ARC Program: The Oak, Birch And Ginkgo [Canon | IC | Closed]

[Americke]

As the sun ascends over the iconic skyline of Washington D.C., casting its golden glow upon the city, a palpable sense of anticipation hangs in the air. The distant thrum of Blackhawks slicing through the sky and the urgent wails of sirens weaving through the streets serve as a symphony of significance, heralding the dawn of a momentous day. In the heart of the nation’s capital, where history is etched into every corner, today holds the promise of greatness, its very essence woven into the fabric of the city’s pulse.

Throughout the sprawling cityscape of Washington D.C., a formidable presence emerges as layers of security blanket every street and intersection. DHS agents, FBI operatives, and Secret Service guardians stand sentinel, a formidable force meticulously deployed block by block. Black SUVs line the avenues, their sleek exteriors a stark contrast to the heaviness of their purpose, while SWAT teams, armed with a formidable array of automatic weaponry, patrol with unfaltering vigilance. This unprecedented display of public security stands as a testament to the gravity of the moment, perhaps marking the pinnacle of safeguarding measures in U.S. history.

Amidst the manicured expanse of the White House lawn, President Leland Hartley stood with an air of anticipation, flanked by his cabinet and chiefs of staff. As he inhaled the crisp scent of freshly mowed grass, he couldn't shake the intrigue surrounding the clandestine nature of the gathering. This clandestine meeting, veiled from public eyes and shunning the presence of journalists, they could only encircle the White House, while a select few managed to catch a fleeting glimpse of the president and his staff.

With anticipation hanging thick in the air, Hartley’s gaze remained fixed on the trio of flagpoles, each bearing the emblem of a global superpower—America, Russia, and China. These symbols, specially raised for the occasion, stood as a tangible reminder of the monumental significance of the impending event. As he awaited the arrival of the respective delegations, Hartley found solace in the silent vigil of the flags, perhaps they’re what calms him the most…

OOC:

This Thread is canon to all parties involved.

OOC Thread.

[China and Territories]

As the sun cast its golden rays over the bustling streets of Washington D.C., a motorcade, flanked by sleek Secret Service vehicles, commanded attention as it glided down 17th Street Northwest. The imposing presence of heavily armored Cadillacs and Chevrolets signaled the gravity of the occasion, while the distant hum of Blackhawks slicing through the sky added an aura of suspense to the scene.

Within one of the vehicles, Chinese President Wu Xin Ren sat with a sense of purpose, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside. His fingers traced the smooth contours of the American leather seats, a luxury rarely encountered in his homeland. As the motorcade made a decisive turn, Wu stole a glance outside, revealing the iconic silhouette of the White House against the backdrop of the South Lawn.

As the convoy came to a halt, a towering Secret Service agent approached Wu’s vehicle, his posture exuding an air of authority. With a practiced motion, the door swung open, inviting Wu to step out into the heart of American power. With a deep breath, he emerged from the Cadillac, his presence commanding respect amidst the throng of security personnel.

Before him stood US President Leland Hartley, a figure of immense stature and influence. Wu’s expression softened into a warm smile as he extended his hand in greeting.

“President Hartley! It’s an honor to finally meet you,” Wu exclaimed, his voice tinged with anticipation.

[Americke]

As the sun cast its golden rays over the bustling streets of Washington D.C., a motorcade, flanked by sleek Secret Service vehicles, commanded attention as it glided down 17th Street Northwest. The imposing presence of heavily armored Cadillacs and Chevrolets signaled the gravity of the occasion, while the distant hum of Blackhawks slicing through the sky added an aura of suspense to the scene.

Within one of the vehicles, Chinese President Wu Xin Ren sat with a sense of purpose, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside. His fingers traced the smooth contours of the American leather seats, a luxury rarely encountered in his homeland. As the motorcade made a decisive turn, Wu stole a glance outside, revealing the iconic silhouette of the White House against the backdrop of the South Lawn.

