AEGIS - 2020: A Brave New World [CLOSED IC]

[Cymrea]

AEGIS - Alliance for Ensuring Global Integrity and Security

AEGIS Membership Map

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge - 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon, USA

Timberline Lodge is a mountain resort on the south side of Mount Hood. The National Historic Landmark sits at an elevation of 5960 feet (1817m), within the Mount Hood National Forest and is accessible through the Mount Hood Scenic Byway - which is easily secured and renders the location inaccessible except by air. The airspace is secured by fighters and helicopters based at nearby Portland International Airport (PDX).

For the duration of the conference, the entire lodge and the surrounding area will be cleared and secured. From PDX, dedicated transport is provided for each delegation by the United States Secret Service in cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Marshals.

Invited Nations
United Kingdom
Canada
France
Germany
Scandinavian Union
Japan
Australia
Brazil
East African Federation
India



AEGIS Headquarters, near Portland, Oregon, USA.

[Cymrea]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge - 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon, USA

On a crisp day in October, the international conference for the founding of the Alliance for Ensuring Global Integrity and Security commences.

Delegates Attending
Unites States - Robert Grey, Secretary of Defense and General (Ret.) Christopher Ramos, Delegate to AEGIS
United Kingdom - John Marbury, Prime Minister
Australia - Luke Kennedy, President
Japan - Hiroshi Nakanowatari, Minister of Foreign Relations
Canada - Pierre McNeil, Representative to AEGIS
Scandinavia - Vivane Folstad, Chief Representative to AEGIS
Germany - Konrad Becker, Chancellor
Brazil - Christofer Marcos, Delegate to AEGIS
East African Federation - Paul Mtumbe, President
France - Achille Libison, Prime Minister

[Toishima]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge
United States of America

The Japanese delegation arrived without incident via a 15-passenger VIP business jet provided by the JASDF. They were escorted by JASDF F-15Js to Hawaii, from which the delegation then flew to the mainland US with or without escort by the USAF- the information was withheld from the general public for security reasons. The aircraft landed safely and the delegation was escorted into vehicles provided by the US government. Out of the twenty members of the delegation, two were JISDF agents with concealed PM-9 submachine guns. The US security was aware of this. The rest of the delegation was composed of Minister Hiroshi Nakanowatari himself, his assistant, Ms. Mai Naganohara, a general from each of the JSDF branches except the ISDF, eight secretaries and four more bodyguards, who were still at the airport due to a mix-up regarding luggage.

The two-vehicle convoy of unmarked, black Chevrolet SUVs came to a stop in front of the Timberline Lodge around 11.35 AM, the packed snow crunching beneath the chained tires of the powerful American vehicles. An assistant opened the doors for the Japanese delegation, with one of the JISDF agents casually exiting his vehicle and walking out, pulling out a cigarette for a smoke, purposely making himself a target for any would-be snipers as he had been trained to do. Minister Nakanowatari exited next, followed by the second agent, then Ms. Naganohara and finally the secretaries. From the other SUV came the four generals and their own secretaries.

Nakanowatari breathed in the crisp, sold mountain air and savoured the taste of North America. The grey, receding-haired man gave a tight-lipped smile as he observed his surroundings. The man exuded confidence and authority, and while his face and hands were wrinkled and old, his eyes darted about in a lively manner. The suit he wore was nothing special, a typical black business suit over a white shirt and with a blue tie with dark grey pants, a small pin with the Japanese flag on it pinned to the collar. The JISDF agent, with the stereotypical earpiece-sunglasses-and-suit secret agent ensemble, motioned for Nakanowatari to move closer to him.

"We have arrived," Ms. Naganohara reported matter-of-factly into her cellphone, walking awkwardly in high heels on the snowy road towards the older minister. She had a straight fringe and wore black-rimmed spectacles along with a proper business outfit, somewhat resembling the absolute western stereotype of a female Asian secretary.

