Council of Small Nations Proposal (COSNAT) (Semi Open RP)

[Snow]

OOC-Please consider yourself to have received this if your nation has a population of under 15million.

To - Our Fellow Leaders

Over the last few years many of us nations that are seemingly dwarfed by the larger nations of Mundus have begun setting out into global affairs and I am sure you would agree that at times this can be challenging. It is clear that we are nations keen to play an active role within the world and often our small size leads us to be more innovative. It is though important that those of us small in population find ways to ensure our voices are amplified. With this in mind I would like to explore the possibility of us creating a formal partnership designed at mutual support and co-operation. If this proposal is of interest to you then I hope you will accept my invitation to Reinsberg to make this a reality.

Best Wishes

King Aldwin VI of Weißenwald

[TheFaye]

To - His Majesty King Aldwin VI

Currently it is my duty to represent the nation of Themyscira. I find the idea that you have put forward to be an intriguing one and regardless of its success as a Council I would certainly be interested in our two nations becoming better acquinted. I therefore happily accept your invitation and will be attending your gathering in person. I look forward to meeting you, and hopefully other national leaders.

On Behalf of All Themyscira

Queen Lucille of the Corythia
Tetrarch
First Daughter

[Gusano]

To: King Aldwin VI of Weißenwald
From: The Veiled One, Lady Aurora of the Eyrie of Gusano

I believe that co-operation between nations is a path that the Eyrie has ignored for too long. We believe that it is our duty to try and support the creation of a better Mundus but that as a nation of under 13million its a task we will struggle to achieve single handed. I think the idea you have put forward is an interesting one and while it may not bring about a better Mundus on its own it certainly has the ability to help us begin that journey. Please expect me and three of my advisers to attend your talks. I am excited for your proposal on this matter.

Best Wishes
Lady Aurora.

[Altona]

To: King Aldwin VI of Weißenwald

The Kingdom of Altona is a rather small nation but we are exceptionally proud of our national achievements. Despite this we agree that at times it can be difficult for nations such as ours and yours to stand strong in the face of some larger nations. Thankfully we have yet to find cause to do this but it does not hurt to be prepared. I will personally represent my Kingdom and I look forward to meeting those who have also answered your call.

Best Wishes

King Rutger of Altona

[Rayyu]

Dear King Aldwin

It has been some time since the Emirate of Rayyu has visited Albion, especially so far south. I look forward to seeing the snows of your homeland, a unique experience for a person from Rayyu. I am hopeful that we can find many productive ways to lead our nations towards friendship and mutual support.

I look forward to the meeting.

Signed
Emir Sulaiman Samar El-Amin

[DaveIronside]

To:- King Aldwin

After consulting with Prince Bartholomew of Semelberg I have taken his advice and agreed that Semelberg should seek co-operation with the wider world beyond the Charlerlands. I hope therefore that you will accepted myself and the Prince as delegates representing Semelberg during your proposed meeting. I look forward to seeing your homeland

Queen Stasya of East Moreland
High Princess of Semelberg.

[Wadden]

King Aldwin I am pleased to say that my first official act of foreign policy as Sultan is to confirm that I shall attend your talks. It shall take me a few days to make arrangements here in Wadden and then I shall attend. I am hopeful of an interesting conference.

Best Regards

His Majesty Sultan Jamshied III, Chieftan of the Talafha, Emir of the Sands, Guardian of the Ports

[Snow]

King Aldwin was already impressed with himself. He had seen other nations, ones much more established than his own, call international conferences and not get six attendees and those hadn't had a limited audience. Reinsberg may be the capital of the Kingdom but today it was the White Palace some 10km outside of the city that would be playing host. While the Royal Palace in Reinsberg sat perched above the city on a rocky outcrop the White Palace was just a little more private and the DHH felt more confident of protecting several Heads of State in this more isolated location, especially as just a mile up the road was the DHH military headquarters. Aldwin stood in a thick woollen coat on a balcony that overlooked the green lawn that was today under a good inch of snow. It made a rather pretty picture of a flat expense of white powdery snow with the odd deer track running through. He sipped his coffee mentally trying to recall the faces of the various delegates.  "Its time brother" a voice snapped him out of his memory exercise. Prince Maximillion looked rather dapper in his dark blue Air Force uniform, a pair of medals pinned to his chest and a looping of gold braid made him appear rather regal. "The convoys just hit the village." Just up the road sat the small village of Bingen where many of the Palace staff lived, it today served as a marker for the welcome committee to gather.

"Thanks Max" the King picked up his dossier and tossed it casually onto his bed knowing some servant would place it back in his office. He gave his hair a final glance in the mirror and then followed his younger brother down the stair case and out into the brisk morning air. They exited the front of the Palace to stand at the top of the steps and in the distance could see the slow approach of the convoy. While it had travelled most of the distance with a motorised escort the final half mile up the drive was flanked by members of the King's Own Cavalry Regiment, more usually they rode in armoured vehilces but today they had stout horses. Each horse was black but had a bright yellow and blue blanket over its back. A soldier in Black greatcoat with a lance bounced cheerfully in the saddle, the exception to this was the units Sergeant Major who, as tradition dictated, rode on a Reindeer carrying an axe. Aldwin and Maximillion where joined by Queen Hildegard dressed in a thick white fur coat with matching white fur hat. "Nice of you to make it" Aldwin said sarcastically as the first car now began to turn to park at the bottom of the steps.

