291: Prelude to Interstellar Diplomacy

“This is the main point I came here to discuss.” Lin Mo’s expression became serious: “According to the Eastern Federation’s values and diplomatic principles, we cannot treat planets with existing civilizations as private property for development.”

“This not only violates our moral codes but could also lead to unpredictable consequences.”

He paused, looking around at the company executives present: “Therefore, after careful consideration, Zijin Pavilion has decided that the Eastern Federation is willing to relinquish its relevant rights in the development agreement for Planet Four, and does not require any compensation from your company.”

These words plunged the conference room into a brief silence. Giving up the development rights to a resource-rich planet was no small matter.

Topaz cautiously asked: “Minister Lin, are there other considerations behind the Eastern Federation’s decision?”

“Indeed.” Lin Mo nodded, acknowledging the statement: “We have found that establishing contact with a civilization like the Zemurian Continent holds immeasurable value for the Eastern Federation in its journey towards becoming a mature interstellar civilization.”

“Therefore, we hope to establish formal diplomatic relations with the civilization on Barnard I through your company’s platform.”

At this moment, the conference room door gently opened, and Chen Hao slowly walked in. All attendees immediately stood up to greet him, and Lin Mo also politely rose.

“Old Lin, long time no see.” Chen Hao greeted with a smile, “It seems you’ve brought an interesting proposal today.”

Lin Mo respectfully replied: “Chairman Chen, that is indeed the case. The Eastern Federation hopes to take the first step in interstellar diplomacy at this historic moment.”

Chen Hao walked to the main seat and sat down, his gaze sweeping over the detailed information about the Zemurian Continent displayed on the screen.

In his mind, various considerations were being rapidly weighed.

‘Maintaining the continent’s fragmented state indeed best serves the company’s interests; competition among multiple nations can create more business opportunities. Although Dieter is capable, unifying the continent would lead to a monopoly, which is not conducive to the company’s market expansion.’

‘As for the suggestion Lin Mo brought up, it is most likely that the Eastern Federation needs a “beginner’s level” to learn interstellar diplomacy, and the Zemurian civilization’s level of development is just right.’

‘They are barely entering modernization, but they are still too far behind the Eastern Federation. Even with rapid progress after civilization exchange, it’s impossible to close the gap with the Eastern Federation in just a decade or so.’

‘I am the main reason why the Eastern Federation can have such an unreasonable development speed. Although I find those kids in the Special Support Section quite pleasing, business is business; those are two different things.’

‘However, there’s one tricky thing: those unreasonable individual combat powers will likely cause a considerable impact on Eastern Federation society. But more civilization exchange can accelerate the spread of the path in this universe; there will be benefits even with the impact. I think the old men will probably be happy to see it happen.’

‘To be safe, let’s test the waters first.’

Chen Hao looked directly at Lin Mo and said: “Old Lin, I must be frank about a key issue: those powerhouses on the Zemurian Continent.”

“According to our assessment, at least fifteen individuals have reached the minimum standard of a Pathstrider. And a few others are even among the best.”

Chen Hao swiped his finger, and a projection appeared, showing Sigmund Orlando in combat.

“‘War Ghost’ Sigmund once single-handedly fought an armored squadron. His daughter, Shirley Orlando, though young, possesses astonishing combat talent; her energy bursts can even reach seventy percent of her father’s combat power level.”

“Such powerhouses also lead Jaeger Corps like the Red Constellation, which can even organize a medium-scale frontal war. Although they are powerless against an interstellar fleet, they can pose a serious threat in small-scale conflicts.”

Chen Hao deliberately paused, observing Lin Mo’s reaction, “If diplomatic relations are established, then the flow of personnel and materials is unavoidable.”

“I imagine you wouldn’t prevent them from entering simply because of things they’ve done on other planets that don’t quite align with your values.”

“Although not all of them are lawless madmen, I think you understand the saying, ‘With a sharp weapon in hand, a killing intent arises.’ Once these powerhouses enter the Eastern Federation, they will inevitably cause a considerable impact on the existing social order and security system.”

Lin Mo nodded gravely, but a hint of understanding flashed in his eyes: “Chairman Chen is right; Zijin Pavilion has discussed this issue in depth.”

“But we believe that this pressure can instead be transformed into motivation.”

He keenly realized that Chen Hao was using this to gauge the Eastern Federation’s response strategy to such situations, thereby assessing the Eastern Federation’s strategic planning regarding unconventional combat forces like Pathstriders.

He leaned forward, his tone firm and candid: “Among the Eastern Federation’s nearly 3 billion people, the number of Pathstriders is indeed relatively small; currently, there are fewer than five registered.”

Lin Mo deliberately revealed this number, demonstrating the Eastern Federation’s transparency.

“Actually,” Lin Mo continued, “Zijin Pavilion originally formulated the ‘Morning Star Plan’ to explore the possibility of artificially stimulating the path. But now that there is a large-scale way to obtain Septium ore, the feasibility of this plan has significantly increased.”

He specifically paused, “Of course, if the company is interested in this plan, we warmly welcome the company’s technical support and guidance.”

Subsequently, the conference room fell silent.

A hint of approval flashed in Chen Hao’s eyes. The Eastern Federation not only did not fear this challenge but instead saw it as an opportunity.

More importantly, the Eastern Federation did not shy away from pursuing this super-regular power of Pathstriders and being ‘cautious’ of the company.

Strategic mutual trust, that’s very important. Good relations do not prevent careful precautions, and vice versa.

After his thoughts matured, Chen Hao broke the silence: “Old Lin, I understand the Eastern Federation’s needs, but before agreeing to this proposal, some issues must be discussed frankly.”

He suddenly stared directly at Lin Mo: “The Zemurian Continent is currently in a state of multiple nations. Although Crossbell, with our support, has the ability to unify the continent, and Dieter is an excellent politician, he also has a considerable number of insightful people and talented individuals following him.”

Chen Hao paused, his tone becoming serious: “If the Eastern Federation is to establish diplomatic relations with various countries, these countries will inevitably try to leverage the Eastern Federation’s power to counter Crossbell.”

“But for market interests, monopoly is unacceptable to the company.”

These words immediately made the atmosphere in the conference room solemn. Everyone understood that this was drawing a bottom line.

As a veteran who had dealt with the company for forty-four years, Lin Mo instantly understood Chen Hao’s implied meaning.

The company had already stepped in to support Crossbell, but would not help it unify the continent. If the Eastern Federation wanted to establish diplomatic relations with various countries through company channels, it must promise not to assist any party in achieving unification.

“Chairman Chen, please rest assured,” Lin Mo immediately responded, “The Eastern Federation consistently adheres to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. We seek equal and mutually beneficial cultural exchanges and economic cooperation, and will never participate in any form of power-balancing games.”

Hearing this standard diplomatic rhetoric, Chen Hao and Lin Mo exchanged glances, both revealing a knowing smile. Some things do not need to be said too explicitly; mutual understanding is enough.

“Very good,” Chen Hao nodded in satisfaction, “In that case, the company is willing to provide a platform and support for the Eastern Federation’s exchanges with the Zemurian civilizations.”

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