Chapter 1873 - 1873
Liu Zhizhong did not expect Luzelski to have such questions.
But Trotsky immediately reacted and laughed, "Mr. President, why should Klan concern itself with others' opinions and expressions about its own affairs? The Klan Republic is an independent and autonomous national body! Collaborating with Valle in the field of military technology is indeed a win-win situation!"
Liu Zhizhong nodded, his expression still somewhat serious.
Luzelski, however, shook his head, somewhat bitterly, and said, "For Klan right now, independence and autonomy are very difficult. The internal woes that you both have seen; most of the economy is in the hands of oligarchs. The corruption within the government system is relentless. Militarily, the same corruption, and it's quite severe. As for external troubles, the unscrupulous Evil Luo Shi in the north has already occupied Kromia; their next target could likely be the Eastern Five States. I don't want to become a criminal to the country and the nation—I still want to fight on. Yet..."
The bitter smile on his face deepened as he shook his head, forked a piece of roast meat, chewed for a while, found it somewhat charred and tough, and quickly pressed it down with beer.
After placing down the beer mug, he continued, "For the revitalization and safety of Klan, and to guard against the northern evil wolves, I have no choice but to apply to join the Western Ocean Military Organization. It's defensive; without being attacked, it won't actively attack. Moreover, the leading countries of this organization are only England and the United States. Frankly speaking, Valle's size is still too small. Given the current urgent circumstances, the significance of military cooperation with Valle isn't very substantial."
Liu Zhizhong certainly understood and said, "Do you mean to align with the West, relying on the West? Abandoning the path of independence and autonomy?"
"We have no choice, no other options. If England and the United States support cooperation with Valle, I will agree to it. Without a written statement from them, it's hard for me to proceed. I hope you can understand."
Trotsky nodded, looking somewhat despondent, and said, "Mr. President, did you know? Because you applied to join the Western Ocean military pact, Evil Luo Shi might instead find an excuse to continue deploying troops."
Luzelski's eyes lit up directly at Trotsky, "Does it mean if we don't join the Western Alliance that they would certainly not send troops to attack us? Aggressively evil and plundering country under dictatorial leadership—do I have any hope they won't be eager to move?"
Having said so, he spread his hands, looked at Liu Zhizhong and nodded.
Indeed, he wasn't the clown president as perceived by the world; he was absolutely not a clown—he understands politics!
Liu Zhizhong nodded, "Indeed, the think tank of the Wale Republic has predicted a great possibility that Evil Luo Shi might deploy troops once more. This is something I've exchanged views on with Mr. Johnsen and Mr. Landon. They indicated they would closely monitor the movement of Evil Luo Shi's army and provide timely warnings. Meanwhile, the military rental satellites from the Wale Republic are reconnaissance daily. It's certain that once warfare begins, having a military alliance with Valle would provide some assistance for Klan in resisting invasion."
Luzelski laughed and then shook his head, saying, "No! Compared to the Western Alliance, Valle is insignificant. Thank you, Mr. President, for your goodwill—I truly appreciate it. But the Wale Republic did not come easily, ending the hundred years of Warlord rule is a blessing for the people. I don't wish Klan's struggles to affect Valle's continuous development—it's unfair to you! The Valle people, finally moving away from war and towards a new life, under the leadership of a president like you, should enjoy their development and life, rather than get entangled in these disputes and conflicts."
Alas...
Such words from Luzelski made Liu Zhizhong and Trotsky deeply moved and deeply touched internally.
Who says he's a clown president?
Does he lack political and humanistic qualities?
In contrast, some might indeed be the clowns...
Liu Zhizhong said, "Thank you, Mr. President, for such humanistic feelings—I thank you on behalf of the Valle people. Regarding military cooperation, we won't discuss it tomorrow. But please remember, if Klan's people face difficulties, the Valle people will definitely not stand idly by."
Luzelski spread his hands helplessly, saying, "Such righteousness from you—we appreciate it greatly. But honestly, why should we? If war breaks out, the Wale Republic wouldn't be able to help us bear it."
"When world changes arise, if we don't stand on the side of justice or contribute our efforts against invasion, would the world still be a civilized world? Would the world order built over so many years be destroyed just like that? Would there still be hope and tomorrow for this world?"
"Alright! Mr. President, I remember your words! If Klan faces a crisis, I will certainly hold my position steadfastly, lead all citizens, bravely resist—for freedom, everything is worth it!"
"I believe in you—always will..."
"..."
This night's family reception was filled with much content which later, amazingly came true...
The next day, the presidents of the Wale Republic and Klan signed the "Joint Development Bulletin", covering economic culture, industry, agriculture, and information technology—except the field of military technology.
Of course, after such a bulletin is published, the delegations from both countries will still reach agreements on cooperation on some projects, which is all within reason.
Based on the principle of mutual benefit, Liu Zhizhong's visit to Klan was quite fruitful.
This was also Liu Zhizhong's last extremely important visit before the Wale new year arrived. As for Eastern Pot, Liu Zhizhong temporarily didn't wish to go there, as there were still many countries left to visit, so Eastern Pot would be later!
Anyway, Eastern Pot has clearly understood that Chi Zhongshui deliberately postponed visits with Eastern Pot and Evil Luo Shi, perhaps didn't even want to come! So, not coming is fine, Eastern Pot showed some resolve for once and temporarily did not issue an invitation.
Liu Zhizhong, you know, presided over War God Ong Xingban's wedding during Mid-Autumn, held a military parade making that wedding extremely grand, and nationally remembered.
At the end of the year, he delivered a vibrant State of the Union address, summarizing various governmental works and looking forward to the new year, greatly inspiring the people. Valle people are sprinting on the happy boulevard!
Of course, there were also various sectors' year-end celebration events and such, making Liu Zhizhong quite busy, though he felt busy yet fulfilled and joyful. He felt that this role as an official truly meant serving the people—it was refreshing and particularly satisfying...
In the blink of an eye, New Year's Eve arrived, and what Liu Zhizhong did not expect was that Zhao Yan was coming...