ATARA Assembly Chamber: 1st General Assembly

[Iverica]

THE ASSEMBLY CHAMBER

Official chamber for the proceedings regarding all ATARA Proposals

Let the following entries serve as the official record on the proceedings of the Proposal "ATARA Sanctions on Derthalen" and the Proposal "General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement", taking place on June 12-15 2018.

What the Assembly Chamber looks like

 

CHAMBER GUIDELINES

Interim Chairperson Morra has sent this following memorandum sheet to all attending delegates. She requests that the delegate take time to familiarise themselves with the order of the proceedings and appropriate verbal cues for use during the proceedings here.

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Order of Proceedings

Order	Event	Action
1	Quorum Call	All Members and Founders are to confirm attendance via Poll
2	Recognition Call	The Chair shall announce the present Observers
3	Introduction of the Speaker and recognition of the proposal	The Chair shall announce and recognise the Speaker and his/her proposal
4	General Proposal	The Speaker must follow this format in general: Opening Remarks, Review of Context, Case Presentation (How the proposal will work in a hypothetical scenario), Concluding Remarks
5	Open Floor	Member States may raise points: Query/Clarification, Objection to a Violation of the Charter, Motion to Reconsider.
6	Ruling of the Chair	The Chair shall rule on the legitimacy of these points. This shall determine which points the Speaker shall be required to address.
7	Speaker Response	The Speaker must respond to the required points.
8-A	Assembly Breaks for Recess	(If Motion to Reconsider is Sustained)
8-B	Voting Period	(If Motion to Reconsider is Denied)
9	Recognition of Outcomes by the Assembly	The Chair, on behalf of the Assembly, shall make a statement on the outcome of the proceedings.

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Definitions

Raising a Point- any present Member can, at this period, raise a few types of points or motions. An observer may only request clarification or query from the Speaker--only when seconded by a Member State or Founder does this point become a required burden for further consideration.

• Query/Clarification- A Query is initiated by the following phrase: "The Delegate of... raises a Query regarding [specific point in the proposal followed by an expounded and clearly phrased question]". A Clarification is initiated by: "The Delegate of... requests a clarification on [specific point followed by what the requesting delegate wishes to know]".
  • The Query or Clarification should serve to point out specific concerns or contentions that may arise or become apparent.
  • If such points are impertinent or out of order, the Chair shall reject the motion in the Ruling period.
• Objection to a Violation of the Charter- "The Delegate of... raises an Objection to a Violation of the Charter. This proposal's point... is in clear violation of this Association's Charter [cite specific line]".
  • Depending on the verdict of the Chair and Panel the proposal may fail conclusively is this Objection is sustained.
• Motion to Reconsider- "The Delegate of... puts forth a Motion to Reconsider the Proposal [name] on the floor of this Chamber, citing... [cite objectionable/unclear details that must be edited by the Author/Speaker].
  • If this is sustained, the Proposal shall be put in a redrafting/editing phase and the current proceedings shall be put on Break for Recess until the 4th day of the General Assembly, upon which a final consideration shall take place on the newly redrafted Proposal.

After all the points have been given, the Chair shall announce a ruling on which valid points must be given detailed response by the Speaker.

Etiquette

Members, Founders, and Observers must keep in mind the appropriate speaking times. Interruptions to the Speaker or the Chair shall be considered out of order. Likewise, expletives directed to the person of another Delegate (or Observer), or vitriol towards the represented nation of any delegate shall be considered out of order. Offenders shall receive only one warning--exceeding this warning with another act out of order shall render this delegate "In Contempt" of the Assembly. A delegate held In Contempt of the Assembly shall be dismissed from the proceedings, escorted out of the chamber, and shall automatically be counted as an Abstain vote during the voting period.

Voting

The Voting Period shall be initiated after the Speaker has responded to all required points, and if no Motion to Reconsider is sustained. Voting shall use a Consensus Decision Making Process as stipulated by the ATARA Procedural Addendum--Procedure III, Section E.

If the result of the vote is negative and not in favour of the Proposal, the Panel shall review the outcome and decide if a Redrafting and Second Vote is needed--if this is so, a Final Consideration will take place on the 4th day (as if a Motion to Reconsider has been sustained).

If the result of the vote is affirmative and in favour of the Proposal, the Chair and Assembly must recognise the outcome and ratify the Proposal as a Resolution with due diligence and without further delay (as soon as prudently possible).

 

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OOC: The Interim Chair shall begin the proceedings on the Delegate of @Mauridiviah's Proposal "ATARA SANCTIONS ON DERTHALEN" no later than 48 hours from this message's posting. As soon as the Chair and Panel have been notified (PM Notice to the Chair) by the Delegate/Speaker, the Chair shall commence the appropriate introductions. 

