Gaelian-Galra diplomacy

[Greywall]

Maintaining formal ties with Galra has been something the UK placed in a relative backspin, but as Staol became more and more of a critically needed resource to run the oceanic empire, keeping Galra an arm length away has been becoming difficult. It was safe to say the national sentiment after almost 200 years following the 30 year war that resulted in the UK losing its largest mainland territory was a bitter one, and many still refuse to recognize the authority of the 'Emperor'. Prime Minister Moriarty pressed onward with his intentions to further bridge the two countries, to at the least secure the Staol shipments from Ada Koi. 

A telegram detailing the Prime Minister's arrival within the Empire would be sent and Moriarty would await a response.

[aimway921]

An over the air radio message would be sent in response to the UK Prime Minister. The minister would be welcome to arrive by ship directly to the capital city, Columbia. From there, they would be taken to the Chesapeake Palace by train to meet with the Emperor and the Officer of Exterior.

[Greywall]

Moriarty was smoking a black tar cigarette when he stepped off the train in Columbia. He wasn't shocked to see the Emperor, but like all Gaelians kept his attitude cold and professional.

"Evening, I am here to discuss matters of state between the Kingdom and Galra." He finished his cigarette and calmly put it out in a nearby dispenser.

[aimway921]

"Good evening to you too, Mr. Moriarty," the Emperor, Henry Washington said, as he offered his hand for a handshake. "I am pleased to welcome you in our great nation. Allow me to introduce Mr. Howard Ross. He's our Officer of Exterior, presiding over the Department of Foreign Affairs. You shall be dealing with him for all official matters." Ross would lightly bow. "It's a pleasure, Mr. Moriarty. I look forward to working with you bringing our nations closer together." Ross has been exhibiting a similar cold attitude as Moriarty. 

[Greywall]

"Charmed", Moriarty shook the hand and went to task, "I'm here to discuss a few things of importance to the crown and Parliament. Firstly, maintaining trade ties and secondly cooperation between our respective states in matters ongoing. They would like to establish an embassy here in Columbia."

[aimway921]

"That can be easily arranged," Ross said. "I shall set you up with a government contracted realtor who would help you find the perfect location for the embassy. Although I doubt it will be in Columbia. It's a relatively small city to begin with, and it's only acting as the seat of government. The true center of the Empire is New York - just across the Galra Bay.

[Greywall]

Moriarty nodded, "very well. As for trade, the United Kingdom uses large quantities of Staol, the Ada Koi ship it via rail to your country and our ships take it from your ports. It's of the highest interest we keep this arrangement for direct shipment, I also have permission to inform that after further negotiations that a lower tariff rate from 15% to 10% for Galra trade can be brought to the table for all territories of the UK".

[aimway921]

"As tempting as that offer is, the Empire has a different proposition. We are, of course, glad to keep the arrangement, and may even be open to lowering the tax we impose on the passing through Staol - used for maintaining of the infrastructure that the Staol is delivered by, of course. What we seek, is closer military cooperation. If anything, the Great War has proven that a war may erupt at any time, for any reason. Of course, we don't wish for a war, and believe that the more nations are keeping each other in check, the less the likelihood of such a terrible conflict from erupting again. There are nations, at this time, that some of our officials consider a threat. And a threat to our national integrity is, quite obviously, also a threat to the rail lines that deliver Staol to the United Kingdom. It is for that reason I believe that any enemy we might have would be a mutual one, and thus, I would like to propose a Mutual Defense Treaty."

[Greywall]

Moriarty winced at the mention of a Mutual Defense Treaty, "Mr. Ross, what you propose would be difficult to bring to Parliament. There is still resentment in Gaelia toward Galra, despite hundred of years since the war that caused UK dominion to end here, there's a considerable lack of cooperation between the Kingdom and Empire. We'd need more time to work toward such a massive step in international affairs. While I do agree with your context that a MDP would make our nations safer, the best I can offer is a Optional Defense Pact."

[aimway921]

"By no means am I expecting for either of us to simply forget our past differences. I am but outlining a desirable outcome, and I'm sure that by small steps of bringing our nations closer, we can, if the Spirits will it, one day arrive at it. Tell me now, what are the terms of this Optional Defense Pact you're proposing?"

[Greywall]

"It's a standard Optional Defense pact, when either nation is under attack the other signatory can determine if it will enter the conflict or not. If both parties deem an upgrade feasible, than a proper Mutual Defense Pact would be acceptable."

[aimway921]

"It's a good start," Ross said. "I believe both parties will be pleased with this. As a show of good faith for the start this relationship, Galra would decrease the tax imposed on Staol transferred to the UK from 27% to 22%."

[Greywall]

Moriarty raised his eyebrow in an almost surprised manner, "I appreciate your generosity, if there's nothing more, I shall have the Ministry of Foreign Affairs send official ambassadors to the new embassy and establish our official lines of communication and diplomacy. And I will get Parliament on the ODP treaty."