Japan | E-Mail to Thailand

[Vladilena Milizé]

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Classified
From: Aya Tanaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan
To: Surakiart Sathirathai, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand

Subject: Diplomatic Relations

Your Excellency,

On behalf of the State of Japan I wish to reach out to your state. In recent times it has become clear the Republic of Thailand is a beacon of democracy in a continent so often filled with war. Considering our shared historical ties and our shared values, I would like to invite a member of the Thai state to meet with the Prime Minister in Tokyo to discuss possible relations and shared goals for Asia and the world.

Yours sincerely,
Aya Tanaka

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[Bossza007]

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To: <Aya Tanaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan> Vladilena Milizé From: <Sarabun@mfa.mail.go.th> Subject: RE: Diplomatic Relations Security Type: Secure Encrypted Method - Protect by NIA Counter-Intelligence Service - The decryption method is sent separately via fax

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Dear Excellency Minister Aya Tanaka,

I hope this email finds you in the best health and spirit.

Firstly, permit me to express, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Thailand, our profound appreciation to the esteemed Government of Japan and specifically, your Ministry, for initiating this promising correspondence. Regrettably, Minister Surakiart Sathirathai is currently engaged in high-level dialogues with the Mexican Government and thus is unavailable for immediate correspondence. I am honored to represent our Ministry in his stead.

The Government of the Republic of Thailand firmly reiterates its unwavering dedication to nurturing and fortifying the already robust Thai-Japanese diplomatic nexus. To this effect, it is with great enthusiasm that we announce the forthcoming visit of one of our Deputy Prime Ministers, Mr. Korn Dabbaransi, accompanied by a high-level delegation. The delegation is poised to engage in substantive dialogues with the Prime Minister of Japan in Tokyo, to discuss avenues for escalating our bilateral cooperation.

In anticipation of this pivotal meeting, we would appreciate it if you could relay to us any logistical and procedural details that should be observed. This would enable us to ensure that our delegation is comprehensively prepared, thereby facilitating a seamless and productive engagement.

We harbor a deep-seated conviction that this imminent dialogue will not only augment our bilateral relationship but also contribute meaningfully to the greater harmony and prosperity of the Asian continent as a whole.

I await your esteemed response with great anticipation and remain,

Yours in Diplomatic Partnership,

Sukhumbhand Paribatra
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
Republic of Thailand

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[Vladilena Milizé]

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Classified
From: Aya Tanaka, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan
To: Sukhumbhand Paribatra, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand

Subject: Response and Logistical Information

Your Excellency,

Both myself and the Japanese state are highly appreciative of your swift reply. I understand entirely that your Minister is occupied and I will gladly continue our correspondence with you.

The State of Japan observes all international agreements and convention such as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. As such the Deputy Prime Minister and their delegation will enjoy full diplomatic immunity. They may land at Haneda Airport, Tokyo. A gate will be reserved for them. In the country the Deputy Prime Minister may maintain an armed security detail. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department's Security Police will also escort the delegation. Within the country the Deputy Prime Minister and their delegation will be hosted in the Prime Minister's residence.

On behalf of the Prime Minister I wish to inform you that she looks forward to the meeting and the amazing potential for an ever closer Asia.

Yours sincerely,
Aya Tanaka

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[Bossza007]

1

Suvarnabhumi Airport
0200 (ICT)
Bangkok, Thailand​

"Is everybody here? The plane's taking off." The timbre of Deputy Prime Minister Korn Dabbaransi's utterance reverberated through the sanctified air, an atmosphere made sacrosanct by its exclusivity to governmental luminaries. His eyes orchestrated a balletic sweep across the room, alighting momentarily upon each individual of the esteemed delegation designated to accompany him to the Land of the Rising Sun. Gathered was an elite assembly: politicians, emissaries, and sagacious advisors, each a pivotal stone in the intricate mosaic of Thai-Japanese diplomacy.

