User blog comment:Doctor Ibrahim/Ask the Doc and his Family!/@comment-28144855-20161205220835/@comment-28358106-20161209011005

"And may yours be a long life, indeed," Adelaide says, raising her cup before she sips her tea and looking at it approvingly. "Mmm. Highland Bergamot.  From our own Sefellia Valley.  Quite a treat in these winter months." She sets her cup down and folds her hands.

"I agree with you, Mr. President, on all counts. However, I wish it were so simple as my one and only voice in the matter.  Alas, part of our Free States Charter specifically underlines that all heads of provincial government vote on whether or not to open diplomatic doors.  I make the judgement, but the heads of state are the jury, so to speak."

She gestures with her hand. "You should view it as an opportunity you might not otherwise have. You will get to make your case and meet with all of the leaders of the Realm, not just me.  Furthermore, on matters of diplomacy, all provincial leaders must vote, not just the ones who joined the Charter.  So you would have yet more of a chance to make the connections you desire."