Global Aerospace Trade Association [Open; IC]

[The Macabees]

Dominus Urbem

Typically, when one thinks of a leader, the hair color of the person in mind is grey, even white. But, the Supreme Overlord was very young — only 14. But, Fedor had been young when he first ascended to the throne, being then in his early 20s. So, young leaders did not surprise him. A well run country is a well run country, and any leader of such a government should be paid respect. Besides, Fedor was still young himself. Most foreign presidents, kings, and other rulers were far older, typically in their 50s and 60s. Fedor was still in his 30s; he had a very long time left on the throne.

The emperor followed the Supreme Overlord into the conference room the latter had his assistants prepare. He politely introduced himself and Díadora, "This is my assistant, Díadora Gaitán."

Díadora, smiling, stretched out her arm and shook those of the Supreme Overlord and his aide. Then, the Helltank leader sat down, his aide beside him, and Fedor and Díadora followed. It was long, elegant glass table, and Fedor sat directly across from his host.

The Supreme Overlord expressed some concerns over the defense requirements of GATA, although he did not get much into it. Fedor nodded his head, and offered an introduction to what the general idea behind GATA was, "To allay concerns, the Golden Throne is not interested in an 'alliance' that requires us to pledge our armies towards the defense of another. What we're interested in is an association that allows each nation to defend its own interests. Thus, GATA has no foreign policy. Instead, we agree to stop foreign powers from attacking civilian low-earth orbit flights. The idea is that if GATA is strong enough, no foreign power will ever attack our trade routes, because the cost of doing is high — the cost being facing the ire of signatory governments. In this way, we create a source of long distance trade that is secure, with a low risk of disruption. And, because of this security, our private industries have an incentive to invest in the necessary technologies."

[The Macabees]

Cardíl's meeting with Lyunika

[OOC: If Bloodhaven wants to have the conference together that's fine, but I was actually assuming the two meetings were taking place on different days, or at least at different times.]

Cardíl listened to Lyunkia's concerns and comments patiently. The Macabee diplomat's preferred 'strategy,' if one could call it that, was to be as forward and honest as possible. Some people found his directness off-putting — although, this is a cultural trait common to the Macabee people —, but he could be trusted.

Addressing the Haize representative, Cardíl said, "No, please, suggest whatever comes to mind. I speak directly, but I mean no offense. We welcome your ideas. We have a penchant for debate, at any rate. I apologize in advance if any of it seems rude, or at least seems as if Haize ideas are unwanted. That is unintended, and we value your ideas, comments, and suggestions. GATA is an association for all, not an association only for us."

The diplomat wanted to clarify the purpose of GATA, "We're not interesting in creating an active 'alliance' of any sort. In that context, we're not interested in creating a GATA-funded fleet of ships. Here, in the Golden Throne, we have a preference towards markets, and all civilian low-earth orbit technology, equipment, and actual flights will be controlled by the private sector. Of course, Haishan has its own domestic policy, and it's free to pursue it — just like all GATA nations are completely autonomous. Also, Haishan is free to negotiate with other GATA nations to create joint-civilian fleets, or to fund these, or towards whatever other end. But, that just wouldn't be official GATA business. Such bilateral trade discussions between governments, all this being said, is a perk of belonging to GATA. This is especially true because you will have already developed some kind of trade agreement with various foreign nations, just by virtue of belonging to the association."

Lyunkia moved on to Lyras, briefly interrupted by some kind of urgent message. This was a difficult topic for any representative of the Golden Throne, because it was touchy — the Second Empire was treading a thin line, walking on the razor's edge, so to speak. The recent Treaty of Hoogensbosch stabilized relations with Stevid, currently at war with Lyras, but the Empire's relationship with Lyras went back much farther. The best term for the Empire's position in the ongoing conflict in eastern Greater Díenstad, to put it as accurately as possible, is 'indifferent' — 'neutral' may be a word someone more cognizant of others' interpretation might use.

Speaking on the matter, Cardíl said, "The Golden Throne has a friendly relationship with Lyras. Our position in the current conflict in the east is strictly neutral. But, I can promise you that I will stress to His Imperial Majesty, and our diplomatic corps, the need to diplomatically intervene, and perhaps help bring the conflict to a close. At the very least, we can help guarantee the safety of low-earth orbit trade. It might behoove GATA to approach Lyras. Member governments don't need to be friendly with each other, because this isn't an alliance. Rather, it's really just an agreement to uphold and defend the neutrality of our long-distance trade routes."

