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

[Attorney General & PPT Dwarven Dragon]

Quebec-Spanish Treaty of Non-Aggression (1900)

A treaty between the Kingdom of Quebec and the Holy Union of Spain

Recognizing the importance of establishing strong relationships across the seas and demonstrating opposition to hostile forces, the signatories affirm their commitment to peace and stability as follows:

1. The mutual reduction of tariffs by 20 percent between the signatories.

2. A non-aggression pact between the signatories, subject to renewal by the consent of both signatories ten years from this day.

3. Spanish Access to the ports of Quebec for any peaceful purpose, and vice versa.

4. The establishment of an academic exchange program between the signatories.

X President Arsenio Linares y Pombo

[DKrol]

Mexican Embargo Act of 1900

1. No commercial vessel may embark from Louisianan ports with the intention of engaging in commerce in the Mexican Kingdom.
2. No commercial vessel flying a foreign flag may use a Louisianan port to refuel, resupply, or perform repairs if the immediate intended destination of the vessel after leaving the Louisianan port is in the Mexican Kingdom.
3. No border crossing between the Commonwealth of Louisiana and the Mexican Kingdom may be used for the transfer of commercial goods, either by domestic or international merchants.
4. All existing treaties or agreements offering favored status to the Mexican Kingdom are hereby revoked and recognized as null and void.
5. All cooperation between the Commonwealth of Louisiana and the Mexican Kingdom on matters of hydroelectricity and petroleum shall immediately cease, and all scientists and engineers from the Mexican Kingdom currently in the Commonwealth must depart the Commonwealth within 30 days of the passage of this act. No visas for subjects of the Mexican Kingdom shall be issued.
6. Any commercial agent found in violation of Sections 1 through 4 of this act shall be subject to up-to four years of imprisonment and a fine of up-to $50,000. Any individual found in violation of Section 5 of this act shall be subject to life imprisonment.

[LAKISYLVANIA]

Establishment of the Shadows of the Sea

The Mexican government hereby announces the creation of the Shadows of the Sea, an autonomous naval force under the Kingdom of Mexico tasked with safeguarding the Kingdom. The Shadows of the Sea shall operate under the command of the appointed Admiral, known as the Grand Admiral.

The Shadows of the Sea will receive a dedicated budget allocated from the treasury to fund their operations, maintenance, travel, and recruiting efforts. The funding provided shall be considered exempt from customary financial audits, allowing the Shadows of the Sea to operate with discretion in fulfilling their duties.

The Grand Admiral and the appointed officers of the Shadows of the Sea shall have the authority to make operational decisions independently, within the framework of protecting the Kingdom's maritime interests. The Shadows of the Sea may engage in privateering activities throughout the entire Caribbean area, as deemed necessary by the Grand Admiral, against vessels posing threats to the Kingdom or its allies or containing valuable trade goods. They will maintain a collaborative relationship with the official Mexican navy.

His Majesty reserves the right to revoke the autonomy granted to the Shadows of the Sea in case of misconduct, abuse of power, or actions contrary to the interests of the Kingdom. The Shadows of the Sea shall swear allegiance to the Kingdom of Mexico and uphold its duty to protect the Kingdom's interests.

To better facilitate the growth of the Shadows of the Sea, the entire overseas islands of the Mexican Kingdom, namely Guadeloupe and Barbados, will become exempt from duties, levies, and taxes imposed by the Mexican Kingdom and will operate autonomously within the Kingdom. All citizens, non-citizens, and even convicted criminals are allowed to sign up for the Shadows of the Sea and settle on these islands. The territories of Barbados and Guadeloupe shall maintain financial independence, and their inhabitants shall be absolved from any financial obligations to the Crown.

A sovereign council will be established to oversee the governance of those island groups. The council will consist of Grand Admirals and will be empowered to decide on operations, pass laws, and manage internal affairs.

Profits gained from its maritime operations will exclusively be used to further fund the operations and expansion of the Shadows of the Seas. Nations that decide to attack the Shadows of the Seas will be considered at war with the Kingdom of Mexico.

[Kuumo]

Treaty of Zaragoza (1900),
A Treaty between the Holy Union of Spain and the Holy Republic of Gran Colombia

1.) The signatories, recognizing their shared language, religious faith, and status as fellow Catholic Republican states, affirm their commitment to peace and stability and the protection of their mutual interests and thus agree to the following:

2.) The mutual reduction of tariffs by 20 percent between the signatories.

3.) A non-aggression pact between the signatories subject to renewal by the consent of both signatories ten years from this day.

4.) A defensive alliance, whereby each signatory pledges to support the other militarily in the event of an attack from any foreign belligerent, upon the written request of the defending nation.