The JSDF brass milled around irritably as they waited to move, a group of mostly ageing men and one rather attractive woman, all career soldiers who found such diplomatic meetings a waste of time, but unfortunately very important. Each officer was interesting in their own right. JGSDF General Yujiro Toyama, possibly the only one partially interested to be here, glanced around curiously with wide eyes and wide nostrils affected by the cold, framed by a hard jawline. He carried a bottle of overly sweetened green tea, as he often drank it. JASDF General Tokuma Tenzai was, as usual, rather irritated and restless. The grey-haired man's jaws were firmly clamped on a cigarette, with a long stream of black smoke rising from the notorious chain-smoker. JMSDF Admiral Kojiro Mitanabe, the oldest of all of the leaders and near retirement with receding grey hair, paced around the snowy path, shaking his head the whole time as he waited to move, clutching a Japanese newspaper as he hobbled around. Finally, JSSDF General Yuki Aioi, the only female member and youngest of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stood scowling silently, back straight and with her shoulder-length black hair tied up in a tight bun.

The Minister looked up at the building ahead and began walking, the JISDF agent following closely with Ms. Naganohara at his side. The group of JSDF leaders followed, along with the other minor secretaries. A group for peace, eh? We'll see how this works out.

[Reddogkeno101]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge
United States of America

New Australian President Luke Kennedy arrived at Portland International Airport from his long haul flight in a FRAAF (Federal Republic of Australia Air Force) 60 seater plane. Mostly filled with diplomats and generals, the diplomatic delegation was to meet other diplomats and military delegation was to meet selected nation's generals. President Kennedy and his entourage meanwhile would meet with other leaders and discuss the Alliance. The diplomats and military delegations would stay in hotels while President Kennedy organised the terms of the alliance. President Kennedy would go with his Chief of Staff and his 3 key Advisers to the meeting. As President Kennedy and his team walked into the lodge, they stared in awe to it, ready to negotiate.

[Talanzaar]

AEGIS Conference
The Canadian diplomatic team and Government representative Pierre McNeil arrived safely in the United States, ready to begin. They quickly scurried to the meeting room.

[Ptolemais]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge
United States of America

Chief Representative Vivane Folstad and her delegation arrived at the grand lodge to find only a few nations had arrived so far. Perhaps there were few countries that wanted to commit themselves to an alliance. Scandinavia was also wary of this, but there was no harm in listening to what the Americans had to say, as they were good friends. It was good to see Japan, Australia and Canada here as well. These were countries she viewed very favourably. Perhaps something productive will come of this. For now, she took a seat at the part of the table reserved for Scandinavia and made some light conversation with her colleagues as she set up her laptop, waiting for the host to come and begin the summit.

[Hobbesistan]

The BAe 146 landed in Ottawa, with Lord Marbury paying a quick visit to the Canadian Prime Minister before hopping back on the plane to Portland.

He stepped off the plane with senior staff, waving to cameras before jogging to the limosoine, appearing eager to get to the meetings.

[Marsisian]

AEGIS Conference

Chancellor Konrad Becker and his staff arrived in the United States in Portland safely. They arrived in the lodge within a short time and took their seats at the table for the conference.

[Roski]

Brazilian Delegate Arrives

The Brazilian Delegate, Chistofer Marcos, arrives just before the meeting, sitting nearest the American delegate he can.

[United States Kingdom]

A Kenya Airways aeroplane dropped in Portland,Oregon. The President Paul Mtumbe dropped in Portland as he went outside of the airport toward a government vehicle. With him were top military officials as well as the EAF Ambassador to the USA and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. He was wondering if he would feel alienated since he was the only African Head of State invited toward this meeting. Paul arrived at the lodge. He sat ready to begin the meeting.

