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To His Majesty King Heydar of Royal Seleucid
To His Majesty Sultan Yahya IV of Waddan
Almost 2000 years ago my ancestors began a journey towards the Kyne. This journey achieved its aim 500 or so years later and since then our nations have sat side by side, not always easily but over the last century or so there has been a strengthening peace between us. We sit upon the Gulf of Auraxis, a vital trade asset for each of us. As such I believe that we may be in a position to work together to improve maritime security, trade infrastructure and of course the environment. With these intentions laid out I would like to invite both of you to our coastal city of Tlalim. Here we can all take some refreshing sea air and discuss how between the three of us we can turn the Gulf into an area of prosperity for all involved.
With Deepest Respects
Emperor Malachi V
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To:- His Imperial Majesty Emperor Malachi V
Over the last few years we have been attempting to build up our abilities to diversify our economy. This has seen several projects designed to take us away from a dependency on oil. Many of these projects have been focused on forging international co-operation and you're invitation has presented us an opportunity to further develop these aims. I look forward to meeting with you and the Sultan in the near future.
With Blessings
King Heydar of Royal Seleucid.
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To the Esteemed Emperor of Kodima
Thank you for your invitation.
Waddan has begun to strengthen our overseas trading economy and already have a strong friendship with our friends from Royal Seleucid. It is my hope that friendship can be extended across the whole of the Gulf.
With that in mind I shall attend your talks in person and hope that we can reach some great agreements.
Best Wishes
Sultan Yahya IV of Waddan
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"Welcome to Tlalim, half of our Destiny" a sign proudly hung over the domestic arrivals at the resort cities airport. The city had about 100 years ago been a quint little fishing village but had become the go to place for the people of Kodima to come and unwind. The small white shacks of the fisherman had now been replaced by the towering white of nice hotels and the fisherman who remained found themselves operating out of the commercial port which sat about a 3km out of the resort itself. It was the port that would be the centre of the talks the Emperor had in mind here today.
The Mayor of the city was on hand to welcome Emperor who hadn't been to the city in a number of years. A scrum of media was there to take pictures of what had been briefed to them as a historic day in the Empires history. It wouldn't be long until the two guests would arrive and while the airport was mainly used for domestic arrivals it would today see its first international arrivals so that itself caused some interest among the staff.
Emperor Malachi waited for their arrival along with Mayor Iftach Yahez of the city who shifted nervously. His day job was a administrator over one of the busy docks at the commercial port but the largely symbolic role of being head of the local metropolitan council meant the Emperor wanted him on hand to welcome the guests to the city.
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King Heydar had considered making the trip down the coast by boat but had determined that the hours wasted could be better spent simply getting to Kodima as soon as possible. They were a nation he was slightly concerned by, they had this motto of "Jerusalem to the Kyne" and to Heydar that seemed to indicate expansionist but there had been peace in their lands for quiet a while now so perhaps it was simply some metaphorical motto and not a policy aim. Perhaps that was something that he would have to deal with. The city from above looked not o disimilar to how the newer parts of Ipsus were developing and Heydar was now torn, was Tlalim a rival potentially to Ipsus growth plans. He would find out more once he meet this Emperor.
Upon arrival he made his way through the terminal accompanied by a few of his minor advisers until he came face to face with Malachi. "Good Morning Emperor" Heydar extended a hand. "Thank you for your invitation."
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The various chiefs of the tribes of Waddan hated it when the Sultan went overseas. It was a big upheavel for them as it was a tradition, and one that the Sultan insisted on, that each tribe send a "hostage" to the Sultan's Palace. This was supposed to be one of the daughters of the chief, or failing that a wife, the idea being that if the tribe did anything to oppose the power of the Sultan while he was out of the nation the hostage would be killed. In reality though it was a time when the "hostages" would enjoy the luxury of the Palace and be subjected to banquets, entertainment and various other social niceties. It was such a pleasant time that some of the girls even looked forward to it and had formed friendships with some of the other girls. For the tribe though it was a complete pain to transport the girl across the nation to the capital but once this had been done then the Sultan was free leave for his trip.
