Gilded Ambitions: Concert of Europe Part V (Gameplay Thread)

[YPestis25]

Scandinavian-Colombian Petroleum Agreement

Article I:
The parties shall form a jointly owned Scandinavian-Colombian Oil Company, with initial funding provided equally by both parties’ governments. After an initial period of three months, funding shall be opened to private investors in both states.

Article II:
The company shall be jointly managed by a twelve member company board, with six members appointed by the Colombian government and six members appointed by the Scandinavian government.

Article III:
The Kingdom of Scandinavia will provide relevant technical assistance to ensure the efficient extraction of oil on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia. The Holy Republic of Colombia shall provide the manpower necessary for the operation of the oil infrastructure as well as for its maintenance.

Article IV:
Profits from this company shall be distributed in accordance with ownership rights in the company.

xFredrik Stang Lund, Finansminister

[Kuumo]

Scandinavian-Colombian Petroleum Agreement

Article I:
The parties shall form a jointly owned Scandinavian-Colombian Oil Company, with initial funding provided equally by both parties’ governments. After an initial period of three months, funding shall be opened to private investors in both states.

Article II:
The company shall be jointly managed by a twelve member company board, with six members appointed by the Colombian government and six members appointed by the Scandinavian government.

Article III:
The Kingdom of Scandinavia will provide relevant technical assistance to ensure the efficient extraction of oil on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia. The Holy Republic of Colombia shall provide the manpower necessary for the operation of the oil infrastructure as well as for its maintenance.

Article IV:
Profits from this company shall be distributed in accordance with ownership rights in the company.

xFredrik Stang Lund, Finansminister

x Manuel Antonio Matos, Secretary of State of the Holy Republic of Gran Colombia

[Kuumo]

Official Statements from the Colombian Foreign Ministry


(Source: u/S-I-B-E-R-I-A-N on r/vexillology)

On the Influenza Pandemic

All travelers entering or leaving the Holy Republic of Gran Colombia will be subject to 48 hours of quarantine at ports of entry and passable sections of the Brazilian-Colombian border. Failure to comply with this order will be punishable by detention, fines, and expulsion from the country in the case of foreign nationals.


On the Commencement of Diplomatic Relations with Newly Established Sovereign States

The Holy Republic of Gran Colombia formally recognizes the Kingdom of Chile, the Kingdom of the Pampas, the Republic of Thailand, and the Persian Republic. Formal diplomatic relations will be immediately established with Santiago, Bahía Blanca, and Bangkok. The Colombian embassy in Tehran will be reopened after the current situation in the Middle East stabilizes.

[LAKISYLVANIA]

Mexico adopts a pro-family agenda

Given the Mexican population has suffered badly in recent years and following earlier policies and the policy change of its northern neighbor, Mexico also introduces the following laws

The following tax benefits having already passed in 1900.

3. Households with children will enjoy tax reductions based on the number of children under the age of 18 they have:

1 child: a 5% reduction
2 children: a 15% reduction
3 children: a 25% reduction
4 children: a 35% reduction
5 children: a 45% reduction
6 children: a 55% reduction
7 children: a 65% reduction
8 children and more: a 75% reduction

The following new pro-family and pro-mother policies will be adopted

1. The establishment of a “Mother’s Day” as a national holiday.
2. Mass government propaganda promoting big families, marriage, and pregnancy.
3. Providing free health care to pregnant women
4. The provision of maternity leave of one month before and two months after the birth
5. A 30% income tax increase on unmarried men above the age of 25 who do not belong to the clergy.
6. A substantial expansion of schools, maternity wards, and any infrastructure that may be put under strain by increases in the birth rates
7. A ban on anti conception and birth control will be introduced

Additionally, expanding on the Luis II Reforms that have been adopted, including the ban on private property, the following changes with regards to the housing system will be made, as well as on the position of mothers in society

1. The formerly and currently built hacienda estates will be allocated and preserved for big families—those families who have and wish to have large families, extending to include grandparents within the family. Additionally, estates with existing farm infrastructure will be allocated to farmers.
2. The government parties will adopt pro-family views and stances.
3. Building on the woman's suffrage movement, the position of the woman will be uplifted to aid in their task of motherhood.
4. There will be a ban on employing mothers during weekends.
5. Mothers with three or more children will have the choice to be exempt of having to go to work if the father goes to work or works on a farm (/owns a farm).
6. The government will introduce monthly maternity grants, the size of the grants one is eligible for expanding based on the number of children under the age of 18
7. Mexico will invest in the number of pro-family activities one can do and in pro-family infrastructure (schools, recurring activities for children & families, ...)

The following laws concerning abortion will be adopted.

It is the position of the Empire of the Mexicans that abortion is a crime and considered inhumane, vile and above all manslaughter.

1. Abortion is banned in all circumstances.
2. All participants in an illegally induced abortion will be prosecuted for murder.
3. It is the task of the clergy to teach the Mexican people the uncleansiness of abortion and the virtue of having a family and bearing children.
4. The spread or voicing of pro-abortion, pro-child murder views will be made illegal and lead to a prison sentence
5. The constitution of Mexico will be altered to reflect its commitment to preserving life starting at conception.

To help aid the Mexican church in this important task, the majority of schools will be governed by the church - the buildings being state property - but the policies and managing of the schools being mainly governed by the church, with the exception of education in some autonomous territories.

Additionally, Mexico re-iterates that the following sexual crimes will be considered immoral

1. Homosexuality, travesty, bestiality, rape, adultery (for married people), pedophilia and prostitution will all be strictly outlawed, and with the exception of adultery and prostitution be punishable by death or life long imprisonment.
2. Changes in the constitution will be made to reflect on this change, defining marriage as that of between a born man and a born woman.

Regarding the legal age of sex and pornography

1. While not encouraged, pornography and pornographic art will not be considered a crime and will be tolerated.
2. The legal age of sex and adulthood will be defined at that of 18, however if two consenting minors engage in sexual intercourse, this will also be tolerated and not considered a crime.
3. Sexual intercourse by itself will not be discouraged, instead even being encouraged.