As the convoy came to a halt, a towering Secret Service agent approached Wu’s vehicle, his posture exuding an air of authority. With a practiced motion, the door swung open, inviting Wu to step out into the heart of American power. With a deep breath, he emerged from the Cadillac, his presence commanding respect amidst the throng of security personnel.

Before him stood US President Leland Hartley, a figure of immense stature and influence. Wu’s expression softened into a warm smile as he extended his hand in greeting.

“President Hartley! It’s an honor to finally meet you,” Wu exclaimed, his voice tinged with anticipation.

Hartley returned the gesture with a firm handshake, his own smile mirroring Wu’s enthusiasm. “President Wu, welcome to the White House,” he declared, his tone brimming with genuine hospitality. With a genial pat on the back, Hartley proceeded to introduce Wu to the assembled cabinet members, each handshake cementing the bonds of diplomacy and cooperation between their two nations.

Hartley’s gaze shifted towards Wu, acknowledging the significance of the Chinese leader’s presence at this pivotal juncture. Despite being a few inches shorter than Hartley, Wu exuded an air of geniality that resonated with the American president. However, Hartley couldn’t shake the anticipation of awaiting another key player—the Russian.

“Mr. President,” Hartley began, his tone relaxed yet tinged with the unmistakable cadence of his Sicilian heritage, “shall we hold off for the Russian?”

[China and Territories]

-snip-

“Hold off for…” Wu paused, a spark of understanding illuminating his features as he surveyed the scene before him. “Ah, I see. Yes, let us await the Russian,” he declared, his anticipation palpable as his gaze lingered on the gate, awaiting the arrival of the next pivotal figure in this diplomatic tableau.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

Amidst the charged atmosphere, akin to a gathering storm, the distant rumble of engines announced the imminent arrival of the Russian delegate. Suddenly, the air crackled with anticipation as a convoy of sleek, black Cadillacs, each proudly displaying the emblem of the Russian Federation, rounded the corner. With seamless precision, the convoy came to a halt before the awaiting leaders, signaling the commencement of a pivotal moment in diplomatic history.

As the door swung open, the scene unfolded with breathtaking elegance and intrigue. Stepping out of the vehicle, a vision in white emerged—a young woman, exuding confidence and sophistication. Adorned in a pristine white ensemble, from her tailored blazer to her crisp blouse and trousers, she commanded attention with every graceful step in her white stilettos. Her subtle blonde hair, styled in beach waves, framed her features with effortless allure as she approached the two presidents.

“Greetings, Mister Presidents,” she uttered with a gentle tone, her piercing blue eyes radiating warmth and authority, captivating all who beheld her presence. The journalists surrounding the White House erupted into a frenzy, scrambling to capture even the slightest glimpse of her remarkable demeanor amidst the historic occasion.

[Americke]

Amidst the charged atmosphere, akin to a gathering storm, the distant rumble of engines announced the imminent arrival of the Russian delegate. Suddenly, the air crackled with anticipation as a convoy of sleek, black Cadillacs, each proudly displaying the emblem of the Russian Federation, rounded the corner. With seamless precision, the convoy came to a halt before the awaiting leaders, signaling the commencement of a pivotal moment in diplomatic history.

As the door swung open, the scene unfolded with breathtaking elegance and intrigue. Stepping out of the vehicle, a vision in white emerged—a young woman, exuding confidence and sophistication. Adorned in a pristine white ensemble, from her tailored blazer to her crisp shirt and trousers, she commanded attention with every graceful step in her white stilettos. Her subtle blonde hair, styled in beach waves, framed her features with effortless allure as she approached the two presidents.

“Greetings, Mister Presidents,” she uttered with a gentle tone, her piercing blue eyes radiating warmth and authority, captivating all who beheld her presence. The journalists surrounding the White House erupted into a frenzy, scrambling to capture even the slightest glimpse of her remarkable demeanor amidst the historic occasion.

Hartley’s gaze lingered on the woman for a fleeting moment before recognition dawned upon him. She was Aurélie Saint-Clair, the formidable head of the Saint-Clair family. Though lacking significant intel on her, Hartley noted her marital status, her Spanish-French heritage, and her impeccable taste in fashion—an invaluable asset for a discerning POTUS like himself.