"One of the ideas that motivates GATA, to re-emphasize this point, is that its success doesn't depend on the relations between member countries. It's just an agreement that helps shape the meta-rules, you could call them. Countries can go to war with each other, but our trade routes are secure, because we have an entire association of countries ready to defend the neutrality of civilian low-earth orbit flight. Our relations with Stevid will be what they are, but that should have no impact on the success of GATA."

Because of the brief period of international isolation, the Golden Throne's understanding and presence in foreign crises had deteriorated quite a bit. Cardíl found this a good opportunity to inquire on eastern Greater Díenstadi politics, "What are your concerns regarding Lyras? Our international relations are stuck, almost, back in 2017 — our calendar, he specified. Our understanding might need updating. That would certainly help us better determine our foreign policy."

[Havensky]

Skyan Department of Trade
Crystal City, Havensky
Region of Texas

They want it when? By the sky! Don't they realize how long it takes to ship mass printers? Well I *know* it's important, but I barely have the staff to keep up with our current initiatives - much less figure out how to get you three more mass printers by the end of the week... Well I'm not the one who decided to build a brand new city halfway across the world!... Look, let me see what I can do... WELL, *good day to you too!*

Rich Amberwing, Undersecretary for Civilian Logistics, slammed the phone down on the receiver. He brought his fingertips to his temples, rubbing them to try to relieve some of the stress. He was balding, his once lush black hair was now stringy at best. And Amberwing was convinced the last year had accelerated the process.

After the Milogradian War, the Skybound Republic found itself in possession of territory on the other side of the globe from the capital city. In Gholgoth no less, home to the most unfriendly set of nations that Amberwing would have imagined.

The Skybound Republic had gone on an immense building spree to set it's new territory up for success. A new port, a new airport, high speed rail lines, a whole Safe Passage System to help vessels through Gothic Waters. An entire "Long Patrol" program to bring goods, people, and supplies in from Texas to Gholgoth. It had been a massive undertaking.

To find labor for the new city, the Skyan Republic had loosened the immigration laws so that anyone willing to build the new city could find a home at Citadel City. However, the program had worked too well with housing in short supply. They had already brought in twelve mass printers - large 3D printers - to help build the city. Now, Amberwing was told they needed even more printers along with a ton of other supplies.

It was a little too much for Amberwing. He reached to pull a cigarette out of his desk drawer. He was about to light it when his assistant walked into the office and snatched it out of his hand.

Hey!, shouted Amerwing.

You shouldn't smoke those things.. besides, I think I found just the thing that could help us out.

* * * * *

To: The Honorable Enrik Cardíl, Macabee attaché to GATA
From: Sir Richard Amberwing, Undersecretary of Civilain Logistics, Skybound Republic of Havensky

Dear Mr. Cardíl,

On the behalf and the behest of People of the Skybound Republic of Havensky, I am writing to express our nation's interest in joining the GATA. Our current initiatives require an substantial increase in the speed of which our civilian transport traverse the globe and we feel that the GATA provides a unique opportunity to accomplish this.

The ports of Citadel City, Port Pravoka, and Emerald City will be converted to allow for hypersonic aircraft. In addition, our civilians airship transport lines should extend the reach of the GATA network to the regions of Texas, Gholgoth, and the Eastern Mediterranean. We will also send representatives from Raven Aeronautics who can assist with the further development of this technology. Currently, the Skybound Republic has hypersonic aircraft - but these craft are primarily for military use. The engineering team behind our hypersonic fighter have been authorized to develop a transport variant which should be ready for deployment fairly quickly.

Please feel free to contact me directly with further details and next steps.

Best Regards,

Sir Richard Amberwing,
Department of Trade
Skybound Republic of Havensky

[Bloodhaven]

.<OOC: I'm ok with it if all parties agree to it. I can edit it in if necessary

Knight absorbed that information. Using the threat of force as a determent....he could respect that. An assistant runs in and slides a message to him. He reads it. "My superiors like the way of thinking with protection. They wish to know specifics about how exactly to protect the routes. Aircraft patrols, anti-aircraft, etc.?"

[Helltank]

Dominus Urbem
Helltank smiles and takes a sip of water. "We understand the aims of the Golden Throne. But our main concern is this. With the respective military strength of the other nations currently participating in the Global Aerospace Trade Association, our military analysts believe that we and the Golden Throne will be the main defenders of the trade network arising from membership in the GATA. That is, we essentially take on the responsibility of defending nearly half of a worldwide trade network. It is impossible for nations with a small military like Bloodhaven to defend a scattered network against focused threats."