Last but not least, the following change or re-iteration regarding gun rights will be made.

1. The right to keep and bear arms will be constitutionally protected and enshrined.
2. It will be illegal to commit murder/homicide/manslaughter or attempt such thing, or to engage in organizing/participating in a terrorist group or other subversive activities against the government or other vital Mexican institutions.

The autonomies territories within the Mexican realm will be exempt from the above laws, with the exception of the changes made in the constitution regarding abortion, sexual crimes and the right to keep and bear arms.

[DKrol]

Statement from His Majesty the King

With the successful elections to the National Assembly and the confirmatory vote in support of the Emergency Constitution, the era of emergency rule is over. The Constitution of 1903 is hereby ratified and in force. I look forward to the National Assembly nominating a candidate to serve as the Commonwealth's first President - it is my desire to see our first President come from the Cross and Crown Parliamentary Group. I will present the following critical pieces of legislation to the National Assembly at their first sitting. We must rebuild our great Commonwealth from the ashes of the Second Border War, recognizing we are changed society and we must adapt to our present situation. We must also ensure we do not let the rebels in Columbia win - we must continue to press forward and crush their treasonous rebellion with haste.

Citizenship Act of 1904
1. Any man who has resided in the Commonwealth for a period of at least six months, and who attests to his desire and intention to remain in the Commonwealth, shall be granted full citizenship if he meets at least three of the following conditions:
a. He has paid a citizenship fee of $50 to his county administrator;
b. He has passed a French language fluency examination;
c. He has passed an English language fluency examination;
d. He can prove he took up arms in support of the Commonwealth during the Second Border War; or
e. He owns a property valued at more than $1,000.
2. Any man who attests he is in the process of complying with this act shall be issued a national identity card, which he must present upon request to any officer of the law, which shall enable him to remain in the Commonwealth for a period of up to one year. Any man who receives a national identity card and fails to comply with this act prior to the expiration of his national identity card shall be punished by six months imprisonment.
3. Sections 1 and 2 of this act shall be repealed on January 1, 1906.
4. Any man who has resided in the Commonwealth for no less than seven years shall be granted full citizenship upon the payment of a $50 citizenship fee to his county administrator. The citizenship fee shall be waived if the man served in the Second Border War.
5. Any man who has taken up arms against the Commonwealth shall be denied citizenship and barred from receiving any social benefits or participation in any election.

Taxation Act of 1904
1. All existing laws regarding taxation are hereby repealed.
2. All men who earn an income exceeding $12,000 per year shall pay an annual income tax of 12% to be collected by their county administrator no later than April 1 of each year.
3. The owners of all agricultural and residential properties shall pay an annual land-value tax of 4% to be collected by their county administrator no later than April 1 of each year.
4. The owners of all commercial and industrial properties shall pay an annual land-value tax of 6% to be collected by their county administrator no later than April 1 of each year.
5. The owners of all non-developed properties shall pay an annual land-value tax of 10% to be collected by their county administrator no later than April 1 of each year.
6. The seller of any domestic liquor shall pay a tax of 10% of the sale price to be collected by their county administrator no later than the fifth of each month.
7. The seller of any imported liquor shall pay a tax of 20% of the sale price to be collected by their county administrator no later than the fifth of each month.

Social Rights and Benefits Act of 1904
1. All children have an inherent right to an education in both the French and English languages. To this effect, the Government shall construct and operate at least one schoolhouse in each county that children under the age of 14 shall attend free of charge.
2. All men have an inherent right to housing. To this effect, the Government shall construct and maintain several community housing structures in each State, which people in need may occupy for reasonable rents.
3. All men have an inherent right to reliable food. To this effect, the Government shall operate at least one kitchen in each county, to provide people in need one free warm meal per day.
4. All men have an inherent right to work for wages. To this effect, it shall be illegal to require a man to work without compensation. This shall not apply to apprenticeships or other forms of training.
5. All men have an inherent right to retirement after reaching old age. To this effect, the Government shall provide a monthly stipend to each man over the age of 70 years to enable him to live a comfortable but modest life for the remainder of his natural life. Upon his death, his widow, should there be one, shall receive 50% of the deceased's benefits for a period of up to five years.

[oldkyhome]

Chronicle

Public Domain

The Akasaka Conference of 1904
화해 / 和解

Reversing decades of silent tension, in early 1904 Japanese leadership invited President Gwon Jung-Hyeon to the Akasaka Palace for a formal state visit. The ensuing conference would mark a critical thaw in Tokyo-Seoul relations; the two finally discussing the great many things that concerned both realms, from territory to trade to culture and, more broadly, the protection of East Asia from external pressures.

Of note was the regional conflagration of recent years, which had prompted the meeting in the first place. The specter of war loomed large over an otherwise modernizing East Asia and threatened to plunge it further if left untended. Seeking against this, the month in the Palace would be spent resolving many disagreements that impeded the establishment of bilateral ties. The President and the Sōsai put aside historic grievances, recognizing that a stable, peaceful East Asia required a new understanding between their two nations, an understanding of one another as friend, and not foe.

The Japanese envoys entertained the President and his delegation to cultural showcases and exhibits. Perhaps the greatest uniting force in this accord was the sense of camaraderie and similarity between their people and culture, in art, music, language, and more. Equally uniting was the shared defeat both nations suffered at the hands of colonial power, fueling a subtle, but mutual, anti-Western sentiment.

