The Treaty of Berghelling - Unity in Asura?
For years, conflict has divided the nations of Asura. Conquest, colonialism and Confrontation have for so long been the hallmarks of Asuran society. Even now, the nations of Asura line up in differing military factions, with war only one mistake or diplomatic incident away. But is this all about to change? Attempts at a general union in Asura in the past have been relatively unsuccessful, however now with the threat of economic instability, wider international tensions and the ever present threat of terrorism, the nations of Asura once again turn to each other for strength and unity.
Today in the Midrasian city of Berghelling, diplomats from across the democratic nations of Asura have been invited to discuss the creation of a new diplomatic and economic bloc, in hope of coordinating in the face of global terrorism, ongoing military issues and preventing the outbreak of war on the continent.
The Treaty of Berghelling hopes to bind together the democratic nations of Asura both diplomatically and economically, with early agreements seeking to create new free trade agreements, limited visa-free travel around the continent and the creation of an Asuran parliament to provide debate and discussion regarding the future of the community.
Berghelling Conference
Saturday, November 5th
It was a cold, wet day in Berghelling, a fairly typical day for the Vaellenian region. The trees in the streets all gleamed with a golden/red hue as the light of the morning rose across the cityscape. Staring down at the city below was Fabian Lereff, the brainchild of the Asuran project. He had been charged by the government with ensuring a smooth discussion. There would clearly be points upon which the nations of Asura would disagree, but that was to be expected. It was still early days, and time would be required for greater co-operation and integration of the continent. For now this would be about economics, peace and democracy ; something which all Asuran nations (bar Veleaz, who had not been invited to the event) were interested in.
The table for discussion had been laid for all attendees in the briefing room of the Lugard tower, which had been temporarily let out for discussions. Mr. Largonde, Fabian's adviser was carefully inspecting the room for any oddities, presentation had to be perfect to leave a good impression on the delegates. All invitees would be transported by motorcade from Berghelling airport, which despite being one of Midrasia's busiest airports, was a far field away from the bustle of Lotric airport. Disucssion would begin on the Monday, giving ample time for Asuran delegates to arrive.
If there ever was an opportunity to unite the nations of Asura, now was it.
The Asuran Community is established as a economic and political union within the continent of Asura, with its implied goal of securing peace, democracy in unity on the continent for ourselves and our posterity.
This treaty hereby ordains:
- The creation of a tariff-free trade zone across the borders of the member states of the community
- A bank-passport system whereby companies based in one member state may trade and operate across the entire union
- A visa-free system of travel for business officials operating across borders for strictly business purposes, provided such officials first adhere to each sovereign nation's standards for entry
- The establishment of an Asuran parliament created to legislate on matters of the community, with all economic legislation requiring a simple majority in both houses to pass, with social legislation requiring 60% support in both houses.
- The creation of an Asuran Assembly, made up of elected officials from each sovereign nation, with seats allocated based on population, minimum 6 seats +1 per 819000 citizens or part thereof
- The appointment of a non-partisan speaker to facilitate for the business of the assembly and discussion
- The creation of an Asuran Council made up of the heads of state of each sovereign nation
- The creation of a process for forcible removal of non-democratic or disruptive attitudes which undermine the community
- The location of the parliament to be at Ibbené
- The addition of new member states to the community to require support of 60% of the Council
- For the appointment of Observer status for nations receiving the sponsorship of at least 2 delegates within the Council
Signatories: Fabien Lereff - Midrasia
Isabella Lundber - Oserland
Raymond Holt - Newrey
Peter Utley - Aquidneck
Ahti Saaristo - Nausikaa
Zujka Cismachà - Vrnallia
Robert Bush - Ohen