He glances down at a slip of paper, though he has long since memorized everything on those notes. So far, Fedor had remained calm and confident, the mark of an experienced diplomat. It was transparent that the meeting's secondary purpose was for Helltank to assess the character of the Golden Throne and decide whether it would be worth the while to link up with the GATA. That was, he presumed, why Fedor had come himself instead of sending a representative- not that Helltank would mind very much if he had. Such a man would be easier to control and coerce.

"You mention that the disincentive for an attack on our trade routes is the ire of those in the GATA. But a concerted alliance or one of the bigger superpowers and its followers would certainly possess enough strength to significantly disrupt commercial activities. As such, we are willing to join the GATA, on the terms that the Empire of Helltank's first priority is to defend the section of trade network that belongs in its airspace in the case of foreign attack before aiding other member nations. In return, we will contribute a Airbound Laser Defense Platform, or ALDP; the weapon commonly referred to as the "Death Star", as a gesture of goodwill. We believe such a satellite would be highly useful for initial defense of the GATA trade network."

Helltank had seen enough- perceiving no obvious flaws, weaknesses or incompetency on the behalf of the Golden Throne or the trade association it was attempting to form, save for that tiny hiccup in its rules(quickly fixed, to give credit where it was due), he was ready to sign. The only thing left now was to put pen to paper and formalize the affair.

[The Macabees]

Sitting at his desk, in his office, Enrik Cardil read the various mail — delivered across a variety of media — he received earlier in the morning. Flipping through some of the letters sent electronically to him, that his assistant had printed out for his convenience, he suddenly stopped at one that must have looked particularly interesting to him. It was from a Sir Amberwing, Undersecretary for Civilian Logistics in the Havensky government. Havensky, or the 'Skybound Republic,' was known as a Gholgoth nation, although Cardil wasn't quite sure what the situation was with regards to where exactly Havensky is located. Apparently, its territory in Gholgoth was just that, 'territory,' in the same sense as Theohuanacu is a territory of the Golden Throne. That's why he wasn't one for tracking down the exact history of anything, since it always so complicated.

What excited him about this letter, in any case, was that it was from a Gholgoth nation...well, it was at least from a nation with land in Gholgoth. The Golden Throne had really never had particularly friendly relations with any Gholgoth nation, apart from interactions with the Kraven Corporation, which by now were vague memories. Having a Gholgoth-affiliated country in GATA, nevertheless, presented a unique opportunity to expand trade to that region, which otherwise is mostly 'mercantilistically' isolated from Greater Díenstad.

Cardil picked up a pen and promptly responded. He supposed he could just write his letter on his computer, but he much rather have assistant to that for him.

To: Sir Richard Amberwing, Havensky
From: Enrik Cardil, Macabee attaché to GATA

Esteemed Sir Amberwing,

Both GATA and the Golden Throne are excited to have Havensky join the aerospace trade association. That joining GATA requires adhering to the rules of GATA is obvious, so there's no business on my end that I have for you. I am, however, at your disposal, to answer your questions. You are free to contact me, either for issues pertaining specifically to GATA, or even bilateral trade discussions between two governments. I can answer your questions, and address your issues, either in person or via mail.

Once those airfields are prepared in the Skybound Republic's Gholgoth territories, I am sure that GATA's presence will come on its own. Macabee firms are surely itching to expand to Gothic markets, and this is probably true the other way around, as well. Havensky civilian low-earth orbit aircraft are always welcomed in our airspace; we are strong believers in free, unregulated trade. There is no doubt that Havensky's joining of GATA will bring much wealth to both societies.

Regards,

Enrik Cardil

[The Macabees]

Video Conference with Even Knight

"Hm," thought Cardil. The Bloodhaven diplomat had asked him specific examples of how to defend GATA trade routes. "I am not the best equipped to think of military strategy."

Knight did not seem amused, and Cardil acted quickly before the other man could say anything, "I'll call Jenegos Bartrud Ferst." Janegos being Díenstadi for 'general.' "He's a Harka Jangeos, which is more-or-less equivalent to a 'brigadier general.' He'll be able to give you a better answer to your question."

He dialed the number to Ferst's offices in a base just outside the capital, near the River Nestor. A few seconds later, the low, baritone voice of the general answered, "How can I help you, Enrik?"

"I have you on speakerphone," warned the Macabee diplomat. "I'm sitting here, speaking to Mr. Even Knight, who is representing Bloodhaven." Janegos Ferst introduced himself, and Cardil continued, "He is asking how exactly we propose to defend the GATA trade routes."

