Common Rushmori Community Formation Talks [ATTN: Rushmore]

by **Electrum** » Wed Jul 27, 2016 6:42 am

Rushmori Union Talks

Electrumite Prime Minister Suarez formally invites all leaders of the Rushmori nations a special invitation to consider a geopolitical union, similar to what's being formed in Esportiva (OOC: and the European Union), tentatively named the Rushmori Union and will comprise of two organs: The Rushmori Commission, where each nation will propose a commissioner, where legislation will be formed and proposed, and the Rushmori Parliament, a proportionally-elected parliament which will vote on proposed legislation.

Tentative admission framework

A stable democracy that respects human rights and rule of law
A market economy
Willingness to transfer aspects of sovereignty to the RU
Ensure that RU regulations are equalised with national laws

Points of discussion - how far should the RU extend?

Structure of the RU - Rushmori Parliament and Rushmori Commission
Name of RU, the parliament, and the commission
Common currency
Common central bank
Abolition of border checks
Sports and Culture
Common regulations?

Information to fill out [copy and paste below]

Code: Select all: Full nation name: Population: GDPpc: Type of government:

Interested nations (expressed via RMB)
Electrum
Republique mariannoise
Kernansquillec
Zyarus
Eura
Liventia

by **Electrum** » Wed Jul 27, 2016 6:48 am

Alright, I propose we basically emulate the European Union in every aspect (except with only two organs - commission and parliament). I think it would be the easiest to roleplay because it would be the one we would be the most familiar with, and it has some real life precedent we can rely on when we have disputes and the like. I guess we should also give basic stats about our nation as well, so as to aid our discussion

Full nation name: Commonwealth of Electrum
Population: 40 million
GDPpc: $65,000

by **Dunnes** » Wed Jul 27, 2016 7:39 am

To all whom it may concern:

The republic of Dunnes would be interested in joining such a union and would be interested in having a shared currency and free borders. Dunnes would also put forth an amendment reserving the right to use military force to each and every country. Dunnes would however be willing to sign a non aggression pact between Rushmori nations.

Sincerely
Mark Kojacki
Foreign Secretary

Full nation name: The Federal Republic of Dunnes
Population: 24,102,392
GDPpc: 28,400

by **Kernansquillec** » Wed Jul 27, 2016 7:40 am

Statement from the office of the Prime Minister

The Parliamentary Republic of Kernansquillec would like to salute the work that has taken place to allow talks of a Rushmori Union to take place and welcomes efforts to create such a union that promises to all the whole of Rushmore to develop further economically and enhance cultural exchanges. In line with its long history of international cooperation within the Rushmore region and as one of the major Rushmori economies, Kernansquillec fully intends to play its part in any Rushmori Union

That being said, the Parliamentary Republic of Kernansquillec would like to express its wish that any such Union would respect the sovereignty of all members states who are ultimately responsible for policies being enacted within their territories. Furthermore, while the uniting principles of democracy, human rights and of the rule of law must be at the foundation of any long lasting Union, we do not believe that purely capitalistic principles should be included within this foundation. While advances to favour increased free trade and the development of certain markets should and must be one of the objectives of the Union, attempts to quash policies designed to put workers before profits, as has been the case in Kernansquillec for many decades and which has been a cornerstone of our democratic system and economic growth, would not be acceptable.

Continuing on the economic policies of the Rushmori Union, we do not believe the time would be right to introduce a common currency (and hence a common central bank) considering the multiple economic disparities that are likely to exist between Union members, even while looking at the mid to long term future of said members. Similarly, applying common legislation to all members, if not done in a proportional manner, could also create and amply disparities and fuel inequalities between regions and member states.

Kernansquillec believes in a Rushmori Union, but it must be one based upon cooperation and coordination. It should act as a platform to allow for common changes to enhance social progress and economic development. Major, abrupt changes, namely concerning the abolition of border checks require much more details studies before carrying them forward. We believe we should first begin by establishing a union that focus on expanding cultural exchanges, diplomatic ties and democratic principles, based upon a commission, with each nation having a commissioner to represent them. From that solid, unifying base we would then be able to move forward and expand once the time is right.

Daina Leonardsson
Prime Minister of Kernansquillec

Full nation name: The Parliamentary Republic of Kernansquillec
Population: 301,296,931
GDP per capita: N$D 55,257.50
Government type: Unitary Semi-Parliamentary Republic

by **Liventia** » Wed Jul 27, 2016 9:25 am

MEDIA STATEMENT // COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE // DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE
REPUBLIC OF LIVENTIA // RÉPUBLIQUE LIVENTIENNE
STATE SECRETARIAT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS // SECRÉTARIAT D'ÉTAT DES AFFAIRES ÉTRANGÈRES

The Government of Liventia notes with great interest recent moves that have been made by the Government of Electrum and other elected governments of the region of Rushmore in relation to the formation a new socio-political economic union.

Liventia has always been open to deeper ties with its neighbours in Rushmore and heartily welcomes all proposals to formalise cultural, social, political and economic ties with other like-minded nations in the region.