When the conference concluded at the turn of February, the President and the Sōsai ratified an extensive agreement, normalizing relations, opening trade, and settling territorial disputes, spelling the end for Japanese-Korean hostilities. It included:

• The establishment of peace, bilateral ties, and regular diplomatic communication between Japan and Korea
• The opening of domestic ports and markets to trade from one another
• Mutual reduction of tariffs and docking fees and removal of trade barriers
• Mutual cooperation in commerce, including the establishment of an official rate of exchange
• Mutual commitment to the principles of democracy and self-autonomy, including self-rule for overseas possessions
• The return of the Sunwon Islands to the Republic of Korea and the recognition of that land as rightfully and legitimately Korean
• The recognition of the Phillippine Islands and Aceh as sovereign Japanese territory
• The recognition of other presently-held territories of both nations as sovereign and legitimate
• The demilitarization of Aceh, upon the establishment of practical control
• The establishment of a 10-year non-aggression pact between Japan and Korea
• Korean investment into Japanese development, including the purchase of a 10% stake in Nippon Oil and the Philippines Mineral Corporation

[GoTfan]

President Tokugawa Iesato's address to the nation

"Thank your for coming today, my fellow citizens.

With the recent signing of the Treaty of Shimonoseki, our war in China is at an end! Our brave soldiers will return to their homes, to their families, and be by their sides once more.

As I speak on one conflict ending, let us also end the conflicts in the Philippines and Aceh! Two armies are on their way to Aceh to end the fighting there and secure the future of this nation.

We cannot deny the devastation to our economy or our nation. Let us not forget those who have perished, or the cause for which they perished: the future of our Republic. It is on this future that much thought has been considered lately, and it is to ensure that future that I am announcing The Five-Year Plan to create a truly modern nation.

By Presidential decree, I have chartered Japanese Government Railways, Nippon Oil, the Philippines Mining Corporation, and Japan National Highways to develop vital sectors of our economy, and to ensure our infrastructure becomes the best in the world. Our projects will be financed by the Japan Development Bank, staffed by the most brilliant economists in the nation, and shall be overseen and coordinated by the National Planning and Development Commission.

Under the Five-Year Plan, we will pull our economy from its current spiral. We will provide work to all who are able, and will create a national economy that will be the envy of the world!

The first step will be securing our holdings in the Philippines and Aceh, where military operations are currently being undertaken to suppress rebellions. Once that is accomplished, the Five-Year Plan will begin in earnest. We will ensure that Japan becomes a beacon of light in the Pacific! The time has come for us to escape the shadows of Europe and walk into the sunshine of our own destiny,

Kyōwakoku banzai!"

[oldkyhome]

Treaty

Akasaka Conference (1904)

An AGREEMENT between the Republic of KOREA and the Republic of JAPAN (hereinafter the "Parties") to normalize relations, open trade, and otherwise de-escalate tensions between our two nations.

Article I. Normalization of Relations.
1. Having resolved differences, a state of peace, diplomacy, and normal relations are hereby established between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Japan.
2. The Parties shall be guided in their relations by respect and recognition for one another’s sovereignty (as outlined in Article III), the development of friendly communication between them and their peoples, and the settlement of all disputes by peaceful means.
3. The Parties shall exchange envoys and maintain permanent diplomatic missions in each other’s nations. To that end, respective consular facilities shall be constructed in Tokyo and Seoul (and if they already exist, then renovated).
4. The Parties shall engage in regular diplomatic communication on regional security concerns and trade, and in the event any controversy should arise between the two parties in relation to it, both shall exert their good offices to bring about an amicable, peaceful agreement.
5. The Parties agree to extradite to each other any person who is wanted in the other for prosecution, trial, and punishment for imprisonment of a period exceeding one year, or a more severe penalty.
6. The Parties commit to a non-aggression pact of 10 years, wherein neither shall transgress on the other’s sovereign territory, as outlined by Article III.
7. The Parties resolve, in lieu of a formal alliance, the primacy of Asian self-autonomy and the condemnation of European colonial power in the region.

Article II. Economic Cooperation.
1. The Parties shall open trade with one another and coordinate the establishment of new maritime and supply routes connecting the East Sea (otherwise known as the ‘Sea of Japan’).
2. The Republic of Korea, as an entity, shall purchase a 10% stake in Nippon Oil and the Philippines Mineral Corporation and, accordingly, the Parties shall coordinate to establish joint ventures for industrial development.
3. The Parties shall levy no tax nor duty upon capital investments initiated by state controlled enterprises or by joint ventures supported by state funding in each respective country.
4. The Parties shall reduce their tariffs on products from the other to no higher than 5% and provide advantageous docking fees.
5. The Parties shall establish an official rate of exchange between the Korean Won and the Japanese Yen based on relative market value and purchasing power.

Article III. Territorial Settlements.
1. The Republic of Japan shall promptly return control of the Sunwon Islands to the Republic of Korea, recognizing their legitimate and rightful claim to the land.
2. The Republic of Korea recognizes the legitimate sovereignty of Japan over the Philippine Islands and Aceh and formally withdraws condemnation.
3. Redacted for foreign observers.
4. Notwithstanding the aforementioned, the Parties shall respect and recognize the presently-held territories of one another as of the signing of this treaty.
5. Upon establishing practical control over the region of Aceh, the Republic of Japan commits to remove its military presence there and maintain a measure of self-rule for the inhabitants.

Article IV. Miscellaneous.
1. The Parties reserve the right to mutually revise the provisions of this treaty and, if necessary, withdraw from it upon written notice to the other no sooner than 150 days prior.
2. This agreement shall take effect on March 1, 1904.

x Gwon Jung-Hyeon, President of the Republic of Korea

[GoTfan]

Treaty

Akasaka Conference (1904)

An AGREEMENT between the Republic of KOREA and the Republic of JAPAN (hereinafter the "Parties") to normalize relations, open trade, and otherwise de-escalate tensions between our two nations.