"Well," started Ferst, "as I understand the main idea is to create a deterrent, to avoid war altogether. But, if our trade routes were ever attacked, we would defend them by whatever means available. This includes aircraft armed with missiles that can hit relevant targets, as well as ships with similar capabilities. We will never achieve perfect protection, in the sense of avoiding damage in general. If anyone ever dared attack GATA trade routes, I suspect we'd lost a few civilian aircraft. But, we have the capability of striking back, and once in a state of war we can expend the resources to protect these low-earth orbit aircraft and spacecraft directly, with escorts and such. Of course, during peacetime, our aircraft are patrolling various parts of the sky and space, but they can't be expected to have 100 percent efficiency in their job."

Cardil wanted to add some words to the general's, "GATA signatories obviously can't protect every inch of trade route. The idea is to protect those around our assets, so that on aggregate GATA as a whole can protect all the routes. In other words, Bloodhaven would protect those local to it. A permanent defense of all of the trade routes by any one nation would be far too costly. Their defense is really a defense in numbers. The success of GATA depends, in large part, on the number of signatory governments. Given the advantages afforded by GATA, our expectation is to have a long list of signatory nations. But, in this respect, the association is still a long-run project."

[The Macabees]

Dominus Urbem

Listening to the Supreme Overlord's concerns, Fedor thought to himself, the GATA terms could have been written a bit better. Helltank's leadership was worried that the bulk of the trade routes' defense would fall on countries like its own, that had the material capability of defending most of the trade network — even if such a project would still be...uneconomical, to say the least. When his counterpart finished speaking, Fedor quickly tried to address the issues that the Supreme Overlord had brought up, "We don't expect any one nation to defend the entirety of the trade network. Rather, since this is a network between signatory nations, the general idea is for each country to defend networks local to it. This is admittedly quite vague, but I can be a bit more specific. Suppose that country x decides to attack a trade route, and this part of the trade route cannot be said to be 'local' to anyone. Well, in that case, we'd expect those within reasonable distance to defend them. It clearly behooves other nations to help, as well. But, the most important part is that we do not expect for any nation to defend the entirety of the network on its own."

"It is, of course, understood that Helltank has a responsibility to her own people, first and foremost. If your country were embroiled in a conflict requiring the totality of your resources, GATA does not expect you to rush to the defense of another country's trade network. But, if your enemy attacked your own trade routes, it would be in the Golden Throne's interests, for example, to come to the defense of Helltank, at least as far as those low-earth orbit trade routes are concerned."

The Supreme Overlord also mentioned the threat of large, powerful alliances. Fedor did not hesitate, "That is a good point, and it's one that should concern GATA. The current rules are ambiguous with regards to inter-GATA conflicts, and conflict in general. We want to be as far away from a military alliance as possible. That way, we can gain members of various alliances — even organizations opposed to each other —, which would undermine the ability of any one alliance to blockade GATA trade routes. It would mean, after all, an attack on a member of their own group. One motivation behind this association is that trade gives cause for peace."

[Bloodhaven]

Knight got a thumbs up from the doorway. The brass liked that plan.

"Thank you very much, General. That clears up several questions over on our end." He consists his list and clicks through a few documents on another screen. "I believe that may be the end of the questions I have. The general's explanation answered most of the ones we had. Donyou wish to ask anything of us?"

[The Macabees]

Unfortunately, Cardil had not prepared any questions for Mr. Knight. He had mostly prepared only for the questions on GATA. It might have been a good opportunity to dive deeper into Bloodhaven–Macabee relations, but the Macabee diplomat hadn't foreseen that opportunity. Neither was that topic really his job. He was told to, first and foremost, tend to the questions and comments on GATA. Cardil was also responsible for maintaining contact with other GATA governments, and to inform His Imperial Majesty on all matters concerning the association.

"I don't have any questions right now, but my door is always open to you, and to Bloodhaven more generally. I trust the same is true the other way around. I am responsible for coordinating GATA and my government, so that in that sense I also coordinate between the other signatory governments. I am here to tend to the problems of other GATA countries. If your government ever needs to get into direct contact with mine, as a member of GATA, worst case you can access me. We are very excited to have Bloodhaven as a signatory member of GATA, and we hope that the relationship between your government and mine continues to grow and progress."

Bloodhaven, perhaps, had more to gain than many other GATA members. It was (I think) the sole representative of Balder in GATA, a region of more than 3,000 states. While Bloodhaven, unfortunately, probably wasn't economically integrated with the majority of those, due to the pure logistics of the relevant distances involved, it nevertheless had access to a market much larger than many other nations. A country in Greater Díenstad, of similar size to Bloodhaven's, would not benefit as much, because the extent of the markets (the number of total people) is much more limited. Bloodhaven's involvement in GATA, however, would give it access to various other regional economies. Thus, Bloodhaven would attract more trade from its own region, because these other Balder nations would use Bloodhaven as a gateway to the various regions linked via the trade association. In other words, Even Knight just secured his government its involvement in a lucrative organization, that would increase that country's financial muscle in its region.