"I arrived exactly on time" she said with no remorse. "Now come lets greet your guests" She lead her husband and brother-in-law down the steps. Prince Maximillion opened the door and allowed his brother to speak.

"Welcome to Weißenwald I'm so happy you accepted my invitation." He motioned for an aide standing off to one side and with haste they stepped forward offering thick fur coats to the guests. Aldwin hoped his staff had done their job well and worked out the sizes people would need. While he didn't intend to be outside long the offer of warmth was, he hoped, a nice gesture and the coats would be a gift to his guests. Each party was greeted as such and then Aldwin lead them inside. Where more staff waited with silver trays. "We have mulled wine, fresh tea and hot chocolate. Should you have a desire for something else please ask. While you stay with us I want your comfort to be well taken care of. If we are going to become good friends I'd like to think my friends are happy and well looked after when in my home."

[DaveIronside]

Prince Bartholomew of Semelberg had never expected to reach such diplomatic highs as being invited to a Council of anything yet today he was accompanying the Queen of East Moreland to just such an event. Stasya was used to such things however usually as things turned to business she could excuse herself and disappear off for a less formal event somewhere. That though changed when her family has acquired Semelberg's Charter and in the process tied the small Odinist principality in Aranye to the fortunes of East Moreland. One day the brother of the future Queen of East Moreland would be the ruler of the Principality and so David had insisted Stasya take a more hands on approach. She actually liked the place and hoped that today she could simply let Bartholomew do the talking while she just rubber stamped things. To help her David had leant her Sir Jacob Longe a Royal Envoy of East Moreland and Shield-Father of King David. The trio had flown on Ironside Two, the back up to the Kings plane and had been accompanied by shiny new members of the Semelberg Rangers Regiment who had just completed their training. The ride through the snowy countryside reminded Jacob of his time in the East Moreland Alps and the sight of the man riding the Reindeer of his time in Nya Aland where such a site was not uncommon out in the wilds.

As the car came to a halt Sir Jacob exited the car first and offered a hand to Stasya dressed in a long red coat. She thanked the aid for the coat and waited as Prince Bartholomew helped her on with it. The coat was rather nice, she wondered what the hosts would have done had it been the old Queen of East Moreland, the eco-nutter Matilda, but thankfully she was now well out of the picture. Stasya cursed the snow slightly meaning she had been all but forced into boots rather than something with a heel but she did her best to make a good first impression. "King Aldwin and Queen Hildegard I'm Queen Stasya of East Moreland but today here in my capacity as High Princess of Semelberg. Before I fully slip into that role however I'd like to also extend my husband King David's greetings and pass on this." She handed over a thick creamy envelope. "It is our hope that you will accept an invite to join us for the closing ball of the upcoming Ostlake Military Games. My husband would be keen to meet you." She handed the envelope across and once safely in Aldwin's hands smiled, "I now intend to become fully Semelbergian for the proceedings so let me introduce my nations head of day to day government Prince Bartholomew."

"A pleasure" the young Prince extended a hand. "I hope you'll accept this small axe as a gift from my people." The highly polished wooden handle was short meaning this was more a warriors axe than a tool. Its head was polished to a mirror shine with an owls outline engraved on the blade. "If I'm being honest this is my first time speaking to Heads of State beyond the Morelanders and I'm nervous but thats a good thing I think as it means what we do here today really matters and I want it to go well. Thank you for the opportunity." With that the trio moved to one side to allow the next car to empty its passengers.

[Wadden]

For Jamshied this was a new experience. It was his first official overseas duty as Emir and the start had been a little bumpy, literally. First he had to have his military go to each of the tribes and bring back one of their daughters to act as a "hostage" while he was out of the country. His 27 year old son and heir Junaid had clear instructions that if anyone so much as think coup he was to execute their daughter straight away. Next there had been the flight, Wadden may have an "international" airport but in recent months it had not been well cared for and as his aircraft had taken off he'd felt more than a few jolts he was sure shouldn't be there. Now he had arrived here and was the coldest he'd ever been. He had never seen snow before nor felt such cold temperatures. His long flowing traditional robe was perhaps therefore not the best of attires to wear. As he had arrived at the airport he had all but sprinted into the car hoping for warmth. He nodded approvingly at the horses, he recognised good ones when he saw them but then this odd creature being ridden by one soldier looked odd, he knew horses were not the only creature you could ride, he had hundreds of fine camels back home but this was something else. It made him chuckle a little until he realised he would now have to get out of the car. He watched from inside as Queen Stasya spoke and then when it was his turn he was delighted to be wrapped inside the fur coat. "I bring greetings from the 24 tribes of Wadden. I represent them all here and hope to bring them joyous news. I am extremely grateful for your gift of warmth. You must forgive me this is very different to my homeland. I do you a gift in return." He waved at a servant in the car who hefted something weighty and emerged. It was a dark brown saddle. "I was pleased to see your fine horseman so I was sure this gift would go down well. A King must have fine horses and therefore needs a fine saddle, I am just a little bias but the horseman of Waddan make some excellent ones and I hope this is of use. We have a matching one for you in Wadden ready for the day you accept our hospitality in the future." The saddle had careful embossed patterns and on the side panel in gold the letters KA for King Aldwin. "I wonder if I may make a small request, perhaps for once the talks end?" There was a little hint of playfulness in the Sultan's voice. "We enjoy riding in Waddan, horses mainly, camels just as good but I truly would like to experience riding that!" He turned and pointed to the Reindeer the Sergeant had ridden alongside the motorcade.