Furthermore, the Government of Liventia is committed to the adoption of a common Rushmori currency, the abolition of border controls, and cultural and sporting exchanges within a new union. We will reserve judgement on reports that members of this union may be asked to contribute to a common military force.

Although talks are at a very early stage, the Government of Liventia has received a formal invitation from the Prime Minister of Electrum to attend further discussions related to the formation of a Rushmori Union, Rushmori Commission and Rushmori Parliament.

Julien Thoreau MP, Minister of the State Secretariat for External Affairs with Responsibility for Rushmore, will attend these meetings on behalf of the Prime Minister of Liventia, James Morgan MP.

[Signed]
James McNulty MP
State Secretary for External Affairs
Republic of Liventia
—————————
Le gouvernement de la République liventienne considère, avec beaucoup d'intérêt, les actions récentes qui ont été prises par le gouvernement de l'Eléctrum et les autres gouvernements de la Rushmore en ce qui concerne la formation d'une nouvelle union économique et socio-politique.

La République a toujours été ouvert à des liens plus profonds avec ses voisins en Rushmore et se félicite de toutes les propositions de formaliser les liens culturels, sociaux, politiques et économiques avec d'autres pays similaires dans la région.

En outre, le gouvernement de la République est résolu à l'adoption d'une monnaie commune Rushmorienne, l'abolition des contrôles aux frontières, et les échanges culturels et sportifs au sein de cette nouvelle union. Nous réservons notre jugement sur les suggestions que les membres de cette union seront invités à contribuer à une force militaire commune.

Bien que les pourparlers sont à une étape très tôt, le gouvernement de la République a reçu une invitation officielle du Premier Ministre de l'Eléctrum pour assister à la poursuite des discussions relatives à la formation d'une Union rushmorienne, Commission rushmorienne et du Parlement rushmorien.

Julien Thoreau MP, le Ministre d'État des Affaires de la Rushmore, va assister à ces réunions au nom du James Morgan MP, le Premier ministre de la République liventienne.

[Signé]
James McNulty MP
Secrétaire d'État des Affaires étrangères
République liventienne

by **Eastern Sunrise Islands** » Wed Jul 27, 2016 11:43 am

POLITICS
Unified Sunrise members to join the Rushmori Union
On a surprising choice, two nations of the Sunrisian conundrum have sent applications to join the Rushmori Union: Eastern and Southeastern Sunrise Islands, the latter having just recently moved in, decided to request participation if only to be more "integrated" towards the region. "We're well aware of how displaced we are on the community, so a conference with fellow Sunrisian Union members later; we were allowed to seek entry on the Union." said King Florence IV, current ruler of the Southeastern Sunrise Islands. When asked what they were to contribute towards the union, both heads of state more or less shrugged. "We'll help with what we can, I guess."

by **San Llera** » Thu Jul 28, 2016 8:30 pm

Full nation name: San Llera
Population: 51,900,900
GDPpc: $53,056 c
Type of government: Constitutional Monarchy

San Llera would like to formally express its interest in such a union. The government is willing to give up some sovereignty in exchange for free trade agreements, open borders, and some basic human rights laws.

by **Electrum** » Thu Jul 28, 2016 9:38 pm

Electrumite PM Cynthia Suarez sits down at the table.

"Thank you all for coming at this momentous time. We have a lot to discuss, but briefly I want to go over to the framework.

We shall have a Rushmori Parliament, which will vote on laws submitted by the Commission, proportionally elected, and members shall be organised into political groupings. We shall have a Commission, as you know, made from each nation's appointed members, roughly in proportion to the number of seats each political grouping has in the Parliament. I think we are all in agreement with that barebones structure.

There has been an unwillingness to provide a joint RU army, and I don't think it will be fruitful nor productive to discuss these plans further. However, a defence pact might be something we have to look at.

Again, there is also a disagreement on the common currency and central bank -- one thing we need to overcome is the vastly different gross domestic products, and the monetary policy of the whole might not accurately reflect local conditions. I think we might not proceed with that as well, unless there is public opinion otherwise"

by **Kernansquillec** » Fri Jul 29, 2016 2:45 am

Kernansquillecan Minister of Foreign Affairs Milton Holmwood, quietly listening in a corner, decides to finally intervene in the discussion after exchanging a few words with his trusted advisors.

"The Kernansquillecan delegation welcomes the remarks made by honourable Prime Minister of Electrum. Indeed, we believe that the ideas of creating a common currency and of a Rushmori army would go well beyond what Rushmori citizens would want from any Rushmori Union. Unless there are any major disagreements upon these points, the delegation of Kernansquillec would like to draw the attention of all delegations upon the practicalities of the Commission and of the Parliament, namely how members are named and elected, as well as their numbers.

While there is an agreement that the Commission shall have its members named by each member state, it remains unclear as to their numbers. For the time being, Kernansquillec would back a system of one commissioner per member state, with each commissioner holding the presidency on an alternating basis, sharing the presidency for an equal amount of time between member states.

As for the Parliament, Kernansquillec is strongly in favour of a system where nationally held elections elect each nation's members to the Rushmori parliament, rather than a Rushmori wide election. We also believe that each nation's number of seats in Parliament should be attributed on a proportional basis in regards to the size of their populations.

