California Dreaming (California - Leagio Summit) - 2024
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"Well, I'm a believer in spreading access to education. What I'd like to offer is both a research partnership and a tuition decrease to all of the Cal State and University of California campuses," said Kamala. Her aides gave a silent thumbs up as they walked inside. The Conference Center was pretty plain...nice but plain. The more Kamala talked, the more sorority with another female leader. Europe was a lot more progressive but national female heads of government were not that familiar.
"Anyway, I will personally psuggest Leagio is a good investment. Obviously, I am not an authoritarian so suggest is all I can do."
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President Mouri-Kudo listened intently as Prime Minister Harris outlined her vision, her expression thoughtful but warm. As they stepped inside the conference center, she glanced around at the understated decor, noting its simplicity but appreciating the focus it placed on the discussions at hand.
“I couldn’t agree more, Prime Minister,” Mouri-Kudo said, her voice carrying a tone of genuine appreciation. “Education is the foundation of innovation and progress, and fostering partnerships between our nations’ academic institutions is a step that will benefit not just our economies, but our people as a whole. A research partnership with California, particularly with your renowned universities, has immense potential.”
She paused for a moment, her eyes meeting Kamala’s with a spark of shared understanding. “As for a tuition decrease, that’s a truly forward-thinking initiative. Ensuring greater access to education is something I champion strongly back home. It aligns with the principles of equity and opportunity that are so vital in today’s world. In return, I would be willing to discuss with the new coalition government that I will be working with next year as a result of the recent elections to have all Commonwealth University System Campus such as the University of the Commonwealth campuses in Tullion, Huttson, and Jullien even to reduce tuition rates as part of this partnership between our nation's ”
Mouri-Kudo smiled, the camaraderie between the two leaders growing evident. “And I appreciate your willingness to suggest and advocate, even within the constraints of your system. Leadership is about persuasion, not coercion. Your efforts to highlight Leagio as a worthwhile partner will certainly resonate, and I am grateful for your support in that regard.”
Her tone shifted slightly, taking on a touch of humor as she added, “Though I must admit, it’s refreshing to work with another female head of government. Progress may be uneven, but moments like this remind us of how far we’ve come—and how much further we can go together.”
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"You know, I'd like your opinion on what Leagio excels at and what could be better through trade," stated Kamala.
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"Well, we excel through the sell of diamonds and nuclear material. However, we are also a major producer of finished goods as we import lots of raw materials for our industry. But out of our finished goods, our industrial base is robust. Companies like Embraer S.A. in aerospace and defense, and Titan Systems Inc., specializing in computer hardware and software, represent our technological strengths. We are also major producers of finished goods, from luxury automobiles like Chamonix NG Cars to consumer goods from JBS S.A. and personal products from Natura & Co.”
Her smile turned reflective. “That said, we’re always looking for areas to improve. Expanding our digital services and strengthening our infrastructure for global trade are ongoing priorities. A partnership with California, especially given its leadership in technology and education, could help us leap forward in these areas. In addition, in my country, the new state government in Arlick that will be sworn-in on January 2025 is looking to make itself into a huge producer of semiconductors through a major investment program.”
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"Oh, we have a tech sector that needs semiconductors. Leagio would be a great partner in that field. And we'd love to increase our non-commercial aircraft with Embraer. The competition with Leer and Honda's aircraft EV would be good." Kamala paused. "I think fair trade for diamonds is appropriate. That trade is so labor intensive, it would be unfair to seek a discount. Digital partnership is a great way to increase job placement opportunities in concert with our education initiative."
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"I agree, Kamala. In Leagio, at the moment, we are also working on improving our defense system by developing a hypersonic missile system, and if you want we can include that into our research partnership?" Mouri-Kudo suggested.
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"Yes and I'll encourage BAE Systems California to get involved."
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"Of course. Is there anything else that you wish to know Prime Minister? Any topics or any events that you wish to attend as we continue our discussion." Mouri-Kudo asked.
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"Well, I'd like to attend your inauguration," grinned Kamala. "I've always wanted to experience Leagio."
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"You are very welcome to attend my inauguration on January 1st. I will make that my Ministry of Foreign Affairs communicates with yours on the time and location for it. Afterwards, I can show you around Tullion and take you to some the great places to see and eat, my treat. There's a particular tea shop in Tullion not far from the National Congress building that not only serves the best tea in Leagio but also serve some great meals and ice cream. I like to go there once a week to relax after a stressful week as a world leader. You might like it even. And I will even bring my 6 year old son Conan, who I know you will like to see. He's a sweet little angel." Mouri-Kudo replied with a smile at the thought of having a foreign leader witness the inauguration of a president. Something that will be a first for Leagioian history and that made Mouri-Kudo's heart warm up as she smiled with joy as she wanted to hug Kamala.
"And we can even discuss about establishing a stronger diplomatic connection between Leagio and California with appointing ambassadors and embassies." -
"Oh, I love kids. Doug's kids, Ella and Cole call me Momala. I never really wanted biological kids; I enjoy being California's fun aunt...the funt as it were. And the cool aunt...the c-...girl."
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"I'm glad that you feel that way, madame Prime Minister." Mouri-kudo replied, "Is there anything else that you wish to discuss or say I put what we have agreed to into written form? And then we can enjoy more of Los Angeles maybe?"
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"Oh, of course!" Kamala responded. "May I suggest you visit Venice and Santa Monica beaches? And take in Rodeo and Hollywood? It's a lot like London: you need like a week to see everything."
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President Mouri-Kudo smiled warmly at Kamala’s enthusiasm. “Thank you for the recommendations, Prime Minister. Venice and Santa Monica beaches sound lovely, and I imagine Rodeo and Hollywood would be fascinating to explore. It’s incredible how a place can hold so much culture and energy—just like London, as you mentioned.”
She paused, her tone turning light and conversational. “Though I must admit, a week might not be enough. Perhaps in the future, I’ll have to make multiple trips to truly take in the spirit of California.”
Mouri-Kudo glanced around, appreciating the vibrant atmosphere of Los Angeles. “I’ve always believed that visiting iconic places helps us understand the heart of a nation. I’m looking forward to experiencing a little of California’s essence while I’m here.”
Her smile widened as she added, “Perhaps you can share your favorite spots over our discussions?”
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"Well, on behalf of the people of California, please...we want you to enjoy yourself," Kamala said. "One factoid for you: until 1901, the general area was called California. Up until then, it was five independent colonies: Jalisco, Colorado or colorful, Arizona or dry zone, Nuevo Andalucia, and Napa. Once federated, they adopted the area name for the whole thing."
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President Mouri-Kudo’s eyes lit up with interest as she listened to Kamala’s explanation. “That’s fascinating, Prime Minister. It’s a unique history—five independent colonies coming together to form what is now such a dynamic and influential nation. Adopting the name ‘California’ for the whole region must have been a unifying and visionary step.”
She paused thoughtfully. “It’s remarkable how histories of federation often mirror the values of collaboration and unity we strive for today. Leagio’s own journey has its parallels, bringing together diverse regions under a shared identity while maintaining their unique characteristics.”
With a warm smile, she added, “Thank you for sharing that piece of history. It’s these kinds of stories that deepen understanding and appreciation between nations. And, on behalf of the people of Leagio, I’ll make every effort to enjoy and learn from California during my visit.”