Article I. Normalization of Relations.
1. Having resolved differences, a state of peace, diplomacy, and normal relations are hereby established between the Republic of Korea and the Republic of Japan.
2. The Parties shall be guided in their relations by respect and recognition for one another’s sovereignty (as outlined in Article III), the development of friendly communication between them and their peoples, and the settlement of all disputes by peaceful means.
3. The Parties shall exchange envoys and maintain permanent diplomatic missions in each other’s nations. To that end, respective consular facilities shall be constructed in Tokyo and Seoul (and if they already exist, then renovated).
4. The Parties shall engage in regular diplomatic communication on regional security concerns and trade, and in the event any controversy should arise between the two parties in relation to it, both shall exert their good offices to bring about an amicable, peaceful agreement.
5. The Parties agree to extradite to each other any person who is wanted in the other for prosecution, trial, and punishment for imprisonment of a period exceeding one year, or a more severe penalty.
6. The Parties commit to a non-aggression pact of 10 years, wherein neither shall transgress on the other’s sovereign territory, as outlined by Article III.
7. The Parties resolve, in lieu of a formal alliance, the primacy of Asian self-autonomy and the condemnation of European colonial power in the region.

Article II. Economic Cooperation.
1. The Parties shall open trade with one another and coordinate the establishment of new maritime and supply routes connecting the East Sea (otherwise known as the ‘Sea of Japan’).
2. The Republic of Korea, as an entity, shall purchase a 10% stake in Nippon Oil and the Philippines Mineral Corporation and, accordingly, the Parties shall coordinate to establish joint ventures for industrial development.
3. The Parties shall levy no tax nor duty upon capital investments initiated by state controlled enterprises or by joint ventures supported by state funding in each respective country.
4. The Parties shall reduce their tariffs on products from the other to no higher than 5% and provide advantageous docking fees.
5. The Parties shall establish an official rate of exchange between the Korean Won and the Japanese Yen based on relative market value and purchasing power.

Article III. Territorial Settlements.
1. The Republic of Japan shall promptly return control of the Sunwon Islands to the Republic of Korea, recognizing their legitimate and rightful claim to the land.
2. The Republic of Korea recognizes the legitimate sovereignty of Japan over the Philippine Islands and Aceh and formally withdraws condemnation.
3. Redacted for foreign observers.
4. Notwithstanding the aforementioned, the Parties shall respect and recognize the presently-held territories of one another as of the signing of this treaty.
5. Upon establishing practical control over the region of Aceh, the Republic of Japan commits to remove its military presence there and maintain a measure of self-rule for the inhabitants.

Article IV. Miscellaneous.
1. The Parties reserve the right to mutually revise the provisions of this treaty and, if necessary, withdraw from it upon written notice to the other no sooner than 150 days prior.
2. This agreement shall take effect on March 1, 1904.

x Gwon Jung-Hyeon, President of the Republic of Korea

x Tokugawa Iesato, Sōsai of the Japanese Republic

[Kuumo]

Official Statements from the Office of the Archbishop-President


(Source: u/S-I-B-E-R-I-A-N on r/vexillology)

On the Reignited Conflict in North America

While we acknowledge the vital role of the British Union in securing Colombia's continued independence and the righteous anger of their people over the horrifying terrorist attacks perpetrated by then-New England Chairman Fitzgerald, we do not condone their blatant violation of the truce agreed upon in the Treaty of Bogotá and reiterate our commitment to abiding by the terms of the treaty. Recognizing the necessity of rebuilding Colombian society and the injustices committed by both sides, we hereby commit to remaining neutral in the North American conflict unless the actions of any belligerent come to pose a direct threat to Colombian soil.


On the Situation Regarding the Papacy on the Italian Peninsula

We welcome the ascension of His Holiness Pope Alexander X to the Throne of St. Peter, the first prelate from the Western Hemisphere to attain the position of Bishop of Rome. After the trials and tribulations of the Conclave at Konstanz, we have faith that he will bring unity to the Church and its followers in this unprecedented era.

However, we must express our dismay at the attempt by the King of France to politicize the position of the Bishop of Rome to further his unilateral dismemberment of the Kingdom of Naples. The Vicar of Christ has a God-granted duty to all his followers, including the thousands who have fought valiantly in defense of their Italian homeland.

It must be made clear that a resurgence in the temporal power and authority of the Pope would be welcome in principle as defense against the rising tide of secularism and apostasy, but the current plan to establish direct Papal control over northern Italy at the behest of the French king is an insulting assertion of worldly concerns over the divine that, were it to come to fruition, risks weakening the Church rather than strengthening it.

I speak not out of any lust for revenge upon the French nation, nor even as a bishop expressing disagreement over the current direction of the Church; I am merely a humble servant of God who fears for the future of the faithful in these most trying of times.

We pray fervently that a peaceful solution may be found lest the situation in Europe deteriorate further.

[windjammer]

Brazil would like to thank their esteemed allies France and Quebec for their help in reestablishing the papal states.

Brazil understands Colombian concerns but respetctfully disagrees with them. We are fully certain Austria and France will come to an agreement to make Italy an area of peace. It's the neapolitans who have been in the past century starting War in the peninsula. WE are certain that with their disappearance an Era of peace will begins.


If Austria and France need mediation, Brazil is more than willing to help .

[LAKISYLVANIA]

On the Papal States

Mexico is pleased to see the Papal States being re-established and wishes to establish diplomatic relations when the pandemic is over. The Empire of the Mexicans is committed to keeping the Papal States in tact and in place. Mexico also offers mediation to Austria and France if needed, considering itself in an ideal position to mediate between the two great powers.

On Portugal

Mexico refuses to recognise the new regime in Portugal on the global stage. With the disappearance of the old regime, which Mexico had recognized as the true legitimate rulers, Mexico sees the need to suspend all relations with Portugal until the old regime is restored. Furthermore, Mexico states that it doesn't consider itself in debt to Portugal and unilaterally declares its debt to Portugal void, based on the grounds it doesn't consider the republic a continuation of the kingdom.

Additionally, based on earlier decisions, all assets held by Portugal will be seized by the Mexican government and Mexico also announces that an embargo will be introduced until the throne is restored. Mexico re-iterates its desire for the House of Braganza to be restored to the throne, calling the incident a dangerous precedent for global stability.