Finally, we hope all delegations shall join us in continuing to iron out such issues so that we may slowly begin working towards drafting a founding treaty for the Rushmori Union.

Thank you."

by **Trans-Dniesters** » Fri Jul 29, 2016 9:05 am

EDIT: I'll submit a new application and make it appear as if Pridnestrovia has democratized.

by **Fluvique** » Fri Jul 29, 2016 9:46 am

Her Majesty's Government Foreign Office

PRESS RELEASE

The Kingdom of Fluvique greets the intentions of the Government of Electrum to strengthen ties between nations of our continent, promote commerce and development and encourage cultural and sports exchange.

In order to receive more information and discuss the future of this union, in accord of the Constitution and national laws, the sovereignty of our country and seeking for a continental integration, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gustave Bertrand, will attend to the meetings in behalf of August Moine, Prime Minister of Fluvique.

The Cabinet expresses its support to the gradual elimination of border checks and the right of the citizens to move and reside freely within the territory of the future Rushmore Union states. However, we deeply believe that the best for our economy is to keep our currency and central bank, wishing to continue our policies of industrialization and stability. Also, the country supports the idea of a treaty of reciprocal assistance in case of external attack.

Further issues will be discussed once the delegation reach Electrum.

Full nation name: Kingdom of Fluvique, (Spanish: Reino de la Fluvique; French: Royaume de la Fluvique)
Population: 37.180.825
GDPpc: $33.504
Type of government: Constitutional Monarchy and Federal Parliamentary Democracy.

by **Liventia** » Fri Jul 29, 2016 7:13 pm

Julien Thoreau, Liventia's representative at the discussions in Centralis, stood up to speak.

"Your excellencies, majesties, royal highnesses, presidents, premiers and ministers, the Republic of Liventia is most grateful for the opportunity to add our voice to the debate surrounding the Union.

"The Government of Liventia wishes to note that given the current number of nations that have voiced their interest, we do not believe it would be viable to call this new agreement a Rushmori Union; not when so many member states of Rushmore have decided not to show up.

"However, we are broadly in favour of the proposals put forward regarding what I will refer to henceforth as the Union Parliament and Union Commission.

"Liventia agrees with the foreign minister of Kernansquillec that the Union Parliament should be elected through national elections, with the format of these elections to be decided by each member state. All elections in Liventia are first-past-the-post, and we do not intend to introduce proportional representation just for the sake of this Union. The Government of Liventia also seconds the proposal that — at least at the beginning — the Union Commission should comprise solely of one commissioner per member state.

"We hold no strong views on the exact make-up of the Union Parliament, but would certainly prefer a situation where each member state, regardless of population, has a credible voice in Parliament, even if that means setting a minimum number of seats that each member state will have even if their population would result in fewer seats, proportionally speaking.

"The Government of Liventia is steadfastly committed to a common Union currency and the abolition of border checks. While we are happy to proceed with negotiations on a common currency, acknowledging the issues that lay ahead of us in that regard, we will not be moved on the freedom of movement of goods and people. Signing up to this treaty must mean the right to work and reside in any other member state of the treaty, and the Government of Liventia will not agree to anything less. Perhaps it is worth considering Observer status, with a smaller say in the Union Parliament, for countries who wish to join but are unwilling to enter into a common travel area.

"Finally, Liventia notes with great concern the application from Pridnestrovia. Clearly, while we are still in the early stages of talks and membership is yet to be determined, the Government of Liventia is clear that both full and observer membership of the union can only be open to nations with the full rule of law and free and fair elections. Should it come to a vote, Liventia would choose not to support the application from Pridnestrovia.

"That wraps up my opening remarks. Thank you for your time."

by **Zyarus** » Sat Jul 30, 2016 7:46 am

DIE REPUBLIEK VAN ZYARUS
THE REPUBLIC OF ZYARUS
Kantoor van die President | Office of the President
Vir Onmiddellike Vrystelling | For Immediate Release

((OOC: I'm not about to clutter this post with much more in Afrikaans, so what you see here is the English-language version of the release. Afrikaans, however, is spoken by a sizable minority in Zyarus.)

An Appeal to the Floor of the National Assembly of the Republic, 24 March 2019.

Sirs and Madams Members of the National Assembly and Lawmakers of the Republic:

Today, I come to you with visions of prosperity for our great nation. We have survived through tumultuous times. Cincysians and Scantorians were united as one five short years ago. Now, I come before you to propose even more unity - this time with our brothers and sisters in Rushmore.

For the past five years, what was once known as South Yerfilag has struggled through class warfare, racial segregation, ethnic cleansing, and other such grievous offences of human rights. Such are unbecoming of a heritage that combines the best of monarchic rule with representative government. My predecessor, President Armand van Dam, was instrumental in leading the coalition government to put an end to the violence between Cincysians and Scantorians, no small problem.

Now, I humbly present my case for a union of economy, defence, border control, and legislation with our Rushmori comrades. Today, I speak for Zyarian membership in a new Rushmori Union!