"All present and accounted for, sir," Colonel Prasong articulated, his vocal tenor imbued with the meticulous clarity forged from a lifetime tethered to military regimen.

"Excellent. Let it be your charge to ensure all comprehend the monumental weight and sensitive nature of our endeavor. Recognize, this is far removed from mere diplomatic pageantry; it's a fulcrum in the evolving narrative between Thailand and Japan, a ripple whose effects could extend to the tapestry of Asia entire. Comprehended?"

"Infallibly, sir. Your will shall manifest," Colonel Prasong affirmed, locking his gaze into the Deputy Minister's in a moment of unshakable conviction before pivoting to cascade a string of succinct directives upon his squadron.

With a final, discerning ocular sweep, Korn Dabbaransi navigated the ascending staircase to the looming Airbus A340. As an imposing shadow on the tarmac, its structure stood defiant against the nebulous uncertainty that shrouded the pre-dawn obscurity. Ascending into the celestial ink, the aircraft's wings cleaved through the veils of lingering doubt, soaring towards a destiny that beckoned both nations with insatiable yearning.

2

In-Flight over the South China Sea
0930 (ICT)​

Within the cabin of the Airbus A340—a governmental vessel imbued with the weight of diplomatic importance—the ambiance was a woven tapestry of palpable tension and steadfast resolve. Seated in a configuration that echoed their communal mission, members of the delegation were submerged in the eleventh-hour refinement of documents for the imminent assembly. Deputy Prime Minister Korn Dabbaransi's gaze traveled through the aircraft's window, getting lost in the undulating ocean of clouds beneath them. In the hallowed halls of his innermost thoughts, a procession of prospective outcomes and lurking uncertainties marched in complex rhythm.

Dr. Noppadon, a sage among strategic advisors, broke his reverie. "Deputy Minister, would you care to review the talking points one last time before we land?"

"Yes, Dr. Noppadon, thank you," Korn affirmed, reining his contemplation back to the realm of the immediate.

The venerable advisor handed him a sheaf of parchment, bound within a folder boldly emblazoned with the word 'Confidential.' The folio was a labyrinth of insights, detailing considerations from the fiscal fruits of intensified bilateral collaboration to urgent musings on regional stability and the geopolitical axis. Korn scanned the repository of data, soaking in the monumental implications that extended beyond Thai borders, reverberating through the geopolitical atmosphere of Asia itself.

After securing the folder's clasp, he reclined in his seat and exhaled a weighted sigh. The sinews of the future remained inscrutable, woven in a fabric beyond his purview. Yet, his will was galvanized with purpose: to navigate the unfolding tapestry toward a destiny most harmonious for his homeland, and by natural extension, the continent it stood upon.
"Thank you, Dr. Noppadon. Make sure everyone is aligned with our objectives and strategies. We can't afford any missteps."

"Absolutely, Deputy Minister," Noppadon concurred, the assurance in his voice serving as a reaffirming echo.

3

Landing at Haneda Airport
1500 (JST)
Tokyo, Japan​

As the Airbus A340 embarked on its final arc through the heavens, descending through the atmospheric layers that separated sky from earth, the delegation's eyes were magnetically drawn to Tokyo's expansive labyrinth below. An urban tapestry woven from interlacing streets and architectural marvels unfolded before them, appearing as a sprawling tableau of complexities and aspirations. When the aircraft's wheels kissed the tarmac in an eloquent ballet of engineering and gravity, Deputy Prime Minister Korn Dabbaransi felt the subtle jolt as an epiphany—a tactile affirmation of their arrival on Japanese soil.

Even as the vessel's turbines whirred toward silence, the flight crew was absorbed in a final litany of procedural confirmations. From his seat, Korn glimpsed a caravan of vehicles stationed on the airstrip, their poised forms silently echoing the mission's gravitas. Though the choices of the Japanese remained beyond his sphere of influence, the meticulous orchestration he witnessed spoke volumes about their shared understanding of the mission's monumental import.