[Lumine]

New uniforms for the Imperial Armed Forces,
Wikimedia Commons

ON THE REORGANIZATION OF THE MILITARY

It is the will of Her Imperial Majesty that the Army and Navy of Québec be reorganized into the Imperial Armed Forces, with the purpose of streamlining the imperial military as a whole.

As per Article 33 of the Constitution, the Empress is Supreme Commander of the entire imperial military, and is assisted in her task by civilian and military institutions.

The Ministry of the Army and the Ministry of Navy will remain the civilian-led institutions supporting and organizing the military, providing the necessary logistical support, and leading the way in technological development in close cooperation with the Academie des Sciences.

In turn, the military-led Admiralty and General Staff take the lead in military extensive planning, training, strategic and tactical development, and the operational performance of the Armed Forces. As outlined previously, the Marshals of the Empire will command the armies or overall theaters in close cooperation with their respective Chief of Staff.

In recognition of the various land formations created by successive Emperors, the Imperial Guard, Foreign Legion and National Guard are all recognized in their respective and individual roles:

-The division-strong Imperial Guard, made out of elite soldiers, is tasked with the defense of the capital and with protecting the Empress on the field of battle.

-The corps-strong Québec Foreign Legion will remain the shock troops for colonial operations, based on Hohenfriedberg Bay (OTL Pearl Harbor), Hawaii.

-The National Guard, the Empire’s military reserve, remains tasked with maintaining domestic order, putting down revolts or riots, and providing a source of military training for citizens under conscription, with units created from local recruits from a single province to maximize efficiency in mobilization.

In recognition of the rapidly changing nature of warfare, Her Imperial Majesty has also authorized the creation of the Québecois Zouaves, an elite brigade of specialized troops for sensitive military missions, subject to innovative and arduous training, Prussian-style discipline, and trained in various types of warfare.

[Devout Centrist]

Tripartite Lease and Investment Protocol

Article 1. The High Contracting Parties of the Kingdom of Austria, the Kingdom of Scandinavia, and the Republic of China agree to respect territorial integrity and sovereignty of each other’s internationally recognized borders.

Article 2. The Republic of China shall extend leases of currently occupied Chinese territory to the Kingdom of Austria and the Kingdom of Scandinavia not to exceed 45 years.

Article 3. The Republic of China shall establish a tripartite Special Development Corporation to serve as a clearinghouse for High Contracting Party investment in industry and commerce; a board of directors for the Corporation is hereby established and shall be composed of 50% Chinese members, 25% Austrian members, and 25% Scandinavian members.

Article 4. The High Contracting Parties of Austria and Scandinavia shall make substantial loans and grants to the Special Development Corporation and to the Central Bank of China in exchange for common stock in firms that receive investment capital.

Article 5.  Firms that receive investment capital shall be designated as either Chinese owned, joint ventures, or tripartite ventures. Chinese firms shall retain 50+1% ownership from citizens of the Republic of China and shall receive not less than 40% of total investment capital allocated by the Special Development Corporation per annum.

Article 6. The Kingdom of Austria and the Kingdom of Scandinavia shall be granted most favored nation status with respect to the Republic of China, entitling them to minimal export duties and import restrictions or quotas in the Chinese market.

Article 7. All Han, Mongol, Hui, Tibetan, Manchu, and other Mainland Chinese minorities residing in territories leased to The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Kingdom of Austria shall be granted Chinese citizenship immediately and shall have the right to participate in national elections. The High Contracting Parties agree to respect the rights of all Chinese citizens living in territories leased by the Republic of China in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China.

Article 8. Port, harbor, and docking facilities currently owned and operated by the Kingdom of Scandinavia and Austria in lands leased by the Republic of China shall retain not less than 50+1% ownership of these facilities, with the understanding that such facilities may be used by the Republican Navy upon request or by fair market contracts made between private citizens and the facilities.

Article 9. Foreign citizens living on lands leased by the Republic of China to the High Contracting Parties shall be subject to the laws of their home country, except in circumstances where a foreign citizen victimizes a citizen of the Republic of China.

Article 10. The Habsburg Monarchy, and the Kingdom of Scandinavia shall dispatch Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to serve as their representatives in the Chinese capital. This diplomatic promotion is carried out as recognition of China’s leading role in the global concert and Asian peace, as well as in recognition of its role as a guarantor of Asian stability and security, and its victories against other western powers.

x Extraordinary Plenipotentiary for Western Affairs, Sun Yat-sen

[YPestis25]

Tripartite Lease and Investment Protocol

Article 1. The High Contracting Parties of the Kingdom of Austria, the Kingdom of Scandinavia, and the Republic of China agree to respect territorial integrity and sovereignty of each other’s internationally recognized borders.

Article 2. The Republic of China shall extend leases of currently occupied Chinese territory to the Kingdom of Austria and the Kingdom of Scandinavia not to exceed 45 years.

Article 3. The Republic of China shall establish a tripartite Special Development Corporation to serve as a clearinghouse for High Contracting Party investment in industry and commerce; a board of directors for the Corporation is hereby established and shall be composed of 50% Chinese members, 25% Austrian members, and 25% Scandinavian members.

Article 4. The High Contracting Parties of Austria and Scandinavia shall make substantial loans and grants to the Special Development Corporation and to the Central Bank of China in exchange for common stock in firms that receive investment capital.

Article 5.  Firms that receive investment capital shall be designated as either Chinese owned, joint ventures, or tripartite ventures. Chinese firms shall retain 50+1% ownership from citizens of the Republic of China and shall receive not less than 40% of total investment capital allocated by the Special Development Corporation per annum.

Article 6. The Kingdom of Austria and the Kingdom of Scandinavia shall be granted most favored nation status with respect to the Republic of China, entitling them to minimal export duties and import restrictions or quotas in the Chinese market.

Article 7. All Han, Mongol, Hui, Tibetan, Manchu, and other Mainland Chinese minorities residing in territories leased to The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Kingdom of Austria shall be granted Chinese citizenship immediately and shall have the right to participate in national elections. The High Contracting Parties agree to respect the rights of all Chinese citizens living in territories leased by the Republic of China in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China.