[Cymrea]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge - 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon, USA

The conference room was nearing readiness. A large black table, circular and polished to a mirror shine, dominated the conference room. The northern face of the room, to the left of the doorway, was all shuttered windows that looked directly at the soaring snow-covered peak of Mt. Hood; directly across from the entrance was a large projection screen for the presentation the U.S. Delegate to AEGIS Christopher Ramos would make. There was no assigned seating. Attending representatives could choose their own seat, though there were only seats provided for the delegate and for one aide each. In an adjoining salon, places were provided for interpreters for each of the delegates' native languages, to translate for their delegate via closed-circuit headsets.

The remaining delegations were free to interact in a hall on the other side of the lodge or to enjoy any of the amenities normally offered by the resort.

Ramos was pleased to note that all but two of the invited nations had sent representatives. He had not yet heard whether France or India was planning to attend, but he was able to give them a bit more time to do so.

Soon, he thought. We will forge an alliance to make the world a better place.

The concept, planning, and staging of this AEGIS conference was the culmination of his life's work; first in the U.S. Army as the Forces Command chief, then as an ambassador to Germany and later the United Kingdom. The alliance was his brainchild and he was determined to see it succeed.

Checking his watch, he decided he had time to run down a cup of the Lodge's amazing hot chocolate.

[Princess Kenny]

Prime minister Achille Libison had arrived at Timberline lodge to discuss about AEGIS, the air was crisp. He was guarded by two men with a FAMAS and their identities hidden.

He walked towards the entrance, as the winds blew.
"Looks like we're here, time to state business"

[Cymrea]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge - 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon, USA

The delegates were ready, the venue was ready. India had yet to respond, but Ramos couldn't really complain; every other ation invited had sent delegates, and if worse came to worst, India could be included later.

He nodded to his secretary, who sent her army of hosts and hostesses to shepherd the delegates into the conference room. He poked his head into the adjoining salon. The interpreters were in their seats. "Are we good to go?" he asked the room in general.

Every single interpreter responded in their other language. Simultaneously.

Ramos blinked. "Note to self, invest in some Rosetta Stone CDs."

The delegates entered, chose their seats and waited with the polished patience of professional diplomats. With a nod from Bob Grey, he proceeded.

"Esteemed representatives and delegates, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the United States, and to this tremendous venue here at Mt. Hood, Oregon..."

Ramos spoke at length about the importance of a secure and prosperous world, particularly in this age of instant global information and communication technology, the proliferation of nuclear weapons despite every effort to limit them, and increasing tensions among traditionally contentious regions. He demonstrated to the peak of his eloquence the need and moral obligation of the world's strongest nations to provide an aegis under which all of humanity could flourish and advance.

Ramos outlined the structure:

- Each member nation was an equal partner, with an equal voice. Understandable concessions would of course be made with regard to national contributions of funding and assets, as best fit their respective economic situations.

- A single AEGIS Councillor from each nation would comprise the AEGIS Council, chaired by a Secretary General appointed on a rotating basis and serving one year.

- When decisions had to be made regarding international intervention, action woulds agreed upon on the basis of unanimity and common accord. There would be no voting or decision by majority. Each nation represented at the Council table or on any of its subordinate committees would retain complete sovereignty and responsibility for its own decisions.

- When decisions had to be made on any internal issues, such as including new members, each member nation through its lead delegate would have one vote. A simple majority would carry the proposal. Ramos added that the definition of majority could be debated, but that there would be no such thing as a veto.

- Each nation would provide a Military Representative to comprise the AEGIS Strategic Committee. The purpose of the committee would be to enact the resolutions of the Council in a coordinated, cooperative effort.

With the basic structure outlined, Ramos concluded, "I open the floor to questions and discussion."

[United States Kingdom]

Paul was very quick to respond. He didn't like the fact that other powers such as China and Russia had not been invited and he wanted the other members' assurance that they would not mess with Africa's internal affairs.