“Well, hello there, Mrs. Saint-Clair,” Hartley greeted warmly, his gaze still drawn to the elegant woman before him, unable to tear his eyes away. A soft chuckle escaped him, betraying his admiration.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

-snip-

“Ah, if it isn’t POTUS,” Aurélie responded, her tone shifting from subtle to energetic in an instant, catching Hartley off guard. “Just call me Aurélie, it’s fine.” Her sudden change in demeanor added an unexpected layer of intrigue to their encounter, leaving the president momentarily speechless.

[China and Territories]

-snip-

“Ah, if it isn’t POTUS,” Aurélie responded, her tone shifting from subtle to energetic in an instant, catching Hartley off guard. “Just call me Aurélie, it’s fine.” Her sudden change in demeanor added an unexpected layer of intrigue to their encounter, leaving the president momentarily speechless.

As the Russian delegate engaged in conversation with POTUS, Wu couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment, sensing a slight snub. He glanced around, observing the assembled chiefs of staff, cabinets, and journalists, all utterly captivated by Aurélie’s presence. Ah, the legendary concept of charisma, Wu mused to himself, taking a deep breath as he acknowledged the undeniable allure she possessed. His gaze coincidentally met Aurélie’s, and in that fleeting moment, it almost seemed as though she understood his silent plea: a simple greeting.

“Mrs. Saint-Clair, it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Wu declared confidently, stepping forward to clasp her hand in his own. A genuine smile graced his features, recognizing the importance of making a positive first impression in the midst of such influential company.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

“Ah, if it isn’t POTUS,” Aurélie responded, her tone shifting from subtle to energetic in an instant, catching Hartley off guard. “Just call me Aurélie, it’s fine.” Her sudden change in demeanor added an unexpected layer of intrigue to their encounter, leaving the president momentarily speechless.

As the Russian delegate engaged in conversation with POTUS, Wu couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment, sensing a slight snub. He glanced around, observing the assembled chiefs of staff, cabinets, and journalists, all utterly captivated by Aurélie’s presence. Ah, the legendary concept of charisma, Wu mused to himself, taking a deep breath as he acknowledged the undeniable allure she possessed. His gaze coincidentally met Aurélie’s, and in that fleeting moment, it almost seemed as though she understood his silent plea: a simple greeting.

“Mrs. Saint-Clair, it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Wu declared confidently, stepping forward to clasp her hand in his own. A genuine smile graced his features, recognizing the importance of making a positive first impression in the midst of such influential company.

“President Wu, it’s a delight to finally meet you!” Aurélie’s words resonated with a vibrant energy, infusing the air with a sense of warmth and enthusiasm unlike any other encounter Wu had experienced. With genuine fervor, she clasped his hands firmly in hers, her grip conveying both strength and sincerity.

[Americke]

-snip-

“Very well, ladies and gentlemen, shall we proceed to business?” Hartley’s smile conveyed both warmth and determination as he addressed the group.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

-snip-

“Very well, ladies and gentlemen, shall we proceed to business?” Hartley’s smile conveyed both warmth and determination as he addressed the group.

“Seems perfectly fine to me,” Aurélie replied with a nonchalant shrug, her demeanor poised yet approachable as she brushed a stray strand of hair from her face, offering a polite smile in Hartley’s direction.

[China and Territories]

-snip-

“Very well, ladies and gentlemen, shall we proceed to business?” Hartley’s smile conveyed both warmth and determination as he addressed the group.

“Sure,” Wu concurred with a succinct nod, his tone reflecting his readiness to engage in the forthcoming discussions.