[Gusano]

Since becoming "Lady Aurora" Matilde hadn't left Gusano. She was hopeful that the position of "The Veiled One" would allow her to see more of the world but suspected each time she did it would be stage managed. In the car with her was the giant bear attired Sergeant of the Guard, Florián Montero. Dressed in her own sweeping black robe and silver mask she was concerned how they would be perceived by the others. She had initially worried that the mask might cause a problem in the cold weather that was colder even than the mountain peaks of the Solitude but her concerns had been false and the mask quiet likely even stopped the cold wind turning her face into an icicle. As the car pulled up she peered through the window ahead as Queen Stasya who she recognised greeted the host, then the Sultan from Wadden who was a new face for her. She then exited after the Sergeant of the Guard who in a loud voice announced her before Aurora approached the King and from a slight distance gave a respectful bow. "Thank you for allowing this to happen. I'm nervous to meet everyone but excited about it too. I am new to the world of diplomacy but I think this will be a good experience." She was carrying her own gift to her host, a bottle of red wine from her home towns vineyard. "I have instructed several more bottles to be shipped, our farmers in the "Funnel" tell me that our wine is very good, I am however not a drinker so I'll take their word for it."

[TheFaye]

Over the days preceeding the meeting in Reinsberg Queen Lucille and the other three Tetrarch's had discussed this upcoming meeting. All three of the others had wanted to attend the talks but the laws of the land were clear only Lucille was needed to handle such negotiations and so to make sure there was no infighting or jealousy she left the other three at home. In truth she was rather looking forward to the trip, a chance to visit a new nation and a chance to begin creating a legacy not just as a politican back home but also as a diplomat. She was a little nervous though about it being with so many other nations that she knew little about present. The only company she had brought with her beyond the obligatory security detail was her daughter Princess Anastasija who had the honour of being the heir to the Corythia dynasty by the fate of being born 21 minutes before her twin sister Lysanne. The younger of the two Princesses would have liked to attend too but her mother was not keen on having both daughters making an overseas journey together.

As they arrived they waited for the others to greet their hosts and then when it was there turn. "King Aldwin thank you for allowing us to visit your home. In Themyscira when visiting a friends house it is customary to bring something sweet, I hope therefore you will accept this gift as I anticipate we shall become friends during the course of these talks." Lucille had with her a fancy bronze box inside which where a selection of fine praline chocolates. "I'm hopeful of us making this idea of yours a reality."

[Libby]

The Four Holy Houses had been arguing for quiet some time over who should visit the far extreme of Mundus representing the Theocracy of Kaitaine. Erin, the Reverened Mother and leader of the tiny desert nation was getting tired of the endless bickering and in-fighting between the Corrino, Harkonnen, Atreides and Fremen families and so before they could begin their argument again she had quiet literally put her foot down. Slamming her foot onto the sandstone floor of the office that she worked out of she told the four leaders of the Holy Houses to be "silent" having conveyed her annoyance she made a decision. "I will be attending the talks in Weißenwald and none of you will be coming with me. Frankly I'm getting tired of your politicking. You have until I return to get your acts together. I will take Melissa and Aileas Faulkner with me." There was muttered acceptance around the room and Erin stood, pulled her hood over her head and walked out.

Several days later Erin regretted taking the trip, "I am a desert creature" she laughed to herself as she exited the airplane. Her dark robe hid a thick woollen sweater and her short hair covered by the raised hood meant her ears didn't get cold. She greeted Prince Maximillion, stopping her natural urge to spit as she greeted him. In Kaitaine it was considered a high honour as water was scarce and as such giving up water to greet someone showed respect, yet she knew from her time growing up in Ui Cenneslaig not everyone knew this basic fact of life. She enjoyed the trip in the heated car, the idea of the snowy countryside was nice and brought back memories of the Highlands of Ui Cennesliag but she was pleased those days were behind her now. "I am a desert creature" she repeated as she watched the soldier on the Reindeer with amusement. "Your Majesty" she bowed slightly to King Aldwin, "I'm thrilled to have this chance, the Theocracy needs more friends and I hope you'll help us do that today." She looked nervously over at Queen Stasya, the Theocracy and East Moreland had not got off to the greatest of starts and she knew there were still issues, perhaps via the Semelberg route she could begin to somehow patch these up.