The Sultan like most Waddanites didn't like flying. It was unnatural but as he opened the world up Yahya understood that he would need to get used to it and that Waddanites must get used to commuting via planes. Thankfully this was a relatively short journey and Yahya was happy to see the Seleucid had already arrived. He believed Heydar was one of the closest friends his nation had and while the Sultan lacked foreign diplomacy experience he hoped the Seleucid might offer some at least moral support. Yahya followed the Seleucid monarch through the airport until he too found himself in the prescence of the Emperor. "Good morning Emperor Malachi" the Sultan gave a nod of respect before extending a hand to Heydar, "Great to see you again Heydar. I'm looking forward to your proposals Emperor"
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OOC- Agreed that I can attend
Young Emir Sulaiman Samar El-Amin of Rayyu had possibly the shortest of the trips to make. It was a surprise that he arrived last. The potential of today could help achieve a lot of the aims the Emirate had set itself over the last decade or so. The Emir was a man with a sizeable national pot of money and it was burning a hole in his pocket. Speculate to accumulate was what his father had believed and the nation had done so rather wisely. Investment plans across Mundus had helped keep the nation prosperous and the slow but inevitable release of their oil reserve had ensured everyone benefitted. The El-Amin family personally prospered but in their wake so had many others. A small but comfortable private jet made the small hop and the Emir was pleased to be face to face with his neighbours soon after. "As-salamu alaikum" he knew the others were not Muslim but he would not abandon his own culture just to fit in. He bowed a little as he spoke. "A good morning to you all" he added as he gently shook hands with each of the other rulers.
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Malachi breathed a sigh of relief when everyone had turned up. First the Seleucid King, "You're more than welcome here." the Emperor took hold of his hand and shook it warmly. "I'm sorry to say our venue today may not be as imposing as The Palm but I'm sure you'll enjoy your time here." No sooner had he introduced himself to Heydar than the Sultan of Waddan arrived. Malachi knew the man did not travel often and so to have him here in the flesh was rather intriguing. "Good morning Sultan" Another shaking of hands. With it being clear that the Seleucid and Waddanite monarchs had a friendship Malachi hoped it wouldn't be him trying to break into their gang. Perhaps the final arrival would ensure it wasn't Kodima being out numbered. As the Emir greeted them in Arabic the Emperor did his best to return the greeting but his own Arabic was poor and so he hoped he hadn't messed up. He went in for a firm handshake but was surprised the Emir was so gentle and so in response relaxed his own grip.
With everyone in attendance it was time to move. Kodima was a nation that had very little threat and despite this a robust escort was provided. The convoy of vehicles headed first to the coast road and then down to the heart of Tlalim. The beaches were already filling up as they arrived at the Colony Gardens Hotel. It was perhaps one of the most sought after venues in the city as it was said to occupy the site at which the Kodimans had first reached the Kyne and across the street between the hotel and the beach stood a statue proclaiming such. The hotel had been used by the Imperial Family for the last fifty years or so and the staff were well versed at receiving such guests. As the first of the cars arrived a door was opened by a smartly red blazer wearing member of hotel staff. They welcomed each guest and escorted them up to the top floor which had been rented exclusively by the royals.
The meeting would take place in the lounge and before they began there was the obligatory pose for photos. Once left alone the Emperor wanted to get things moving. "Thank you all for coming. My hope is that by the time we conclude our work here we have a closer relationship and some opportunities are presented that will help us all make more money for our nations, give our subjects more oppurtunities in life and ensure the peace of a region. I think it may be useful if we each lay out our current obligations across Mundus which could impact such agreement. For me my nation has a blank slate here. We are happy to be able to enter into any agreement not being restrained by strings elsewhere. So could I ask how others are fixed?"
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The Emir made sure that he appeared humble enough to shake the hand of the hotel staff opening the door. It was little things like that his father had told him that the media would notice and it would give a positive impression. He followed the group upto the suite where their host had arranged. Despite understanding the importance of the media in his people's perception of him he never felt comfortable having his photo taken and hoped that it would not transfer into the image.
As Malachi finished his introduction Sulaiman was first to reply. "The Emirate has at present no formal ties of any kind. No trade arrangements, no visas deals, no exchanges, no military connections. Our obligation has been nothing other than being a good neighbour and in that regard that makes us very similar to Kodima. I think this could see us come up with some interesting agreements here that would benefit us all."