[Haishan]

OOC : I was thinking the meeting is simultaneous to solve headache of multiple timelines in the RP but I suppose it's easier if Cardil meeting with Lyunika is indeed another day apart than Cardil meeting with Knight.

She could clearly perceive the bluntness of the GATA diplomat on the real and potential issues surrounding the organization ensemble, silently applauding himself for being direct to the core. For Haize societal utilitarianism, honesty is highly valued in regards of interactions with each other thus Enrik Cardil's behavior further piqued her interest on the man. Why would a militarily-experienced person as him decided to jump into half truths and lies adorning international politics and diplomatics? Perhaps there are something more to his tale as externally perceived by the Provost as she continues to build her perception over the man of contrasts. She was indeed, previously a human of contrasts thus found herself somewhat intrigued by Enrik Cardil.

As she attentively gleams over his speech, Provost Lyunika produces a small tablet on her left hand "I see. So what you meant of, the organization is essentially a series of associative trade arrangements, a mutual vision and mission for a common economic goal? Akin to the World Assembly? Then the Haize Junta will rectify our statements to be inline with this interpretation as stated by you, Mr. Enrik Cardil. As you may hath noted, the Junta are rather interested to know the true intents and boundaries of this organization, to reduce any unfavourable incidents should they occur."

"Unfortunately I cannot properly answer your second question at this time, Mr. Enrik Cardil. The Junta have acknowledged that the Golden Throne ally, Kingdom of Imbrinium have initiated a region-wise, -ehem- I mean, region-wide Kessler cascade and People United Federation of Mokastana have caused yet another Kessler cascade by destruction of HIMF assets." The Provost face quickly shifts from smiling to a somewhat a small frown that could be detected by an attentive persona as she receives stream of reports from Sergeant Aeyzi through the same channel as before.

She then shuffles her documents around while being assisted by her assigned diplomatic personnel, "Perhaps now it's now the chance for the limits and 'meta-rules' of your organization is to be trialed? I also have received words from HIMF that a space conflict and collateral might be unavoidable due to Mokan recent actions thus I'm here to compromise with the Golden Throne if you would like to consider a diplomatic discourse with the Junta. Once again we stated our intentions are to research on boundaries of your organization and for these 'meta-rules' as you called, to be properly defined for the prosperity of Global Aerospace Trade Association."

[The Macabees]

[OOC: Sorry, for some reason I thought I was the last person to post.]

Cardíl's meeting with Lyunika

The Macabees are indeed a very honest, forward people. It probably helps to explain why the country is not immensely popular, but respected — sometimes, the truth hurts and some people rather not hear it. For Enrik Cardíl honesty came naturally these days, because he had found that nothing was worth hiding. Secrets, the act of misleading, and all those clandestine social activities eat at the soul of the perpetrator. The Macabee's dark past that he had tried to keep hidden for so long ended up doing more damage to him than to those he tried to keep his stories from. Lyunika, in any case, seemed appreciative of Cardíl's candidness, even if the diplomat's opinions were not always attractive. His character, for example, had betrayed his true feelings about Lyunika's 'sexual confusion,' as a conservative male Macabee would put it (even in such a cosmopolitan world as today's). That didn't seem to alter her composure though. Cardíl respected his Haize counterpart's professionalism.

He was not so happy about Lyunika's dodge to his question on Lyras. The true purpose of the inquiry was to help inform the Golden Throne's foreign policies, as Cardíl was being completely honest when describing the empire's diplomatic blackout. He nevertheless swept the Haize's evasion aside and addressed her concerns about the recent attack on Haishan's space assets, "Imbrinium's attack was unfortunate. It was not only attach on Haishan, it was also an attack on the Second Empire. Imbrinium and the Golden Throne have agreed to terms of compensation. We hope that we can play a part in whatever future peace discussions are held between your government and those of your aggressors, because we would like to pressure them to compensate you for your space losses. His Imperial Majesty, Fedor I, truly believes that the perpetrators of those strikes should be held liable for the damages, as that is the only way to ensure that these events do not happen again. The costs of the action must be internalized by the assailant."

Cardíl continued, "I understand that 'compensation' may seem...'too little, too late,' so to speak, but I must stress the importance of maintaining the neutrality of low- and high-orbit. Through the authority bestowed upon me by Fedor I, I can offer the guarantee that the Second Empire of the Golden Throne will invoke GATA should any Greater Díenstadi country dare escalate orbital conflict again. Fedor is also prepared to offer interim compensation — in full amount —, and we will simply subrogate the claim against Imbrinium. But, we need some kind of strong signal that Haishan is willing to cooperate on this matter."

