Khalistan-Varjhal Meeting

[Khalistan]

Palace of Ministers
Lahore,
Khalsa Raj of Khalistan

Though neighboring countries sharing a great deal of common history and culture dating back centuries, since the end of the Great War, Khalistan and Varjhal have not maintained very close ties beyond each maintaining an embassy in the other's capital with minimal diplomatic exchange and relations being cordial at best as each has followed path. Though some within the royal court were satisfied to keep it that way, His Most Royal and Imperial Majesty, Maharajah Ranjit Singh II thought otherwise and is why Prime Minister Manmohan Singh now waits for the arrival of the External Minister of Varjhal, Valavan Shukla.

Prime Minister Manmohan knew what the Maharajah wanted was more than just an increase in diplomatic relations, it was to try to maintain a political balance on the island continent, a political balance that the Maharajah's father, Zorawar Singh, out of neglect, allowed to start tipping in an undesired direction.

A knock on the door brings Manmohan to his feet and a uniformed guard steps inside to announces the special guest.

"His Excellency, the External Minister of Varjhal, Valavan Shukla."

 

[Khemia]

Valavan Shukla stepped out of a small motorcade in front of the palace, and after cordial greetings with a few, seemingly random officials of various sorts, he encountered the man he had expected to meet: Manmohan Singh. Valavan was a little unnerved, anxious to meet with what was likely the highest ranking political official of Khalistan, second only to the Maharajah. In truth, he had studied little of his countries neighbor, more focused instead on the political desires of the various factions within the Unity Party.

He was made external minister simply because he was a charismatic and friendly individual, he was the best the Unity Party could provide while still being trustworthy. He greeted the Prime Minister with a genuine smile, bowing his head in respect. "Sar Manmohan Singh, it is a pleasure to meet you," Valavan began, "I hope that this meeting can be quite productive for both of us."

 

[Khalistan]

Palace of Ministers
Lahore,
Khalsa Raj of Khalistan

"It is a pleasure to meet you too, Minister Shukla. On behalf of His Most Royal and Imperial Majesty, Maharajah Ranjit Singh II, I welcome you to Lahore. Make yourself comfortable, and whatever refreshment you desire, please, do not hesitate to ask."

After the the two men settle down and refreshments served, Prime Minister Manmohan begins to feel out the VarjhalI, to find some common ground.

"Minister Shukla. It is the Maharajah's great desire to reestablish the diplomatic and cultural relations between our two countries that have been allowed, unfortunately, to deteriorate over the last sixty-odd years. This was done, not out of any malice on either of our government's part, but more due to the after effects of the Great War. Due to the influence the great powers had over global development after the end of the conflict, our two nations began travelling down different paths. Though those paths tended to go in the same general direction, they were paths forged by others and rarely did they cross. It is my hope, as it is the Maharajah's, that our nations might be able to forge our own paths toward each other rather than continue those paths we are expected to follow."

 

[Khemia]

Valavan listened intently to the Prime Minister, nodding his head unconsciously in agreement. "It is true, our pasts have not melded as smoothly as they should have, as two neighbors should work together in a community. But our pasts are not our futures," he spoke optimistically.

"As you may or may not be aware, our Northern border is partially shared by your nation, and this border has for a long time been controlled by factions within Varjhal that cannot be said to be friendly to the stability of the continent. At this very moment, though, our internal politics are changing. The political landscape within Varjhal is, God willing, finally bringing together the people under one government. A united Varjhal is only another reason for our nations to become closer," he stopped and picked up the cup of water he had requested, drinking it and looking again to the Prime Minister.

"What is it that the esteemed Maharajah would like to accomplish between our two nations, beyond simply improving relations? I can tell you immediately that the Unity Party is intensely interested in cooperative regional security and mutual consularies, but the Party is also interested in assisting Khalistan with any needs your country has," Shukla went straight to the point, though he was also interested in a number of other ideas, he was hoping that the Prime Minister would address the topics himself.

 

[Khalistan]

Palace of Ministers
Lahore,
Khalsa Raj of Khalistan

"Yes, the Maharajah would like to see more than just improved relations between the Khalsa Raj and Varjhal, he would like to see things like greater cooperation in regional security, increased trade and investment opertunities as well as laxing travel restrictions. Though of course, the extent of these would be contingent on the outcome of the 'unification operation' now in progress."

Taking a sip from his tea cup, Manmohan thinks about North Varjhal and the people that live there.

"We in Khalistan has come to know the types reign in the northern region of your country, though they have remained relatively quiet, avoiding for the most part, the ire of the Khalsa Raj, there has been some unpleasant incidents that have made their presence known. Though this faction in the north is composed of an undesirable element, and the Khalsa Raj supports efforts to united all the Varjhali under a single government, we had hoped it would be a more peaceful union, it may be in this area where Khalistan might be able to be of service."