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Heydar had what he hoped were a few carrots to dangle. "Like the Emir here we have few ties that would stop us doing anything here. We have trade deals with Tamora, Lijiang, Waddan, a few others of note but none of them prevent us from signing a future arrangement of any kind. What I do have on offer though is a few projects that may be of interest for you. First we have a sea based economic hub. Its called KHELP and is a platform for promoting small business (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1593.0). As such it would be fantastic to see some of your businesses getting involved and it gives them a fantastic start up opportunity. We also have a rather interesting agricultural project called HARP (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=1593.0). We'd like to think these may be of interest to the region. I'd then like to invite both Kodima and Rayyu to come and set up in Blue (https://independentorder.net/index.php?topic=349.msg16362#msg16362). These are projects that I think could be of great support for the region. So already we have things that you can join tomorrow."
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The Sultan found the oppulance of the hotel a little uncomfortable. He was used to a bit more hardship in terms of tents, floor cushions and no air conditioning. Even his own Palace lacked the modern features of the hotel. The concept of international trade agreements had been until recently alien to him but he'd done his best to educate himself and his people had begun to take advanctage. "Like my friend from Royal Seleucid we too have an arrangement with Lijiang. In addition we had the Seleucid set up Waddan Blue to give businesses a chance to begin exploration of what it would mean to do business in our lands. So far we've a handful of deals done through that but I hope that this meeting will blow the doors open for much bigger chances."
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"Excellent" Malachi exclaimed. He even clapped his hands together in a show of delight. "I had hoped that we would have few restrictions to help us put together an arrangement. We sit here as a group of nations with an economy worth $4 trillion , not a too shabby number. I think then this gives us a blank canvas but the complexity of what we could create would require something beyond a handshake agreement. I have in my mind a desire to achieve four things. The first is that we can move goods, materials and services between our nations easier, next I'd like our people to be able to travel with more ease. We then desire to have some kind of policy for looking after the Gulf's waters as both a trade route and a resource, and finally I'd like us to co-operate on security in our region."
"That all being out on the table I'd like to present you with Section 1 of what I hope will be a four part agreement. "
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that streamlined trade between them can lead to greater prosperity for all nations. In addition that region wide investment can bring the living standards of all to become higher. With this in mind the nations of the region have agreed to the following arrangements.
i) Nations agree that any business who has its headquarters in another Gulf nation may take advantage of the terms outlined here.
ii) Any materials may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as the materials do not leave the Gulf region. Materials are defined as unprocessed naturally occurring item.
iii) Any products may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as its whole process was undertaken within the Gulf. For no tariffs to be charged the product must remain within the Gulf. A Product is defined as any item that has seen materials changed from their natural state.
iv) Any service provider may offer its services within the Gulf region so long as they pay taxes on profits accrued in that nation to the local government. Furthermore all service providers must ensure that all services being offered comply with local regulations.
v) A nation may set limits on items covered in ii and iii so long as it is declared on the 1st of April. Any nation setting such limits will automatically have tariffs placed upon their own exports of such materials.
vi) Any product or material crossing a border must comply with the laws of the nation it is travelling through even if these are different to those of the final destination.
vii) Any product or material leaving the Gulf region by a 3rd nation is liable to tariffs at a rate set by the nation from which the export takes place.
viii) A business may transport items for promotion and marketing without having to pay taxes on them for crossing the border. This is regardless of where their final destination is.
ix) Staff required for promotional and marketing purposes may cross the border freely so long as their event is confirmed 7 days ahead of schedule and that they spend no longer than 14 days within the nation. While in that nation they must comply with all employment law.
x) No nation shall knowingly take action designed to harm the economy of another Gulf nation.
"The floor is yours gentleman"
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"Should we perhaps also explore the way we handle materials and goods from other nations. For example should Rayyu import food from Lijiang in a way that Royal Seleucid and Waddan have then some of that shipment heads into Kodima should we have fees on that if a payment has already been made. So if the Lijiang exporter has paid to get into Rayyu should they then pay again to take it into Kodima. Maybe we have an extra article that states.
