Brandenburg Conference
The Brandenburg Conference is a meeting scheduled for 3 - 13.XV.1680 AN. The primary objective of the conference is the formal re-establishment of the Treaty of Brandenburg. In addition, consideration is being given to further trade cooperation between the original signatories of the treaty with the possible accession of new participants.
The Kaiser of Francia is the host of the conference. On behalf of him, invitations were sent by the Frankish government to the Empress of Shireroth and the Prince of Elwynn. The venue for the conference is the Jess Palace on Unter den Eichen, the avenue between the Arkadius Palace and the Brandenburg Gate.
Background
On 7.IV.1673 AN the Treaty of Brandenburg (officially: Central Benacian Free Trade Agreement) was concluded between the Kingdom of Amokolia (predecessor of the Frankish Empire), the Elwynnese Republic and the Imperial Republic of Shireroth. This extensive trade agreement had to contribute to a level playing field for companies from the various participating countries.
On 24.VII.1678 the Second Amokolian War broke out, with trade disruptions in the run-up. Trade to and from the Kingdom of Amokolia was stopped during the war. The Norfae Peace Treaty was signed on 23.VI.1679 AN, after which the trade could take place again. But there still appeared to be obstacles.
The Frankish government urged a conference to remove the uncertainty about the status of the Treaty of Brandenburg. Because the participating countries had indicated that the treaty would still be in force, but in practice it appeared that there was uncertainty. Through a conference, the Frankish government together with the treaty partners wants to remove that uncertainty.
Visa policy of Elwynn
The Frankish government is concerned about the Visa policy of Elwynn, whereby visas can be obtained with approval from the Council of Eliria. There are cumbersome conditions, such as sufficient financial resources for the visa holder to leave the country at his own expense. This is not inviting for trade, according to the Frankish government.
Shirerithian Customs Area
Since 1.XII.1678 AN a full import and export ban applies to goods from the Frankish Empire to the Shirerithian Customs Area. This trade ban contradicts the Treaty of Brandenburg. In addition, there is a complex relationship with the Batavian Confederation, because the Kingdom of Batavia is a participant in the Shirerithian Customs Area, while together with Francia member of the Batavian Confederation, which is also a customs union.
Expansion of partnership
There are rumours that there are plans to allow several countries to participate in the Treaty of Brandenburg. A possible participant is the Kingdom of Batavia, where the idea is to leave the Shirerithian Customs Area and accede to this treaty. The complicated dual role of Batavia within the customs union of the Batavian Confederation and the Shirerithian Customs Area is hereby resolved.
Initiatives
There are various initiatives to facilitate trade. Such as:
- Re-establishment of the Orient Express, the long-distance train service between 's Koningenwaarde and Shirekeep. The reconfigured route is likely to avoid the territory of the Unified Governorates of Benacia, but wants to achieve the original objectives of the train service.
- Establishment of the Benacian Highway Network, a link between existing highways and the introduction of uniform numbering.