If the Proposal cannot be finalised (via PM notice to the Chair) within 48 hours of this message's posting, the room shall automatically disregard the item and move on to the next Proposal on the agenda.

[Iverica]

1st General Assembly

1030h IST | June 12, 2018
atara Headquarters, Assembly Chamber
Porto Altaria, Iverica

 

 

Let the following entries serve as the official record on the proceedings of the Proposal "ATARA SANCTIONS ON DERTHALEN", taking place during the 1st day of the First General Assembly (June 12th, 2018).

This post accomplishes these stages:

1-Quorum Call 

2-Recognition Call

3-Introduction of the Speaker and recognition of the proposal

 

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"So marks the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association's Assembly no. 001, taking place on this day, June the 12th, the year 2018 in Porto Altaria, Iverica. To initiate these proceedings, we begin the first order of business--the Calls to Quorum and Recognition", announced the Chamber Clerk, who then calls each delegate by name expecting the appropriate response of Present and Voting, or Present but Abstaining.

"...thank you delegates. We conclude the Quorum Call with a sum of 6 in attendance out of the minimum Quorum of 5 required. This Chamber has a Quorum present", said Morra from her seat on the raised desk atop the dais.

"Now also recognising the Delegate-Observers in attendance--Delegate-Observer Alexander Terrell of the Kingdom of Gallambria and Delegate-Observer Johan av Kål of the Holy Empire of Derthalen."

Beside her, to her left, was Julian Nordeng of Prymont. To her right was Lantheere fan Oliefaaire of Variota. Earlier, the appointed Clerk had announced the three as presiding Panel, with Morra as Interim Chair.

This day of ATARA's First General Assembly would see the Delegate of Mauridiviah take the floor for his Proposal.

Morra adjusted her spectacles and turned a page on her file. The Clerk took his cue and spoke.

"Proceeding with the order of business--this Assembly, its sitting Panel and Chair shall now introduce the Speaker for this session and shall recognise the Proposal as announced."

Morra picked up from there.

"This Assembly recognises the Delegate of the Serene Republic of @Mauridiviah, Manuel Caballeros and his first Proposal, so named 'ATARA Sanctions Against Derthalen'. The Chamber floor is now open for Mr. Caballeros to make his General Proposal. Hence, this Chamber and its Assembly are once again called to order..."

"Mr Caballeros, your opening remarks please."

 

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OOC: @Mauridiviah still has about one day and a bit (as of this message's posting) out of the given 48 hours since my previous message. 

[Mauridiviah]

The Proposal:

ATARA Sanctions on Derthalen

AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE RESPONSE TO DERTHALER HOSTILITY

The Governments of the Commonwealth of Andalla, the United Houses of Astriedan, the Federal Republic of Girkmand, the Republic of Iverica, the Republican Union of Lusotropia, the Most Serene Republic of Mauridiviah, the United States of Prymont, the Republic of the Sunset Sea Islands and the Unified Variotan State, member states of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association (ATARA) :

OBSERVING the illegal occupations of Derthalen’s northern neighbors by Derthalen

DEEPLY DISTURBED by the following threats issued by Derthalen against the people of Union Pan-Republicaine and the people of the Most Serene Republic of Mauridiviah:

a.       The threats made against Lysians, ”all persons from the state known as Fleur de Lys who are caught within the borders of [Derthalen] (be it at land, air, or sea), are to be imprisoned and made slaves as punishment for their trespassing; any vessels or aerocrafts that bear [Lysian] registration shall be destroyed; and when my vessels meet [Lysian vessels] in unclaimed or neutral waters, they are to go on alert and prepare to attack at the first sign of deceit or hostility on your part.”

b.       The threats made against Mauridivians, “By decree of our most Holy Emperor, all subjects of the State of Mauridiviah are to be subject to death upon trespassing within our territory. If found at sea, they are to be bound and weighed down before being throw into the ocean to drown; on land they shall be hunted for game before finally being burnt at the stake; and any aerocraft of theirs shall be shot down with their remains being used as animal fodder. Any vessels or persons harbouring these subjects shall be fined no less than five-hundred and seventy-five Thalers if they do not immediately turn them over to Imperial authorities.”