 

[Khemia]

"Interesting," Valavan replied, he was unprepared to answer a question concerning foreign involvement in the unification effort - the Unity Party hadn't actually launched it's offensive expecting the North to collapse. "Well, the unification is still not certain, and as it is perhaps the single largest political event to happen to our nation, it's best that the Party exploits it to it's advantage as a nationally accomplished event. I'm sure you understand, it's not necessarily good PR for a party built on nationalism to show a unification event as a multinational affair. But," he began the point, "speaking hypothetically, should this unification indeed happen, the North is going to need a large amount of humanitarian aid. Now, the Unity Front can manage this itself, but..." he paused. "If this happens, then we'll already need to expand our government to encompass the area, rebuild infrastructure, and bring in large amounts of food and medical supplies to the area. We simply do not have the reserves of these materials available to accomplish this immediately, and the government is slightly concerned."

"The Unity Party would entertain the notion of a co-operative humanitarian project to equalize Northern Varjhali living standards to acceptable levels, and to prevent the Varjhali economy from suffering because of it. We'd also entertain the idea of contracting Khalistani companies to assist us with various projects, from railroads to agriculture..."

 

[Khalistan]

Palace of Ministers
Lahore,
Khalsa Raj of Khalistan

"I understand that the Unity Party would perfer to handle this on its own, but if there is any other way aid in the unification process, such as arms and equipment, we might be able in that regard. But, if you would perfer that we remain completely out of the unifying process, we will."

"As for the co-operative humanitarian project, this is something the Khalsa Raj would be interested in, especially if Khalistani companies were to receive contracts for many of the projects involved? Though Khalistan may not be involved in the actual unifying process, we do want to see a stable north and if this is a way to insure that stablization, then the Khalsa Raj would want to be part of it."

 

[Khemia]

"Sar Singh, I do hope that I have not offended you by noting that we cannot allow a national unity event to seem like an international endeavour. Having said that, we would welcome assistance in the North. There are remnants of the communist government, former paramilitary and such, that have fled to ground in the countryside. We're worried that they may seek refuge in, or even destabilize, your country. While we're working on destroying their power base and disrupting their supply lines, I'd like to ask your military to crack down on any movement across the border for say... the next two weeks. After that we can discuss more options," he paused, hoping not to intrude by making the request.

"We're in negotiations now with political elements of the northern Varjhali people, but right now we face an expensive endeavour that is stabilizing the socioeconomic situation of the north and creating some sort of functioning government. The best way that I feel Khalistan can assist in this matter is indeed by having their companies accept contracts for projects such as the reconstruction of railroads, aqueducts, power plants, et cetera," Shukla paused for a moment before continuing. "The contracts will be available to the lowest bidder on the open market, but priority bidding can be extended to Khalistan in addition to Varjhali companies; a better regional economy would better serve Northern Varjhal than a better global economy, I feel."

"There is a problem, though. While we have the money to rebuild the infrastructure in the area, I'm not sure that the North has the professionals available to staff new hospitals or schools, nor do we have the money necessary to build up the standard of living to optimal level while continuing to fund southern Varjhali healthcare, education, and welfare," he continued, "Even if we receive a large influx of Varjhalis to serve the state for citizenship, I'm not sure such an extensive project is going to be easil accomplished. Does Khalistan have any recommendations?"

 

[Khalistan]

Palace of Ministers
Lahore,
Khalsa Raj of Khalistan

"As it will also be in our best interests to prevent undesirables to cross into Khalistan from Northern Varjhal, our border will be tightend up. Actually, the region that borders the north is populated with tribes that are fiercely loyal to the Maharajah, I suspect anyone from the north trying to cross into Khalistan there, they would find they would have done better with the your government forces, but, if they do try to to cross into Khalistan, and they are caught still in one piece...."

"As I had said before, Khalistan does want the north stablized, therefore, both the Khalistani government and private sector will cooperate with your government. You will also find that there will be no shortage of Khalastani companies bidding on reconstruction projects."

"The problem of professionals in the north will be a problem, at least in the short term. I am confident that, if your government is willing, we can find here in Khalistan just such professionals that would be willing to lend their expertise. In addition to volunteers, Khalistan can also help financially through aid packages and loans, both from the government and private sector, as well as direct investments by Khalistani conpanies and entrepreneurs. Is this something along the lines you were contemplating?"

 

[Khemia]

Shukla smiled a bit as the Khalistani man commented about the tribes along the border. Hard, pure and swift justice was something that every true Varjhali valued. "Volunteers from Khalistan would be much appreciated. I should let you know that our country is divided into two... tiers if you will? Residents and Citizens, residency being available to anyone wishing to live in Varjhal, while citizenship is an honorable title available only to those who have proved their worth to the state. There are supports for the resident population, but the Unity Front largely concerns itself with representing it's citizen population. In truth, there is little discontent among residents, they are largely unemployed immigrants or, frankly, lazy bourgeoisie; citizenship is relatively easily attained through ten years of military service, or ten years of university and a career with the state. The reason I tell you this is that the Unity Party is arriving at a crucial point in it's history; a vast influx of residents that will certainly require more government funding than we've ever committed."

