第６６１堀：計画ができたら上司に報告 (Part2)
This is what is considered the standard for diplomats on Earth today.
As you can tell from the timeline, it has only been in the last 200 years or so that most countries on Earth accepted these clear rules regarding the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic security.
In fact, if you look at the Vienna Convention, it hasn’t even been 100 years since it was established.
I don’t mean this in a derogatory way, but in a world with a civilization level comparable to medieval Europe—where the common belief is that the ocean ends in a waterfall leading to the abyss—the very idea of an international treaty regarding diplomacy would be inconceivable.
After all, the prevailing strategy was still, "Charge them with the infantry!"
The fact that Seraria and Quar can accept this concept so readily is truly impressive.
"It’s certainly something we should welcome, but the problem is whether other countries will accept this proposal to establish a Ministry of Foreign Affairs," Seraria said.
"Indeed," Quar added. "Most places still rely on nepotism for their diplomacy. If a framework like a 'Ministry of Foreign Affairs' is created, won't those who currently benefit from nepotistic diplomacy be displeased? Especially if they are to be managed and regulated."
"Well, isn't the scramble for diplomatic seats based on connections still a common occurrence even now?" I asked.
"Well, yes," Seraria replied. "Holding the reins of diplomacy with a single nation is a lucrative position. It’s a role that any local lord or minor official would kill for."
"That is certainly true, now that you mention it," Quar agreed.
"By creating a Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it becomes easier to grasp the actual conditions of each country and manage them, right? Plus, it helps in training successors. If you rely on nepotism, you have to start from scratch every time a family falls from grace."
"Hmm. I understand there are many advantages, but tearing down the current system will be met with significant resistance. I don't think you're unaware of that, are you?" Seraria asked.
"Furthermore," Quar noted, "building a new department—a 'Ministry of Foreign Affairs,' as you call it—will require both space and funding. That will surely cause problems as well."
As Seraria and Quar pointed out, it would be an unwelcome change for those already working as diplomats.
However, for the kings and rulers who oversee them, it would undoubtedly make things easier.
"Well, you're right. Under normal circumstances, many would oppose the creation of a Ministry of Foreign Affairs. But in the current climate..."
When I said that, both of them realized my intent, and their eyes widened.
"...I see. It’s already clear that the Rogali Continent is struggling with diplomatic management due to the gate network, and with the upcoming exchanges with the If Continent, there’s no way they could refuse the proposal."
"The issue is the If Continent," Quar mused. "But the countries there are currently consolidating their internal affairs to establish diplomatic relations with the Rogali Continent, including Weed. A diplomatic management agency like a Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a godsend for those at the top of the hierarchy. Those who oppose it would be seen as defying national policy, allowing the rulers to purge the dissenters..."
"Exactly. The If Continent is struggling to keep their internal factions in check. This is a way to cooperate with them. While it’s a matter of life and death for families who rely on nepotistic diplomacy, establishing a unified rule under the same 'Ministry of Foreign Affairs' standard across the board is highly likely to eliminate waste and disadvantages. For the smaller nations following the major powers, establishing such a ministry also makes it easier to interact with other countries. If there are smaller nations currently trapped in disadvantageous arrangements, this is a great opportunity to break free. They can just find better trading partners. Even if they aren't currently at a disadvantage, some countries will surely work hard to aim for a new leap forward."
When I added that, the two of them gave me a half-lidded, exasperated look.
"As always, your logic is sound, but your method is essentially: 'If you don't agree, you lose,'" Seraria said.
"It puts the nepotistic diplomats in a position where, if they complain about wanting to line their own pockets, they'll lose their heads," Quar added.
"With this, anyone who doesn't comply will be thoroughly cornered," Seraria concluded.
"But who will take this proposal to the kings of the If Continent? Will it be the wives, who are diplomats?" Quar asked.
They had both been convinced, but Seraria looked even more surprised by the question Quar suddenly posed.
"You’re going to take it there yourself, aren't you?" Seraria asked.
"Yep. I’ll bring the proposal directly, and there aren't many people over there who could refuse me."
The final blow comes from me.
Most will fold—or rather, accept it with joy—using my track record as a mercenary commander as a shield.
After all, they’ll gain the reputation of having granted a request from the Prince Consort of Weed.
Well, I don't expect things to go exactly as planned, but it’s important to visit the countries of the If Continent again and grasp the situation for myself.
Now, now, this is where Yuki’s true talent shines.
The style of grandly pushing work onto others!!
Well, it’s a natural way of doing things in society, isn't it?
Even if they aren't related to the project, there are always those meddlesome relatives who will get in your way if you don't talk to them.
Allies are scarier than enemies, and it’s a pain to shoulder all the responsibility yourself, so it’s better to make it a collaborative effort.
Well, in exchange, you don't get all the credit, and you can't claim the achievement as solely your own.
The evaluation gets dispersed, so it’s something to think about for those who want to climb the ladder.