RECOGNIZING the horrific conditions that the state of Derthalen inflicts upon its subjects willingly;

DO HEREBY:

PROHIBIT all trade with Derthalen for members of the organization, thereby imposing an embargo, to be enforced as each member state sees fit;

DECLARE ACCORDINGLY that member states shall cease accepting Derthaler goods destined for ports and airports within Member State territory and refuse accordingly any vessel or cargo containing Derthaler goods from entry into Member State ports and airports;

CONDEMN Derthalen’s actions domestically and abroad;

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Manuel stood up to address the assembly. He had run what the stakes were over and over again in his head. He was here to represent his nation, and he couldn't screw it up. All of Mauridiviah was counting on him to address their grievances, and he wasn't about to let them down. He drank a quick and desperate sip of his lukewarm water (He'd poured it a while ago and the ice had already melted), cleared his throat and put his lips up to the microphone. Thus, he began:

"Ladies and gentlemen of ATARA. I would like to thank all of you for your time, and for considering my nation's proposal. I know that our proposal may seem a bit outlandish at first, but once I have given you the full context, you shall understand why this action must be taken.

A few months ago, my government became aware of a horrible practice done by the realm of Derthalen: Human slavery. Completely legal, in fact, state-sanctioned. It was decreed, as quoted above, as the punishment for any Lysian citizens who dare come close to them, without exception. Why was Derthalen punishing Lysians? The government of Fleur de Lys had the audacity to condemn the illegal invasion of Derthalen's northern neighbors by Derthalen. Apparently, all of their citizens who happen to fly over Derthalen on their way to vacation in @Morheim deserve to be enslaved for that 'transgression'. 

The Mauridivian government was of course outraged by this, and quickly voted to condemn Derthalen on the harshest of terms. The Senate even classified them as a terrorist organization, which may be a bit too far, but such a classification would only ban Derthaler government officials or military officials from entering the nation, which was already not allowed without special permission. However, no matter how severe that action may seem, Derthalen's response was much worse.

As quoted above, the absolutely powerful Emperor of Derthalen himself declared that our citizens, for crimes as evil as flying over Derthalen, or sailing their sail boat too close to Derthalen, be put to death in some of the most gruesome ways imaginable. Acts so horrific, most of us would've imagined them to be in our distant past. Burnings, drownings, butcherings....... and for what? Because our government condemned human slavery?

Such barbarism cannot be allowed to exist on this Eurth. None of this even covers the horrible, artificially created conditions that Derthalen's own citizens live under every day. No social mobility, most of the people are peasants who are paid barely enough to survive, most likely not even in money. No internet, telephones, cars. Homosexuals and transgender individuals are put to death by gruesome public executions. All of this, sanctioned and demanded by the all powerful autocratic Emperor at the top. The Mundus Liber Freedom Index recently gave Derthalen a score of 22.5 out of a possible 100.

The aim of this proposal is to encourage Derthalen to stop making victims out of Lysians, Mauridivians, and Derthalers alike. In a peaceful manner, of course. 

Before I give up the floor, I would like to state that this is Mauridiviah's cry for help. However, we respect that other sovereign states might not be willing to stand with us. We fully understand, and although I can't speak for all Mauridivians in the government, I know for a fact that Diego Polo, our President, and myself, would not harbor any will ill for choosing to vote against this proposal.

I would like to once again thank the assembly for their time and for considering this proposal."

Manuel then sat down again, and began gulping down his water. Some people were nervous eaters, but he was a nervous drinker.

 

Edited June 16, 2018 by Mauridiviah (see edit history)

[Prymont]

The acts of violence promised by Derthalen against Mauridiviah and Fleur de Lys were enough to qualify as acts of war if carried out, and had to be punished appropriately. It wasn't suitable at all for member states to be threatened in such a way, especially by other participants of ATARA. Mr Caballeros had raised an excellent point, one that must be considered carefully and acted upon swiftly. And yet, despite the tone of the proposal, Nordeng was hesitating. Behind closed doors, the United States had just sealed a deal with the Holy Empire to connect the Emperor's Railroad to northern Argis, opening Prymont's rail infrastructure up to the centre of the continent. The United States had been granted heavily discounted usage fares, ones that Prymont wouldn't simply turn their noses up at. It was a critical time for his country, and for ATARA.

Bloody politics.

His gaze went across the room, searching to meet Stenberg's, who was sat at the rear of the room, buried deep in paperwork and note-taking. Suddenly he looked up, their eyes met, and the two friends and politicians understood one another. There was a vulnerability, a weakness, in Mauridiviah's proposal. One that could potentially allow Prymont to worm their way out of a thick mesh of backroom promises and international diplomacy. Julian raised his hand, waiting to be called upon.