** Once a material or product has entered into the Gulf region and a tariff has been paid no further fees or tariffs for crossing a border shall be liable so long as the item remains in the same condition it entered the first Gulf nation. Should one Gulf nation have a "no tarrif" arrangement with the exporting nation then tariffs shall be liable at the first Gulf border it crosses after entry.**
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Heydar considered for a moment whether what he was going to ask would be seen as trying to gain something over the others but then he figured if you didn't ask you could never get. "I'd like to ask for some special consideration here. We have some unique platforms. KHELPS is something that could aid all of us, and the Blue project is also about promoting international co-operation, even beyond Midaranye. I there have two suggestions I'd like"
*1 - "Materials or Products destined for the Blue projects will be granted entry to the Gulf tariff free. Should they then leave the Blue project they will be charged Tariffs at the rate set by the country in which they entered the region."
2*" - "All Gulf ports agree to the docking of the KHELPS project without fees or taxes unless paid also by local vessels. "
I hope these will both be permitted. I also fully support the Rayyu addition.
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The Sultan had seen the benefit of selling his nations materials to lands beyond his own control, first Tamora, then Royal Seleucid and then even further afield there was Lijiang. This was something the Sultan believed could help his nation grow.
"I like the idea of creating a way of allowing nations beyond the Gulf to be encouraged to trade with us. I therefore wish to first support the measures put forward by each of you and hope we can consider the introduction of the status of perhaps "Associate Gulf State" that would allow us to recognise other nations, such as Lijiang who two of us have agreements with, to be seen as preferred partners. To this end I would like to include the following.
* Should the Gulf members all agree then a nation may be recognised as an "Associate Gulf State" which will see them granted recognition as a preferred trading partner and thus receive reduced tariffs on a reciprocal arrangement.
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"With your suggestions we now have an economic section that I think looks quiet strong and looks like this."
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that streamlined trade between them can lead to greater prosperity for all nations. In addition that region wide investment can bring the living standards of all to become higher. With this in mind the nations of the region have agreed to the following arrangements.
i) Nations agree that any business who has its headquarters in another Gulf nation may take advantage of the terms outlined here.
ii) Any materials may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as the materials do not leave the Gulf region. Materials are defined as unprocessed naturally occurring item.
iii) Any products may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as its whole process was undertaken within the Gulf. For no tariffs to be charged the product must remain within the Gulf. A Product is defined as any item that has seen materials changed from their natural state.
iv) Any service provider may offer its services within the Gulf region so long as they pay taxes on profits accrued in that nation to the local government. Furthermore all service providers must ensure that all services being offered comply with local regulations.
v) Once a material or product has entered into the Gulf region and a tariff has been paid no further fees or tariffs for crossing a border shall be liable so long as the item remains in the same condition it entered the first Gulf nation. Should one Gulf nation have a "no tarrif" arrangement with the exporting nation then tariffs shall be liable at the first Gulf border it crosses after entry.
vi) A nation may set limits on items covered in ii and iii so long as it is declared on the 1st of April. Any nation setting such limits will automatically have tariffs placed upon their own exports of such materials.
vii) Any product or material crossing a border must comply with the laws of the nation it is travelling through even if these are different to those of the final destination.
viii) Any product or material leaving the Gulf region by a 3rd nation is liable to tariffs at a rate set by the nation from which the export takes place.
ix) A business may transport items for promotion and marketing without having to pay taxes on them for crossing the border. This is regardless of where their final destination is.
x) Staff required for promotional and marketing purposes may cross the border freely so long as their event is confirmed 7 days ahead of schedule and that they spend no longer than 14 days within the nation. While in that nation they must comply with all employment law.
xi) Materials or Products destined for the Blue projects will be granted entry to the Gulf tariff free. Should they then leave the Blue project they will be charged Tariffs at the rate set by the country in which they entered the region.
xii) All Gulf ports agree to the docking of the KHELPS project without fees or taxes unless paid also by local vessels.
xiii) No nation shall knowingly take action designed to harm the economy of another Gulf nation.
xiv) Should the Gulf members all agree then a nation may be recognised as an "Associate Gulf State" which will see them granted recognition as a preferred trading partner and thus receive reduced tariffs on a reciprocal arrangement
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"I'm satisfied with the arrangements regarding the economic elements of thi.s"
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The Sultan nodded, "We are in agreement with the proposal."
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"We're content with what is on the table."
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The Emperor was satisfied that economically the Gulf region would soon be flourishing even more than it already is. "I'm grateful for the agreement that we have already made . I'm confident that we can all make our nations a great deal of money. With that in mind I have also outlined how I hope we can offer our students more opportunities."