5.) The establishment of an academic exchange program between the signatories.

x Archbishop-President Federico González Suárez

[Attorney General & PPT Dwarven Dragon]

Treaty of Zaragoza (1900),
A Treaty between the Holy Union of Spain and the Holy Republic of Gran Colombia

1.) The signatories, recognizing their shared language, religious faith, and status as fellow Catholic Republican states, affirm their commitment to peace and stability and the protection of their mutual interests and thus agree to the following:

2.) The mutual reduction of tariffs by 20 percent between the signatories.

3.) A non-aggression pact between the signatories subject to renewal by the consent of both signatories ten years from this day.

4.) A defensive alliance, whereby each signatory pledges to support the other militarily in the event of an attack from any foreign belligerent, upon the written request of the defending nation.

5.) The establishment of an academic exchange program between the signatories.

x Archbishop-President Federico González Suárez

X President Arsenio Linares y Pombo

[Lumine]

Quebec-Spanish Treaty of Non-Aggression (1900)

A treaty between the Kingdom of Quebec and the Holy Union of Spain

Recognizing the importance of establishing strong relationships across the seas and demonstrating opposition to hostile forces, the signatories affirm their commitment to peace and stability as follows:

1. The mutual reduction of tariffs by 20 percent between the signatories.

2. A non-aggression pact between the signatories, subject to renewal by the consent of both signatories ten years from this day.

3. Spanish Access to the ports of Quebec for any peaceful purpose, and vice versa.

4. The establishment of an academic exchange program between the signatories.

X President Arsenio Linares y Pombo

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Empress and Defender of Québec

[Senator Spiral]

Mediterranean Economic Union

The Kingdom of Naples, Holy Union of Spain, and Ottoman Empire agree to the following:

1. Each signatory shall invest in a collective economic partnership to pursue greater industrialization. Countries as allowed shall assist with the exports of critical goods and supplies to address current deficiencies with trading partners.

2. Tariffs on industrial goods shall be reduced by ten percent between trading nations.

3. Signatories shall commit to the mutual defense of one another in the event of hostile aggression and violations of national sovereignty by foreign actors.

4. The Kingdom of Naples and the Holy Union of Spain shall assist in the naval development of the Ottoman Empire, including aid on equipments, fleets, and ports.

5. The Ottoman Empire shall assist in the development of the armies for the Kingdom of Naples and Holy Union of Spain, including manufacturing and technology.

6. Signatories shall share mutual access in shipyards as warranted.

7. Joint military exercises of the respective armed forces for each nation shall be conducted at regular intervals and as dictated for aligned interests.

8. This treaty is subject to future revision of terms, along with future additions in membership.

X Grand Vizier for Life Ahmed Muhtar Pasha, Ottoman Empire

[Attorney General & PPT Dwarven Dragon]

Mediterranean Economic Union

The Kingdom of Naples, Holy Union of Spain, and Ottoman Empire agree to the following:

1. Each signatory shall invest in a collective economic partnership to pursue greater industrialization. Countries as allowed shall assist with the exports of critical goods and supplies to address current deficiencies with trading partners.

2. Tariffs on industrial goods shall be reduced by ten percent between trading nations.

3. Signatories shall commit to the mutual defense of one another in the event of hostile aggression and violations of national sovereignty by foreign actors.

4. The Kingdom of Naples and the Holy Union of Spain shall assist in the naval development of the Ottoman Empire, including aid on equipments, fleets, and ports.

5. The Ottoman Empire shall assist in the development of the armies for the Kingdom of Naples and Holy Union of Spain, including manufacturing and technology.

6. Signatories shall share mutual access in shipyards as warranted.

7. Joint military exercises of the respective armed forces for each nation shall be conducted at regular intervals and as dictated for aligned interests.

8. This treaty is subject to future revision of terms, along with future additions in membership.

X Grand Vizier for Life Ahmed Muhtar Pasha, Ottoman Empire

X President Arsenio Linares y Pombo

[GoTfan]

Mediterranean Economic Union

The Kingdom of Naples, Holy Union of Spain, and Ottoman Empire agree to the following:

1. Each signatory shall invest in a collective economic partnership to pursue greater industrialization. Countries as allowed shall assist with the exports of critical goods and supplies to address current deficiencies with trading partners.

2. Tariffs on industrial goods shall be reduced by ten percent between trading nations.

3. Signatories shall commit to the mutual defense of one another in the event of hostile aggression and violations of national sovereignty by foreign actors.

4. The Kingdom of Naples and the Holy Union of Spain shall assist in the naval development of the Ottoman Empire, including aid on equipments, fleets, and ports.

5. The Ottoman Empire shall assist in the development of the armies for the Kingdom of Naples and Holy Union of Spain, including manufacturing and technology.