Full nation name: The Republic of Zyarus (Afrikaans: Die Republiek van Zyarus)
Population: 54.768 million
GDPpc: $24,322.64 NSD
Type of government: Bicameral parliamentary republic (with president)

by **Pasarga** » Sat Jul 30, 2016 3:49 pm

Full nation name: The Dominion of Pasarga // Pasarga hakimiyetini
Population: 110 million
GDPpc: ¤30,200
Type of government: Hereditary Monarchy

~~Official Correspondence~~

To: Representatives of the region of Rushmore and her Nations
From: HRH King Jakub Einar Havel-Oldenburg Júlíason-Majistar, Dominion of Pasarga

While Pasarga is intrigued by the concept of a union between the nations of our great region, we have reservations as to the amount of power that such a formation could wield, as well as tying our economic prosperity to that of the collective of the region. Though we do support the idea of the free moment of laborers across the region without the need for work permits and continuous stop at border patrols, that prospect alone does not warrant the tying of our economic future to others. Regrettably that means that we shall not be attending this summit nor applying for entry into such a Union should it come to pass.

by **The Urain** » Sun Jul 31, 2016 6:58 am

Full nation name: The Democratic Republic of The Urain
Population: 25 million
GDPpc: USD$ 27,634
Type of government: Parliamentary Democracy

Official Dispatch from the Uraini Government, Rayquaza, Urain

The Uraini government would like to offer its support to the idea of a Rushmori Union. However, we have several concerns that must be addressed.
First, membership: who gets to be in, and who decides that? Liventia has said that Pridnestrovia should not be admitted due to a lack of the "rule of law and free and fair elections". While The Urain takes no position on this limitation or nation, it raises the question of upon what grounds will a nation be admitted or disallowed? Presumably the entirety of Rushmore will not be automatically rolled in. We suggest as an option some sort of member vote when new nations wish to join.

Secondly, Parliamentary representation: The Urain notes that seats by population (e.g. EU) would disadvantage nations that RP as a smaller population in an unfair way, such that a nation that wishes to RP as a small country and has a low number would then get less power. The Urain suggests instead that each nation be awarded the same number of seats, perhaps 5 or 10. Another consideration is how seats within a country will be awarded. For several reasons, a nation may not wish to award seats through percentage. The Urain suggests that each nation be given sovereignty over how its own seats will be awarded. Essentially, it will be "Here are your seats, do as you see fit."

Thirdly, individual sovereignty: The Urain is opposed to a central currency, as it burdens all's economies to one another's failures. On the other hand, The Urain strongly supports Liventia's idea for a free trade border zone. Surely The Urain is not the only nation with mixed-element support. Pasarga as well has reservations over tying its economic fate to the collective. There must be ways to opt in and out of certain collective features, much how the Eurozone is not the EU is not the Border Zone.

Finally, collective defence: The Urain supports a defence treaty, but notes that this may require nations to be dragged into conflicts with nations that it does not support. There must either be a way for nations to opt out of specific deployments or a way to disqualify conflicts from invoking the treaty. The Urain suggests the simplest solution is to require Defence Treaty members to come to the aid of an attacked member nation (not aggressor).

The Urain supports the idea of a Rushmori Union, and after these concerns are definitively addressed, will fully support its creation.

by **Sargossa** » Sun Jul 31, 2016 1:24 pm

= = = Official Communiqué = = =

To: Prime Minister Suarez, Commonwealth of Electrum
From: José Carizzo, Republic of Sargossa
CC: Foreign Ministry (Exec), OOTP
Re: Rushmori Union

Prime Minister Suarez,

The Government of Sargossa always welcomes initiatives designed to bring the sometimes disparate nations of this great region closer. The strengthening of diplomatic, economic and cultural ties is something we always strive for and would be more than willing to enter discussions with the aim of achieving these lofty goals.

That being said, as one of the region’s stronger economies, we would have deep reservations about jeopardising our own financial future by entering into a region wide common currency agreement.

Additionally it has been noted that at least one nation present has expressed archaic concerns that potential participants at these talks may not conform to a particular method of government. The Sargossan political system is not that particular method of government but has been in place for decades and is certainly no secret. As such, given we have received an official invitation, we would assume that our presence at these talks would not be a pointless endeavor.

Yours,

José Carizzo
Minister For Foreign Affairs
Republic of Sargossa

= = = Official Communiqué = = =

by **Valladares** » Sun Jul 31, 2016 1:59 pm

District of Metropolis, July 31^st, 2016

REINO UNIDO DE VALLADARES | UNITED KINGDOM OF VALLADARES
MINISTERIO DE RELACIONES EXTERIORES | MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
COMUNICADO OFICIAL 057 DE 2016 | OFFICIAL RELEASE 057 OF 2016

The Royal Government of Valladares welcomes the moves led by the Government of Electrum in bringing together the nations of the region of Rushmore through the formation of a regional union. According to the principles of regional co-operation and integration that have been followed by succesive Valladar governments throughout the years, and as one of the region's leading nations in several fields, the Royal Government would like to express its interest in playing a role in such an entity.