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that they are each uniquely positioned to offer their citizens strong cultural enrichment opportunities. With this in mind the nations of the Region have agreed to the following.
i) Nations will permit anyone travelling for non-business reasons to enter their nation for a maximum of 21 days without the need for a visa. An individual on entry must prove they have a return ticket, have accommodation for their stay and sufficient funds.
ii) A citizen of any nation may apply for places at educational institutes at any Gulf nation so long as they can fund their study and have reached a minimum educational standard set by the institute.
iii) Individuals working as performers, athletes, musicians or artists shall be permitted to engage in their work in any Gulf Nation so long as they have a contract with a local company or organisation. They may only be stopped from working in other nations if they are deemed a threat to national security or public order.
iv) Sports teams travelling to other Gulf Nations may do so without the needs for visas so long as they are to take part in games sanctioned by international governing bodies.
v) A month prior to the Mundus Games there shall be the Gulf Games. This shall be hosted in a different nation each year on rotation. Should a nation wish to skip their opportunity to host they shall be under no obligation to do so.
streamlined trade between them can lead to greater prosperity for all nations. In addition that region wide investment can bring the living standards of all to become higher. With this in mind the nations of the region have agreed to the following arrangements.
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"I like these articles and I'm happy to support them."
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"At present there are few of these terms that will be utilised by Waddanites but I welcome them for the future."
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The Emir was pleased with these proposals as they would feed nicely into the ideas the Emir had for the future of Rayyu. "We fully support the articles presented. I believe that is all of us."
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Section 1 - The Economy
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that streamlined trade between them can lead to greater prosperity for all nations. In addition that region wide investment can bring the living standards of all to become higher. With this in mind the nations of the region have agreed to the following arrangements.
i) Nations agree that any business who has its headquarters in another Gulf nation may take advantage of the terms outlined here.
ii) Any materials may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as the materials do not leave the Gulf region. Materials are defined as unprocessed naturally occurring item.
iii) Any products may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as its whole process was undertaken within the Gulf. For no tariffs to be charged the product must remain within the Gulf. A Product is defined as any item that has seen materials changed from their natural state.
iv) Any service provider may offer its services within the Gulf region so long as they pay taxes on profits accrued in that nation to the local government. Furthermore all service providers must ensure that all services being offered comply with local regulations.
v) Once a material or product has entered into the Gulf region and a tariff has been paid no further fees or tariffs for crossing a border shall be liable so long as the item remains in the same condition it entered the first Gulf nation. Should one Gulf nation have a "no tarrif" arrangement with the exporting nation then tariffs shall be liable at the first Gulf border it crosses after entry.
vi) A nation may set limits on items covered in ii and iii so long as it is declared on the 1st of April. Any nation setting such limits will automatically have tariffs placed upon their own exports of such materials.
vii) Any product or material crossing a border must comply with the laws of the nation it is travelling through even if these are different to those of the final destination.
viii) Any product or material leaving the Gulf region by a 3rd nation is liable to tariffs at a rate set by the nation from which the export takes place.
ix) A business may transport items for promotion and marketing without having to pay taxes on them for crossing the border. This is regardless of where their final destination is.
x) Staff required for promotional and marketing purposes may cross the border freely so long as their event is confirmed 7 days ahead of schedule and that they spend no longer than 14 days within the nation. While in that nation they must comply with all employment law.
xi) Materials or Products destined for the Blue projects will be granted entry to the Gulf tariff free. Should they then leave the Blue project they will be charged Tariffs at the rate set by the country in which they entered the region.
xii) All Gulf ports agree to the docking of the KHELPS project without fees or taxes unless paid also by local vessels.
xiii) No nation shall knowingly take action designed to harm the economy of another Gulf nation.
xiv) Should the Gulf members all agree then a nation may be recognised as an "Associate Gulf State" which will see them granted recognition as a preferred trading partner and thus receive reduced tariffs on a reciprocal arrangement
Section 2 - Cultural Co-Operation
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that they are each uniquely positioned to offer their citizens strong cultural enrichment opportunities. With this in mind the nations of the Region have agreed to the following.
i) Nations will permit anyone travelling for non-business reasons to enter their nation for a maximum of 21 days without the need for a visa. An individual on entry must prove they have a return ticket, have accommodation for their stay and sufficient funds.