[Snow]

Aldwin was pleased, he'd been nervous that hardly anyone would show up but so far things seemed like they may just pull things off. There were a few nations he was unsure of becoming too close friends with, he'd heard rumours of the Morelanders spreading influence but largely that came from the media rag that was "Burn the Curtain" but he tended to air on the side of caution. Then the Bene Gesserit had less than a stellar reputation but perhaps they were now becoming more friendly. He inspected each of the gifts people had brought him and thanked them for their attendance. He liked the Sultan of Waddan's attitude in terms of trying new things, "I am sure we can find you a Reindeer to ride once we are done, I would say we could send you home with one but, well the climate wouldn't exactly be kind to the animal." He smiled. "Please come inside" he motioned and then made his way up the steps. As they entered the front of the Palace there was a large open reception area with balconies flanking three sides and a large central staircase raising first straight ahead but then as it reached half way to the next floor spliting to the edges of the room. There various black uniformed men without caps offered trays of drinks while others offered to relieve the guests of coats or anything else they didn't require while indoors. "If you'd follow my brother upstairs we can get things underway." The King brought up the rear ensuring everyone got to the library he'd set up for the meeting. The room normally had several lines of desks along the central part giving a study area for anyone using the royal library. These had today been replaced by a large circular table. A young woman sat on the 2nd level a sketch pad on her knee. "That is Annette Kainefeld, an artist of growing renown in our nation, I've asked her to produce a painting of todays talks after all if its successful we have something new that may be a significant moment in world history, if it fails we can all have a pretty picture made, if anyone objects of course Annette likely has much she can be doing." He waited for any objections and then took his own seat having waited for Max to ensure everyone else was settled.

"Here we have monarchs, religious leaders, even a Veiled One." He gave Aurora a small smile, "Something truly historic. We represent though some of the minnows of Mundus. The smallest nations. We have seen in the past nations with millions of people at their backs, nations like the giant Ui Cennesliag, the 100million Morelanders" he gave a small nod to Queen Stasya and her adoptive homeland, "and various other shape the future of Mundus. My fear is that it is easy to brush nations the size of ours aside. I don't want that to happen. We have as much right to create a Mundus suitable for our people as any large nation. We though may need to band together in order to do this. It is my intention that we form an organisation akin to the failed Commonwealth Treaty Organisation, but better." he laughed, "We have an ability to put together a framework that I think can ensure we amplify our voices and if done correctly can become a valuable force for good. Now that is my aim, if anyone has ideas for other things they wish to achieve today then please voice them and we can discuss them too."

OOC- Anyone not yet posted is welcome. Just assume you arrived etc.

[TheFaye]

Queen Lucille turned to allow the waiting black clad man to remove her newly gifted fur coat. She slipped out of it and waited for her daughter Princess Anastasija to unburden herself. She exchanged the fur coat for a glass of the fruit juice. She followed Prince Maximillion up the stairs and entered the library. It was rather a nice place for the meeting and she sat down and waited for Aldwin to begin. She listened carefully as he spoke and then was first to respond. "I know little of the ins and outs of this Commonwealth Organisation, the CHarterlands and by association Themyscira had very little to do with the organisation. The concept of a mini Commonwealth though is interesting and if you have a plan for it then I'd be interested to hear it. What though I want to avoid is being part of any project that would allow other nations to determine our foreign policy. We struggle to express ourselves on an international stage because of the Charter agreements but we are becoming more free in that regard thanks to our recent negotiations. I must return to Themyscira with an agreement for co-operation but on terms that mean every decision is ours ultimately. Now I think we can do something in that regard but I know it will depend on what the others here wish for and should this not be possible regarding Themyscira then I would sadly bow out but hope to discuss things beyond a Commonwealth Treaty later. "

[Wadden]

Jamshied began looking forward to his reindeer ride later but for now was simply pleased to get out of the cold. He was half tempted to leave the fur coat on for the time being but considered that doing so might insult his hosts hospitality by implying he was not ensuring the comfort of his guests. He gladly followed the Prince upstairs, in his mind the further that they got inside the Palace then the further away from the cold he'd be. Once seated he looked around, his own library back home was tiny compared to this but then again Waddan lacked the education system most of the others here would have. He took a seat unconcerned by the artist and got himself comfortable. Back home this would have taken place on large cushions on the floor but clearly this was not the way the majority of these people here operated.