However, the Royal Government would also like to voice its petition that any Union that were to emerge out of this diplomatic movement will commit to acknowledge and respect the sovereignty of its member states to some basic degree, and to keep a reasonable distance from their own internal affairs. Furthermore, we consider that a common regional currency or a centralised regional economic system is not something desirable at the moment, in light of the multiple disparities in the economies of the nations of this region, and the volatility of economy itself. A regional currency in a possible scenario of crisis would be able to drag not only one or a few ones, but several nations to a position of economic hardship, and that is a situacion the Royal Government would wish to avoid.

The Royal Government is nevertheless open to any and all opportunities that advocate for greater cultural, social, and sporting exchanges with other Rushmori nations, and is willing to support a relaxation of border and travel controls, and, if the circumstances warrant it, their eventual abolition. We would also like to express our support for a Union parliament, so long as nation members are entitled to have a fair degree of representation there and are also given autonomy to decide on their distribution within the nations themselves. It should also be noted that any and all decisions made by such a body should not undermine the sovereignty of the member nations and should be respectful of the national legislation of each Union member.

Signed,

Martha Gray
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Valladares

by **Kernansquillec** » Mon Aug 01, 2016 2:48 am

Statement from the office of the Prime Minister

The Parliamentary Republic of Kernansquillec is pleased to see that, as of now, thirteen nations have expressed their interest in becoming members of a Rushmori Union. With a combined total population of just over one billion and a total GDP of over 56,3 trillion N$D, it is clear that any Union would have the potential to becoming a cornerstone of the Rushmori region and a significant political, economic and diplomatic powerhouse.

Given the many issues that have been raised during negotiations, the Kernansquillecan delegations would like to propose the following solutions that we hope will be able to take us a step further to finding a compromise between all potential members.

Daina Leonardsson
Prime Minister of Kernansquillec

GOVERNANCE
1. Member states remain sovereign over all domestic affairs, but may be held legally and financially accountable by the Union should they enter Union agreements and fail to respect them
2. A Rushmori Union Commission shall be composed by one member of each member state, named and dismissed by their own respective governments.
3. A Rushmori Parliament shall be composed of at least twenty members per member state, with larger nations being attributed one additional seat per twenty million inhabitants. (With the currant twelve interested parties, Liventia would have the largest number of seats (36 out of 292, or 12.3%), while the smallest delegations would have 20 seats (6.85%) - numbers are open for negotiations, especially if a billion+ population candidature joins).
4. Members states are free to decide in which way their members of the Rushmori Parliament shall be elected.

LEGISLATION
5. The Commission shall be the sole body able to introduce legislation to Parliament.
6. A majority vote (50%+1) in the Commission and in Parliament shall suffice to pass legislation in most cases.
7. Votes on matters concerning national sovereignty are non-binding and require a two-thirds majority in both the Commission and in Parliament.
8. Votes for changes to founding treaty(ies) are non-binding and require a two-thirds majority in both the Commission and in Parliament.

ENTRY CONDITIONS
9. Only nations within the Rushmori region are eligible to join the Union, but all Rushmori nations are available to become candidates for entry should they agree to respect the treaty(ies) of the Rushmori Union.
10. All members shall have to respect the founding treaty(ies) of the Union and can only be accepted once they meet the criteria decided within the treaty(ies).
11. New members shall be accepted once they meet treaty criteria and once they receive the unanimous backing of all member states.
12. Candidate members are given observer status once an official application has been received and they receive the backing of 1/5th of member states.

FOUNDING VALUES
13. Member states agree to strive towards increasing economic, cultural, sporting and diplomatic relations and exchanges between each other in a spirit of cooperation and mutual benefit.
14. Member states shall respect fundamental human rights and aim to increase and maintain the rights and freedoms of their citizens.
15. Member states agree not to engage in armed conflict between each other and shall act to prevent and end unprovoked aggressions against a fellow member state.
16. Member states shall aim to help the development of all members states across the Rushmori region so that all members may enjoy a higher standard of living.

by **Dunnes** » Wed Aug 03, 2016 9:08 pm

Kernansquillec wrote:
(Image)
Statement from the office of the Prime Minister

The Parliamentary Republic of Kernansquillec is pleased to see that, as of now, thirteen nations have expressed their interest in becoming members of a Rushmori Union. With a combined total population of just over one billion and a total GDP of over 56,3 trillion N$D, it is clear that any Union would have the potential to becoming a cornerstone of the Rushmori region and a significant political, economic and diplomatic powerhouse.

Given the many issues that have been raised during negotiations, the Kernansquillecan delegations would like to propose the following solutions that we hope will be able to take us a step further to finding a compromise between all potential members.

Daina Leonardsson
Prime Minister of Kernansquillec

GOVERNANCE
1. Member states remain sovereign over all domestic affairs, but may be held legally and financially accountable by the Union should they enter Union agreements and fail to respect them
2. A Rushmori Union Commission shall be composed by one member of each member state, named and dismissed by their own respective governments.
3. A Rushmori Parliament shall be composed of at least twenty members per member state, with larger nations being attributed one additional seat per twenty million inhabitants. (With the currant twelve interested parties, Liventia would have the largest number of seats (36 out of 292, or 12.3%), while the smallest delegations would have 20 seats (6.85%) - numbers are open for negotiations, especially if a billion+ population candidature joins).
4. Members states are free to decide in which way their members of the Rushmori Parliament shall be elected.

