Cousins across the Gulf: Shai Kong state visit to Kliegme

[Maverick]

June 7th, 2024
10:12 AM, Mumiea, Federal Republic of Kliegme

The Kliegmean capital was up for a surprise in the morning. The President of Shai Kong, Țango Sungú , arrived in an SF-17 escorted by a full squadron at Mumiea International Airport. His entrance marked the very reason for his surprise visit to Kliegme: security in the area. The escalated tensions in Mitallduk, Kraunanagaz & Zuhlgan had affected the trade routes of southern Cordilia. The trade routes that had affected the sea routes that fuelled Shai Kong. Regardless, another mammoth also lay next to Kliegme, Nicholas & Great Britain. Shai Kong was first and foremost a business island. It’s trade was now questioned…

President Țango Sungú has served as a Captain in the Shai Kong Air Force after his continued mandatory service and is a staunch supporter of Shai Kong’s military, now at full display. Even so, his visits marks his political affiliation to the Transpacific League, a political party aimed at globalism. An aspect he hadn’t been able to show due to domestic priorities since his election in 2023. Nonetheless, for the next four more years, Sungú will be the head of state of Shai Kong and, although a largely ceremonial role, a trustworthy face to the international community.

Sungú climbed out of his fighter jet unto a red carpet as he inspected the Kliegmean Presidential Guard in his pilot uniform. As the camera’s took this rare opportunity, he finally approached the Kliegmean President to greet him in person. The two nations were cousins in a way as both had Garanian origins, especially Sungú himself.

[Kliegme]

Many describe Kliegme and Shai Kong as cousin nations. Both have their origins in the Garan people, with both having been influenced by Non-Garan cultures. When Alexei Nikolaevich Boroshilov was a Student in the University of Myurmyansk, he had the opportunity to visit Shai Kong as part of a student exchange programme. There, he saw a vibrant population of many ethnicities, not too far from, but not too similar, to his own nation. However, he also saw a nation dominated by corporate influence. Perhaps that was where he developed his conviction in the Kliegmean Social Market Economy.

Now President of the Federal Republic of Kliegme, Alexei N. Boroshilov couldn’t help but feel intrigue with his counterpart that he would soon meet. Despite his position, President Sungú has decided to arrive not in the safety of a Personal Jet, but rather on a personal Fighter.

“Your Excellency, we will soon be arriving at the designated landing zone.”
“Thank you.”

He looks back down upon the documents he got from the Foreign Ministry. He had read this document countless times the previous day, but one more time he would read again, for good measure.

He arrived in the designated location 20 minutes before the arrival of President Sungú, the Strelna Regiment were performing rehearsals for the event. As he reviewed the documents, Foreign Minister Andreyev informed him that President Sungú has entered Kliegmean airspace. It was time to start.

The first thought that popped into his mind when he saw President Sungú was how familiar he felt. It was the first time meeting him, yet he had a strange sense of having seen him somewhere before. Still, there was much work to be done.

“It is my pleasure to have such an esteemed guest to visit Kliegme, Mr President.” Boroshilov used Garan, his first language, to greet President Sungú.

[Maverick]

“A pleasure to finally meet you in this fine land, President Boroshilov.” Sungú replied likewise in Garan. “Now let us engage in public pleasantries.”

The two shook hands as the press took pictures. Each national anthem was played and amical statements of friendships were made all while President Sungú remained in his fighter pilot uniform. A unique view of what was to be expected over the weekend, for the outside world would have little to no knowledge of the contents of the surprise visit other than vague security statements.

After the airfield, the two heads of state headed to their personal car escorts and headed out to the true arena which President Boroshilov had selected to discuss the state visit.

[Kliegme]

The meeting was to take place at the HanGyeong Pavillion at the Strelna Presidential Complex.

Used to hold royal banquets and recieving foreign officials during the Garan Kingdom, it continued the latter part of its mission under the Federal Republic. Built with a traditional Garan style, President Boroshilov chose this as the location in order to appeal to the Garan origins of President Sungú.

“Well, shall we begin our talks?”

Boroshilov sits down on his side of the table alongside his aides. His counterpart does the same.

“As we both know, the situation in Southern Cordillia is less than ideal. The continued low intensity warfare that has been plaguing Krauanagaz seems to devolve into full-scale war even as we speak now. Mitallduk and Zuhlgan is also unstable, with assassinations and terrorisms having been reported in short intervals. Forgive me for the assumption, but I take this increasingly volatile situation as being more detrimental to Shai Kong even more so than Kliegme.”