He listened to Lucille talk and stroking his beard for a moment spoke. "King Aldwin I like the idea of us working together. I though do have concerns. What you propose could seem rather adversarial towards some of the larger nations however many of us here have partnerships with nations such as those. Those relationships are positive, for example without the support of Royal Seleucid my nation would have descended into tribal war last year when tribes began attacking religious figures. The Seleucid stepped in and helped us, they have helped us create a more modern economy and they have helped us, along with Tamora, build our first international airport. If we had belonged to an organisation where we begin with the premise that large nations are dominating Mundus that may not have happened. I look across at young Prince Bartholomew and sat with him Queen Stasya of East Moreland, High Princess of Semelberg, I suspect the young gentleman would likewise share my view. His people appear, at least to the outside world, to be benefitting from a partnership with larger nations. What I would suggest is that as we pursue this worthy idea of yours we do so using language that is best described as less confrontational towards global powers."

[Gusano]

Aurora was, as far as she could tell the youngest of the group. She quietly accepted a glass of something and following the others made her way up the stairs, informing the Sergeant of the Guard to wait for her outside. While he may be a loyal servant his duty was purely to keep Aurora safe and inside a royal Palace it was likely that she was as safe as anywhere else beside it would be a slight to King Aldwin if she brought the huge bear clad man into his meeting. She was nervous and so when Queen Lucille and then the Sultan responded she kept quiet but now with a few other views out in the open she spoke. "I too believe that just because of size we shouldn't find other nations a threat automatically. We've seen the large nations do good, things like humanitarian aid, intervening in genocides and peacekeeping. We have though also seen them mess up, we've seen nations utilise military might when diplomacy was a better option and we've seen unparalleled levels of arrogance in the way some deal with other nations. My take would be that this COSNAT, or whatever name we settle on, is one where each of us is free to follow our own relations but can, when required seek out the support of those in a similar standing to ourselves. I would like to see us utilise this council as a way of supporting each other economically for certain but also in realms of security on matters such as smuggling, finding wanted criminals and various other fields."

[Libby]

Erin and her two advisers, Melissa and Aileas, followed the others up the stairs. She would make a point once these talks were done to meet the new Sultan as if the Bene Gesserit were desert creatures so were the people of Waddan and perhaps this was enough to begin some kind of friendship with the new Sultan. The old one had allowed the Bene Gesserit to begin a few small education plans but now it was important to capitalise of this. As soon as she sat down Erin pushed her hood back to reveal a young woman in her early 20's, her hair short to her head, she had taken now to not keep the traditional bald look favoured by some of the senior Mothers within the faith. As the others voiced their concerns Erin waited with everyone finished her fingers flashed to her country folk using "double-speak" sign language, "Its now or never" and with that said Erin spoke. "I want to first of all get an elephant out of the room." She looked across the table at Stasya, "Queen Stasya of East Moreland represents a nation of 100million people, she will no doubt say that she is here as the High Princess of Semelberg and I am only too keen to welcome Prince Batholomew here but what I think is we must be careful that the deal is the best it can be for Semelberg and not for East Moreland. That said I hope Her Majesty will convey a message to her husband for me and the people of the Theocracy. We do not share warm relations, I understand that members of the faith I represent have committed grave crimes against East Moreland and just as criminals of other faiths are chased globally I will ensure both the Theocracy of Kaitaine and the Bene Gesserit faith does everything reasonable to bring those to justice who tried to steal nuclear waste in East Moreland. I would like to extend, in front of you witnesses, an offer to the King of East Moreland, should he make available to us the evidence they have on the crimes we shall agree to co-operate should it be possible to utilise the apparatus of the Historic Crimes Treaty in order to make sure those tracked down and arrested are brought to justice. Perhaps this olive branch between the Bene Gesserit faith and the Morelanders can be this Councils first business?" She cracked a small smile, "In terms of what this organisation could be then I hope we can bring about a kind of united front so that each of us becomes a stronger individual. I support Lady Aurora's views and share the views that just because a select few large nations have largely monopolised global apparatus not all of them have done so with mean intent."

[DaveIronside]

The appeal from the Reverend Mother was a little of a surprise, first Stasya didn't even recall the Theocracy saying they were attending however that shouldn't really be a surprise as she, by her own admission, tended to not keep abreast of world affairs. This was for her nothing more than a media opportunity but now she had been thrown into a political minefield. She thought for a moment and wondered what David would say, but then realised that he wouldn't have allowed himself to get into this situation in the first place.  She took a deep breath and then spoke. "I am happy that the Theocracy see's some of its people in the past have been a danger to Mundus and will work to ensure that they are brought to justice. The decision on what you have offered is something for my husband to determine. I am here just to offer support to Prince Bartholomew and can not and will not be able to talk more on what you put forward. Prince Bartholomew would you like to respond to what other have said so far?" She half turned in her seat to look at the young Prince.

The Prince was a little taken a back by the fact the talks had suddenly gone off script. He did his best to not look concerned. "I'd like to thank the High Princess for trusting me to talk here today and King Aldwin for arranging this. "For now I would like to agree that simply by the good fortune of being huge doesn't make them a threat. East Moreland have shown that to us and I am confident that they would listen to a smaller nation. I am though not so new to global politics that I realise others have agendas that they want to follow no matter what. We need this body to try and add strength to our own situations and I am confident we can ensure Semelberg joins in."