6. Signatories shall share mutual access in shipyards as warranted.

7. Joint military exercises of the respective armed forces for each nation shall be conducted at regular intervals and as dictated for aligned interests.

8. This treaty is subject to future revision of terms, along with future additions in membership.

X Grand Vizier for Life Ahmed Muhtar Pasha, Ottoman Empire

X President Arsenio Linares y Pombo

X King Francis III of Naples

[LAKISYLVANIA]

End of Panama Blockade

After careful consideration and after repeated calls and diplomacy by several mediators including chairman Blaine from New England, the president of Russia, the king-emperor of France and the Archbishop-President of Brazil, King Luis II announced an end to the two-week long blockade of the Panama canal in which Louisiana ships were forbidden to sail through. King Luis II took the action in an effort to alleviate tensions in the region and to deal with the increased concerns of third parties in the region. King Luis II continues to calls for increased international coöperation to mediate in the diplomatic conflict between the two nations, but this step should be a first step in the right direction.

[YPestis25]

Proclamations from Stockholm

Source: Pinterest

On the Preservation of the European Peace
   His Majesty’s Government, taking stock of the diplomatic situation in Europe, views the preservation of peace on the European Continent as a primary Scandinavian and World Interest. He looks with encouragement on recent great power discussions regarding the current Mexican crisis and hopes that such discussion presages further diplomatic cooperation.

On the Riksdag  
   His Majesty the King-Emperor, being aware of the current Scandinavian domestic situation, has called for new elections to be held. The Riksdag shall be dissolved not sooner or later than six weeks prior to the national elections on November 15, 1900.

On the Quebecois Succession
   His Majesty’s Government, tied by both climate and longstanding friendship to the Empire of Quebec, wishes to formalize its recognition of Empress Wilhelmina of Quebec as the rightful sovereign of that state. As a gesture of this friendship, His Majesty is pleased to announce the marriage of Frederick Hanover, Prince of Varmland and second in line to the throne, to Princess Louise Bourbon, daughter of Prince Wilhelm Hohenzollern, who shall convert to Scandinavian Lutheranism.

On the Scandinavian Succession
   His Majesty the King-Emperor, long recognizing the domestic strife which has split the Houses of Hanover and Hesse-Darmstadt, has determined that this schism must end. To that end, His Majesty the King-Emperor, and His Grace, the newly anointed Duke of Dalarna, William von Hesse-Darmstadt, have agreed to the betrothal of Crown Prince John and Alexandra von Hesse-Darmstadt, with a marriage to be concluded at Princess Alexandra's attainment of majority. His Majesty the King-Emperor welcomes the closing of this schism of the merging of these two august houses and looks forward to the imminent arrival of one part of the House of Hesse-Darmstadt and the new Duke of Dalarna and Crown Princess to Stockholm.

[YPestis25]

Christiansted Agreement

Source: Pinterest

The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Kingdom of Mexico, hereafter referred to as the signatories, agree to the following:

I . The signatories agree to respect the sovereignty of one another, and are forbidden from undertaking any action which would violate the national sovereignty of either signatory.
II . The Kingdom of Mexico affirms that ships in the Caribbean flying a Scandinavian flag will not be attacked.

x Charles XIV, King of Scandinavia and Emperor of Africa

[LAKISYLVANIA]

Christiansted Agreement

Source: Pinterest

The Kingdom of Scandinavia and the Kingdom of Mexico, hereafter referred to as the signatories, agree to the following:

I . The signatories agree to respect the sovereignty of one another, and are forbidden from undertaking any action which would violate the national sovereignty of either signatory.
II . The Kingdom of Mexico affirms that ships in the Caribbean flying a Scandinavian flag will not be attacked.

x Charles XIV, King of Scandinavia and Emperor of Africa

x King Luis II de Bourbon-Orleans, King of Mexico

[OBD]

Treaty of Nantucket

Recognizing the historic friendship and partnership of the Confederation of New England and the Kingdom of Mexico through the North American Alliance,

The Confederation of New England and the Kingdom of Mexico hereby agree to the following:

i. Both nations agree to respect the sovereignty of other another, and are forbidden from undertaking any action which would violate the national sovereignty of either signatory.

ii. The Kingdom of Mexico affirms that ships in the Caribbean flying a New English flag will not be attacked.

x Chairman John Francis Fitzgerald, Confederation of New England

[LAKISYLVANIA]

Treaty of Nantucket

Recognizing the historic friendship and partnership of the Confederation of New England and the Kingdom of Mexico through the North American Alliance,

The Confederation of New England and the Kingdom of Mexico hereby agree to the following:

i. Both nations agree to respect the sovereignty of other another, and are forbidden from undertaking any action which would violate the national sovereignty of either signatory.

ii. The Kingdom of Mexico affirms that ships in the Caribbean flying a New English flag will not be attacked.

x Chairman John Francis Fitzgerald, Confederation of New England

x King Luis II de Bourbon-Orleans, King of Mexico

[LAKISYLVANIA]

The Mexico-Québecois Accord (1900)

The signatories, in recognition of their mutually beneficial and productive relationship over the past century, as well as the lack of justification in any form of aggression towards each other, hereby agree to the following:

1.) That the Empress Wilhelmina is recognized as the rightful, lawful sovereign of the Empire of Québec, and that King Luis II is recognized as the rightful, lawful sovereign of the Kingdom of Mexico. Neither realm will provide any support, diplomatic or military, to any attempts to alter or question this principle.