LEGISLATION
5. The Commission shall be the sole body able to introduce legislation to Parliament.
6. A majority vote (50%+1) in the Commission and in Parliament shall suffice to pass legislation in most cases.
7. Votes on matters concerning national sovereignty are non-binding and require a two-thirds majority in both the Commission and in Parliament.
8. Votes for changes to founding treaty(ies) are non-binding and require a two-thirds majority in both the Commission and in Parliament.

ENTRY CONDITIONS
9. Only nations within the Rushmori region are eligible to join the Union, but all Rushmori nations are available to become candidates for entry should they agree to respect the treaty(ies) of the Rushmori Union.
10. All members shall have to respect the founding treaty(ies) of the Union and can only be accepted once they meet the criteria decided within the treaty(ies).
11. New members shall be accepted once they meet treaty criteria and once they receive the unanimous backing of all member states.
12. Candidate members are given observer status once an official application has been received and they receive the backing of 1/5th of member states.

FOUNDING VALUES
13. Member states agree to strive towards increasing economic, cultural, sporting and diplomatic relations and exchanges between each other in a spirit of cooperation and mutual benefit.
14. Member states shall respect fundamental human rights and aim to increase and maintain the rights and freedoms of their citizens.
15. Member states agree not to engage in armed conflict between each other and shall act to prevent and end unprovoked aggressions against a fellow member state.
16. Member states shall aim to help the development of all members states across the Rushmori region so that all members may enjoy a higher standard of living.

Prime Minister Leonardsson:

The Republic of Dunnes seconds your proposal, with the following addition:

MONETARY POLICY
17. The Rushmori Union states may, if they choose so, join a joint currency of a Rushmori Union. This separate currency must be used as the official currency of the nations that implement it.
18. The Rushmori Union Parliament and Commission shall create a joint sub-committee comprising of the Rushmori Currency's member countries' delegates to the Rushmori Commission and Parliament. This joint sub-committee will be given full power to delegate monetary policy for the Rushmori currency.

The Republic of Dunnes would be interested in such a currency, and is open to other nations ideas on how to implement it.

The Republic of Dunnes would also like to entertain the motion of establishing a Rushmori Union Court of Justice.

The Republic of Dunnes also raises the issue of establishing a host city for the Rushmori Union.

Sincerely,

Christopher Madeja
Prime Minister and First Lord of the Admiralty,
4 Beacon Place,
Parliament Hill,
Mirola 0001-05, DUNNES

by **Liventia** » Sun Aug 07, 2016 1:30 am

MEDIA STATEMENT // COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE // DIFFUSION IMMÉDIATE
REPUBLIC OF LIVENTIA // RÉPUBLIQUE LIVENTIENNE
STATE SECRETARIAT FOR EXTERNAL AFFAIRS // SECRÉTARIAT D'ÉTAT DES AFFAIRES ÉTRANGÈRES

The Republic of Liventia welcomes the commitment by the government of Dunnes to the formation of a currency union within the new Rushmori Union.

Liventia remains a steadfast supporter of such an economic union.

However, the Government of Liventia believes that proposals by Kernansquillec, which do not mention the freedom of movement for workers and goods, as going far enough for the union, and cannot in good faith support any such founding constitution when a key aspect of what the union should be predicated on is missing.

[Signed]
James McNulty MP
State Secretary for External Affairs
Republic of Liventia

by **Liventia** » Tue Aug 09, 2016 11:54 pm

PRIVATE COMMUNIQUÉ
REPUBLIC OF LIVENTIA
OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER OF LIVENTIA

Prime Minister's Office
5 Orean County Road
Orean, Liventia OR1N1

To: Cynthia Suarez, Prime Minister of Electrum; Christopher Madeja, Prime Minister of Dunnes

Dear Prime Ministers Suarez and Madeja:
I write to you today regarding the stalled talks on the formation of a Rushmori Union.

It appears to me that your governments are most in line with Liventia on the way forward for this union: that is, a full union of economic, monetary, trade, parliamentary and common open border principles.

It is therefore my proposal that high-ranking delegations from our three nations meet, either in Centralis where the main talks are being held or here in Orean, to flesh out the bones for the formation of an agreement between our three countries based on the guiding principles that were to have been the backbone of the Rushmori Union.

It would be a great example to the rest of the region if, between our three nations, we could abandon common border controls and adopt a common currency, to prove that it can be done. For want of a better name, the new Elduli treaty – perhaps we will end up calling it the Centralis Agreement or Orean Accord, depending on where talks take place – can be the starting point for greater regional understanding, and more nations can subsequently join us, rather than aiming big and falling at the first hurdle in forming a Rushmori Union.

To that end, I am happy for James McNulty, Liventia's foreign minister, to represent my government in these private talks. I hope your governments will be similarly agreeable.

