir, I am demanding nothing and only seeking to make sure that our American brethren are given the chance to vote on their destinies. I thank you for allowing a referendum in Cuba, but surely you wouldn't mind allowing the rest of the Caribbean the chance to decide their fate as well? If, as you say, your historic ties are so great then surely the populace will vote to remain as part of the Empire? I apologize for my bluntness, but I am an American first and foremost and before I sign my nation to uphold military cooperation with other nations I want to ensure that the populace won't turn on Texas should we be forced to fight in the perceived friendly territory. I mean no insult, had the Empire of Pravus Ingruo not been through a civil war and subsequent elections I could have just as easily asked them to vote on their territory as well. "

OOC: Cheers, Shadow.

[quote name='Pravus Ingruo' timestamp='1308564394' post='2735724']
A light laugh from Thomas followed before turning to Croix. "I must disagree with you, sir, on your assertion that this bloc would be hollow due to our close ties with the United Federation of the East. As I said before, it is not my intention to have this bloc pursue a "cleansing" if you will to turn our continents into "America for Americans". My father fought for that. Michael Harland fought for that. Tom Dobbs fought for that. The Tahoeans fought for that. And it never worked. It always ended with a compromising of principles, a weakening of resolve, and, in the end, a fracturing of the alliance. So I say why start down that path all over again? Why not say this time around, let's aim to prevent further expansion into the America's, rather than drive what is currently out completely. I believe that we can achieve the goals put forward here preliminarilly, by halting foreign expansion and keeping the continents stable. By doing so, we can grow our own power while the Europeans and Asians squabble. And we can ensure the safety and prosperity of our people and our continent for generations to come."
[/quote]

"My dear Friend, the question remains how will our bloc members deal with allied nations who are currently on American soil? What happens if your friends in the U.F.E. decide to annex more Alaskan territory? Which comes first, long standing treaties or American nations? Surely you can see my hesitation in supporting a large bloc when so many American nations are tied closely with non-Americans"

[Michael McBride]

[quote name='Yawoo' timestamp='1308578851' post='2735818']
"My dear Friend, the question remains how will our bloc members deal with allied nations who are currently on American soil? What happens if your friends in the U.F.E. decide to annex more Alaskan territory? Which comes first, long standing treaties or American nations? Surely you can see my hesitation in supporting a large bloc when so many American nations are tied closely with non-Americans"
[/quote]

Thomas smiled slowly. "What happens if they decide to gobble up more territory, Mr. Croix? Nothing. Because they won't. You have my word that the Chinese will not advance farther into Alaska than they already have."

[Yawoo]

[quote name='Pravus Ingruo' timestamp='1308579920' post='2735828']
Thomas smiled slowly. "What happens if they decide to gobble up more territory, Mr. Croix? Nothing. Because they won't. You have my word that the Chinese will not advance farther into Alaska than they already have."
[/quote]

"If that is the case, then would the Chinese be open to transferring their Alaskan territory - the part not annexed - to this bloc for safe keeping?"

[Michael McBride]

[quote name='Yawoo' timestamp='1308580256' post='2735833']
"If that is the case, then would the Chinese be open to transferring their Alaskan territory - the part not annexed - to this bloc for safe keeping?"
[/quote]

"That would be something that the bloc, if it is formed, would have to take up with the Chinese after our formation. To do so earlier would be premature."

[Yawoo]

[quote name='Pravus Ingruo' timestamp='1308580638' post='2735835']
"That would be something that the bloc, if it is formed, would have to take up with the Chinese after our formation. To do so earlier would be premature."
[/quote]

"Of course, I was merely wanting your thoughts on the matter as your nation has been close with the Chinese for many years now."