2.) That Prince Wilhelm of Hohenzollern, an esteemed member of the Houses of Hohenzollern (Québec) and Bourbon (Mexico) is to reside unmolested in Mexican territory. The Empire of Québec expresses its keen commitment to his ongoing personal safety and that of his family and continues to regard him as close kin.

3). That the Empire of Québec will give no asylum or support to any Augustinian rebel and will endeavour to see that those still residing in imperial territory are invited to abandon said territory.

4.) That both nations recognize their respective spheres of influence and their current territorial borders, and recognize that there are no conflicting interests between them.

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Empress and Defender of Québec

x King Luis II de Bourbon-Orleans

Amendment to Mexico-Québecois Accord (1900)

5.) The Kingdom of Mexico affirms that ships in the Caribbean flying a Québecois flag will not be attacked.

x King Luis II de Bourbon-Orleans

[DKrol]

Statement on the Mexican Piracy

Ships of all flags, in accordance with the well understood laws of the sea, must be allowed to traverse all international waters unmolested. Any nation or peoples that seek to disrupt this right, owed to all men, must be brought to justice. The Mexican Red King must, immediately, order his band of pirates to stand down and return to Mexican domestic waters.

[LAKISYLVANIA]

Reply to Louisiana

The Kingdom of Mexico wishes to emphasize that, despite the end of the Panama blockade, the Commonwealth of Louisiana insisted that Mexicans had no leverage and expressed no intention to settle for an agreement. The Kingdom of Mexico believes that the Shadows of the Sea division of the Mexican Navy will contribute to the safety and protection of the kingdom and its allies. It sees ample reason to maintain the division given the repeated threats and hostility from its neighbor to the north.

The Mexican King wishes to highlight that, unlike his warmongering counterpart to the north, he actively engages in diplomacy and seeks solutions to existing problems and issues. However, the Kingdom of Mexico cannot accept that the Commonwealth of Louisiana granted exile to terrorists who attempted to overthrow the Mexican King. It insists on the extradition of these terrorists to the Kingdom of Mexico. Additionally, the King requests an immediate end to the embargo, including that of all foreign ships not affiliated with either Louisiana or Mexico. The King adds that Louisiana lacks the capability to enforce its own embargo, as it cannot ascertain the next destination of a ship.

[Lumine]

Wikimedia Commons

The Imperial Rescript of 1900
Constitutional Reform in the Empire of Québec

Twenty-four years after the King Philip I promulgated the Constitution of 1876 that gave birth to the Empire of Québec, and in light of the succession dilemma and the current evolution of Québecois politics, it has been the will of Her Majesty to modernize the Constitution to provide answers to various questions arising in the Québecois society. Over the past few weeks, intense consultations have taken place between the Empress, her Private Secretary, Prime Minister Papineau, the Leader of the Opposition, and the representatives of all political parties currently holding seats in the National Assembly.

Having agreed on the core tenets of reform, and having all sides made varying concessions, the result has been the Imperial Rescript of 1900, outlining a series of major reforms that address the succession issue, expand the Bill of Rights, set the future mechanisms for Constitutional reform, uphold the constitutional nature of the Empire, recognize the role of the Church, and so on. Her Imperial Majesty has hailed the Rescript as "a triumph for the people", making it clear that, under her prudent and wise rule, there will be no descent into autocracy, nor a toleration of "dangerous radicalism".

Despite expressing her disappointment at the current diplomatic tension in North America, and her continued respect for the peoples of Louisiana, the Empress Wilhelmina expressed her belief that the Rescript represented her continued fulfillment of her vow to God, the People and the Nation. "The Sovereignty and Independence of this Empire", she was said to have stated, "is not up for debate".

Finally although Her Imperial Majesty and the political leaders do not see eye to eye on every issue, it is felt by the Crown that the political maxim set during the ministry of Joseph-Adolphe Chapleau, that of “disagreement without being disagreeable”, has been preserved.

1900 IMPERIAL RESCRIPT, LIST OF REFORMS

-Recognition of the historical, cultural and moral role of the Catholic Church in the history of the Empire.