"The delegate of the United States of Prymont requests a clarification..." his words were purposely slow, allowing him further time to consider his question and the possible outcomes, "in regards to certain wording used by the delegate of Mauridiviah in his proposal. Certain vague terms, such as "imposing an embargo, to be enforced as each member state sees fit," and "declare accordingly that member states shall cease accepting Derthaler goods" and "refuse accordingly any vessel or cargo" have been used. The United States finds this proposal, using the given wording, vague and misleading, and requests clarification upon the freedom that member states are issued in regards to imposing embargoes, ceasing to accept Derthaler goods, and refusing vessels and cargo."

[Mauridiviah]

Manuel looked up after gulping down an entire cup. He cleared his throat, stood up, and prepared to respond:

"Ah yes, the wording. The wording was left intentionally vague, as we believe that each member of ATARA should carry out the embargo however they want. If we were to mandate exactly how these trade sanctions were to be carried out, some nations might not be able to comply with the guidelines.

The only thing that's not a compromise is that the embargo not be broken, Derthaler goods not accepted into member states' ports and airports, unless they are passing through of course, and that vessels and cargo of Derthalen be refused entry. How that will happen has been left up to the individual states to decide, as Mauridiviah believes that to be their sovereing right.

Perhaps I could clear this up even further by doing a short Case Presentation."

It was at around this moment that Manuel realized that he'd forgotten to do it when he was caught up in his speech. Might as well right two wrongs in one speaking session. Manuel proceeded to take another couple gulps of water (although he wished that it was something much sweeter like Passion Fruit juice) and pulled out the relevant paper. It was a simple proposal so of course, the hypothetical scenario was also simple. He struggled to clear his throat away from the microphone, and began again:

"Thank you for your patience members of this Assembly. So, if this resolution is adopted, nations would have, say, three months to put this into effect. Once it's in effect, goods from Derthalen would be confiscated if they were to arrive at a member's port or aiport as a destination. What happens to the goods is completely up to the nation that takes them. The important part is that Derthaler exports to member states will no longer be sold for profit by Derthaler companies, many of them being state-supported. This should therefore hurt the bottom line of Derthalen and hopefully make them see the error of their ways. Best case scenario, they reform their ways and we lift this resolution. Worst case scenario, Derthalen will have to deal with having a significantly reduced number of trade partners for a very long time."

Manuel looked around for a second before returning to his water. He sat back down, hoping that this had cleared up any issues the members had with this action.

[Iverica]

Quote

"The delegate of the United States of Prymont requests a clarification..." his words were purposely slow, allowing him further time to consider his question and the possible outcomes, "in regards to certain wording used by the delegate of Mauridiviah in his proposal. Certain vague terms, such as "imposing an embargo, to be enforced as each member state sees fit," and "declare accordingly that member states shall cease accepting Derthaler goods" and "refuse accordingly any vessel or cargo" have been used. The United States finds this proposal, using the given wording, vague and misleading, and requests clarification upon the freedom that member states are issued in regards to imposing embargoes, ceasing to accept Derthaler goods, and refusing vessels and cargo."

"The Chair recognises Mr Nordeng, of the Panel and Delegate of the United States of Prymont. Delegate Nordeng's request for clarification is valid. Delegate Caballeros is required to respond to this point--Mr Caballeros, the floor is yours for a response", Morra stated.

...

Quote

Mauridiviah: ...Perhaps I could clear this up even further by doing a short Case Presentation...

"The Chair asks this Assembly if there are any further queries or clarifications on this subject, let them be raised now. If there are none, and no other points to the Speaker, this Proposal shall go to vote..."

[Variota]

Sjaak sat easy in his chair, having been able to rest enough to be refreshed. Unlike many of the politicians, Sjaak was more than just a politician. As Lantheere of the fan Oliefaaier Kommune, he doubled as a business man, military leader and ruler. Sure, the FOK (fan Oliefaaier Kommune) remained a part of the Unie fan Kommunes, which itself remained part of Het Huisselant, but the Kommune leaders/rulers had a reasonable amount of individual freedom within the Unie. He had his face on the ₩10 bills printed for the Unie fan Kommunes, one of only two living people on their designs, and if he wanted, he could have his militia drummed up for a parade in Oliefaaierterp tomorrow or build a great big rotating golden statue of himself. Not that Sjaak was such a man, preferring to keep things delegated to those more suited for such things.

With potential powers like these came responsibilities. If fan Oliefaaier didn't check the contracts he signed properly, it could have grave effects on his Kommune, on his people. It had made him, throughout the years, extremely careful to ensure that contracts were solid, firm in their reasoning and keeping in mind contingencies. When reading this proposal, it had become clear that it was not as solid as it should be and lacked some of the basics. The case presentation resolved some things but it was always better to have it on the old black-and-white instead of in some digital cloud.