Regarding Lyunika's comment on testing the organization's meta-rules, the Macabee diplomat smiled and said, "Rules can only improve if they are subject to the process of competition, which means we have to test them and see how they hold. We invite that kind of attitude, because it can only mean an improved GATA over the long-run. I, and the rest of the Imperial Government, truly believes that GATA can introduce a new era of global trade."

[Mokastana]

FROM:
Manuel Diego, Minister of Economic Advisement
The People's Unified Federation of Mokastana, Wellovia, Aqua Anu and Associated States

TO:
The Global Aerospace Trade Association


Due to an increased in demand for Mokan luxury/pharmaceutical goods in The Golden Throne, and the costs associated with transporting goods across Greater Dienstad, I believe the time has come to open up additional infrastructure to allow 'Low Earth Orbit' trade to occur with respectable nations such as the signatories of this Trade Agreement. Many products such as our cigars, recreational drugs, and spirits are shipped around the world, but at high costs which, while allowing a sense of exclusiveness, prevents the products from reaching their full market potential. With this agreement in place, it will be possible for Mokan companies to ship in bulk across the world and allow local companies to manage distribution of Mokan Luxury goods in their parts of the world. This will allow Mokan goods to reach a larger market, and key trade partners like the ones in this agreement to benefit from the expanding markets as well.

Of course, this would also open up Mokan markets for the reverse treatment of distributing and receiving goods from member states, thus benefiting everyone as a whole.

We would of course require the proper knowledge and schematics for producing the required infrastructure on Mokan soil.

Thank you for your consideration,
Manuel Diego, Minister of Economic Advisement
The People's Unified Federation of Mokastana, Wellovia, Aqua Anu and Associated States

[The Macabees]

To: Manuel Diego, Minister of Economic Advisement

If there is one country that is representative of northeastern Greater Dienstad, it is Mokastana. Your exports, even in lieu of shorter, less expensive trade routes, can be seen as far west as the Macabee mainland. It would truly be an honor for the Global Aerospace Trade Association (GATA) to have a government like Mokastana's within its member ranks. With that being said, there is clearly no option other than to accept your membership request. We know that, as you yourself say, this will open the floodgates to greater Mokan exports, and that other member states will reciprocate by selling their wares to the Mokan people. The opportunity for mutual economic flourishing is limitless.

As far as infrastructure is concerned, there is currently no intra-government program for infrastructure technology sharing. Nevertheless, member governments may be more than willing to help you organize the necessary spending to bring your infrastructure up to speed, although I can't offer a specific recommendation. Over here, in the Golden Throne, this is all privatized. Now, that presents itself as another perfectly respectable option. I'm certain that there are plenty of companies, many of them probably Mokan, willing to jump in the void and invest the necessary capital to bring the requisite technology to Mokastana. Indeed, it bears reminding that this form of trade brings with it countless opportunities for profit, and if there's one thing we can count on capitalism to accomplish it's companies investing if there are profits to be made.

We are all very excited about Mokastana's entry into GATA. I hope that we keep in contact; should you ever have any questions or concerns, or would like to open a diplomatic line, please do not hesitate to get in contact with me.

Yours respectfully,

Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

[Morrdh]

RE: Global Aerospace Trade Association

To Whom It Concerns,

In a world of increasing globalization and decreasing boundaries to transit the Commonwealth constantly reassesses trade opportunities and its policies related to trade. With an already extensive aerospace industry the Commonwealth is interested in expanding its international trading.

To this end I am writing to formally state he intention of Her Serenity's Government to apply for membership of the GATA.

Yours,

Sir Gedney Hill,
Foreign Secretary, Commonwealth of Morrdh.

[The Macabees]

To: Sir Gedney Hill, Foreign Secretary

GATA is more than thrilled to hear that a nation of the stature of Morrdh wants to join its ranks. It is a further treat that not only are you a fellow Greater Díenstadi nation, but that you complete a triumvirate — along with Mokastana and Haishan — in the northeast sector of the region. You three are the window to the world to the east Greater Díenstad, to regions such as Gholgoth and beyond. This is a promise of great wealth to your nation, and to all members of GATA. Best of all, Morrdh has for a long time sustained an investment in space technology, and the majority of the necessary infrastructure is most likely already in place. Sir Hill, I am excited to communicate that your request for admittance into GATA has been accepted. We hope that this is just the first step towards mutual prosperity.

Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

[Urulandia]

To: Global Aerospace Trade Association

From: Pilar Logrez
Subject: Urulandia Joing GATA


To Whom It May Concern,

The Urulandian economy is doing better than it ever has. We have recently restructured our agricultural sector and begun mass exporting of our produce. Joining GATA would ensure a continuation of this growth and would bring us closer to the existing member nations. We would gladly like to announce the we wish to join.

Kind Regards,
Pilar Logrez,
Minister of Trade

[The Macabees]

To: Pilar Logrez, Minister of Trade

To have Urulandia as a member of GATA would be an honor and, if I may, I personally welcome you to the association. With Urulandia joining Morrdh, Mokastana, and Haishan as a stronghold for peaceful orbital trade in eastern Greater Dienstad, it shows the progress that that part of the region has made in becoming a nexus of intra-regional trade. I look forward to the growth in trade between our two nations and the association in general, which will bring wealth and stability to our people and governments.

Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

[Palmyrion]

OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY
Lakan Palace, Benevolencia
The Capitol District, United Federation of Palmyrion
Telefax: (078) 598-0423
E-mail: office_secretary@dti.gov.upf

---

24 January 2016

Global Aerospace Trade Association (GATA)

Dear GATA,

As we move 9 years from the Palmyrian Restoration after the end of 1976 Palmyrian Civil War on 1985, we feel that our trade is limited, since we have been trading only by sea, and only with our immediate neighbors. We also feel that if our economy were to advance we need newer trade routes, and we have found what are the new trade routes: space.

We are only beginning to appreciate the value of space as a trade route, and by joining GATA we might unlock the possibilities of spacefaring trade and help bolster our trade relations with other nations. We are now expressing our interest to join GATA.

Sincerely Yours,
[digitally signed]
Sec. Jamaine Cortez
Secretary, Department of Trade and Industry

[The Macabees]

Sitting at his desk, the walnut tabletop as long and broad as a june bug's carapace, Enrik Cardíl received a letter from the Greater Díenstadi nation of Palmyrion. Of this nation, Cardíl knew very little. It was a relatively young government there, a recent newcomer to the game that was Greater Díenstadi intra-region politic. But, it lived in a part of the expansive region of Greater Díenstad that the Golden Throne had very little interaction with and that was generally far off from the rest of the region. And thus the continent was ripe for the flourishing of atmospheric trade routes. After the courier's bows and eventual withdrawal, the Macabeean diplomat opened it and read the letter's contents. Cardíl smiled, because GATA had just been blessed by an important entry into the organization. And it was with great vigor that the diplomat set off to write a response,

Secretary Cortez,

I am thrilled with your decision to join the GATA agreement. This is a momentous event, and GATA will owe much to your great nation. You are the only western Greater Díenstadi nation in GATA. You have opened that continent's trade to a vastly greater array of trade partners, all that new business will flow in and out of the one country that controls those trade routes: Palmyrion. GATA will bring you much wealth, not just in the form of a much broader spectrum of trade partners, but also in helping you gain economic dominance over your neighbors. And, of course, GATA as a whole stands to benefit, as well, with the interaction of an even greater number of markets. Then, you understand my excitement in penning this response. Welcome to GATA.

Enrik Cardíl
Macabeean attaché to GATA

[Palmyrion]

OOC: Deleted for a major retcon.

[New Azura]

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A Communiqué to the Global Aerospace Trade Association:

I pray that this missive finds your member-states in good standing. The Evenguard of Azura extends its greetings to you on this day.

This government, in keeping with the highest of traditions of due diligence, honor and virtue, have long sought to establish prudent diplomatic ties to not only further the domestic needs of the state, but to extend both our influence and our culture throughout the world. It is the belief of this government that close-mindedness and isolation fosters fear and confusion, which threatens the very fabric of peace and stability. Lest we forget the importance of the economic considerations in any such diplomatic extension of relations, the fostering of closer ties is the next step in ensuring the continuation of stability in our world.

As you know, the cohesion of the state is only as formidable as the economic might it wields. It is economic strength that projects influence and prestige where diplomacy and war fail. Through the vitality of the state's markets, true influence may be brought to bear in the world. It is the opinion then of this government, after vetting the auspices through which you operate, that the Global Aerospace Trade Association represents an alluring and enticing specter in the conducting of economic trade in a world beset by the digital revolution. We feel membership in this organization could benefit both our state, and the whole of the association as well.