In the wake of the aircraft's standstill, a nuanced lightness diffused through Korn—disparate from the onus of duty, which would indubitably persist. It was as though the taut bowstring of anticipation had slackened into the firm stringency of action. They were no mere travelers now; they were purposeful sojourners, stepping into the crucible of potential on Japanese ground.

As the cabin doors yielded, a waft of Tokyo's air—crisp, textured, invigorating—greeted him. Each footstep on the asphalt resonated like an echoed affirmation of their embarked mission. Gathering around him, the Thai delegation coalesced into an unspoken formation, poised on the precipice of forward motion. Korn paused, an internal gyre of thoughts settling within him.

"As we set foot in Japan, remember that we're not just here as representatives of Thailand," he imparted to his ensemble. "We are here as emissaries of hope, dialogue, and a shared vision for a better future."

Collectively animated by gravitas imbued in each utterance, the delegation advanced toward their designated reception area. For Korn and his diplomatic compatriots, each step bore the essence of Thailand's convictions and aspirations. Their collective aura seemed to pulse with an unarticulated yet palpable communiqué: Here we stand, turning the parchment to a fresh chapter in the long-scrolling manuscript of Thai-Japanese relations.

Their soles had imprinted upon Japanese earth, rendering their diplomatic mission not just conceivable but tangibly manifest, freighted with the manifold hopes, enigmas, and conceivable outcomes that marked such consequential undertakings.

Vladilena Milizé ​

 

[Vladilena Milizé]

Hours before the Thai Airbus arrived preparations were already put into place. For weeks the Japanese authorities had been working for the first formal visit of a foreign government official to a Japan under the Mitsubishi government. Kasumi wanted everything to go perfectly, both for the earlier mentioned reason and because of how vital Thailand was to the Japanese objectives for Asia. In recent years Thailand had become the primary power in South-East Asia and Japan was aiming to have that same position in East Asia. In that they shared similar enemies, with the elephant in the room being of course the 'People's Republic' of China. All of that and more would undoubtedly come up at the meeting.

A red carpet was rolled out from the planned landing location to the airport facilities themselves. Along this carpet would be an imposing honour guard holding Japanese and Thai flags.

Beyond that, an operation had taken place involving almost every agency operating within the capital. Security services had made sure that all potential threats to either the Thai or Japanese states were being monitored while some had even be detained pre-emptively until the state visit was complete, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department being responsible for security had roadblocks set up at various locations along the planned route and near the Prime Minister's Residence, meanwhile the JADF would enforce a no-fly zone over the Residence and planned route while the JMDF would monitor sea routes towards Tokyo. Finally the JGDF had soldiers aiding the TMPD in providing security and helping with law and order enforcement due to the manpower needed in the city that day.

After the plane landed and the delegation exited the staircase onto the red carpet and Japanese soil they would be approached by Kasumi Mitsubishi. The young 25-year old woman was dressed in a long red and white dress and had her long black hair hang loose behind her back. "Your Excellency, welcome to Japan" She said in near-fluent Thai. Kasumi had always been a polyglot and learning languages was something she enjoyed. Because of this at age 10 she was already fluent in five languages and that had only expanded with a new language almost every year. This made sure that she could handle any talks with most foreign nations. "I trust your flight was pleasant and safe, please join me" She added before turning around and proceeding to the end of the carpet while an orchestra attached to the honour guard continuously played the Thai and Japanese anthems. It truly was the highest honour Japan could give any delegation. Once inside the airport the route had been cleared for them to get out of the airport without interruption. Regardless of this many had come to the airport to get a chance to stand near the barricades and catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister or the Thai delegation. Transparency laws meant that this visit was known to the Japanese press well in advance and as such the area was filled with fans. This undoubtedly would be a regular occurrence along the route.