As he lifted his cane, the one he had also used at the founding ceremony, and waiting until it was his turn, he mulled over his words and what he would say. 

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''The Delegate of Het Huisselant Variota puts forth a Motion to Reconsider the Proposal ATARA Sanctions on Derthalen on the floor of this Chamber, citing the complete lack of requirements and details needed by member states in order to cooperate and fulfill their responsibilities as a member of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association. Delegate Caballeros has provided us with a case presentation and while this cleared up some issues, it remains rife with grey areas and is not part of the proposed document. The introduction date of three months after signing that was told to us by Delegate Caballeros, for example, is not in the document, which is sorely lacking in defining conditions. This delegate approves of the freedom left towards each member state within the proposal but again cites the need for a clear minimum in regards to the responsibilities of the member states and cites the need for details in regards to the time frame granted to member states to ensure their cooperation towards said responsibilities.''

[Iverica]

Quote

''The Delegate of Het Huisselant Variota puts forth a Motion to Reconsider the Proposal ATARA Sanctions on Derthalen on the floor of this Chamber, citing the..."

"The Chair recognises Lantheere fan Oliefaaire, of the Panel and Delegate of the Unified Variotan State", began Chairperson Morra.

"Delegate fan Oliefaaire's Motion to Reconsider is valid as it cites an observable deficiency and clear burden that the Proposal must fulfil. Delegate Caballeros of @Mauridiviah is required to respond to this point with either his assurance to redraft addressing the Motion--to be completed and presented to the Assembly no later than after the allotted Recess until 15th of June, 1030 hours--or the withdrawal of his Proposal until further development. Mr Caballeros, the floor is yours for a response".

If she was pleased that two of her Panel had given two important points for consideration, she did not show it. She instead began looking pointedly at members of the Assembly who had dozed off, were trying to sneak a few witts (or twits, as Morra nicknamed them) to their followers, or were otherwise doodling on their papers. She held the stare and made sure they, and the Chamber sketch artists, noticed her baleful gaze.

 

[Mauridiviah]

Manuel had ceased drinking water. This was it. He had failed his entire country. He just stared at the cup as that cold as ice lady spoke legalese to him. That was never really his strong suit.

Then he realized something. He didn't have to withdraw the proposal, he could promise to re-draft it instead-- and he was given time to do so. He could still save the proposal and show Derthalen that they can't be the kid on the block who always beats the kid with the glasses without the local gang getting involved. Or the police, the police works too.

As such, he took just a sip of water (by now he really, really needed to pee) and stood up, preparing to address the assembly:

"Ladies and Gentlemen of the Assembly, Chairperson Morra. Mauridiviah will redraft our proposal to address this motion to reconsider. We will try to consult with the Variotan delegation to address any and all concerns they have about our motion and we shall propose it again at the allocated time on June 15th. Thank you."

With that and a big smile, Manuel had done it. He hadn't disappointed the patria just yet.

[Iverica]

"The Chair hereby recognises of the outcome of this session as a sustained Motion to reconsider". The Delegate of @Mauridiviah will be given until the 4th day of this General Assembly to complete the final draft of his Proposal with the necessary accommodations to points raised by the Delegate of @Variota. At this time, the proceedings on this Proposal are to be considered in Recess and will resume on the stated date. The Chair hereby declares this Assembly adjourned", Morra stated.

At that, the Assembly's Clerk moved to have the doors opened and signalled for the staff to put the chamber in order.

Morra herself got up once the cameras had been switched off while her aide collected her files and effects. She bid fan Oliefaaier and Nordeng leave as she took a quick step back to her quarters. 

Tomorrow would be another long day. She may have already gone through the Derthaler Appeal quite thoroughly, but the @Andallan proposal on tariff agreements was something she had to go over again for Day 3, The Andallan Delegate Bendtsen had been making last-minute edits to his draft, something that came naturally with hefty topics like international trade and their respective tax but was yet another gauntlet she'd have to steer through and examine in detail.

 

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OOC: This Proposal in in RECESS, meaning that we shall resume for final comments and voting after we resolve Andalla's Proposal. I'll be posting an intro to the next Proposal shortly.

For now, your characters may make social posts doing whatever on the MAIN THREAD, just remember to make the appropriate timestamps.

[Iverica]

1st General Assembly

1030h IST | June 14, 2018
ATARA Headquarters, Assembly Chamber
Porto Altaria, Iverica

 

Let the following entries serve as the official record on the proceedings of the Proposal "GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT", taking place during the 3rd day of the First General Assembly (June 14th, 2018).

