Heyra/Solace
After finishing the discussion with Adwiti, Manek headed towards the special airport and took off to Heyra with his delegates, a few representatives of State governments and major corporations of Solace. Before leaving He glanced at the ashen face of Indulekha, the personal secretary of the Commerce minister, clearly unhappy as she was excluded from the delegation and left behind while Manek picked the Additional Secretary of Commerce and Industry department, Sundar Chauhan to be the chief negotiator and the head of Solace delegation.
He enquired about all preparations and main points for trade negotiations with Shreya, his personal assistant, AS Sundar and other members of delegation present there and thus the journey was spent in the discussion. Main focus was on elimination of tariffs in many sectors, reducing the subsidy as well as attracting more investment in infrastructure and agriculture while presenting the similar suitable proposals to the other party.
Upon arrival they went through the standard protocols and were received warmly by the local officials, which he found as positive signs. Finally they arrived at the headquarters' underground parking where two important figures were waiting for them. Once out of the car Manek looked around at the dingy parking area indiscreetly and smiled at Chairwoman Therz and the Governor Anginer, greetings and shaking of hands took place as usual, after which they were led inside by the duo and other officials.
As the meeting started between the officials from the both sides and negotiations progressed, Manek decided to avail this opportunity to discuss one other important matter with the Chairwoman.
' I am really honoured to have the opportunity to meet and discuss with the Chairwoman and Mr Anginer regarding this great trade opportunity to both our nations.' He started without beating around the bushes, avoiding calling her by the name straight. 'However there was one major issue of importance here too which has not been put on the agenda formally.' Both of them were looking at him curiously.
He cleared his throat then proceeded. 'If you allow me, I would like to discuss the recent increased attacks of pirates on ships and bulk carriers in Solace maritime.' A pause followed after that as he waited for their confirmation.