[Americke]

“Excellent. Allow me to lead the way,” Hartley affirmed, turning on his heel and embarking on a confident stride towards the heart of the White House—the Executive Residence. As he passed by the vigilant Secret Service agents and his loyal cabinet members, Hartley’s thoughts were momentarily consumed by Aurélie. Her boundless energy and passionate demeanor had left an indelible impression on him, a stark contrast to the staid and formulaic interactions he typically endured with VIPs. Recalling her casual yet aristocratic greeting—“Ah, if it isn’t POTUS”—Hartley couldn’t help but marvel at her unique charm and the universal appeal she seemed to effortlessly exude. It was no wonder she commanded such adoration in Europe and among the youth of the United States.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

“Excellent. Allow me to lead the way,” Hartley affirmed, turning on his heel and embarking on a confident stride towards the heart of the White House—the Executive Residence. As he passed by the vigilant Secret Service agents and his loyal cabinet members, Hartley’s thoughts were momentarily consumed by Aurélie. Her boundless energy and passionate demeanor had left an indelible impression on him, a stark contrast to the staid and formulaic interactions he typically endured with VIPs. Recalling her casual yet aristocratic greeting—“Ah, if it isn’t POTUS”—Hartley couldn’t help but marvel at her unique charm and the universal appeal she seemed to effortlessly exude. It was no wonder she commanded such adoration in Europe and among the youth of the United States.

Aurélie followed behind Hartley, her movements fluid and elegant, her hips swaying with a captivating grace. As a seasoned socialite born into a wealthy French family, she had encountered her fair share of politicians and businessmen, yet few had piqued her interest like Hartley. The Sicilian POTUS, with his distinctive accent and intriguing demeanor, had sparked a curiosity within her that she couldn’t quite shake. Unlike the others she had encountered, Hartley had left her with an impression that lingered long after their initial meeting—a rarity in her world of superficial pleasantries.

“So, what about the staff?” Aurélie inquired, her curiosity piqued as she noticed the gradual departure of the White House staff, her eyebrow arching in subtle intrigue. Despite her question, she maintained her characteristic polite smile, effortlessly masking any hint of awkwardness as she awaited Hartley’s response.

[Americke]

“Excellent. Allow me to lead the way,” Hartley affirmed, turning on his heel and embarking on a confident stride towards the heart of the White House—the Executive Residence. As he passed by the vigilant Secret Service agents and his loyal cabinet members, Hartley’s thoughts were momentarily consumed by Aurélie. Her boundless energy and passionate demeanor had left an indelible impression on him, a stark contrast to the staid and formulaic interactions he typically endured with VIPs. Recalling her casual yet aristocratic greeting—“Ah, if it isn’t POTUS”—Hartley couldn’t help but marvel at her unique charm and the universal appeal she seemed to effortlessly exude. It was no wonder she commanded such adoration in Europe and among the youth of the United States.

Aurélie followed behind Hartley, her movements fluid and elegant, her hips swaying with a captivating grace. As a seasoned socialite born into a wealthy French family, she had encountered her fair share of politicians and businessmen, yet few had piqued her interest like Hartley. The Sicilian POTUS, with his distinctive accent and intriguing demeanor, had sparked a curiosity within her that she couldn’t quite shake. Unlike the others she had encountered, Hartley had left her with an impression that lingered long after their initial meeting—a rarity in her world of superficial pleasantries.

“So, what about the staff?” Aurélie inquired, her curiosity piqued as she noticed the gradual departure of the White House staff, her eyebrow arching in subtle intrigue. Despite her question, she maintained her characteristic polite smile, effortlessly masking any hint of awkwardness as she awaited Hartley’s response.

“Oh, the staff? They’ve merely come out to offer their greetings. For now, the Executive Residence is reserved for the three of us,” Hartley explained, his words carrying a sense of authority tempered with warmth. With a sweeping gesture, he extended his arms, creating an inviting atmosphere that enveloped them in the grandeur of the moment. From behind, it almost appeared as though he was embracing the entirety of the White House itself.

As they reached the staircase leading up to the State Floor, Hartley took the lead, his confident stride echoing the strength and resolve evident in his posture. Pausing at the foot of the stairs, he glanced back at his companions, nodding in assurance. Despite the weight of his responsibilities, his back remained resolute and unwavering—a testament to his enduring fortitude.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

-snip-

Aurélie glanced at Hartley with a playful side-eye and let out a soft chuckle. “Well, the door won’t open itself, will it?” she quipped with a polite smile, gracefully stepping past him as they exchanged a brief glance.