This post accomplishes these stages:

1-Quorum Call 

2-Recognition Call

3-Introduction of the Speaker and recognition of the proposal

 

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"We mark the continuation of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association's Assembly no. 001, taking place on this day, June the 14th, the year 2018 in Porto Altaria, Iverica. To initiate these proceedings, we begin the first order of business--the Calls to Quorum and Recognition", announced the Chamber Clerk, who then calls each delegate by name expecting the appropriate response of Present and Voting, or Present but Abstaining.

...

"...thank you delegates. We conclude the Quorum Call with a sum of 8 in attendance out of the minimum Quorum of 5 required. This Chamber has a Quorum present", said Morra from her seat on the raised desk atop the dais.

"Now also recognising the Delegate-Observers in attendance--Delegate-Observer Alexander Terrell of the Kingdom of Gallambria and Delegate-Observer Johan av Kål of the Holy Empire of Derthalen."

The seating arrangement was identical to the previous proceeding's. To her left, was Julian Nordeng of Prymont. To her right was Lantheere fan Oliefaaire of Variota. Earlier, the appointed Clerk had announced the three as presiding Panel, with Morra as Interim Chair.

This day of ATARA's First General Assembly would see the Delegate of @Andalla, Mr. Bendtsen, take the floor for his Proposal.

Morra adjusted her spectacles and turned a page on her file. The Clerk took his cue and spoke.

"Proceeding with the order of business--this Assembly, its sitting Panel and Chair shall now introduce the Speaker for this session and shall recognise the Proposal as announced."

Morra picked up from there.

"This Assembly recognises the Delegate of the Commonwealth of @Andalla, Mr Alexander Bendtsen and his first Proposal, so named 'GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT '. The Chamber floor is now open for Mr. Bendtsen to make his General Proposal. Hence, this Chamber and its Assembly are once again called to order..."

"Mr Bendtsen, your opening remarks please."

 

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OOC: Andalla is now inclined to make his opening remarks--for more info, consult the Guidelines (first post on this thread). I will also now begin following the coloured dialogue scheme for better clarity and readability.

[Andalla]

What a bummer.

From his seat on the far-right of the first row, Alexander Bendtsen felt a sudden rush of indescribable anxiety. It wasn't exactly anxiety per se. As the Andallan Foreign Minister, it was his duty to preserve the dignity and honor of a small, insignificant island nation before the international community — and Bendtsen was exactly the right person for the job.

The current situation, however, presented a vastly different issue.

Seated among his colleagues — respected diplomats representing countries of all backgrounds — Bendtsen felt small. Having co-authored the very document that founded ATARA, Bendtsen was more than qualified to be seated on the front row. Yet what truly mattered was not where he seated, but with whom he seated. Across the aisle sat the honorable Gary Truman, delegate of @Girkmand. He and Bendtsen were the only two delegates seated on the first row, which was reserved for founding members. With Nordeng and fan Ollefaieer on the Panel, Truman was virtually his only companion in every ATARA meeting.

Of course, directly before him sat the renowned Desdemona Tomas-Morra, interim chair of ATARA and the delegate of @Iverica, flanked by representatives of the other four founding members of the Association. Bendtsen had made it a point to be extra careful around her; not out of fear, but rather out of respect. She was the most venerated person in the chamber, owing to very authoritative and imposing figure. And of course, after all, Iverica was Andalla's closest ally in all respects.

In addition, many other very important figures sat behind him. Delegates from the among the greatest nations on Eurth — admired, democratic, prosperous... large. Andalla was everything but large. In terms of diplomacy and global contributions perhaps a bit, but never had Bendtsen been offered the seat of honor in an international convention.

And here he was, about to present his game-changing resolution — the General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement.

Of course, expected of any multilateral trade organization was the inevitable free trade agreement. Yet even then, of all the possible nations represented by the honored delegates in attendance, it was the delegate of the smallest nation who had undertaken to bring about the largest change.

Straightening his collar and tie, Bendtsen rose from his seat. He had been preparing for weeks and was nearly late to the assembly; Bendtsen was ready to take on anything.

... Not just yet. A rush of dark, murky nothingness flooded his vision as soon as he stood up. Must've been that "iron deficiency" thing that he kept seeing on Wittier memes.

As he regained composure and walked to the podium, he took a glance at his digital watch. The screen read 10:23 PM, October 14, 2019.

What?!