Once outside the airport the Prime Minister and the Thai delegation were escorted to a long row of cars that were prepared for them, all were black Toyota Land Cruisers modified to for a soundproof barrier between the driver and the passengers and with all storage space converted to extra space for the passengers so each could sit in full comfort and face each other. The Prime Minister and Thai Deputy Prime Minister were placed in their own car at the front while the rest of the delegation would be placed in the other cars.

Once the convoy took off it would be escorted by police vehicles from the TMPD while JASDF F-15Js flew overhead to quickly react to any aerial threat that might make its way to the high value targets. As the cars moved away from the airport and entered the blocked off streets loudly cheering people could be seen on all sides, pushing against the fencing to get as close as they could to catch even a momentary glimpse of the high speed convoy. Observing best practices the cars drove well over 150kph even within the city as a fast vehicle was a lot harder to target than a slow one.

While on their way Kasumi would turn to Korn. "Your Excellency, I hope you do not mind but I'd like to already start some informal preparations before we get into the full negotiations later. As you know my government is still very young but we have ambitious plans for both the country and Asia. For centuries Asia has been dominated by foreign powers. While it seemed in the second half of the 20th century we would get our autonomy back, Asia was still the battleground of a conflict that was started by Europeans. It is my hope to establish an Asia that stands fully on its own, that is not to say that we would turn our backs on the world but rather that whatever happens elsewhere Asia will still be in charge of its own future. There are a few obvious threats to that becoming reality, especially the politics of China which despite professing communism turns out to be much like the Qing and other dynasties in the past in practice. What is your outlook on all these matters?" She said, still speaking Thai.

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[Bossza007]

When the Japanese Prime Minister laid eyes on Thai Deputy Prime Minister Korn Dabbaransi, she beheld a towering figure, his 57 years a stark contrast to her relative youth. His bearing was an eloquent testimony to decades spent honing diplomatic finesse and political acumen, each moment wrapped in the rigorous puzzles of statecraft. As he descended the staircase, a cadre of delegates trailed behind him—each radiating a unique blend of keen intelligence—further safeguarded by a cohort from the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).

Upon setting foot on the red carpet, Korn returned the Japanese Prime Minister's greeting with a Wai, infusing the Japanese atmosphere with a touch of Thai cultural resonance. "Thank you for the warm hospitality. The pleasure is all mine, Your Excellency." Together with his delegation, Korn followed the Japanese Prime Minister's lead. They basked in the myriad offerings of Japanese graciousness, whether it was the harmonious blend of Thai and Japanese anthems or the palpable focus of the Japanese crowd—each nuance impeccably received by the visiting dignitaries.

As Deputy Prime Minister Korn was in a convoy with the Japanese Prime Minister Kasumi, he would return her utterance.

"It is indeed an honor to engage in candid dialogue with you, Your Excellency," Korn began, his tone suffused with the gravity the moment warranted. "I must commend the focus and commitment of your administration, particularly its vision for an Asia unburdened by external influences. Rest assured, Bangkok stands staunchly with Tokyo in this noble pursuit. Thailand's foreign policy is presently oriented toward Pax Thailandia—a visionary epoch for Asia where the tenets of democracy hold sway, and each nation’s voice resonates with dignity. Since 1999, following the unfortunate collapse of the Republic of Korea, Thailand has assumed the role of Asia's spokesperson, not as a paternalistic overseer, but as an economic linchpin and influential collaborator among Asian nations."

Pausing to let the weight of his words settle, Korn continued, "Your effort to converse in Thai does not go unnoticed or unappreciated." A smile graced his lips. "As for China, they've retreated into dormancy, not out of invincibility but from a failure to sustain their ideology. Our peaceful but firm confrontation in 2000 served to delineate boundaries, relegating China to its geopolitical sphere. You can find solace in the reality that a once-toppled behemoth remains susceptible to containment."