As such, by the authority vested in the Throne of Tsyion and she who sits upon it, I do hereby authorize the petitioning of the Global Aerospace Trade Association on behalf of the People of the Evenguard of Azura, that the Azuran Empire might be granted full rights and privileges accorded to the various member-states of this multinational organization. We shall make known any and all pertinent information to the ends of fostering the expedition of this petition for admission, and will in due course make available any and all resources possible to the dispositions of this organization and the member-states who chart its course moving forward.

Thus it shall be made so, according to the Laws of the Evenguard of Azura and the prescribed full measure of authority vested in Phaedra. Let the Codices of Official Doctrines and Law be amended to include this declaration for posterity. Oyez, it is completed.

May Providence and Fortune Smile Over This Organization.

Witness My Hand and Seal This Day, the Legal Signature of the State of Azura



As the Acting Sovereign of the Great People of the Great and Mighty Evenguard

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Her Graceful Eminence the Phaedra
Calixte I Marauder, By the Sovereignty of the Ethereal Host of the Lord God
First Matron of the House Vardanyan and the Vanguard of the Throne of Tsyion
Spirited Maiden of the Faith, Daughter of Tsyion, Blessed Child of Courage, Knowledge and Truth, Solemn Voice of Azura and Her Children
Empress-Queen of the Evenguard, Noble and True Imperatrix of Kinseleagh, the Citadel, Oriental Azura, Saravora and Valexa[/b]

Praises to Phaedra! Glory and Honor to Her Graceful Eminence! Hallelujah to God in the Highest for Our Mother!

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^{General Router Number: AX151D29150Authentication Codices: J91523F8153Locational Proximal C-1: S723K9X152X}

[The Macabees]

Her Grace, Queen of the Evenguard, Calixte I Marauder,

I must say that it is quite the honor to write you. It goes without saying that the Evenguard's application to GATA has been accepted. I have always thought of GATA as a necessary solution to a problem that cannot be solved individually, but with Azura with us I can say with certainty that the future of GATA is bright indeed.

You are absolutely right that political stability resides in economic strength, and vice versa. When placed against the context of human history, it was not long ago when simple famines would cause the collapse of governments and even entire societies. Economic growth and complexity means nothing more than the diversification of our sources of prosperity, which reduces the stranglehold any one factor may have on the success and survivability of a State and her people. Azura is of course well beyond that fledgling state that all new countries must go through, but that is why your country is such an idea candidate for GATA. The association will provide the Evenguard with the next phase of economic evolution by opening markets that were otherwise too distant, too unknown, and too costly to interact with. And it is not just other member countries that you will benefit from, but also from the access you have gained to their regions.

If I may make a recommendation, and please excuse any ignorance on my part, I recommend that Azura now look at providing the infrastructure to make possible the landing and take-off of GATA tradecraft. As I suggested, if this infrastructure is already in place, then please ignore my obvious lack of knowledge. If it is not, I trust that you know best how to make it spawn. With that being said, if your government is open to the private ownership of these assets, creating a streamlined channel through which investors can contact the proper authorities for necessary licenses, contracts, or permissions.

I hope that Azura's entry into GATA will also lead to a flourishing a relations between the Evenguard and the Golden Throne, as well as between the Evenguard and the other member nations. And if you ever have a question or concern, please do not hesitate to reach me. I am here to make member nations' incorporation into GATA as seamless and frictionless as possible.

Kind regards,

Enrík Cardíl
Macabeean attaché to GATA

[Lamoni]

Office of the President of the Free Republic of Lamoni

To:
Enrik Cardíl
Macabee attaché to GATA

It is with pleasure that the Free Republic of Lamoni seeks admittance to the Global Aerospace Trade Association, allowing us to more efficiently extend our trade routes with other GATA member nations. As the second largest economy in the region of Greater Dienstad, it is our opinion that our nation has much to offer GATA in the way of trade volume, as well as the ability to protect the GATA trade routes, ensuring continued economic prosperity for all GATA nations. Further, the Free Republic has (for some time) had the ability to build space stations, which have the logistics potential to further expand GATA's global reach, should the organization continue to expand.

We look forward to hearing a response from GATA on the matter of Lamonian admission to the organization.

Signed,



Andrew Stinson
President
Free Republic of Lamoni

[The Macabees]

The Honorable President Andrew Stinson, The Free Republic of Lamoni

You are absolutely correct that, as the second largest economy in the region, Lamoni's impact on GATA's trade volume and security would be huge. Lamoni's application to GATA has, of course, been approved. We look forward to a new era of enhanced commerce and prosperity; an era made possible by greater economic cooperation between the two mightiest economic powers in Greater Dienstad.

Kind regards,

Enrík Cardíl
Macabeean attaché to GATA