No way his watch could ever be that late. Was he dreaming? He looked up towards the lectern, and back down at his watch. 10:39 AM, June 14, 2018. Back to normal.

Atop the podium, Bendtsen took a good long look at his audience. Colleagues in the first three rows, with all sorts of non-delegate observers and aides positioned around the rest of the grand hall. It was stately and spacious, shaped like a half-circle, with a large balcony wrapping around the circular end opposite the podium.

Glancing at the desks, Bendtsen could see that a copy of the GENCOTS had been given to every delegate and observer. A hundred eyes were poised at him, awaiting his first word.

"To my fellow colleagues, the ATARA Panel, delegates, observers, and guests," Bendtsen began. "Good morning."

"The Commonwealth of Andalla is pleased to present the General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement, which stands before the ATARA General Assembly this morning."

"This agreement aims to effectively reduce all tariffs between member states to twenty-five per cent, by the year 2023. While tariffs may be a temporary boost to internal trade, ultimately they will become a hindrance to economic growth — both inside and outside the nation implementing such tariffs."

"Owing to their highly restrictive nature, tariffs and the like are often the underlying causes for the internal monopoly of certain corporations and businesses. The lack of sufficient foreign competition ensures that domestically-produced products remain the most popular, and as such businesses do not need to improve their services. In line with our constant striving to improve economic growth, however, the government of Andalla strongly recommends the reduction of tariffs in order to stimulate healthy competition between businesses."

"It is understood that healthy competition brings about changes in the economy, through the constant struggle of businesses to gain a larger market share. This, in turn, influences the entire economy as a whole, as businesses prosper as a result of this healthy competition. New ideas are made and exchanged between nations, and all are given the chance to stimulate their own respective economies."

"This agreement also aims to promote cooperation between member states, through breaking down deterrents such as tariffs which restrict businesses from interacting with each other on the international level."

"Citing Clause 3 of the ATARA Charter, the Association encourages mutual cooperation in order to achieve peace, freedom, and well-being. These ideals can only be achieved with the reduction of barriers that separate people, whether tangible or abstract."

"Through the establishment of the ATARA Economic Council, the Commonwealth of Andalla aspires to encourage and to stimulate more economic cooperation between all member states. The government of Andalla shall actively participate in the establishment of such machinery, as called for by our universal desire for cooperation."

"The Commonwealth of Andalla wishes for your sincere consideration of the goals set forth by this Agreement. We believe that through restricting restrictions, the ATARA community can work together in one unified spirit towards our ultimate shared goal of actively creating a peaceful, prosperous world for our member states and beyond."

"Thank you," Bendtsen muttered as he stepped down the podium.

---

 

Quote

 

GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT

The Governments of the Commonwealth of Andalla, the United Houses of Astriedan, the Federal Republic of Girkmand, the Republic of Iverica, the Republican Union of Lusotropia, the Most Serene Republic of Mauridiviah, the United States of Prymont, the Republic of the Sunset Sea Islands and the Het Huisselant Variota, member states of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association (ATARA) :

NOTING that Clause III of the Preamble of the Charter of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association, done in Porto Altaria, Iverica, on the 12th of December 2017, states that in an increasingly interdependent world, nations must strive to cooperate and work together to achieve common economic goals;

RECOGNIZING that, in numerous instances, the Charter also states the Association's desire to secure peace and prosperity through economic cooperation;

UNDERSTANDING that higher or lower tariffs imposed on certain nations may cause inequality and a lack of economic diversity, thereby creating an unwanted monopoly in the exportation or importation of certain products;

Furthermore, UNDERSTANDING that such a monopoly would reduce competition, an important factor needed for effective economic development;

KNOWING that a common tariff scheme between member states would reduce the chances of such a monopoly endangering the market, thereby fostering competition and economic development;

CONCLUDING that the adoption of a common tariff scheme between member states of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association would encourage economic development;

HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

 

ARTICLE I

General Definitions

For the purposes of this Agreement, unless the context requires otherwise:

SECTION 1. ATARA shall mean the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association.

SECTION 2. Member state/s shall mean the respective nations comprising the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association, whether collectively or individually, as the context requires.

SECTION 3. Agreement shall mean the General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement.

SECTION 4. Agricultural products shall mean:

(a) those which fall under the definitions stated within Chapters 1 to 24 of the Harmonized Nomenclature System (HN), and other similar raw materials or unprocessed products listed under other HN sections; and

(b) raw materials or unprocessed products that have undergone little change in form from the original product.

 

ARTICLE II

General Provisions

SECTION 1. All member states shall be obligated to participate in the tariff reduction scheme.