Turning somber, his gaze met Kasumi's with empathetic solemnity. "I was pained to hear about the attempt on your life and your subsequent convalescence at the University of Tokyo Hospital. Please receive my heartfelt condolences on behalf of Thailand. The persisting specter of terrorism, despite collective efforts to quell it, has cast its pall far and wide—from the bombings in Bangkok targeting Western embassies to the assassination attempt on President Gore, and now, tragically, you. Such actions can only be construed as an act of war, echoing the sentiments of our Prime Minister. May I inquire into your thoughts on this dire matter?"

Vladilena Milizé

 

[Vladilena Milizé]

Kasumi nodded as her Thai counterpart spoke. "I understand and appreciate the work Thailand has done to maintain Asia's security and prosperity over the past several years. You undoubtedly have served as a vital component to the greater ability of this continent to pursue its genuine interests. It is my goal for Japan to take a similar position, not to usurp Thailand but stand with it as an equal partner in sending a message to the world that Asia welcomes peaceful cooperation but will defend its economic, territorial and cultural sovereignty against any incursions. While the Thai people were luckily spared subjugation, my people still very much remember the Unequal Treaties and what happens when Asia shows weakness. It is for that reason that I have been thinking of starting a new organization called the Asian Cooperation Organization. An organization that consists of equal partners and is open to any freedom loving Asian country and that acts as a guardian of Asia while generally erasing borders and removing the barriers to free trade." She said, providing a pause as this would undoubtedly be not what her honoured guest expected as a response.

"I must caution against taking comfort in China's current position. As history has shown time and time again, a wounded empire rarely turns out for the better. As it stands they still claim our land and continue to subjugate their own people. As long as that is the case they are an enemy to the Asian cause and eventually more than containment may be needed. If that moment arrives I hope Japan can rely on Thailand's commitment to Asian peace. I must also thank you for your comments. Unfortunately and I have left this out of the press the terrorists partially succeeded in their attempts. While they may not have ended my life they did end the life that was growing inside me. I hope I have made our position on this clear through our actions with regards to the bandits in Japan. That being zero tolerance and absolute annihilation. We have cut them off from their finances, we have ended their racketeering and we are one by one eliminating all their criminal enterprises. We will not rest until every Yakuza is serving a sentence in prison. And we will stand with any party that fights against terrorists"

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[Bossza007]

As Deputy Prime Minister Korn Dabbaransi absorbed the final utterance from Prime Minister Kasumi, a nuanced smile graced his lips—a smile that was a complex tapestry of commitment to peace and the intricate dance of international politics.

"Prime Minister Kasumi, my deepest condolences on the loss of your child. It's a rare occasion for me to engage in dialogue with someone as youthful and spirited as you. Allow me a moment to savor this unique confluence of energies. However, let me assure you that my elation does not diminish my empathy for your loss. I, too, lost a child in the Fourth Indochina War. Yet, I can scarcely fathom the depth of your sorrow, given that you were denied even the briefest opportunity to nurture your child's nascent spirit." His eyes met hers in a moment of genuine connection before he briefly closed them and looked skyward, as if momentarily transported to a sanctuary of inner peace.

After a contemplative pause, he reopened his eyes, reentering the conversation with renewed focus. "We have a rich tapestry of topics to explore, Prime Minister Kasumi. The prospect of our forthcoming discussions invigorates me to my core. Yet, I sense that if we continue along this path, we may transcend the boundaries of what is considered casual discourse, don't you agree?" A warm laugh punctuated his words.

"Prime Minister, you stand on the threshold of a promising future. While I extend my sympathies to you now, know that I am also keenly assessing your diplomatic prowess. In the realm of international relations, our voices may be equal—that is our guiding principle—but the art of negotiation is in nuance, the tact we each bring to the table. Japan is fortunate to have a leader of your caliber at its helm. Every interaction on this global stage serves as a crucible for your growth, not just as a diplomat but potentially as a world leader. Now, if you'll excuse me, I shall take a moment to rest and reflect." With that, he adjusted his posture for comfort, ready to retreat into a brief respite unless the Japanese Prime Minister had further mattered to discuss.