ii) A citizen of any nation may apply for places at educational institutes at any Gulf nation so long as they can fund their study and have reached a minimum educational standard set by the institute.
iii) Individuals working as performers, athletes, musicians or artists shall be permitted to engage in their work in any Gulf Nation so long as they have a contract with a local company or organisation. They may only be stopped from working in other nations if they are deemed a threat to national security or public order.
iv) Sports teams travelling to other Gulf Nations may do so without the needs for visas so long as they are to take part in games sanctioned by international governing bodies.
v) A month prior to the Mundus Games there shall be the Gulf Games. This shall be hosted in a different nation each year on rotation. Should a nation wish to skip their opportunity to host they shall be under no obligation to do so.
Emperor Malachi was pleased with that they had so far, if talks finished now he'd be happy. There was however one final set of ideas he hoped to achieve.
"The Midaranye region has witnessed some crisis in recent years. We had the unpleasant situation with the Cult of Helus, food riots, the north of the region has just had a civil war and I know Waddan has seen some issues as of late. We could put in place a series of measures that would ensure that we support each other at times of crisis. I am however aware that we stand with very uneven militaries in terms of size, capabilities and even doctrines so this may not be as simple as I envisage.
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that the spectre of war and threats to security will prevent the citizens of the Gulf from being able to enjoy the prosperity and oppurtunities this document creates. With this in mind the Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis have agreed to the following:
i) Nations pledge that they will do all that is reasonable within their power to avoid war.
ii) Should a dispute arise between two nations who have signed this document the other nations shall do all that is possible to mediate between them to avoid war.
iii) Nations discovering a threat against another Gulf Nation agree to share that information so long as doing so does not endanger their own national security.
iv) Nations agree to maintain where possible a military element able to respond to humanitarian and military crisis that may occur in the region.
v) Nations agree to maintain active search and rescue patrols within their region and should they be unable to maintain this will seek support of the other nations to ensure maritime safety is secured.
vi) Prior to conducting military exercises in the region nations agree to give other nations at least 48 hours notice.
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"I think this is a great step towards helping the security of the region. However I'd also like to amend article (v) so that it reads
" Nations agree to maintain active anti-piracy and search and rescue patrols within their region and should they be unable to maintain this will seek support of the other nations to ensure maritime safety and security is maintained."
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"As you may be aware the Waddan military is not as developed as the rest of you. We will do our best to abide by these obligations but can't neccessarily do so. We are in the midst of trying to modernise our military and in the long term may view this as a way of helping us in that regard. We therefore support the ideas and King Heydar's recommendations."
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"We support the ideas with the Seleucid amendment."
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The Emperor wasn't aware of any cases of piracy in the area but even if they hadn't seen their sorts around recently it was probably a wise move to accept the King of Royal Seleucid's addition, it made sense and wouldn't change too much what was being put on the table.
"I think King Heydar's amendment is a good one and so if we're all agreed then we can have this be the final draft."
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that the spectre of war and threats to security will prevent the citizens of the Gulf from being able to enjoy the prosperity and oppurtunities this document creates. With this in mind the Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis have agreed to the following:
i) Nations pledge that they will do all that is reasonable within their power to avoid war.
ii) Should a dispute arise between two nations who have signed this document the other nations shall do all that is possible to mediate between them to avoid war.
iii) Nations discovering a threat against another Gulf Nation agree to share that information so long as doing so does not endanger their own national security.
iv) Nations agree to maintain where possible a military element able to respond to humanitarian and military crisis that may occur in the region.
v)Nations agree to maintain active anti-piracy and search and rescue patrols within their region and should they be unable to maintain this will seek support of the other nations to ensure maritime safety and security is maintained
vi) Prior to conducting military exercises in the region nations agree to give other nations at least 48 hours notice.
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"I'd be more than happy to put my name to this arrangement" King Heydar responded.
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Emir Sulaiman Samar El-Amin was confident that the agreement as it stood would be popular back home and as a first forray into the world of international diplomacy would be seen as a success. "Like the King I am more than happy with this as it stands."
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Out of the four nations it was Waddan that likely had the least to gain in the short term from this arrangement but it did do a number of things that the Sultan hoped would allow his nation to begin taking advantage of the new friendships it would cement.
"I am satisfied with what we have."