“May I?” Aurélie inquired, gesturing towards the door leading to the State Floor, her tone respectful yet lighthearted. Hartley responded with an affirmative nod, his smile brightening at her request. As she turned the handle and pushed the door open, a scene of unparalleled grandeur and elegance unfolded before them.

Neoclassical elements greeted their gaze, from the soaring ceilings adorned with ornate moldings to the gleaming marble floors beneath their feet. The rooms were a testament to history and opulence, each corner adorned with priceless artwork, sumptuous furniture, and resplendent chandeliers.

Aurélie paused for a moment, her breath caught in awe, before turning to look back at Hartley. Her expression spoke volumes, conveying a profound sense of reverence for the majestic surroundings they found themselves in.

[Americke]

Hartley’s smile widened with a sense of relief, a flicker of recognition dancing in his eyes as Aurélie reminded him of his own daughter. “Heh, alright folks, follow me,” he said, his voice carrying a blend of reassurance and determination as he led the two through the labyrinthine corridors of the White House, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors.

“Almost there,” Hartley remarked with a smile as they ascended another set of stairs, the anticipation palpable in the air. Upon reaching the second floor, the only sound that greeted them was the echo of their steps reverberating through the grandeur of the Center Hall.

Stopping before a sturdy wooden door, Hartley turned to face his companions. “So, here we are. This is where our meeting will take place,” he explained, his tone carrying a note of informality despite the gravity of the occasion. “We usually engage in rather informal discussions here, but given the urgency of our agenda, I thought we might as well get down to business,” he continued, his shoulders lifting in a resigned shrug. With a decisive twist of the handle, he swung the door open, revealing the inviting interior of the West Sitting Room—a space steeped in history and significance, now poised to host the negotiations that would shape the future of nations.

[Russia and Collaborative States]

Hartley’s smile widened with a sense of relief, a flicker of recognition dancing in his eyes as Aurélie reminded him of his own daughter. “Heh, alright folks, follow me,” he said, his voice carrying a blend of reassurance and determination as he led the two through the labyrinthine corridors of the White House, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors.

“Almost there,” Hartley remarked with a smile as they ascended another set of stairs, the anticipation palpable in the air. Upon reaching the second floor, the only sound that greeted them was the echo of their steps reverberating through the grandeur of the Center Hall.

Stopping before a sturdy wooden door, Hartley turned to face his companions. “So, here we are. This is where our meeting will take place,” he explained, his tone carrying a note of informality despite the gravity of the occasion. “We usually engage in rather informal discussions here, but given the urgency of our agenda, I thought we might as well get down to business,” he continued, his shoulders lifting in a resigned shrug. With a decisive twist of the handle, he swung the door open, revealing the inviting interior of the West Sitting Room—a space steeped in history and significance, now poised to host the negotiations that would shape the future of nations.

“That’s quite interesting,” Aurélie remarked, her tone returning to its usual subtle elegance as she gracefully crossed the threshold into the room. Making her way to a plush sofa positioned beneath a sunlit window, she sank into its welcoming embrace, the warmth of the sunlight casting a gentle glow upon her features and illuminating her cascading hair.

With a fluid motion, Aurélie slipped off her blazer and set it aside, revealing the graceful contours of her hourglass physique. The soft fabric of the sofa cradled her form as she settled in, exuding an air of effortless poise and sophistication amidst the opulent surroundings of the West Sitting Room.

[Americke]

“Well, well, young lady, young man, it’s about time we got started,” Hartley announced, his gaze shifting between the radiant Aurélie and the contemplative President Wu before continuing, “We all know why we’re gathered here today, and of course, it’s about the ARC Program, also known as The Oak, Birch, and Ginkgo Initiative.”

With practiced ease, Hartley produced a stack of meticulously prepared files and distributed them to his fellow attendees. “We’ve received the necessary documents from both of you weeks ago, all of which I’ve thoroughly reviewed,” he assured them, his tone carrying a note of gravitas.