Vladilena Milizé

 

[Vladilena Milizé]

"You flatter me, Prime Minister. But of course you are correct. In my youthfulness I do sometimes get ahead of myself, please forgive me" She replied, relaxing back in her seat for the final leg of the journey. Once they arrived at the Residence the security that had escorted them would depart from the convoy at the gates while the final part to the door was done only by the civilian cars. Once the cars came to a standstill a Solar Guard would open the door to let the passengers out. Once out of the car both Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister would be escorted inside and then to the Prime Minister's personal conference room.. Aides would come in to offer both Kasumi and her Thai counterpart, and then their respective delegations, something to drink and small snacks. Once both delegations were settled and as comfortable as these meetings could get Kasumi would begin.

"Deputy Prime Minister, once again thank you for accepting our invitation to meet in person. Japan and Thailand have long relations, in fact you were even one of the only governments that managed to get along with our less pleasant incarnation" Kasumi began, adding some humour to make everyone more at ease "and now I believe we each are core players within Asia. Thailand as one of the established powers who has long defended the interests of this continent, and Japan as a rising power with a keen interest in asserting its position as both a regional and a global power. While in many other continents a new power rising and an established power existing have always led to conflict. I believe we can stand above those historic trends, and instead of seeing each other's position as threatening, embrace it as the potential it provides. One strong power in Asia is great, but two and hopefully even more strong powers in Asia is the way that we truly keep this continent safe from any incursion. This brings me to one of the first topics that I kind of already started in the car but would like to continue here. The People's Republic of China. While they are a member of the Asian continent, they have historically been an enemy of democracy, freedom and free markets. While as you said they are currently dormant, there is nothing stopping them from returning with renewed vigour. I know that my nation considers Communist China to be one of the greatest existential threats. It is almost exclusively for this reason that my administration is investing so heavily in restructuring and rebuilding the Japanese Armed Forces so we may contain them on the sea and in the sky. It is also partly for this reason that we have sought to strengthen our ties to Korea and the Republic of China. How does Thailand view this matter?"

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[Bossza007]

Listening to Prime Minister Kasumi's speech, Deputy Prime Minister Korn takes a moment to sip his tea, allowing the room to absorb the weight of her words.

"Prime Minister Kasumi, Thailand values Japan's commitment to regional stability and autonomy. We find common ground in these objectives and are encouraged by Japan's proactive stance. However, it's essential that our actions are coordinated to maintain the delicate balance of power in Asia." He pauses, letting the room breathe.

"During our convoy ride, I believe you mentioned the Asian Cooperation Organization. I'd like to discuss how this aligns with Thailand's own vision for the region. We have initiated the Asian Unity Council, or AUC, which aims to uphold the principles of Progressive Democracy, mutual respect, and self-determination. Thailand, as a technologically advanced and economically robust nation, is well-positioned to lead this endeavor. We propose that the ACO and AUC could be harmonized under a joint leadership framework, thereby pooling our resources and capabilities for the greater good of Asia."

Turning to the subject of China, he continues, "We share your concerns about China's potential to disrupt regional stability. Thailand has a proven track record of containing such threats and is willing to collaborate with Japan on intelligence and strategy. Our military capabilities are self-sufficient, and we believe a unified approach could be beneficial for both nations."

He takes another sip of tea before addressing Japan's military expansion. "We acknowledge Japan's efforts to modernize its armed forces. Transparency in these activities will be crucial for maintaining trust among Asian nations. Would you consider joint military exercises as a step toward this transparency?"

"In the spirit of collaboration, Thailand has made significant strides in various sectors, including renewable energy, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, and space exploration. We see opportunities for joint ventures that could be mutually beneficial and align with our shared vision for a sustainable and secure Asia."