-Expanding the ban on Catholic Republicans and secessionists to include Reactionary Socialism.

- A major expansion of the Bill of Rights, including limits to royal pardons (save in cases of death) and the death penalty (reduced to firing squad for treason), the protection of private property, expansion of habeas corpus and civil liberties, protections to trade unions, and ensuring parliamentary oversight of the suspension of some rights during emergencies.

-A key article that sets the basis for major domestic reform, enacting gratuitous primary education, the constitutional basis for a pension scheme, and the freedom to work.

-Reforming the powers of the monarchy, including mechanisms for eventualities such as abdication.

-A more detailed process for a Regency, including provision for a three-member one appointed by the National Assembly if there’s no dynastic regent.

-A detailed section on the imperial succession, which includes legitimizing Wilhelmina’s rationale for taking the throne (male preference cognatic primogeniture), and sets up the ranking on which the Hohenzollern dynasty is to accede to the throne. 

-In order to preserve the continuation of the House of Hohenzollern and prevent a future personal union that turns Québec into a subject, it is established that a foreign heir MUST take the Hohenzollern name AND choose between one of the crowns. Refusal to do so will result in the succession moving into the next claimant.

-Expanding the rights of Parliamentarians, including more powers regarding fiscal policy, and judicial immunity except in specific cases.

-Set mechanisms for constitutional amendment. One, via the legislature (2/3rds both chambers), and two, a a Constitutional Rescript presented by the Emperor directly to the people via referendum.

-

The Mexico-Québecois Accord (1900)

The signatories, in recognition of their mutually beneficial and productive relationship over the past century, as well as the lack of justification in any form of aggression towards each other, hereby agree to the following:

1.) That the Empress Wilhelmina is recognized as the rightful, lawful sovereign of the Empire of Québec, and that King Luis II is recognized as the rightful, lawful sovereign of the Kingdom of Mexico. Neither realm will provide any support, diplomatic or military, to any attempts to alter or question this principle.

2.) That Prince Wilhelm of Hohenzollern, an esteemed member of the Houses of Hohenzollern (Québec) and Bourbon (Mexico) is to reside unmolested in Mexican territory. The Empire of Québec expresses its keen commitment to his ongoing personal safety and that of his family and continues to regard him as close kin.

3). That the Empire of Québec will give no asylum or support to any Augustinian rebel and will endeavour to see that those still residing in imperial territory are invited to abandon said territory.

4.) That both nations recognize their respective spheres of influence and their current territorial borders, and recognize that there are no conflicting interests between them.

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Empress and Defender of Québec

x King Luis II de Bourbon-Orleans

Amendment to Mexico-Québecois Accord (1900)

5.) The Kingdom of Mexico affirms that ships in the Caribbean flying a Québecois flag will not be attacked.

x King Luis II de Bourbon-Orleans

x Wilhelmina I von Hohenzollern,
Empress and Defender of Québec

[Devout Centrist]

Sino-Russia Treaty of Friendship and Mutual Assistance

Preamble: Thirty-three years ago, the free people of China united together under the banner of liberty to unshackle themselves from the oppression of Imperial Manchu domination. We stood alone against corruption and exploitation from a monarchy foisted upon us by invaders from the North until one day, help arrived from far beyond the steppe.

The people of Russia, themselves liberated from the tyranny of Tsarist oppression, threw their support behind our righteous cause. Twenty-three years ago, the Russian Republicans joined us in our struggle against the imperialist Korean Empire and restored Han sovereignty over the lands of our forefathers. Together we shared in the fruits of victory and helped forge a lasting and just partnership.

Today, we recognize these dual achievements by rekindling a joint Sino-Russian amity, based on mutual respect and friendship. Once again, we gather together today to recognize our shared ambitions together and to unite our people in fraternal solidarity.

With the power vested in our duly appointed representatives, the Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China agree to the following:

I. Freedom of Trade

A. The Free Republic of China shall lower tariffs on the following imports sourced from the Russian Republic:

To zero base percentage points:
1. All materials and inputs derived from or wholly made of processed or unprocessed coal and coke.
2. All hardwood, timber, and/or lumber products.
3. All processed or unprocessed ores, alloys, or such similar goods.
4. All processed or unprocessed textiles and furs.
5. Industrial tools, lathes, presses, and mechanical components.
6. Quarried or mined stone.
7. All industrial oils and lubricants.
8. Finished or unprocessed foodstuffs, whether acquired directly, through wholesale, or from agricultural production.
9. Finished goods or services made available for consumption in third party countries.