Despite Boroshilov’s diplomatc rhetoric of assumption, he already knew that Shai Kong’s economy would suffer when the Cordilian trade routes are unstable. during the Rycco-Cordillian war, Shai Kong’s Trade volume had tanked significantly, according to data he recieved from his ministers.

“As such, we would be more than happy to increase economic cooperation with Shai Kong. I’d like to suggest implementing a Single Window System between our two nations to streamline our mutual trade. In this regard, Kliegme is also prepared to consider a Bilateral Investment Treaty, if Shai Kong is interested.”

Boroshilov decided to go on the offensive. Trade agreements with Shai Kong were arguably more important and beneficial for Kliegme than security agreements. By bringing trade up first, economic agreements would be made first before security agreements could be made.

[Maverick]

President Sungú was impressed by the Garan architecture and it truly felt like a home he never had or had lost long ago. He was a cheerful man to Boroshilov’s staff always smiling and bowing his head in acknowledgement of each individual. There was no hidden political meaning though. He was simply happy to be here and serve both nations. Comfortably, he and his aides sat down around the table.

“Indeed, the cancelled trade routes passing the Gulf of Good Omen & Karnetvorian Channel have already affected our trade volume as trust wavers over the safety of the area. After all, our stock markets are open to all to participate and see. Though I’m confident our markets will adjust as our people are commercial like no other. Your first suggestion is one I had myself in mind, it would only strengthen the cultural bond we have. Shai Kong maintains a free-trade economic policy and we’re open for all. However… Before we delve into an investment, we should first stipulate the strategic goal.Trade is the heart of Shai Kong, but that heart needs protection. Your country recently joined the Concordia Entente, allies with whom we have excellent relations. Yet we cannot side with one faction per our constitutional neutrality, but I believe there to be room for cooperation. I believe it is in our best interest to organise a multilateral showcase of force in the Gulf of Kringalia. A precautionary signal to anyone with ideas to intervene in the trade routes that fuel both our nations. As well as assure the international community that they are indeed safe to traverse.”

President Sungú let it sink while taking a sip from his water. He’d tried to shift the board in his favour, but knew he’d have to reassure Boroshilov’s wishes.

“To that end, I don’t believe we should merely invest in each other, but invest together in humanitarian projects to stabilise southern Cordilia. As the former Stoinian PM put, invest in future prosperity. I’m open any ideas you have, but we must find a way to improve the wellbeing of the region. What are possible measures Kliegme can undertake to assist the civilians in Mitallduk, Zuhlgan & Kraunanagaz? I believe Kliegme’s already strained enough by Romordian refugees, perhaps something an aspect Shai Kong can ease.”

[Kliegme]

Of course, the security issue was much more important to Shai Kong. Boroshilov hoped that a trade agreement would be sorted out first, but he knew this situation was more likely to happen.

“Our current Humanitarian aids in the region are mostly directed to improving the Situation in the recently liberated Krauanagaz island of Pohnarras. The Red K practically destroyed anything they couldn’t carry when they were forced to flee the island. The constant shellings by the ERN certainly were damaging to infrastructure. Even that is rather limited in scale, as we are focusing on providing aid and integrating the Romordians who have fled from the NAGB-Romordian war. Interior Minister Hoffman has been working day and night to provide adequate support to both the rural population of the South Eastern Federal District and the Romordians who volunteered to settle there. In this regard, I am afraid Kliegme is out of cards to play when providing aid to the South Cordillian Nations. Popular Opinion on providing aid to Krauangaz, a democratic nation which is under threat by extremist forces, is at an all time low. Pollings for providing Humanitarian aid to Zhulgan or Mitallduk hasn’t even started due to the idea alone causing backlash.”

Boroshilov wasn’t lying when he said he was out of cards to play. Kliegme, having only recently waived off its neutrality after 62 years of it, still has a significant isolationist sentiment when it comes to foreign aid. For Boroshilov himself, burdening his government and its finances even more so would be irresponsible of him, when he was elected under the promise of a fair, efficient governance. He was against the idea of slashing Kliegmean Welfare to pay for Zhulgan or Mitallduk’s.

“However, regarding your proposition of a showcase of force, This can be arranged. The Kliegmean navy, bolstered by acquisition of the former Montacian Supply ships, does need to renew its image of a navy only able to protect its own waters, to a navy that is capable of protecting the region’s waters. I believe that a joint exercise could serve this purpose. Though, as a member of the CE, we hope that this course of action would not intensify tensions with the Peony. (OOC: the New Huawan lore has it being not good chums with the CE it seems.)”