He pauses for a moment, locking eyes with the Japanese Prime Minister. "However, it's imperative that any technological collaboration respects the intellectual property rights of the contributing parties. This is a non-negotiable aspect of our proposed partnerships." After listening to one of his delegates summarize the situation and offer remarks on Japan's stance, Deputy Prime Minister Korn takes the lead once more.

"According to assessments from the World Bank and our own economic team, Thailand's economy currently outpaces Japan's by a factor of 5.5. This gap is expected to widen further, especially with the recent completion of our transformative Mega Project—the BTS Master Plan. This initiative alone is projected to inject an additional $25 billion into our economy, propelling us into the ranks of the world's top five largest economies. Given this trajectory, I propose that we explore economic partnerships, particularly in the realm of sustainable energy and mutually beneficial trade agreements." He pauses to sip his tea, signaling a momentary break in the conversation.

"As we stand up," he continues, prompting his delegates to adopt a more diplomatically assertive posture, "I'd like to shift our focus to the broader implications of today's meeting, particularly as they pertain to the global stage. While Thailand may not wield the same level of influence as the United Kingdom or the United States, we maintain robust relationships with these nations and have successfully represented the interests of the Asian continent while safeguarding it from external influences. Our commitment to human rights and dignity is globally recognized, and we have spearheaded numerous successful humanitarian missions."

"By entering into a partnership with Japan, we offer guidance on the global stage. Your nation's voice, amplified by Thailand's backing, will command the respect and attention it deserves. In line with our mutual goals for peace and stability, I propose that we commence with the implementation of non-military security measures. These initiatives will be spearheaded by Thailand's technological advancements in cybersecurity, ensuring the protection of our critical data and infrastructure."

Vladilena Milizé

 

[Vladilena Milizé]

Kasumi listened carefully, while her youth might seem like a weakness she enjoyed wisdom well beyond her age and had long learned that it was beneficial to be perceived as less able. Whether it is because of age or gender. After all, she had come up among these factors throughout her life in Japan itself. While the Thai delegation showed full respect on the surface, she easily recognized the condescension hidden behind the nice words. In this case however it was in Japan's benefit to be condescended so she would play into it..

"Deputy Prime Minister, I am pleased to hear your interest in stewarding Japan to enjoy a prominent position in the world order. First, regarding the proposed ACO and the existing AUC. While I can see similarities, I also see significant differences. The ACO would be purely focused as a military, economic and technological bloc. In some forms a hybrid of the late NATO and European Union. As you describe the AUC it feels like more of a Council of Europe like organization. I believe giving each of these organizations a distinct identity would be better. That way members of our beautiful continent who may not want to commit to advanced cooperation on the earlier mentioned fields can still cooperate through the AUC. And while it is certainly true that your position as Asia's reigning power gives you significant influence in any organization you join, I do feel that the ACO is founded on full equality first. Whether it is a voice from Thailand, Japan, Korea, or Singapore, each must have equal weight. That way we can truly make Asia the diamond within the world order. As an example to do this in practice I believe it is beneficial to split the organ of the ACO among its members. In acknowledgement of your military prowess I believe Thailand should host the Supreme Asian Command. Japan could host the organization's coordinating organs and another the Asian Development Bank. And any additional organs we deem required for other members. At the same time leadership within each organ is rotated on a regular basis. I believe this can combine both your prominence and the goal of building an order that can serve the continent regardless of what the future brings"

She paused for a moment to take a sip of water before moving on. "Regarding our efforts, unlike the Empire of Japan our military expansion does not come from the military itself but rather the fully civilian government. It is the natural result of our new world order where Japan must be responsible for its own sovereignty and cannot depend on a military overlord like the United States did in the post-War order. That being said as an effort by the democratic civilian government that per the constitution cannot allow active duty members of the military within it, any expansion will follow the open democratic processes. As such we maintain full transparency. We are fully willing to engage in joint exercises with Thailand, however in the spirit of Asian cooperation perhaps it would be better to also involve countries such as Korea, the Republic of China and Singapore in these. We would also welcome coordination on strategy and similar regarding the PRC but believe this too would benefit from involving other powers that are likely to also be victims of a Communist Chinese resurgence. It would also make it easier to keep them behind the first Island Chain."