Taking a brief moment to stretch his back, Hartley rose from his seat and retrieved three glasses of water, passing them down to Aurélie and President Wu with a gesture of hospitality. “These discussions will be essential if we’re to finalize the Program,” he emphasized, his gaze turning to President Wu. “I believe you’d like to begin?”

[China and Territories]

“Well, well, young lady, young man, it’s about time we got started,” Hartley announced, his gaze shifting between the radiant Aurélie and the contemplative President Wu before continuing, “We all know why we’re gathered here today, and of course, it’s about the ARC Program, also known as The Oak, Birch, and Ginkgo Initiative.”

With practiced ease, Hartley produced a stack of meticulously prepared files and distributed them to his fellow attendees. “We’ve received the necessary documents from both of you weeks ago, all of which I’ve thoroughly reviewed,” he assured them, his tone carrying a note of gravitas.

Taking a brief moment to stretch his back, Hartley rose from his seat and retrieved three glasses of water, passing them down to Aurélie and President Wu with a gesture of hospitality. “These discussions will be essential if we’re to finalize the Program,” he emphasized, his gaze turning to President Wu. “I believe you’d like to begin?”

“Thank you, President Hartley,” Wu acknowledged with a respectful nod before turning his attention to the file spread out before him. Flipping to a specific page, he began to address the heart of the matter with a directness that commanded attention.

“Allow me to be blunt,” Wu stated firmly, his gaze meeting Hartley’s with unwavering resolve. “As part of this agreement, we propose the lifting of trade tariffs imposed on your esteemed nation. In return, we seek a gradual reduction of American military presence in Taiwan—a concession that aligns with the overarching objectives of the ARC Program.”

Pausing for a moment, Wu’s expression softened slightly as he emphasized the collaborative nature of their negotiations. “We understand the complexities involved, but believe that through dialogue and compromise, we can navigate these challenges together. After all, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation is the essence of the ARC Program, is it not?”

[Americke]

-snip-

“Yes, indeed, Mr. Wu,” Hartley affirmed, his tone carrying a note of assurance as he reflected on the extensive discussions that had preceded this moment. Sensing a slight discomfort in Wu’s demeanor, Hartley quickly redirected his focus to the matter at hand.

“Regarding your request for control over the territories in the South China Sea, our deliberations have led us to a mutual understanding,” Hartley explained, retrieving a pre-illustrated map from his belongings and placing it on the table before them. Symbols denoting Russian, Chinese, and English translations were clearly delineated, providing a comprehensive overview of the proposed plan.

“As you can see,” Hartley continued, gesturing towards the map, “we’ve designated Taiwan and the South China Sea as buffer zones, as per your wishes. I trust this arrangement aligns with your objectives and ensures stability in the region.” With a hopeful glance, he awaited Wu’s response, eager to solidify their accord and forge a path greater cooperation.

[China and Territories]

-snip-

“Yes, indeed, Mr. Wu,” Hartley affirmed, his tone carrying a note of assurance as he reflected on the extensive discussions that had preceded this moment. Sensing a slight discomfort in Wu’s demeanor, Hartley quickly redirected his focus to the matter at hand.

“Regarding your request for control over the territories in the South China Sea, our deliberations have led us to a mutual understanding,” Hartley explained, retrieving a pre-illustrated map from his belongings and placing it on the table before them. Symbols denoting Russian, Chinese, and English translations were clearly delineated, providing a comprehensive overview of the proposed plan.

“As you can see,” Hartley continued, gesturing towards the map, “we’ve designated Taiwan and the South China Sea as buffer zones, as per your wishes. I trust this arrangement aligns with your objectives and ensures stability in the region.” With a hopeful glance, he awaited Wu’s response, eager to solidify their accord and forge a path greater cooperation.

“We would welcome that,” Wu affirmed, his warm smile a rare sight for the typically reserved Chinese president. “I’ve been advocating for a more cooperative and respectful approach to international affairs since the inception of my administration, and I firmly believe that the actions we’re taking here can benefit all parties involved.” His tone conveyed sincerity and determination as he leaned forward, his gaze intent on Hartley.

