第７０９堀：大陸間交流準備は大変 (Part2)
"No, Enol. This conference isn't about establishing a hierarchy between Weed and the other nations. The goal is to create a system where they can trade freely even without Weed's direct involvement. There is value in having the nations discuss and decide the methods themselves, rather than just viewing things through Weed's perspective."
"So that even if Weed were unable to act for some reason, they could still manage things on their own?"
"…Hmm. I see you’ve thought quite far ahead. But still, if you don't flaunt your strength, there will be many who try to take advantage of you."
"That’s where the major powers come in; they’ll have to keep each other in check. Besides, if they can't even manage that, it just exposes their own weakness. Their reputation among other countries would plummet."
"I see. So you’re making them monitor one another…"
Beyond that, there is also the danger of revealing Weed's military technology. It wouldn't be wise to let them gauge our combat power so easily. I have no intention of making the mistake of letting them dismantle our firearms, but Weed is a small nation in terms of landmass. Since the number of soldiers we can hire is limited, those who believe that "might makes right" based on sheer numbers might start thinking about attacking or threatening us. That would only invite unnecessary trouble, so I’ve decided against it.
"We will handle the preparations for the venue. As for the visual aids… I’d like to create them later, once we’ve finished the explanatory materials, and build them to match."
"That is only natural. However, we have less than two months left. Will you make it in time?"
"Well, if we don't, we’ll just have to rely on documents. Besides, there’s no need to make them as polished as Earth’s television programs."
"Ah, I suppose you’re right. In the worst-case scenario, we could just do a projector-style presentation."
"That would be the fallback plan."
Some might consider projector presentations outdated, but they are surprisingly effective even today.
"For this conference, the areas I want to cover include the basic structure of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the explanation and standardization of pictograms to identify locations, the simplification of document management and creation, and finally, the issue of currency exchange rates during trade..."
"Wait, that’s..."
"Hold on, there are two things I don't understand. What is a 'pictogram'? And what is this 'currency exchange rate'? I don't get those either."
"Enol, a pictogram is like the symbols you see on restrooms—images that indicate what a place is."
"Oh! So that’s what a pictogram is. You mean like the signs for an inn or a weapon shop?"
"You can think of it that way. By standardizing these across all nations, even those who can't read the local language—diplomats and tourists alike—will know what’s available. It saves us from having to provide constant guidance and staffing."
The concept of using symbols or pictures to represent things has existed for a long time, but the term "pictogram" became widely known during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. It is said that they were prepared to bridge the gap between Japanese people, who were unaccustomed to foreign languages, and the visitors at Japan's first-ever Olympic Games. Their utility was recognized, leading to the creation of ISO standards and their global spread. Furthermore, the decision to waive copyright so that anyone could use them was a generous act. It is one of the great achievements Japan can be proud of.
"I see. If the pictograms are universal, that should clear up a lot of confusion. Now, what is a currency rate?"
"It’s more of a currency exchange rate... How should I explain this?"
"Hmm. It’s a good opportunity—why don't we try explaining it to you just as we intend to explain it at the conference?"
"That’s true..."
Currency rates are a complex and baffling issue, even on Earth. What do you use as a standard? Which currency is trustworthy? It is a problem that causes an immense amount of stress.
Until now, intercontinental trade relied on Weed as an intermediary, so payment methods were only a concern for Weed’s own operational expenses in those regions. In simple terms, Rogari Continent money was used in Rogari, If Continent money in If, and New Continent money in the New Continent. It wasn't a major issue.
However, that won't be possible after the establishment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. What happens if you pay for goods in the If or New Continents using Rogari currency? It’s not as simple as saying they have the same value. For example, assuming the coins are the same size, if a Rogari gold coin has 80% gold content and an If gold coin has 50%, then if the If Continent acquires two Rogari coins, they could manufacture three of their own.
Simply put, if you trade two Rogari gold coins for two If gold coins as if they were of equal value, you’ve created a "magic" where two coins become three. In other words, if they are treated as having the same value just because they are both "gold coins," the If Continent could make a fortune just by trading with the Rogari Continent. Meanwhile, the Rogari Continent’s gold coins would steadily vanish—a form of capital flight.
And you wouldn't want to maintain relations with someone who engages in such unscrupulous trade. That leads to deteriorating relations between nations, and potentially, war.
I tried explaining all of that to Enol, but...
"Yeah. I still don't really get it!!"
"“We figured as much.”"
But we can't give up. If we don't manage this properly, it could lead to an intercontinental war.
The road to exchange is paved with mountains of problems. Even so, we have no choice but to solve them one by one. If you’ve read this far, I’m sure you understand the unpleasant parts.
The currency rate problem.
Now, what kind of trouble will arise from interfering with each country's money!!
And what of Stasia's future!! Will Tra's letter be delivered!!
Stay tuned.