"Finally, regarding economic and technological cooperation. Japan has always observed intellectual property protection as vital. We too possess cutting edge companies in nearly all technological fields. I do believe cooperation between our two economies can prove a boost for both. But while I am starting to sound like a broken record, I too feel like it would be beneficial to share our respective economic powerhouses with our fellow Asian nations as well. Especially considering efforts of countries such as Korea and the ROC in advanced technologies as well."

At this point Kasumi would finally rest to let the Deputy Prime Minister and his delegation consider her words.

Bossza007

 

[Bossza007]

Deputy Prime Minister Korn, upon discerning the intricate gambit unfurled by the Japanese Prime Minister, would subtly retrieve a pen of obsidian ink from the hidden recesses of his trouser pocket, seamlessly nestling it within the folds of his tailored suit. In that singular moment, the atmosphere among his delegates transmuted, crystallizing into a frigid calm that effortlessly deflected the palpable tension permeating this high-stakes assembly. Deputy Korn himself would now assume a posture of unyielding erectness, his spine a column of unwavering resolve. As the negotiations unfurled, his self-assurance seemed to burgeon, as though he were not merely a participant but a puppeteer in this intricate dance. Yet, despite his reputation for strategic prescience, he found himself awash in incredulity; his own Prime Minister had once again outmaneuvered him, orchestrating a series of moves that lay several paces beyond his own foresight.

"Prime Minister Kasumi, your perspectives are indeed enlightening, offering a comprehensive understanding of the intricate challenges and opportunities inherent in uniting Asia. I commend your dedication to the principles of equality and collective governance within the ACO. Yet, allow me to present some nuanced adjustments to ensure that our collective vision is not only harmonious but also pragmatically effective.

First and foremost, the notion of distributing the key institutions of the ACO among its member states is commendable for its democratic ethos. However, we must balance this with the exigencies of efficient governance and rapid decision-making. Thailand's economic prowess surpasses that of Japan by a factor of 5.5, and our military and technological acumen is unrivaled in the Asian landscape. This places us in a unique position to host both the Supreme Asian Command and the Asian Development Bank. Centralization of these pivotal organs would not only expedite decision-making but also capitalize on Thailand's established infrastructures and proficiencies for the collective benefit.

Secondly, I agree that the ACO and AUC should maintain distinct identities to circumvent bureaucratic redundancies. To this end, Thailand is prepared to sponsor a joint secretariat to synchronize the endeavors of both organizations, ensuring seamless collaboration.

On the subject of joint military exercises, your focus on inclusivity is laudable. Nevertheless, it is imperative to uphold a stringent standard of military competence. Thailand and Japan, as the most technologically advanced nations in this domain, should initially establish a robust bilateral framework. Once this foundation is secure, we can extend the invitation to other nations, contingent upon their meeting the elevated standards we set forth.

Regarding economic and technological alliances, the concept of a Pilot Partnership is indeed enticing. However, such a partnership must be founded on the principles of reciprocity and mutual respect. Thailand is prepared to share its technological innovations, but we anticipate an equivalent commitment from Japan. Intellectual property rights must be reciprocally honored, and any technologies shared should be restricted to the use of ACO and AUC member states.

Finally, while Thailand is privileged to host the inaugural Asian summit, I propose a rotational chairmanship among member states. Nevertheless, the host nation should retain specific prerogatives or powers to ensure the efficient realization of the organization's goals. Given Thailand's substantial contributions, it is only fitting that we possess a weighted voting mechanism within the ACO, thereby guiding Asia towards a new epoch of prosperity and security.

I trust that these refinements align with your vision, Prime Minister Kasumi, and I look forward to your thoughts." He finally concluded; his eyes sharpen to her glare, finally moved his knight from its origin.

Vladilena Milizé