With warmest regards,

[Signed]
James Morgan MP
Prime Minister of Liventia

by **Dunnes** » Wed Aug 10, 2016 11:53 am

Liventia wrote:
PRIVATE COMMUNIQUÉ
REPUBLIC OF LIVENTIA
OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER OF LIVENTIA
Prime Minister's Office
5 Orean County Road
Orean, Liventia OR1N1

To: Cynthia Suarez, Prime Minister of Electrum; Christopher Madeja, Prime Minister of Dunnes

Dear Prime Ministers Suarez and Madeja:
I write to you today regarding the stalled talks on the formation of a Rushmori Union.

It appears to me that your governments are most in line with Liventia on the way forward for this union: that is, a full union of economic, monetary, trade, parliamentary and common open border principles.

It is therefore my proposal that high-ranking delegations from our three nations meet, either in Centralis where the main talks are being held or here in Orean, to flesh out the bones for the formation of an agreement between our three countries based on the guiding principles that were to have been the backbone of the Rushmori Union.

It would be a great example to the rest of the region if, between our three nations, we could abandon common border controls and adopt a common currency, to prove that it can be done. For want of a better name, the new Elduli treaty – perhaps we will end up calling it the Centralis Agreement or Orean Accord, depending on where talks take place – can be the starting point for greater regional understanding, and more nations can subsequently join us, rather than aiming big and falling at the first hurdle in forming a Rushmori Union.

To that end, I am happy for James McNulty, Liventia's foreign minister, to represent my government in these private talks. I hope your governments will be similarly agreeable.

With warmest regards,

[Signed]
James Morgan MP
Prime Minister of Liventia

The Honorable Prime Ministers Suarez and Morgan:

The Republic of Dunnes welcomes the suggestions the Liventian Government has made, and would attend a summit between our three nations in either Centralis or Orean. I myself will attend the conference along with my Foreign Secretary Mark Kojacki, and Treasury Secretary Sarah Dodge.
Our government agrees with Prime Minister Morgan that if our trio of countries can make this union work, that more countries would be encouraged to join.
We look forward to continuing this productive conversation in the near future.

Sincerely,
Christopher Madeja
Prime Minister and First Lord of the Admiralty,
4 Beacon Place,
Parliament Hill,
Mirola 0001-05, DUNNES

by **Erathore** » Wed Aug 10, 2016 12:33 pm

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATION
THE TEN KINGDOMS OF ERATHORE
MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

To my esteemed colleagues,

The Ten Kingdoms of Erathore are encouraged by this movement to unite the nations of Rushmore under one banner, and we welcome the commitment by the already involved governments to the formation of a Rushmori Union.

After many long years of isolation, the nation of Erathore would like to lodge its support for a Rushmori Union, and looks forward to productive conversations that will serve to tremendously benefit the region as a whole.

The proposals put forth by Prime Minister Leonardsson of Kernansquillec and Prime Minister Madeja or Dunnes mostly fall in line with Erathi objectives. Specifically, we would like to mention a commitment in these proposals to enshrining national sovereignty and making sovereignty-related decisions non-binding for member states, as well as the creation of a sub-committee to oversee financial and monetary policy for a proposed Rushmori currency. While the nation of Erathore will not be adapting this common currency due to the strength of our own national currency, we do recognize the benefits nations will reap from this.

The nation of Erathore would second an amendment from Foreign Secretary Kojacki reserving the right to use military force to each and every country. National defense is the upmost priority of Erathore, and we reserve the right to use force to defend our nation, our interests, and our allies, whether that's in response to an attack on our nation or a strategically preemptive move.

To that end, the Ten Kingdoms of Erathore would be more than willing to work towards the creation of a common military reserve force. The prevalence of the arms industry and the size, strength, and budget of the Erathi military makes us perfectly qualified to supply military equipment, training, and personnel to nations lagging in these areas.

I look forward to working with my colleagues and believe this to be the precipice for an unheralded time of growth for the region of Rushmore.

Sincerely,
William Borah
Minister of External Affairs
The Ten Kingdoms of Erathore

by **Kernansquillec** » Fri Aug 12, 2016 5:19 am

Statement from the office of the Prime Minister

Following the statements made by Christopher MADEJA, Prime Minister of he Federal Republic of Dunnes, James MCNULTY MP, State Secretary for External Affairs of the Republic of Liventia, and William BORAH, Minister of External Affairs of the Ten Kingdoms of Erathore, the Parliamentary Republic of Kernansquillec would like to introduce the following modified working paper.

We hope the following modification shall allow nations wishing to strengthen their economic prospects via a currency union to do so, while allowing those who have no interest in such a project to keep their independence. While the issues of where the Parliament and Commission shall be seated, as well as the preambles, remain to be defined, we hope that this basis will now be agreed upon by all parties.