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Section 1 - The Economy
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that streamlined trade between them can lead to greater prosperity for all nations. In addition that region wide investment can bring the living standards of all to become higher. With this in mind the nations of the region have agreed to the following arrangements.
i) Nations agree that any business who has its headquarters in another Gulf nation may take advantage of the terms outlined here.
ii) Any materials may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as the materials do not leave the Gulf region. Materials are defined as unprocessed naturally occurring item.
iii) Any products may cross freely from one nation to another with no tariffs so long as its whole process was undertaken within the Gulf. For no tariffs to be charged the product must remain within the Gulf. A Product is defined as any item that has seen materials changed from their natural state.
iv) Any service provider may offer its services within the Gulf region so long as they pay taxes on profits accrued in that nation to the local government. Furthermore all service providers must ensure that all services being offered comply with local regulations.
v) Once a material or product has entered into the Gulf region and a tariff has been paid no further fees or tariffs for crossing a border shall be liable so long as the item remains in the same condition it entered the first Gulf nation. Should one Gulf nation have a "no tarrif" arrangement with the exporting nation then tariffs shall be liable at the first Gulf border it crosses after entry.
vi) A nation may set limits on items covered in ii and iii so long as it is declared on the 1st of April. Any nation setting such limits will automatically have tariffs placed upon their own exports of such materials.
vii) Any product or material crossing a border must comply with the laws of the nation it is travelling through even if these are different to those of the final destination.
viii) Any product or material leaving the Gulf region by a 3rd nation is liable to tariffs at a rate set by the nation from which the export takes place.
ix) A business may transport items for promotion and marketing without having to pay taxes on them for crossing the border. This is regardless of where their final destination is.
x) Staff required for promotional and marketing purposes may cross the border freely so long as their event is confirmed 7 days ahead of schedule and that they spend no longer than 14 days within the nation. While in that nation they must comply with all employment law.
xi) Materials or Products destined for the Blue projects will be granted entry to the Gulf tariff free. Should they then leave the Blue project they will be charged Tariffs at the rate set by the country in which they entered the region.
xii) All Gulf ports agree to the docking of the KHELPS project without fees or taxes unless paid also by local vessels.
xiii) No nation shall knowingly take action designed to harm the economy of another Gulf nation.
xiv) Should the Gulf members all agree then a nation may be recognised as an "Associate Gulf State" which will see them granted recognition as a preferred trading partner and thus receive reduced tariffs on a reciprocal arrangement
Section 2 - Cultural Co-Operation
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that they are each uniquely positioned to offer their citizens strong cultural enrichment opportunities. With this in mind the nations of the Region have agreed to the following.
i) Nations will permit anyone travelling for non-business reasons to enter their nation for a maximum of 21 days without the need for a visa. An individual on entry must prove they have a return ticket, have accommodation for their stay and sufficient funds.
ii) A citizen of any nation may apply for places at educational institutes at any Gulf nation so long as they can fund their study and have reached a minimum educational standard set by the institute.
iii) Individuals working as performers, athletes, musicians or artists shall be permitted to engage in their work in any Gulf Nation so long as they have a contract with a local company or organisation. They may only be stopped from working in other nations if they are deemed a threat to national security or public order.
iv) Sports teams travelling to other Gulf Nations may do so without the needs for visas so long as they are to take part in games sanctioned by international governing bodies.
v) A month prior to the Mundus Games there shall be the Gulf Games. This shall be hosted in a different nation each year on rotation. Should a nation wish to skip their opportunity to host they shall be under no obligation to do so.
Section 3 - Security
The Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis recognise that the spectre of war and threats to security will prevent the citizens of the Gulf from being able to enjoy the prosperity and opportunities this document creates. With this in mind the Nations of the Gulf of Auraxis have agreed to the following:
i) Nations pledge that they will do all that is reasonable within their power to avoid war.
ii) Should a dispute arise between two nations who have signed this document the other nations shall do all that is possible to mediate between them to avoid war.
iii) Nations discovering a threat against another Gulf Nation agree to share that information so long as doing so does not endanger their own national security.
iv) Nations agree to maintain where possible a military element able to respond to humanitarian and military crisis that may occur in the region.
v)Nations agree to maintain active anti-piracy and search and rescue patrols within their region and should they be unable to maintain this will seek support of the other nations to ensure maritime safety and security is maintained
vi) Prior to conducting military exercises in the region nations agree to give other nations at least 48 hours notice.