“Shifting our topic back to your proposition, what do you suggest Shai Kong would do to ease our strains on governance caused by Romordian refugees?”

[Maverick]

“Excellent to hear you support a joint show of force. Assurances are in place to not escalate tensions further with non-pariah states. I understand the Romordians have been a strain on internal development efforts in Kliegme and hence why I came with a unique proposition.”

President Sungú leaned forward and made sure their eyes were interlocked. He would reveal the ace in his sleeve he hoped gain leverage in Kliegme while also solving their issues. An affirmation President Sungú was hoping for during this state visit.

“Shai Kong is prepared to integrate the Romordian refugees into its citizenry. With a special premium of ¥ 10.000, Romordian asylum seekers from Kliegme can become a new influx for our economy’s workforce demands. We have new large social residences built ready to house the Romordian refugees in them. Their dreams of safe & stable Romordia may never become reality, but Shai Kong can be a beacon of hope for them.”

President Sungú leaned back as he let the proposition sink in.

“Think of it President Boroshilov, all parties stand to gain from it. The Romordians get a chance at a sustainable freedom, Kliegme can further develop on itself and Shai Kong’s economy bolsters with an influx into the labour force.”

[Kliegme]

Boroshilov was surprised, but didn’t show it. He did not expect Shai Kong to offer sharing Kliegme’s burden regarding the Romordians. Eflad was keen on getting the minimum number of Romordians possible under Efladian protection, far from the grasps of the Tyrant Nicholas.

He himself couldn’t, out of good conscious, say that the sole reason why he sent as much Romordians as possible to Eflad was to protect them. He and his cabinet was concerned that they would distrub the societal status quo.

Yet, President Sungú was offering to pay out of his own nation’s coffers to help alleviate the situation. This was an offer he couldn’t afford to lose. Yet, Boroshilov had to confirm the scale of such offer.

“As of now, Kliegme has made comprehensive plans to integrate about 200,000 Romordians that have seeked Refuge in Kliegme. They all volunteered to join Kliegmean society. We have recieved 400,000 Romordian Refugees, which would mean that when given the chance to live a new life, those who didn’t choose to integrate into Kliegme in fear of the NAGB regime next door, or due to hope that Romordia will be free once more in the future, may come to Shai Kong. With the generous incentive you have proposed, I believe that a significant number of our current non-integrated refugees will want to start a new life in Shai Kong. As the current protector of these refugees, I have to ask you this. In the event that 100,000 or even the twice of that number, of Romordian refugees choose to move to Shai Kong, would Shai Kong be able to support them all?”

He asked in an inquisitive manner that would make him sound genuinely curious a bout the possibility of such offer, a clever. He knew that Shai Kong was able to host at least 100K people. Yet, he wanted to check that Sungú is willing to host at least 100K people.

“That being said, with your offer, Kliegme would certainly be able to free up its resources to join in with the Humanitarian Aid. However, I believe that you and I share the view that our two nations should make joint efforts in all fronts to help promote peace in Pacifica. I find your quotation of the former Stoinian PM to be quite apt for our current predicament. Indeed, investing for the future is an important thing to consider.”

[Maverick]

Sungú studied Boroshilov carefully as he saw the cogs turn. To his credit, Boroshilov had an excellent poker face, but Sungù knew his offer was too good to lose. The social status quo in Shai Kong would have a risk as well, the same as in Kliegme. The difference being that Shaikongers were up for a gamble and the influx would ultimately also boost Shai Kong.

“100.000 refugees is too high a number to take in overnight, let alone sway to move to Shai Kong. We have residences ready for 32.000 Romordians to move in as part of our immigration programs. The others will have to wait unless there’s interest in large scale temporary habitation camps. Additionally, these Romordians could earn jobs as state contractors for a few years and help build the houses for their community. Efficiency is our forte…”

Sungú paused for a few seconds, either letting the terms sink in or even toy with the Kliegmean President. Eventually, he gave Boroshilov a clear answer.

“If we can mobilise the Romordians to accelerate the construction of their residences, we can easily accommodate 150.000 refugees within two years for their integration into Shai Kong as proper citizens. Our current residency projects have proven to be a boon for this very predicament.”