B. The Russian Republic shall lower tariffs on the following imports sourced from the Free Republic of China:

To zero base percentage points:
1. All materials and inputs derived from or wholly made of processed or unprocessed coal and coke.
2. All processed or unprocessed textiles and furs.
3. Industrial tools, lathes, presses, and mechanical components.
4. Quarried or mined stone.
5. Finished or unprocessed foodstuffs, whether acquired directly, through wholesale, or from agricultural production.
6. Tea and other such consumable commodities.
7. Finished goods or services made available for consumption in third party countries.

C. The Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China agree to share technical expertise through mutual industrial assistance and collaboration. This includes joint patent sharing between state or privately owned enterprises and joint ventures created for the purposes of economic development.

D. The Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China agree to coordinate on the construction of infrastructure, including roadways, canals, and railways, designed to facilitate trade and economic cooperation. This includes no levied taxation on capital investments initiated by state controlled enterprises or by joint ventures supported by state funding in each respective country.

E. The Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China shall convene a boundary commission within 180 days of the signing of this agreement for the purposes of inspecting and resolving any outstanding disputes over the status of the currently recognized international border.

F. This agreement shall take effect on April 15th, 1900.

X President Zhang Zidong

[Lumine]

Wikimedia Commons

THE CAMPOBELLO CONFERENCE

Taking advantage of the Troís Rivieres Conference, Her Imperial Majesty Wilhelmina I and His Excellency Chairman John Francis Fitzgerald arrived on Campobello Island near the New Englander-Quebécois border for an historic conference.

During half a week spent in the Tyn-Y-Coed Hotel, the Empress, the Chairman, and their respective delegations held a series of talks on the New Englander-Quebécois relationship, their respective interests and goals, and the common ground between Boston and Montréal.

Following the discussions, the delegations spent some time on entertainment, with the Chairman regaling her Majesty with stories regarding New Englander politics and the campaign trail, and Her Majesty singing several war songs – in English and French – dating from the North American War.

At the end of the summit, the Empress and the Chairman signed a document setting up the results of the Conference, which included:

-The reaffirmation of friendly relations between the Empire and the Confederation, judged to be of vital interest to both nations.

-A joint commitment to the importance of preserving the rule of law, the merits of constitutional government, and the value of self-government, recognizing that, though New England may be republican and Québec a constitutional monarchy, both reject autocracy and/or extremism as inherently incompatible with their respective peoples.

-The formal diplomatic recognition of Her Majesty Wilhelmina I as the legitimate Empress of Québec.

-A recognition that both nations have much to gain in joint infrastructure projects, hyperpower cooperation, and such other measures that ensure the proper economic development of the Great Lakes. Both nations also agreed in principle to draw back recent economic competition and seek a closer and less competitive relationship.

[OBD]

From The Desk of the Chairman

Wikimedia Commons

On the Campobello Conference

Chairman Fitzgerald was pleased to have the opportunity to personally meet with Her Majesty Wilhelmina I, and the Quebécois delegation, at Campobello Island, and to reaffirm the deep historical ties between the Confederation of New England and the Empire of Quebéc. Discussing a wide range of topics, from the sweeping constitutional reforms Her Majesty championed to potential Quebécois-New Englander cooperation across a variety of fields, the Chairman is confident that Her Majesty, and Quebéc at large, remain committed to the high-minded ideals of constitutional governance and liberty that New England has long championed, and is committed to continue fostering the special relationship between New England and Quebéc.

Furthermore, the Chairman, now far more versed in the intricacies of succession law, is pleased to formally recognize Her Majesty Wilhelmina as the sole legitimate Empress of Quebéc, and is eager to continue working closely with New England's longtime partner to the North for the security and prosperity of both great nations.  

On the Caribbean Crisis

Chairman Fitzgerald expresses his dismay at the rapid escalation of hostilities in the Caribbean between the Commonwealth of Louisiana and the Kingdom of Mexico, two longtime partners of the Confederation. New England formally protests the implementation of the embargo, which will have cascading negative effects on all nations - including New England - that engage in extensive trade in the region, as well as the Mexican legitimizing of effective piracy in the region, which has grave implications for the rule of law on the high seas. The Chairman urges both parties to come to a sensible resolution that undoes the deleterious impact on commerce these ill-guided policies will surely have on the region.

In the meantime, the Chairman has instructed the New England Merchant Marine to work in tandem with private enterprises to identify safe trading routes in compliance with the Louisianan embargo and with concern to the safety of New English shipping through the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico. In particular, he echoes the advisory of the Merchant Marine that all vessels registered in New England have clear documentation on hand and clearly fly the New English flag, to minimize risk of piracy. The Chairman further warns all relevant powers that infringement upon New English flag vessels will not be taken lightly.

On the 1904 World Cup

Chairman Fitzgerald graciously accepts the invitation from Mexico to partake in the 1904 World Cup.