He paused for a minute clearing his throat to show that he was going to speak."Why is it that the Russians and Chinese have not been invited? They have large economies and are known for their military capabilities. Wouldn't having them be better for AEGIS to respond and to remove the hate from the Cold War? Secondly, I would like to ask every members' assurance that they would not attempt to be part of Africa's internal affairs. The AU has proved itself time and time to have stable structures to deal with internal issues in Africa and African countries have shown its distate for European powers attempting to be part of the internal affairs of Africa." he finished stating awaiting any member's response.

[Toishima]

AEGIS Conference
Timberline Lodge
United States of America

Minister Nakanowatari had some important questions to ask. As his English was basic at best, he decided on speaking in Japanese to the floor, relying on the designated translator to speak for him.

"Japan wholly supports the formation of this alliance, and feels that it is fair and just, and will be a great step towards the formation of world peace. However, to clarify. Will our nations all be required to provide armed support for AEGIS actions? Will our military forces have to be mobilised in offensive actions? Will there be any repercussions if a nation refuses to pledge armed support to a military intervention?"

Listening to the Afrcian's short claim, Nakanowatari disagreed.

"Sir, I have to respectfully disagree with you on that request. As I understand it, AEGIS is dedicated to creating peace in the world. If African rogue elements are causing problems to the stability of the world, I believe we have to step in to ensure peace can be restored as soon as possible- working with your nation, of course."

[Marsisian]

AEGIS Conference

Chancellor Becker told his translator what to say, as he could not speak fluent English. "The Federal Republic of Germany completely supports the establishment of AEGIS as an organization dedicated to securing peace around the world. I do share the same questions as the Japanese delegate, however, and I would like to hear answers for those too."

[United States Kingdom]

Paul Mtumbe heard what the delegate of Japan stated disagreeing with its request. [i]Of course we believe that AEGIS has a role with helping stability in the world although if their is a destabalizing force in Africa, the African Union should also participate in a leading role in an AEGIS mission to take down the destabilizing force as it is within Africa and the African Union is the largest African nation. I think we should wait for the US delegate to respond to our concerns./i]

[Cymrea]

Paul was very quick to respond. He didn't like the fact that other powers such as China and Russia had not been invited and he wanted the other members' assurance that they would not mess with Africa's internal affairs.

He paused for a minute clearing his throat to show that he was going to speak."Why is it that the Russians and Chinese have not been invited? They have large economies and are known for their military capabilities. Wouldn't having them be better for AEGIS to respond and to remove the hate from the Cold War? Secondly, I would like to ask every members' assurance that they would not attempt to be part of Africa's internal affairs. The AU has proved itself time and time to have stable structures to deal with internal issues in Africa and African countries have shown its distate for European powers attempting to be part of the internal affairs of Africa." he finished stating awaiting any member's response.

"Those are good questions and I thank the East African president for them," began Ramos. "Russia and China were not invited at this time because it is felt that founding AEGIS in a spirit of fellowship and shared vision was crucial. The current relations between the U.S., Russia, and China are not ideally conducive to that spirit just yet. Having a strongly contentious polarity between prospective member off the bat could easily kill this alliance in the cradle. I believe that should be avoided. Once AEGIS is firmly established, we can, as a group, vote on the inclusion of Russia and/or China in the future.

"On your second point, I will reiterate that member nations retain all autonomy and sovereignty. And this alliance will not be made up solely of European nations. It is, in fact, initiated by the United States, and includes Africa, Asia, South America, and Oceania. There was a deliberate effort made to represent the interests of the world at large, not just formerly imperialistic nations.

"Again, thank you for your questions." Ramos nodded to the Japanese delegate. "Yes, Nakanowatari-san?"

[Toishima]

Nakanowatari sighed and reiterated his questions.

"Japan wholly supports the formation of this alliance, and feels that it is fair and just, and will be a great step towards the formation of world peace. However, to clarify. Will our nations all be required to provide armed support for AEGIS actions? Will our military forces have to be mobilised in offensive actions? Will there be any repercussions if a nation refuses to pledge armed support to a military intervention? I believe the German delegation is also interested in knowing the answer to this."