With the final agreement coming from the Sultan it seemed everything was in order. The Emperor found himself giving a small clap as he stood up. "Gentleman I'm excited that we've reached an agreement, even more excited that we've been able to do so in such a friendly manner. I think this is the beginning of great things for our peoples and our region." He called in one of his staff and handed him the information that they had agreed upon. "It'll take them some time to get the official documents arranged." The Emperor informed his guests and in the mean time the four men made their way to a private terrace to enjoy the fine weather, drinks and small talk while they waited for the documents to be finished.
In a highly efficent manner the civil service had written the documents up, checked them and translated them into each official language before having them presented in neat booklets. A fifth copy had been made in each of the nations languages and this would be stored safely as the "original" in the Imperial Archives. A small gathering of press had been herded into the conference room of the hotel that had been hastily turned into a press conference centre.
Emperor Malachi waited for everyone to be assembled before standing to address the room. "The Gulf of Araxis stands with the potential to be one of the most economically prosperous regions of Mundus. With a wealth of oil, gas, natural minerals and great ingenuity we have the ability to shape a future that will allow our citizens to become some of the happiest and successful in the world. What has held the region back has been a lack of co-operation like those seen in other parts of Mundus. With today's historic agreement I firmly believe each of us will go from strength to strength in the coming years. I look forward to working with the Sultan of Waddan, King of Royal Seleucid and Emir of Rayyu further as we move this arrangement forward." He picked up the pen and made his way down the line signing each of the documents in turn before taking a seat at the end.
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Emir Sulaiman Samar El-Amin was the youngest of those here but was keen to have his voice heard around the world. "Thank you Emperor Malachi for this invite. I have always prayed to Allah that he gives me the ability to give my people better lives and it seems with the agreement we have made here today we have been granted the wisdom to recognise friendship in our sea makes us stronger. I know we have many differences between us but today we show Mundus that differences of faith, race, culture and heritage are nothing to stand in the way of co-operation. I thank my new found friends for their time and In sha'Allah this will be the first of many meetings between us as neighbours and friends."
The Emir took the pen from the Emperor with a warm handshake and went down the line neatly and carefully putting his signature on each document being careful to ensure as he did each he looked at the assembled cameras and smiled.
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Heydar could leave here today feeling like Royal Seleucid was on something of a diplomatic role. First they'd just recently seen the beginning of the end of the Celtic Protectorate, some three years ahead of schedule and now he was signing something that would, if it worked, help the nation get more investment while also helping some key industries that were diversifying in his homeland.
Heydar stood and extended a hand to the Emir as they exchanged the pen. "Ladies and Gentleman today is historic. Across the world regions have their own bodies, the Illumic Council, the Council of Albion and the like. Aranye meanwhile has seen very few if any of these bodies. While today falls short of creating a standing organisation that is because we are Midaranye, we are different to others. We value our ability to work as individuals while also helping our friends and neighbours. The four of us today stand on the dawn of a new period of co-operation for our people yet we have not tied them to a way forward that devalues their own history, culture or beliefs. I am excited about what tomorrow holds and can't wait to watch my son take advantage of what we have sewn." Heydar signed his name on each and then offered the pen to the Sultan with a smile.
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The Sultan was the last to sign the agreement and did so rather nervously. He looked down at the text and saw three examples of fine penmanship, he smiled as he affixed his messy scrawl that would in years to come be barely recognisable as his, such was the misfortune of a Waddanite education. He believed that perhaps his sons, but certainly his grand-sons would not face the same problems. He held up the document after signing it to show the media. "This shows the importance of this document for my nation. We see three fine examples of calligraphy and then the penmanship of a man who grew up riding horses rather than the fine education these gentleman enjoyed. This though shows the beauty of this arrangement. Today a desert wandering nation have signed an agreement based on an ocean and we have done so in the certainty that our lives will get better. Waddan has perhaps for the first time looked outward with optimism and not kept our gaze inwards. When our grand-sons sign the future treaties that will come between our people I know that their signature will be as beautiful as those of these three fine men here today and looking down I will know this arrangement will have been one of the reasons. I thank the Emperor for allowing me to visit his lands and hope he will not be a stranger to our own." The Sultan put the document down and signed the others before shaking hands with each.