On the North American Cup

Chairman Fitzgerald, a devout football fan - who has personally enjoyed the sport as a proud former member and coach of the Boston recreational leagues - is excited to formally announce that Boston will host the next edition of the storied North American Cup. Alongside the three traditional competitors of the North American Alliance, the Holy Republic of Gran Colombia, the United Kingdom, the Kingdom of Naples, the Kingdom of Scandinavia, the Holy Union of Spain, the Kingdom of France, and Portugal have also been invited to participate. With ten competing nations spanning the Old and New Worlds, this iteration of the North American cup is set to be historic.

With the advice of experienced footballers from around the globe, a bold new format has been agreed upon for this landmark event. Rather than the traditional knockout format, the nations will instead be divided into two groups of five. Each member of a group will play every other member of the group once, with points awarded depending on the outcome of the match - three points for a victory, one point for a draw, and zero points for a defeat. Should ties occur at the end of the group stage, they will be broken by 1) the result of the game between the tied nations, 2) goal differential, 3) number of total goals scored, and 4) sportsmanship.

The winners of each group will be guaranteed spots in the semifinal, while the second and third place nations in each group will play each other for the right to advance to the semifinal. Should these games end in ties, an extra thirty-minute period - followed by penalty kicks - will be used to determine the winner.

The semifinal will feature the winner of Group A against the play-in victor of Group B, and the winner of Group B against the play-in victor of Group A. The final will feature the winners of both semifinal matchups. A third-place game will also occur.

The two groups of five have been determined by random drawings.

Group A
New England
Quebec
United Kingdom
France
Portugal

Group B
Mexico
Colombia
Naples
Scandinavia
Spain

Group-stage games will be played on Cambridge (Briggs) Field and Fenway Field, with all playoff games taking place in the Boston Common Stadium. New England is pleased to offer transportation and state-of-the-art lodging for all official delegations in Boston, and for international visitors in Cambridge. Visiting fans are encouraged to attend the games, however, they will be seated in different sections to preserve the peace. Chairman Fitzgerald expects all attendees to respect the principles of camaraderie and sportsmanship that the North American Cup was founded upon.  

Chairman Fitzgerald also invites non-participant nations to send delegations to Boston, whether to enjoy the festivities, further the development of football as a truly international pastime, or discuss further cooperation between participant states in the spirit of friendship through sport.

Chairman Fitzgerald looks forward to personally welcome the delegations of these fine nations to the great city of Boston, and is eager to showcase New English excellence in both football and hospitality to the world.

[Attorney General & PPT Dwarven Dragon]

From the Desk of the President



On the North American Cup

The President is honored to send a team to the North American Cup and hopes this will be the beginning of a fruitful relationship between Spain and New England.

On the Tróis Rivieres Conference

The President applauds the calling of this conference and is pleased at the wide variety of nations that have chosen to participate. In this time of conflict in North America, we must ensure that the worst forms of warfare remain off-limits, whether via North American Resources or those imported from elsewhere. The President hopes the conference will be a productive experience that will improve relationships among all nations involved. The President finds it concerning that certain North American powers such as Brazil and Louisiana have so far declined to participate and would urge them to reconsider.

On Mexican Piracy and the Ongoing Mexican-Louisianian Conflict

The President would remind the Nation of Mexico of the treaty it just signed with the Holy Union of Spain, and similar treaties Mexico has signed with other nations. While the President is appreciative of a communication from Mexico that the SotS is not intended to impact Spanish ships, and while no unprovoked attack on the SotS will ever be ordered by the Holy Union of Spain, the President finds himself in general agreement with the statement released by Louisiana, although not necessarily the accompanying embargo. Thievery is wrong, plain and simple, as it goes against the commands of our Creator. The President would urge Mexico to find another way to resolve its conflicts with Louisiana. As to the treaty between the Holy Union of Spain and Mexico, the President intends to continue compliance with the treaty, and hopes the SotS and the associated Mexican government can continue to do the same.

With respect to the Mexican embargo and related extradition disputes, while stating no official position, the President finds it regrettable that relations between Mexico and Louisiana have deteriorated to such a degree that such an embargo has been published. While the President understands that relations between the two nations may be beyond repair and have been rough ever since the 'border war', he is concerned that both nations are positioning themselves for another all-out war that could only serve to result in death and destruction and potentially enable hostile forces. The President does appreciate that the Panama Canal Blockade is over, and the President would urge the two nations to continue to find some resolution to their differences short of war. If additional meditators are needed, the Holy Union of Spain would be happy to provide its services in that regard.

[KaiserDave]

Sino-Russia Treaty of Friendship and Mutual Assistance

Preamble: Thirty-three years ago, the free people of China united together under the banner of liberty to unshackle themselves from the oppression of Imperial Manchu domination. We stood alone against corruption and exploitation from a monarchy foisted upon us by invaders from the North until one day, help arrived from far beyond the steppe.