Article 8. Port, harbor, and docking facilities currently owned and operated by the Kingdom of Scandinavia and Austria in lands leased by the Republic of China shall retain not less than 50+1% ownership of these facilities, with the understanding that such facilities may be used by the Republican Navy upon request or by fair market contracts made between private citizens and the facilities.

Article 9. Foreign citizens living on lands leased by the Republic of China to the High Contracting Parties shall be subject to the laws of their home country, except in circumstances where a foreign citizen victimizes a citizen of the Republic of China.

Article 10. The Habsburg Monarchy, and the Kingdom of Scandinavia shall dispatch Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to serve as their representatives in the Chinese capital. This diplomatic promotion is carried out as recognition of China’s leading role in the global concert and Asian peace, as well as in recognition of its role as a guarantor of Asian stability and security, and its victories against other western powers.

x Extraordinary Plenipotentiary for Western Affairs, Sun Yat-sen

xGustaf Oscar Wallenberg, Ambassador to China

[Dereich]

Tripartite Lease and Investment Protocol

Article 1. The High Contracting Parties of the Kingdom of Austria, the Kingdom of Scandinavia, and the Republic of China agree to respect territorial integrity and sovereignty of each other’s internationally recognized borders.

Article 2. The Republic of China shall extend leases of currently occupied Chinese territory to the Kingdom of Austria and the Kingdom of Scandinavia not to exceed 45 years.

Article 3. The Republic of China shall establish a tripartite Special Development Corporation to serve as a clearinghouse for High Contracting Party investment in industry and commerce; a board of directors for the Corporation is hereby established and shall be composed of 50% Chinese members, 25% Austrian members, and 25% Scandinavian members.

Article 4. The High Contracting Parties of Austria and Scandinavia shall make substantial loans and grants to the Special Development Corporation and to the Central Bank of China in exchange for common stock in firms that receive investment capital.

Article 5.  Firms that receive investment capital shall be designated as either Chinese owned, joint ventures, or tripartite ventures. Chinese firms shall retain 50+1% ownership from citizens of the Republic of China and shall receive not less than 40% of total investment capital allocated by the Special Development Corporation per annum.

Article 6. The Kingdom of Austria and the Kingdom of Scandinavia shall be granted most favored nation status with respect to the Republic of China, entitling them to minimal export duties and import restrictions or quotas in the Chinese market.

Article 7. All Han, Mongol, Hui, Tibetan, Manchu, and other Mainland Chinese minorities residing in territories leased to The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Kingdom of Austria shall be granted Chinese citizenship immediately and shall have the right to participate in national elections. The High Contracting Parties agree to respect the rights of all Chinese citizens living in territories leased by the Republic of China in accordance with the Constitution of the Republic of China.

Article 8. Port, harbor, and docking facilities currently owned and operated by the Kingdom of Scandinavia and Austria in lands leased by the Republic of China shall retain not less than 50+1% ownership of these facilities, with the understanding that such facilities may be used by the Republican Navy upon request or by fair market contracts made between private citizens and the facilities.

Article 9. Foreign citizens living on lands leased by the Republic of China to the High Contracting Parties shall be subject to the laws of their home country, except in circumstances where a foreign citizen victimizes a citizen of the Republic of China.

Article 10. The Habsburg Monarchy, and the Kingdom of Scandinavia shall dispatch Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to serve as their representatives in the Chinese capital. This diplomatic promotion is carried out as recognition of China’s leading role in the global concert and Asian peace, as well as in recognition of its role as a guarantor of Asian stability and security, and its victories against other western powers.

x Extraordinary Plenipotentiary for Western Affairs, Sun Yat-sen

xGustaf Oscar Wallenberg, Ambassador to China

X Graf Montecuccoli, Imperial Foreign Minister

[oldkyhome]

In 1904, President Gwon Jung-Hyeon sought to codify a new Coat of Arms and Flag that represented the aims and ideals of the Republic and, in doing so, formally end the Imperial era. It came amidst a wave of new anti-Western revanchist sentiment in the nation; Korea having solidified its geopolitical position and ready to pounce. Gwon and his allies desired to enlist that sentiment for the liberal cause, keenly aware of its potential to be exploited by anti-democratic demagogues.

Public Domain

The proposed Coat of Arms features the classic Taegeuk, a Confucian icon depicting cosmic balance, in which the red traditionally represents positive forces and the blue negative forces, over a Republican triband, three solid red stripes symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The Taegeuk is also more balanced than the swirly old one, which represents the new Republic's commitment to stability and peace in the realm.

Public Domain

The proposed Flag places the Coat of Arms horizontally over a white background, a color historically associated with the Korean people. The white also represents integrity and purity, an ideal the new Republic seeks to promote in civil service and government. While not too distinguished from the old Joseon flag, this one shows more revolutionary zeal and modern simplicity. Additionally, the change from purple to indigo will allow the new Flag to be produced more robustly for public use, as indigo dye is a much more common commodity in 1904.

Upon its promulgation, the National Flag shall be raised at all government buildings, national embassies, and military bases. The former flag shall be lowered and removed. The new Flag law procures specific instructions and procedures for handling the Flag, which is mandatory for state officials and voluntary for the general public. The Siberian Tiger was declared the national animal and a protected species, and individuals are prohibited by law from hurting or killing them without special permission, punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment.

In the coming months, the government shall seek to prescribe new flags for the Army and Navy in the same vein.

[Lumine]

Treaty of Syracuse (1904)

A Treaty between the Hapsburg Monarchy, Kingdom of Scandinavia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, the Empire of Québec, and the Commonwealth of New England.