[Kliegme]

President Sungú’s answer was nothing short of music to Boroshilov’s ears. The Romordian Crisis has been one of the hot topics for the General Election next month. President Sungú’s proposal was a practical solution that could turn a controversy into a solid campaign material, something that Boroshilov had been looking for. He allowed a genuine grin to show this satisfaction and a willingness to cooperate on his counterpart’s project.

“I see. I believe your proposal would be beneficial for both our nations and the Romordians. As for our part, I would like to ask if Kliegmean companies will be able to assist in some form in Shai Kong’s residency projects for the Romordians. Our manufacturing sector will be more than happy to provide the literal building blocks, for example. Such cooperation could also act as a catalyst for a deepening partnership between our nations.”

This proposal was in similar vein to Boroshilov’s earlier proposal, and the whole goal of his strategy for the state visit. He wanted a catalyst for the deepening of the relationships between the two nations.

[Maverick]

Sungú saw his plan come to fruition and reciprocated President Boroshilov’s smile. Shai Kong’s cunning was working once again.

“Your companies are more than welcome to join. We’re currently embracing innovative modular residencies which allow us to exponentially develop new areas, providing housing people in need of urgent housing such as the Romordians. I believe Kliegmean companies can be a part of that. Of course… If they’re proficient enough to compete with Caronese manufacturing that is. Here I’ll show you a picture of our prototypes.”

President Sungú took his phone and showcased the housing prototype the Shaikongers were building. The picture was effective at portraying the building process.

Picture on President Sungú’s phone.

“As for deepend partnerships… I believe our universities will be a cornerstone for such endeavours. Shai Kong is innovative at its core and we’re always eager to increase our efficiency. I believe you yourself witnessed it as a student, is it not?”

President Sungú pivoted the conversation towards a new subject, using the momentum to try to strike a chord of President Boroshilov. Sunguú had done his research and hoped to potentially use Boroshilov’s bias to further cooperation.

[Kliegme]

Ah, modulised construction. Similar construction methods had been used shortly after the Kliegmean War of Independence to construct housing for regions destroyed by conflict. The Shaikongers knew what they were doing.

University cooperation programmes were something that he was going to propose during tommorow’s meeting in which the major topics would’ve been settled and relatively “easier” yet as important topics would’ve been discussed. However, he had no qualms discussing it now.

“Yes, during my course at the University of Myurmyansk, I have visited Shai Kong as part of a Student Exchange Programme. Indeed, the efficiency and the pursuit of it I have seen there was unmatched.”

He omitted his not-so-fond memories of witnessing such pursuit’s toll on the individual due to the social pressure associated with it. However, such personal experience was not necessarily a reason to disregard an offer that he himself had planned to make.

“I agree with the idea that universities are the key in deepening partnerships. In fact, I was planning to propose a plan that would do just that. It seems we have already made an agreement even before meeting.”

After lightening the mood, Boroshilov went forward with his suggestion.

“In 2022, we signed the Chernov Agreement with the Republic of Sallodesia, and in 2023, we have signed a similar deal with the Republic of Myria. These Agreements had both governments simplify visa travel requirements, making it easier for universities to host exchange programmes, amidst many other clauses for cooperation in education. Kliegme is prepared to arrange such deal with Shai Kong.”

After listening to President Sungú’s answer, Boroshilov and Sungú’s conversation steered to the topic of Culture. During the conversation, Boroshilov proposed a plan that resonated with his half-Garan heritage, and hopefully resonates with Sungú.

“Both Foreign and Domestic media describe our nation as Cousins, mainly due to our nations’ shared Garan heritage. However, as the Garan language was influenced by different cultures, it developed differently in our two nations. As of now, our Federal Institute for the Garan Language used only the Kliegmean dialect in terms of pronunciation and vocabulary when writing and revising the Standard Garan Dictionary. I would like to ask if Shai Kong would like to join the writing process for the 7th Revision of the Standard Garan Dictionary. Not only this would make the title truly appropriate, this would also be a step in deepening our cultural ties.”

[Maverick]

“A similar program to the one honouring the Late Chernov would be agreeable to us indeed. I’ll be looking forward to the fruitful results.”

As the conversation shifted to culture, Sungú was pleasantly surprised. This sort of international cultural was quite uncommon for the capital driven Shaikongers. Nonetheless, Sungú was more than intruiged.

“I must say such a cultural project would be most interesting to us. It would solidify our Shaikonger idetentity. However, I must also point out that there are also Garanians in southern Corinia with their own dialect, would these also be included in your 7th Revision?”