"That's where your volunteers will come in," he explained, sipping the water a bit more. "We need help with this large influx of residents. I'm sure that many will take advantage of state education provided by the national universities in the south, and we're capable of supporting this. But we aren't capable of providing education throughout the entire north to all the pre-university youth. We'll need volunteers to staff resident hospitals and regional schools, perhaps we could negotiate some sort of workers-exchange program to handle this interesting relationship your volunteers will have with our state?"

 

[Khalistan]

"A kind of guest worker program can be arranged, where Khalistani volunteers could staff teaching hospitals as well as techincal schools and primary and secondary schools. As for permanent residency or citizenship, that of course will be up to the individuals."

 

[Khemia]

"Of course, perhaps we could create the incentive for an establishment of an NGO which can better handle personnel than we can. What's more, the NGO could be kept for any future crisis' in the region," Shukla stopped and pulled out another folder and segued straight into the next topic.

"Now, about economics. As Khalistan may or may not know, Varjhal operates under a free-market policy where all goods, products, and services of our economy are available for purchase. Of course, there are tariffs and subsidies, so if it is in Khalistan's interest to discuss trade agreements, we should first talk about those two. Of course, if it is the Khalistan government that handles trade, then we'll be talking about other matters altogether."

 

[Khalistan]

"I too am sure a non-governmental organization could be created for both this issue as well as for future ones."

"Economics. Khalistan, for the most part, works on a mixed system, a mixture of private and government businesses, with the government also controlling tarriffs and subsidies. Though Khalistanis are also able to purchase good and sevices at a price, there are of course certain goods and services that are also prohibited. Trafficking in such is illegal and is subject to punishment by anything from fines to lengthy prison sentences."

 

[Khemia]

Valavan smiled, "Our systems seem very compatible then, as we too have a public sector. Our public goods aren't available on the global market, though, as I doubt yours are as well. And governments are free to regulate what can and can't be bought and sold, of course. I should mention, though, that there are a few referendums that may change the Varjhali market relatively soon; including a potential legalization of prostitution and private gun ownership. From what I can tell, the Unity Party is likely to pass these referendums, although the legalization and regulation of the opium and cocaine market is something that will probably be hotly debated."

"So, concerning this trade, we should talk about a potential FTA. This would mean that we should either eliminate or significantly reduce tariffs on each others goods. The Unity Party currently has relatively high tariffs that amount to around 20% of a goods market value; by eliminating tariffs your companies will have significant advantages in our market over other countries, such as Wiesse or Oltremare."

 

[Khalistan]

"I will not comment on your pending referendums beyond saying that prostitution is illegal in Khalistan and private ownership of firearms are tightly regulated. As for the production, distribution, possession and use of opium and cocaine, is also tightly regulated."

"A Free Trade Agreement is something that Khalistan is interested in. The significant lowering or elimination of tarriffs has the potential of being a boost to both our economies."

 

[Khemia]

"Of course none of our new laws would infringe upon your national laws, it's just a note that should such laws pass, your Khalistani businessmen would be able to endeavor in such enterprises in Varjhal. While they may be allowed to produce or sell civilian-grade arms in Varjhal, they will of course not be allowed to bring such weapons into Khalistan as per your laws and customs. Just something that may interest your entrepreneurs, as these markets are becoming smaller and smaller, driving demand up and creating what could be a lucrative, if volatile, market."

"As for the Free Trade Agreement, that's something the Unity Front can commit to now. If it would please your Maharajah, we would be willing to sign an agreement that would lift immediately all tariffs on imported goods from Khalistan, provided that the goods are not being proxied through Khalistan for another government, unless we are made aware of such a deal prior. If the Maharajah would reciprocate such an arrangement, then I'm sure we can sign an agreement now," Shukla held a pale yellow folder with several papers sticking out of it, one of them was a possible FTA. He awaited Mr. Singh's approval before he would pull out the file and show it to the Khalistani.

 

[Khalistan]

"I think we can agree to the lifting of tarriffs on the conditions you have stated. Let me read the agreement and if it is satisfactory, then I don't see any reason why we could sign it immediately."

 

[Khemia]

Shukla passed forward the paper to the Khalistani, knowing that there was nothing on it that the Khalistani would object to. Varjhal wasn't trying to pursue underhanded economics, at least not in treaties. He'd leave that to the entrepreneurs.

"So, is there anything that you'd wish to discuss..?" Shukla continued, wondering if the Khalistani thought it was time for a leave.

 

[Khalistan]

Reading over the document carefully, Manmohan Singh sees it is a straight forward trade agreement with the agreed to specifics. Something he can sign.

"This will do just fine, though I am sure over time that it will be amended and improved, it is a fine start. Now, may I interest you in a meal and refreshments, and afterwards, we can continue if there is anything more you wish to discuss."

 

[Khemia]

"Of course. Perhaps some chicken tandoori and thick coffee?" Valavan smiled, expecting the Khalistani to know exactly want he meant, though he wasn't sure if the coffee he had just ordered would be up to his own standards.