PREAMBLE:

The signatories, noting the ongoing economic strife, the growing threat of the pandemic, and the need to avoid full-scale war across the North American continent, hereby agree to the following:

DISPOSITIONS:
1.- The complete cessation of all hostilities upon the agreement of all parties, return of all POWs with exclusion of those involved in point 7, and the military withdrawal from, as well as the return of all occupied territory not mentioned as having been ceded.
2.- Western Massachusetts, Western Connecticut, and the remainder of New York State shall be transferred to the British Union.
3.- The northern portion of upstate New York returned to Britain shall become an internationally guaranteed demilitarized zone. No British fortifications may be constructed there, nor British troops enter. Moreover, the area will remain open to New Englander trade and civilian movement.
4.- Safe transfer will be offered to all Adirondack, Western Massachusetts and Western Connecticut residents who prefer to remain citizens of New England.
5.- New England will pay financial reparations for the loss of Scandinavian and Austrian civilian lives and merchant ships in the attacks.
6.- New England will repay a loan made by Scandinavia before Operation Sunset, with preference given to the payment of reparations to victims.
7.- To secure proper justice over the unfortunate demise of Princess Helen, an international tribunal will be held on Geneva. It will be comprised of neutral judges, concerning solely high-ranking officials – political and military – involved in the planning and execution of Operation Sunset. Sentences will be up to the discretion of the judges, with all signatories pledging to comply by and accept them.
8.- A formal and personal guarantee from the Holy Roman Emperor and the King-Emperor of Scandinavia to the Empress of Québec that the treaty will be complied with on part of Britain.

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Most Devout Majesty,
Empress and Defender of Québec

[YPestis25]

Treaty of Syracuse (1904)

A Treaty between the Hapsburg Monarchy, Kingdom of Scandinavia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, the Empire of Québec, and the Commonwealth of New England.

PREAMBLE:

The signatories, noting the ongoing economic strife, the growing threat of the pandemic, and the need to avoid full-scale war across the North American continent, hereby agree to the following:

DISPOSITIONS:
1.- The complete cessation of all hostilities upon the agreement of all parties, return of all POWs with exclusion of those involved in point 7, and the military withdrawal from, as well as the return of all occupied territory not mentioned as having been ceded.
2.- Western Massachusetts, Western Connecticut, and the remainder of New York State shall be transferred to the British Union.
3.- The northern portion of upstate New York returned to Britain shall become an internationally guaranteed demilitarized zone. No British fortifications may be constructed there, nor British troops enter. Moreover, the area will remain open to New Englander trade and civilian movement.
4.- Safe transfer will be offered to all Adirondack, Western Massachusetts and Western Connecticut residents who prefer to remain citizens of New England.
5.- New England will pay financial reparations for the loss of Scandinavian and Austrian civilian lives and merchant ships in the attacks.
6.- New England will repay a loan made by Scandinavia before Operation Sunset, with preference given to the payment of reparations to victims.
7.- To secure proper justice over the unfortunate demise of Princess Helen, an international tribunal will be held on Geneva. It will be comprised of neutral judges, concerning solely high-ranking officials – political and military – involved in the planning and execution of Operation Sunset. Sentences will be up to the discretion of the judges, with all signatories pledging to comply by and accept them.
8.- A formal and personal guarantee from the Holy Roman Emperor and the King-Emperor of Scandinavia to the Empress of Québec that the treaty will be complied with on part of Britain.

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Most Devout Majesty,
Empress and Defender of Québec

xJohn IV, King of Scandinavia and Emperor of Africa

[Spamage]

Treaty of Syracuse (1904)

A Treaty between the Hapsburg Monarchy, Kingdom of Scandinavia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, the Empire of Québec, and the Commonwealth of New England.

PREAMBLE:

The signatories, noting the ongoing economic strife, the growing threat of the pandemic, and the need to avoid full-scale war across the North American continent, hereby agree to the following:

DISPOSITIONS:
1.- The complete cessation of all hostilities upon the agreement of all parties, return of all POWs with exclusion of those involved in point 7, and the military withdrawal from, as well as the return of all occupied territory not mentioned as having been ceded.
2.- Western Massachusetts, Western Connecticut, and the remainder of New York State shall be transferred to the British Union.
3.- The northern portion of upstate New York returned to Britain shall become an internationally guaranteed demilitarized zone. No British fortifications may be constructed there, nor British troops enter. Moreover, the area will remain open to New Englander trade and civilian movement.
4.- Safe transfer will be offered to all Adirondack, Western Massachusetts and Western Connecticut residents who prefer to remain citizens of New England.
5.- New England will pay financial reparations for the loss of Scandinavian and Austrian civilian lives and merchant ships in the attacks.
6.- New England will repay a loan made by Scandinavia before Operation Sunset, with preference given to the payment of reparations to victims.
7.- To secure proper justice over the unfortunate demise of Princess Helen, an international tribunal will be held on Geneva. It will be comprised of neutral judges, concerning solely high-ranking officials – political and military – involved in the planning and execution of Operation Sunset. Sentences will be up to the discretion of the judges, with all signatories pledging to comply by and accept them.
8.- A formal and personal guarantee from the Holy Roman Emperor and the King-Emperor of Scandinavia to the Empress of Québec that the treaty will be complied with on part of Britain.

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Most Devout Majesty,
Empress and Defender of Québec

xJohn IV, King of Scandinavia and Emperor of Africa

X- Acting-Chairman Patrick Collins

[Dereich]

Treaty of Syracuse (1904)

A Treaty between the Hapsburg Monarchy, Kingdom of Scandinavia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, the Empire of Québec, and the Commonwealth of New England.