The people of Russia, themselves liberated from the tyranny of Tsarist oppression, threw their support behind our righteous cause. Twenty-three years ago, the Russian Republicans joined us in our struggle against the imperialist Korean Empire and restored Han sovereignty over the lands of our forefathers. Together we shared in the fruits of victory and helped forge a lasting and just partnership.

Today, we recognize these dual achievements by rekindling a joint Sino-Russian amity, based on mutual respect and friendship. Once again, we gather together today to recognize our shared ambitions together and to unite our people in fraternal solidarity.

With the power vested in our duly appointed representatives, the Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China agree to the following:

I. Freedom of Trade

A. The Free Republic of China shall lower tariffs on the following imports sourced from the Russian Republic:

To zero base percentage points:
1. All materials and inputs derived from or wholly made of processed or unprocessed coal and coke.
2. All hardwood, timber, and/or lumber products.
3. All processed or unprocessed ores, alloys, or such similar goods.
4. All processed or unprocessed textiles and furs.
5. Industrial tools, lathes, presses, and mechanical components.
6. Quarried or mined stone.
7. All industrial oils and lubricants.
8. Finished or unprocessed foodstuffs, whether acquired directly, through wholesale, or from agricultural production.
9. Finished goods or services made available for consumption in third party countries.

B. The Russian Republic shall lower tariffs on the following imports sourced from the Free Republic of China:

To zero base percentage points:
1. All materials and inputs derived from or wholly made of processed or unprocessed coal and coke.
2. All processed or unprocessed textiles and furs.
3. Industrial tools, lathes, presses, and mechanical components.
4. Quarried or mined stone.
5. Finished or unprocessed foodstuffs, whether acquired directly, through wholesale, or from agricultural production.
6. Tea and other such consumable commodities.
7. Finished goods or services made available for consumption in third party countries.

C. The Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China agree to share technical expertise through mutual industrial assistance and collaboration. This includes joint patent sharing between state or privately owned enterprises and joint ventures created for the purposes of economic development.

D. The Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China agree to coordinate on the construction of infrastructure, including roadways, canals, and railways, designed to facilitate trade and economic cooperation. This includes no levied taxation on capital investments initiated by state controlled enterprises or by joint ventures supported by state funding in each respective country.

E. The Russian Republic and the Free Republic of China shall convene a boundary commission within 180 days of the signing of this agreement for the purposes of inspecting and resolving any outstanding disputes over the status of the currently recognized international border.

F. This agreement shall take effect on April 15th, 1900.

X President Zhang Zidong

x President Pavel Nikolayevich Milyukov

[Devout Centrist]

Treaty of Ganghwa (1900)
In pursuance of closer cooperation and dialogue, the Republic of China and the Republic of Korea (hereinafter referred to as the “High Contracting Parties”) do affix their signature to agree to the following terms:

Article I. Korean Sovereignty.
1. The Republic of China respects the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Korea.

2. It is the official policy of the Republic of China that Korea has an inviolable right to determine all its own affairs.

3. No citizen nor national shall be exempt from the jurisdiction of local law of either nation.

4. Neither High Contracting Party shall station military units in the other, without the assent of the other.

5. Neither High Contracting Party shall be compelled to provide tribute or perform ceremonies for the other.

Article II. Trade Relations.
1. The High Contracting Parties shall enter into a customs union.

2. The High Contracting Parties agree to exact tariffs and duties upon the other no greater than the most favored nation.

3. The High Contracting Parties agree to phaseout all protective tariffs and excise taxes on the other within five years of the enactment of this treaty.

4. The High Contracting Parties reserve the right to issue emergency tariffs on the other for extraordinary circumstances, provided that such tariff remains in effect no longer than two years, unless an extension is assented to by both parties.

5. The High Contracting Parties agree to exchange capital investment in order to facilitate free movement of goods across territorial borders recognized by each respective party.

6. The High Contracting Parties agree to, by law, permit the free movement and residence of each party’s respective citizens across their territory, and to protect such citizen’s freedom to conduct business without undue interference or prohibitions.

Article III. Diplomatic Relations.
1. There shall exist a perpetual state of peace and friendship between the Republic of China and the Republic of Korea and the citizens and subjects of their respective government.

2. Both High Contracting Parties shall exchange envoys and maintain permanent diplomatic missions in each other’s nation.

3. Both High Contracting Parties are permitted to use their language of choice in diplomatic communiques.

4. The High Contracting 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.

Article IV. Defense Agreement.
1. The High Contracting Parties agree to support the other militarily in the event of any attack from a foreign belligerent upon the written request of such party.

2. The corresponding navies and merchant marines of the High Contracting Parties shall have safe harbor within the ports of the other nation during times of peace and of war.

X President Zhang Zidong