[Snow]

This was either going to destroy his fledgling plan or create an oppurtunity. Aldwin had no idea that this could turn into an arguement between the Theocracy and the Morelander Queen. He was though rather happy when Stasya diplomatically moved things along.

"I must say I am delighted with the start we've made. There has been much to think on and now we must walk the line of how we make these dreams come true. What I am going to suggest then is that we form a kind of informal council. That this council meet periodically as a routine, say maybe four times a year, but can be called sooner if we feel the need. At these meetings we can suggest either decrees, resolutions, statements, whatever name we wish to call them and then discuss, draft and vote on them. This then almost becomes a kind of voice of the community of small nations, as we would publically release the details of the vote and debate then it would be possible to distance yourself or go your own route except I suspect we will likely find more to agree on than disagree. Does this sound like the kind of things people want?"

[Rayyu]

Emir Sulaiman Samar El-Amin sat leaning back in his chair one leg crossed over the knee of the other. He looked around after King Aldwin had spoken, until now he'd been content to allow others to control the conversation. "Your Majesty I quiet like the idea but I must say I had hoped for more. I think there are areas we can co-operate in beyond a council. We see nations spending vast sums on defence, nations such as those around this table may struggle to spend the funds on research and development the like of bigger nations do. I would like to perhaps see a mechanism similar to how the S.U.N. procured their Zarptica fighter but I don't want this to be about threats and danger. There is much we can promote about our nations, the Theocracy for example are from what I understand great scholars and have supported the creation of an education system in Waddan. We should look at ways of promoting culture, art, science. I wish to leave a legacy for Rayyu of us being more than just a nation that emerged from a desert and found oil but with just over 7million inhabitants that can be difficult. I would like therefore to see us have some kind of arts council, a scholarship exchange, we may be small but our intellectual weight is much greater if we can work together." 

[Snow]

Aldwin was pleased with how things had been brought back to the topic at hand. "I personally would not like to see a common procurement programme. I think that it could lead to a weakening of our own native companies and I am rather proud that while being small we are capable of producing quality equipment. I though believe that we could perhaps examine that rather than having a common procurement system we do it on a case by case basis and look to promote co-operation at company levels and not national levels. As for the Emir's dream of an art and cultural programme that sounds a wonderful inclusion. I therefore would like to put together this proposal."

On this the XX day of XXXX in the year 2023AD that the nations whose signatures are affixed to this charter have agreed to the following.

MEMBERSHIP

The Council of Small Nations and its associated bodies are open to any nation that meets the following criteria

1. Has a population of less than 15million according to its own census.

2. The Nation has control of its own armed forces.

3. The Nation has a Head of State who under their own laws can make agreements with other nation.

4. Any nation that is a member and due to a change in circumstances no longer fulfils these criteria will no longer be permitted to be a member but may become an observer.

5. Observer members may send diplomats to the Council of Small Nations but may not vote. They may send representatives to associated bodies who are free to establish their own systems of governance.

6. A nation may withdraw from this Charter at any time with no prejudice.

THE COUNCIL OF SMALL NATIONS

1. Any nation that is a member or observer may send a diplomatic representative to the Council which shall be headquarted in x x

2. The host nation shall, with reimbursement being shared equally among all members and observers, provide lodging, security and facilities deemed neccessary for this organisation.

3. The Council will be made up of one speaking member per nation per meeting.

4. Nations may send teams of advisers to support this speaking member but only the speaking member shall be permitted to talk during debates.

5. Any member nation may place before the Council a resolution for discussion. Any resolution must use the COSNAT template

6. Once the nominated chairperson believes an acceptable resolution has been drafted they may call for a vote of members. (OOC- No vote until 48hours with no reply or majority make it clear a vote is ready)

7. Should a majority of members agree with the resolution it shall be published on behalf of the Council.

8. Should a majority of members disagree with the resolution it shall be put aside. This does not prevent any member presenting an amended resolution on the same manner.

9. Any nation that is a member of the council that is a subject of a resolution is expected to comply with it, failure to do so will permit the other nations to exclude them from the organisation and/or impose sanctions upon them.

10. Any resolution that requires military action will be then sent to the COSNAT Military Office (COSNATMO) for further action.

Spoiler: COSNAT Resolution Template • show

This resolution is concerning ______________ and involves the nations of ____________ and _____________.

The current situation we are asking the Council to consider is........

Our biggest concerns are

1.
2.
3.

To resolve this matter the Council believes.

1.
2.
3.
(add more as appropriate)

We nominate the nation of ________ to chair this resolution. (May nominate yourself so long as not a nation involved in the opening line)

COSNAT MILITARY OFFICE

1. Each member nation shall appoint three representatives to the Office, these should be ranking officers representing each of the traditional branches of the military, Army, Navy and Air Force.

2. In a situation where a nation does not have such branches they are to appoint three officers representing however best they believe Land, Air and Sea operations would be represented.

3. Following the passing of a successful resolution the membership of COSNATMO shall formulate a leadership structure that is believed best for the situation.