PREAMBLE:

The signatories, noting the ongoing economic strife, the growing threat of the pandemic, and the need to avoid full-scale war across the North American continent, hereby agree to the following:

DISPOSITIONS:
1.- The complete cessation of all hostilities upon the agreement of all parties, return of all POWs with exclusion of those involved in point 7, and the military withdrawal from, as well as the return of all occupied territory not mentioned as having been ceded.
2.- Western Massachusetts, Western Connecticut, and the remainder of New York State shall be transferred to the British Union.
3.- The northern portion of upstate New York returned to Britain shall become an internationally guaranteed demilitarized zone. No British fortifications may be constructed there, nor British troops enter. Moreover, the area will remain open to New Englander trade and civilian movement.
4.- Safe transfer will be offered to all Adirondack, Western Massachusetts and Western Connecticut residents who prefer to remain citizens of New England.
5.- New England will pay financial reparations for the loss of Scandinavian and Austrian civilian lives and merchant ships in the attacks.
6.- New England will repay a loan made by Scandinavia before Operation Sunset, with preference given to the payment of reparations to victims.
7.- To secure proper justice over the unfortunate demise of Princess Helen, an international tribunal will be held on Geneva. It will be comprised of neutral judges, concerning solely high-ranking officials – political and military – involved in the planning and execution of Operation Sunset. Sentences will be up to the discretion of the judges, with all signatories pledging to comply by and accept them.
8.- A formal and personal guarantee from the Holy Roman Emperor and the King-Emperor of Scandinavia to the Empress of Québec that the treaty will be complied with on part of Britain.

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Most Devout Majesty,
Empress and Defender of Québec

xJohn IV, King of Scandinavia and Emperor of Africa

X- Acting-Chairman Patrick Collins

X Leopold, Graf von Berchtold, Imperial Minister-Plenipotentiary

[Dereich]

The Imperial Government, in reviewing the ongoing situation in Italy, hereby orders general mobilization as a necessary precaution.

[Lumine]

Empire of Québec

Proclamations and Statements from Her Imperial Majesty

REGARDING NEW ENGLAND

Hopeful of ratification of the Treaty of Syracuse and of avoiding a repeat of the Treaty of Bogota - which would bring severe consequences -, Her Imperial Majesty nonetheless aches deeply about the grievous wounds inflicted on New England and its brave people, whom she salutes and honors as true friends, comrades and brethren to the people of Québec.

Our joint history, dating from the New Englander revolution against British tyranny in 1791, is one that fills us with pride and hope for the future, no matter how grim the present may seem. Empress Wilhelmina's admiration for her valiant neighbor remains strong and resolute, and moving forward, the Empire will be working closely with the New England government to ensure that the worst effects of the present situation can be addressed immediately.

Subject to approval by Acting Chairman Collins, the Empire is prepared to receive and assist refugees until such a time in which they can return home, assist in the movement and proper relocation of citizens from annexed territories, deliver goods to prevent famine, aid the New Englander merchant fleet, assist in the reconstruction of Boston and any damaged cites of infrastructure, and lend forces or assistance in maintaining order.

New England has gone through a difficult ordeal at the hands of Perfidious Albion, but it need not face it alone. To the citizens of the Commonwealth, we say it with clarity and pride: the Empress and the people of Québec stand with you.

REGARDING THE PANDEMIC

The Empress remains distinctly concerned with the rapid spread of the Colombian Flu across most of the civilized world, as well as on its arrival into the shores of North America. It is her belief that strong, decisive action on behalf of the government and with the support and mobilization of civil society can help minimize the death toll as well as prevent the loss of the hard-won economic recovery, sparing the Empire from some of the worst scenes witnessed in other continents. Measures enacted will include:

-Slowing down the pace of immigration at key ports, installing quarantine facilities protected by the National Guard. Special isolation, disinfection and sterilization measures will be adopted on the "David Express" to permit the continued Jewish emigration into New Judea.

-Enact - through the Imperial Governors - preventive and ongoing bans on large mass gatherings, to be expanded into more restrictive quarantine and social distancing measures as soon as an outbreak is identified. Measures are to be sustained, and reintroduced for future outbreaks.

-The mass production of gauze mask to be delivered to all medical personnel and to the general population to wear while outside. Public officials - including the Crown - will lead by example on the matter. Fines will be established for those who do not comply.

-A large public information campaign will be enacted (posters, newspapers, etc.) to inform the public about the Colombian flu, preventive measures (such as constant washing of hands and the use of masks) and to dispel any myths or instances of misinformation.

-Official propaganda will be distributed across the Empire portraying the ongoing battle against the Colombian flu as a patriotic struggle, calling on citizens to do their duty by doing their part to contain the epidemic.

-Foreign trade and economic activity will not be shut down, only being limited by the measures relating to social distancing.

-The government will collaborate closely with the Church to ensure that religious services can be provided more often but with greater limits as to the total number of people who can attend.

-The hiring of doctors and nurses, as well as the education of new generations of such professionals, to ensure all hospitals are properly staffed.

-The constant, ceaseless sterilization and disinfection of hospitals, public transportation and other key infrastructure.

-Though no censorship will be imposed, an Office of Health Information will work closely with the newspaper media to ensure accurate information is delivered to citizens.

-Whenever necessary, the Imperial Armed Forces and the National Guard will step up to assist authorities in the handling of the pandemic.

[KaiserDave]

Memo of the Office of the Foreign Minister of the Russian Republic M. A. Suvorin


In view of the growing crisis in Central Europe, the Foreign Ministry urges Russian nationals in the region to return home, or to seek temporary refuge in lands under Scandinavian jurisdiction.

[YPestis25]

Damascus Declaration: A Joint Statement of Scandinavian and Turkist Policy on the Ongoing Middle Eastern Crisis

The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Turkist Empire, taking light of their mutual interests in the Near East, and cognizant of the need to restore stability and order to the region agree to the following principles to guide their conduct and policy in the region.

Principle I
The construction of a new geopolitical order is of paramount importance in the Near East.

Principle II
The new geopolitical order in the Near East must take into account the aspirations of both the Hashemite and Saudi Arab states.

Principle III
The new geopolitical order in the Near East must take into account Iranian national aspirations.

Principle IV
The new geopolitical order in the Near East must reflect the legitimate security interests of the Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Turkist Empire.

Principle V
The new geopolitical order in the Near East can only be constructed and preserved through the close cooperation and friendship between the Turkish Empire and the Kingdom of Scandinavia and both states must play an active role as guarantors of the post war order in the region.

x Cossva Anckarsvärd, Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to Bursa