“And what about South Korea and Japan?” Wu inquired, his expression shifting to one of focused concern.

[Americke]

“Yes, indeed, Mr. Wu,” Hartley affirmed, his tone carrying a note of assurance as he reflected on the extensive discussions that had preceded this moment. Sensing a slight discomfort in Wu’s demeanor, Hartley quickly redirected his focus to the matter at hand.

“Regarding your request for control over the territories in the South China Sea, our deliberations have led us to a mutual understanding,” Hartley explained, retrieving a pre-illustrated map from his belongings and placing it on the table before them. Symbols denoting Russian, Chinese, and English translations were clearly delineated, providing a comprehensive overview of the proposed plan.

“As you can see,” Hartley continued, gesturing towards the map, “we’ve designated Taiwan and the South China Sea as buffer zones, as per your wishes. I trust this arrangement aligns with your objectives and ensures stability in the region.” With a hopeful glance, he awaited Wu’s response, eager to solidify their accord and forge a path greater cooperation.

“We would welcome that,” Wu affirmed, his warm smile a rare sight for the typically reserved Chinese president. “I’ve been advocating for a more cooperative and respectful approach to international affairs since the inception of my administration, and I firmly believe that the actions we’re taking here can benefit all parties involved.” His tone conveyed sincerity and determination as he leaned forward, his gaze intent on Hartley.

“And what about South Korea and Japan?” Wu inquired, his expression shifting to one of focused concern.

“We have devised plans to gradually reduce the presence of our personnel in key military installations such as Camp Humphreys, Osan Air Base, Yongsan Garrison, and others,” Hartley responded, leaning in to meet Wu’s eyes with a reassuring gaze. “Our intention is to withdraw approximately 20% of our forces initially, with further reductions planned over time. The USS Ronald Reagan will also be returning to America, a move that may become permanent. We believe similar measures can be taken with regard to North Korea.”

[China and Territories]

“We would welcome that,” Wu affirmed, his warm smile a rare sight for the typically reserved Chinese president. “I’ve been advocating for a more cooperative and respectful approach to international affairs since the inception of my administration, and I firmly believe that the actions we’re taking here can benefit all parties involved.” His tone conveyed sincerity and determination as he leaned forward, his gaze intent on Hartley.

“And what about South Korea and Japan?” Wu inquired, his expression shifting to one of focused concern.

“We have devised plans to gradually reduce the presence of our personnel in key military installations such as Camp Humphreys, Osan Air Base, Yongsan Garrison, and others,” Hartley responded, leaning in to meet Wu’s eyes with a reassuring gaze. “Our intention is to withdraw approximately 20% of our forces initially, with further reductions planned over time. The USS Ronald Reagan will also be returning to America, a move that may become permanent. We believe similar measures can be taken with regard to North Korea.”

Satisfied with the response, Wu’s demeanor grew serious as he turned his attention to the Philippines. “President Hartley, let us discuss the situation in the Philippines. Will the U.S. military be implementing similar measures in their bases there?”

[Americke]

“We have devised plans to gradually reduce the presence of our personnel in key military installations such as Camp Humphreys, Osan Air Base, Yongsan Garrison, and others,” Hartley responded, leaning in to meet Wu’s eyes with a reassuring gaze. “Our intention is to withdraw approximately 20% of our forces initially, with further reductions planned over time. The USS Ronald Reagan will also be returning to America, a move that may become permanent. We believe similar measures can be taken with regard to North Korea.”

Satisfied with the response, Wu’s demeanor grew serious as he turned his attention to the Philippines. “President Hartley, let us discuss the situation in the Philippines. Will the U.S. military be implementing similar measures in their bases there?”

Hartley, sensing the gravity of the moment, sat up and met Wu’s gaze with a solemn expression. “Rest assured, we are committed to reducing our stationed personnel in the Philippines. While I cannot provide exact figures at this time, plans are in place to initiate similar measures as those in South Korea.”