4. Once a leadership structure is in place that leadership team shall present members of the Council with a formal request for assets.

5. It is expected members who voted for military action shall, within reason, supply military assets.

6. Upon the formal ending of military action the leadership team shall appear before COSNAT to give a full debrief and to answer any questions put before them.

7. While it is not expected that nations will have signed the Uppsala Convention this document shall be utilised as a standard for operations.

8. It is expected representatives of COSNATMO will share relevant intelligence so long as it does not impact their own national security.

ASSOCIATE ORGANISATIONS

1. Any member of COSNAT may propose the creation of an Associate Organisation.

2. An Associate Organisation shall be an individual body that shall have the aim of at least one of the following

i) Promoting global co-operation in a field
ii) Providing support for those in need
iii) Aiding nations to better defend themselves
iv) Furthering science and technology

3. Once a proposal is made to form an organisation it shall create a charter. Once a charter has been accepted by the majority of COSNAT members the organisation may be established. A proposal shall proceed in the same manner as perscribed in Article 5-9 of the COSNAT section of this charter.

4. Nations may opt out of an Associate Organisation regardless of how they voted however initially all nations who voted in favour shall be considered members. 

5. Once an Associate Organisation has been approved it shall be free to establish its own procedures.

6. At least once a year all Associate Organisations are expected to give a report to COSNAT.

"This is what I have so far, but obviously this is wide open for discussion."

[TheFaye]

"I'm in favour of the treaty you've put forward. I think it walks the line of allowing nations to work together, sends a strong message about us not being pushed around but also gives us independence to act on our own desires. My concern however is that for my own people. How do you envisage  Themyscira and our unique existence impacting this charter?" Queen Lucille asked.

[Snow]

Aldwin was a little unsure, to the best of his knowledge he had tried to make sure all those in attendance would be able to engage in the charter but now with Queen Lucille's question he was worried. He looked back down at the Charter, "To the best of my knowledge you would meet the criteria, I know you have the TDF and even a Foreign Legion which I assume you, or maybe one of the other Queens is commander in chief, you have around 9million subjects and I know Semelberg have entered agreements with East Moreland seperate to the Charterlands. As I see it the only part I may have wrong is if you have full control over your armed forces. Lets take a hypotheical situation where we determine a COSNAT naval force is going to help in some disaster, could you commit your naval assets without the leader of the CHarterlands giving you permission. If the answer is yes then your in, if the answer is no then we would have to perhaps look at observer status."

[TheFaye]

Lucille was partly relieved at the answer, "You're remarkably well informed King Aldwin" she replied, "Yes we do have our own military, we are obliged to help the Charterlands Military recruit a set number of people each year for their military but those under arms in our own military are ours to command. I can, well along with advice from the other three Queens, utilise our military for many purposes so yes we are Commanders in Chief. She then realised that perhaps she had been a little too quick in praising Aldwin for his knowledge of the Themysciran military matters once he voiced his hypothetical. She stiffled the urge to chuckle, "Sadly our nation lacks a coast line however is a disaster happened and COSNAT existed and was getting involved in some kind of naval operation then we would seek to help as much as we could, be that for example sending medics to help work on other nations vessels, sending supplies or any other means. I believe then we've fulfilled the criteria and should the rest of the talks proceed to go to plan then I'd be happy to see this body formed." 

[Gusano]

Aurora knew that she faced no issues the like of which Themyscaria had. She was satisfied to simply sit and listen, thankfully her silver mask hiding the expressions on her face. "The Eyrie would be happy to join up too under current terms. We are desperate for our nation to begin branching out into the wider world and I think shoulder to shoulder with like minded, and similar nations, we could make a real statement with this today. Count us in."

[Altona]

King Rutger was next to speak out, "I'd be delighted if we can make this work. If this is the draft you can consider it having 100% of my support."

[Snow]

OOC - Giving this the obligatory 48hrs grace period. Then I say we sign this?

[Snow]

"With no other suggestions or issues I think we can all say this is the final draft. With that I'd like to commence us actually committing ourselves to this." With that he picked up a pen and added his signature to the draft document.




On this the 30th day of October in the year 2023AD that the nations whose signatures are affixed to this charter have agreed to the following.

MEMBERSHIP

The Council of Small Nations and its associated bodies are open to any nation that meets the following criteria

1. Has a population of less than 15million according to its own census.

2. The Nation has control of its own armed forces.

3. The Nation has a Head of State who under their own laws can make agreements with other nation.

4. Any nation that is a member and due to a change in circumstances no longer fulfils these criteria will no longer be permitted to be a member but may become an observer.

5. Observer members may send diplomats to the Council of Small Nations but may not vote. They may send representatives to associated bodies who are free to establish their own systems of governance.

6. A nation may withdraw from this Charter at any time with no prejudice.

THE COUNCIL OF SMALL NATIONS

1. Any nation that is a member or observer may send a diplomatic representative to the Council which shall be headquarted in x x

2. The host nation shall, with reimbursement being shared equally among all members and observers, provide lodging, security and facilities deemed neccessary for this organisation.