[Cymrea]

"Japan wholly supports the formation of this alliance, and feels that it is fair and just, and will be a great step towards the formation of world peace. However, to clarify. Will our nations all be required to provide armed support for AEGIS actions? Will our military forces have to be mobilised in offensive actions? Will there be any repercussions if a nation refuses to pledge armed support to a military intervention?"

Listening to the Afrcian's short claim, Nakanowatari disagreed.

"Sir, I have to respectfully disagree with you on that request. As I understand it, AEGIS is dedicated to creating peace in the world. If African rogue elements are causing problems to the stability of the world, I believe we have to step in to ensure peace can be restored as soon as possible- working with your nation, of course."

Ramos glanced at the screen. "I had intended to address that here: Each nation represented at the Council table or on any of its subordinate committees would retain complete sovereignty and responsibility for its own decisions. I can see where the confusion is below. I apologize for the unclear wording. To clarify, each nation's participation and/or contribution to enacted resolutions is entirely voluntary. No repercussions should be expected or tolerated.

"Further, I thank you for your supportive words, Nakanowatari-san." Ramos looked to the German delegate. "Herr Chancellor, I hope that answers your question as well."

[Roski]

The Delegate listened closely. He did not like what he was hearing... at all.

"Wait, this is an alliance, where you can do whatever, and nobody would care? So, if say, Germany got invaded, the rest of these countries could refuse to help? Germany would still be safe because of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, but still, what is the point of an alliance if you can disregard the terms?"

[Cymrea]

The Delegate listened closely. He did not like what he was hearing... at all.

"Wait, this is an alliance, where you can do whatever, and nobody would care? So, if say, Germany got invaded, the rest of these countries could refuse to help? Germany would still be safe because of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, but still, what is the point of an alliance if you can disregard the terms?"

"You raise a good point, Mr. Marcos, and one that I haven't gotten to just yet. To address your questions though: the voluntary nature of cooperation is within the framework of an international intervention within the borders of nations outside this alliance. For any acts of aggression within the borders of member nations, each member will be obligated under the forthcoming treaty to render all reasonable assistance to defend that nation. What constitutes reasonable has yet to be determined by this potential alliance."

[Reddogkeno101]

The Australian delegation headed by President Kennedy began "I applaud this model, however believe it is not in our interests to include more powers. Those currently at the table are more than enough and are a solid bunch. China and Russia are not everyone's friends and are threats to world peace. Russia is a military powerhouse and China...is well China and has a billion people. I think it is everyone's interests that all entities involved in this alliance should sign treaties of friendship with each other member, however it does not have to be compulsory as certain entities may find themselves at odds with others."

President Kennedy then stood up. "I think we can come to this agreement. Back to you, Ramos.

[United States Kingdom]

"I have one question. What would happen if one AEGIS member declares war on another AEGIS member?." Paul stated as he looked at the American President.

[Roski]

The Delegate listened closely. He did not like what he was hearing... at all.

"Wait, this is an alliance, where you can do whatever, and nobody would care? So, if say, Germany got invaded, the rest of these countries could refuse to help? Germany would still be safe because of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, but still, what is the point of an alliance if you can disregard the terms?"

"You raise a good point, Mr. Marcos, and one that I haven't gotten to just yet. To address your questions though: the voluntary nature of cooperation is within the framework of an international intervention within the borders of nations outside this alliance. For any acts of aggression within the borders of member nations, each member will be obligated under the forthcoming treaty to render all reasonable assistance to defend that nation. What constitutes reasonable has yet to be determined by this potential alliance."

The delegate listened closely. It made more sense than what he heard before.

"One final question, is this alliance purely Military, or will there be some economic bits of it? Many countries here would benefit from both, including Brazil."