Respectfully yours,

Daina Leonardsson
Prime Minister of Kernansquillec

A. GOVERNANCE
1. Member states remain sovereign over all domestic and international affairs, but may be held legally and financially accountable by the Union should they enter Union agreements and fail to respect them;
2. A Rushmori Union Commission shall be composed by one member of each member state, named and dismissed by their own respective governments;
3. A Rushmori Parliament shall be composed of at least twenty members per member state, with larger nations being attributed one additional seat per twenty million inhabitants;
4. Members states are free to decide in which way their members of the Rushmori Parliament shall be elected;

B. LEGISLATION
5. The Commission shall be the sole body able to introduce legislation to Parliament;
6. A majority vote (50%+1) in the Commission and in Parliament shall suffice to pass legislation in most cases;
7. Votes on matters concerning national sovereignty are non-binding and require a two-thirds majority in both the Commission and in Parliament;
8. Votes for changes to founding treaty(ies) are non-binding and require a two-thirds majority in both the Commission and in Parliament;

C. ENTRY CONDITIONS
9. Only nations within the Rushmori region are eligible to join the Union, but all Rushmori nations are available to become candidates for entry should they agree to respect the treaty(ies) of the Union;
10. All members shall have to respect the founding treaty(ies) of the Union and can only be accepted once they meet the criteria decided within the treaty(ies);
11. New members shall be accepted once:
(a) treaty criteria are met and,
(b) the unanimous backing of all member states has been received;
12. Candidate members are given observer status once:
(a) an official application has been received and,
(b) the backing of 1/5th of member states has been given;

D. FOUNDING VALUES
13. Member agree to strive towards increasing and improving economic, cultural, sporting and diplomatic relations as well as exchanges between each other, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual benefit;
14. Member shall respect fundamental human rights and aim to increase and maintain the rights and freedoms of their citizens;
15. Member agree not to engage in armed conflict between each other and shall act to prevent and end unprovoked aggressions against a fellow member state;
16. Member shall aim to help the development of all members states across the Rushmori region so that all members may enjoy a higher standard of living;
17. Member shall ease their short-term visa conditions for citizens of fellow members and shall aim to also ease their long-term visa conditions;
18. Member shall aim to reduce quotas on good and services imported from fellow members;

E. COMMITEES
19. The Rushmori Union Commission may create a number of Committees, charged with specific areas of Rushmori Union policy;
20. Committee are composed by one member of each member state, named and dismissed by their own respective governments;
21. Any Committee may be dissolved should:
(a) all of its members agree to it dissolution or,
(b) all of its members withdraw from it or,
(c) the Rushmori Parliament vote to dissolve the Committee on the proposal of the Commission;
22. The First, Second and Third Committees' special provisions have priority over articles 19, 20 and 21;

F. THE FIRST COMMITTEE - REGIONAL ECONOMIC COOPERATION AND COORDINATION
23. A First Committee shall be formed and will be changed will ensuring regional economic cooperation and coordination, namely in regards to financial and monetary policy;
24. The First Committee may not infringe upon the sovereignty of member states, unless member states agree to give up sovereignty over the area concerned;
25. The First Committee may only be dissolved with the dissolution of the Rushmori Union;

G. THE SECOND COMMITTEE - CURRENCY UNION FORMATION
26. A Second Committee shall be formed and charged with creating a currency union within the Rushmori Union between members who are willing to join it;
27. The Second Committee shall be composed of one member for each member state interested in forming a currency union, named and dismissed by their own respective governments;
28. The Second Committee shall aim to find a consensus regarding the formation of a currency union;
29. The Second Committee will be dissolved after five years should:
(a) an agreement not be reached between participating members and,
(b) the Rushmori Parliament does not vote an extension of the deadline on the proposal of the Commission;
30. Should a consensus be found, the Second Committee:
(a) shall be renamed "The Second Committee - Currency Union",
(b) shall be composed of one representative of each currency union member, named and dismissed by their own respective governments,
(c) shall be charged with assuring the governance of the currency union,
(c) may only be dissolved by the provisions it sets out;

H. THE THIRD COMMITTEE - SCIENCE, EDUCATION, CULTURE, TECHNOLOGY
31. A Third Committee shall be formed and will be changed will encouraging exchanges and development in the fields of science, education, culture and technology;
32. The Third Committee may not infringe upon the sovereignty of member states, unless member states agree to give up sovereignty over the area concerned;
33. The Third Committee may only be dissolved with the dissolution of the Rushmori Union.

by **Electrum** » Fri Aug 12, 2016 9:04 am

Communication from the office of Prime Minister Suarez

To: James Morgan, Prime Minister of Liventia and Christopher Madeja, Prime Minister of Dunnes

Dear Prime Ministers Morgan and Madeja,

I think the action that Prime Minister Morgan has proposed is a very reasonable proposition and is perhaps the best course of action in convincing the other Rushmori nations into joining our political union. As a result, I, as well as my foreign minister Sam Myers have decided that we will travel to Orean, Liventia with our parliamentary delegation to continue the talks regarding a possible full integration in the domains of the economy and monetary policy, legislative ability and common open border policies.

At these talks we should also discuss the Kernansquillec working paper, as well as other points of discussion including entry requirements, structure and so forth. I believe that we should also discuss an opt-out option for some of the nations of the Rushmori Union, as that is currently a sticking point for many nations. I do believe however, that the economic and currency integration between our three nations will be most successful, and perhaps we could convince more people to 'join our side' so to speak.

I look forward to meeting you two in Orean.

Warmest regards,
Cynthia Suarez MP
Prime Minister of Electrum

Common Rushmori Community Formation Talks [ATTN: Rushmore]

Common Rushmori Community Formation Talks [ATTN: Rushmore]

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