3. The Council will be made up of one speaking member per nation per meeting.

4. Nations may send teams of advisers to support this speaking member but only the speaking member shall be permitted to talk during debates.

5. Any member nation may place before the Council a resolution for discussion. Any resolution must use the COSNAT template

6. Once the nominated chairperson believes an acceptable resolution has been drafted they may call for a vote of members. (OOC- No vote until 48hours with no reply or majority make it clear a vote is ready)

7. Should a majority of members agree with the resolution it shall be published on behalf of the Council.

8. Should a majority of members disagree with the resolution it shall be put aside. This does not prevent any member presenting an amended resolution on the same manner.

9. Any nation that is a member of the council that is a subject of a resolution is expected to comply with it, failure to do so will permit the other nations to exclude them from the organisation and/or impose sanctions upon them.

10. Any resolution that requires military action will be then sent to the COSNAT Military Office (COSNATMO) for further action.

Spoiler: COSNAT Resolution Template • show

This resolution is concerning ______________ and involves the nations of ____________ and _____________.

The current situation we are asking the Council to consider is........

Our biggest concerns are

1.
2.
3.

To resolve this matter the Council believes.

1.
2.
3.
(add more as appropriate)

We nominate the nation of ________ to chair this resolution. (May nominate yourself so long as not a nation involved in the opening line)

COSNAT MILITARY OFFICE

1. Each member nation shall appoint three representatives to the Office, these should be ranking officers representing each of the traditional branches of the military, Army, Navy and Air Force.

2. In a situation where a nation does not have such branches they are to appoint three officers representing however best they believe Land, Air and Sea operations would be represented.

3. Following the passing of a successful resolution the membership of COSNATMO shall formulate a leadership structure that is believed best for the situation.

4. Once a leadership structure is in place that leadership team shall present members of the Council with a formal request for assets.

5. It is expected members who voted for military action shall, within reason, supply military assets.

6. Upon the formal ending of military action the leadership team shall appear before COSNAT to give a full debrief and to answer any questions put before them.

7. While it is not expected that nations will have signed the Uppsala Convention this document shall be utilised as a standard for operations.

8. It is expected representatives of COSNATMO will share relevant intelligence so long as it does not impact their own national security.

ASSOCIATE ORGANISATIONS

1. Any member of COSNAT may propose the creation of an Associate Organisation.

2. An Associate Organisation shall be an individual body that shall have the aim of at least one of the following

i) Promoting global co-operation in a field
ii) Providing support for those in need
iii) Aiding nations to better defend themselves
iv) Furthering science and technology

3. Once a proposal is made to form an organisation it shall create a charter. Once a charter has been accepted by the majority of COSNAT members the organisation may be established. A proposal shall proceed in the same manner as perscribed in Article 5-9 of the COSNAT section of this charter.

4. Nations may opt out of an Associate Organisation regardless of how they voted however initially all nations who voted in favour shall be considered members. 

5. Once an Associate Organisation has been approved it shall be free to establish its own procedures.

6. At least once a year all Associate Organisations are expected to give a report to COSNAT.


His Majesty King  Aldwin VI of Weißenwald

[Gusano]

COSNAT MILITARY OFFICE

1. Each member nation shall appoint three representatives to the Office, these should be ranking officers representing each of the traditional branches of the military, Army, Navy and Air Force.

2. In a situation where a nation does not have such branches they are to appoint three officers representing however best they believe Land, Air and Sea operations would be represented.

3. Following the passing of a successful resolution the membership of COSNATMO shall formulate a leadership structure that is believed best for the situation.

4. Once a leadership structure is in place that leadership team shall present members of the Council with a formal request for assets.

5. It is expected members who voted for military action shall, within reason, supply military assets.

6. Upon the formal ending of military action the leadership team shall appear before COSNAT to give a full debrief and to answer any questions put before them.

7. While it is not expected that nations will have signed the Uppsala Convention this document shall be utilised as a standard for operations.

8. It is expected representatives of COSNATMO will share relevant intelligence so long as it does not impact their own national security.

ASSOCIATE ORGANISATIONS

1. Any member of COSNAT may propose the creation of an Associate Organisation.

2. An Associate Organisation shall be an individual body that shall have the aim of at least one of the following

i) Promoting global co-operation in a field
ii) Providing support for those in need
iii) Aiding nations to better defend themselves
iv) Furthering science and technology

3. Once a proposal is made to form an organisation it shall create a charter. Once a charter has been accepted by the majority of COSNAT members the organisation may be established. A proposal shall proceed in the same manner as perscribed in Article 5-9 of the COSNAT section of this charter.

4. Nations may opt out of an Associate Organisation regardless of how they voted however initially all nations who voted in favour shall be considered members.

5. Once an Associate Organisation has been approved it shall be free to establish its own procedures.

6. At least once a year all Associate Organisations are expected to give a report to COSNAT.


His Majesty King  Aldwin VI of Weißenwald
Lady Aurora, the Veiled One of Gusano