SECTION 2. Any party may voluntarily choose to exclude specific products, i.e. on the HN 8/9-digit level, from being subject under the Agreement's terms, if said product is deemed too sensitive to be included under the Agreement's terms.

(a) Under this section, no party shall be penalized for withdrawing any product from under the terms of the Agreement.

SECTION 3. Any product shall be considered as originating from ATARA member states, if at least 45% of the product's total content originates from a certain ATARA member state.

 

ARTICLE III

Product Coverage

SECTION 1. The terms of this Agreement shall apply to all manufactured goods, including capital goods, processed agricultural goods, and those products falling outside the definition of agricultural products as stipulated herein. Agricultural products shall be exempt from the provisions of this Agreement.

 

ARTICLE IV

General Tariff Reduction Measures

SECTION 1. The reduction of existing tariff rates between member states to 25 per centum shall be completed within a span of 5 years, beginning 1 August 2018 and terminating 31 July 2023, subject to a program of reduction to be determined by each party to the Agreement.

SECTION 2. Existing tariff rates already below 25 per centum shall not be included in the reduction of tariff rates. Likewise, any products that reach a tariff rate of 25 per centum shall no longer be included in the following stage of reduction.

SECTION 3. The aforementioned terms shall not impede any party from completing the reduction of existing tariff rates to 25 per centum before 31 July 2023.

SECTION 4. Any additional fees or charges other than those connected to the taxation of imports and exports shall reflect only the approximate cost of the services rendered (e.g. Customs inspections).

SECTION 5. The provisions of each member state's tariff reduction scheme shall be made known to the general public quickly, honestly and efficiently, by means of publishing in conspicuous places in at least four (4) newspapers of general circulation within said member state, on or before the 11th of July 2018.

(a) All parties are encouraged to reduce tariffs orderly, preferably by means of assuming an annual rate of reduction, to prevent any undesirable consequences that may have been caused due to the rapid reduction of tariffs.

SECTION 6. All parties shall undergo the process of eliminating all other non-tariff barriers on an annual basis, within a period of five years following the completion of the tariff reduction schedule.

 

ARTICLE V

Most-Favored Nation Status

SECTION 1. Any advantage, exemption, favor or privilege granted by any party upon a certain product originating from or destined for other parties shall likewise be conferred, immediately and without constraint, to a like product originating in or destined for all other parties to the Agreement.

SECTION 2. The provisions stated within Section 1 of this Article shall not obligate any party to eliminate any preferences in regards to charges levied on or connected with the importation and exportation of products, provided that said preference falls within the description hereon:

(a) Preferences in force exclusively between two or more contracting parties, which shall be subject to the provisions stipulated therein;

(b) Preferences in force exclusively between any number of member states and non-member states, which shall be subject to the provisions stipulated therein.

 

ARTICLE VI

Emergency Suspensions

SECTION 1. If any product, which is eligible under the terms and policies of this Agreement, is imported in such a manner or in such quantities as to cause or threaten serious injury to sectors engaged in the production of like or directly competitive products in the importing member states, the importing member states may, for the appropriate duration of time as needed to resolve such issue, tentatively suspend the provisions stipulated herein.

SECTION 2. Pursuant to Section 1 of this Article, all parties shall agree to implement the aforementioned suspensions in an honest and orderly manner, taking into consideration the framework and goals of this Agreement as stated in the Preamble.

SECTION 3. Any actions undertaken by a Member State in relation to Article 6 of this Agreement shall be reported immediately to the ATARA Economic Council as established in Article 7 § 1 of this Agreement.

(a) The aforementioned resolutions implemented may be subject to revision and consultation by the Economic Council.

 

ARTICLE VII

Administrative Machinery

SECTION 1. Pursuant to Article 3 § 4 of the ATARA Charter, Member States shall establish a council to oversee the implementation of this Agreement, to be known as the ATARA Economic Council (hereinafter referred to as the Council).

(a) The Council shall be composed of one (1) Economic Minister from every Member State, working in conjunction with the country's National Secretariat as referred to in Article 3 § 5 of the ATARA Charter.

(b) In the event that any Member State does not have an acting ministerial-level economic official, the National Secretariat of the Member State thereof shall be obligated to nominate the most relevant senior position as representative to the Council.

(c) The Council shall be chaired by, and report directly to, the ATARA Chairperson.

(d) The Council shall submit a report to the ATARA Panel biannually detailing advances in the implementation of the terms stipulated by this Agreement.

SECTION 2. The National Secretariats of every Member State shall be obligated to notify the Council immediately of any additional tariff arrangements between two or more Member States, in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

 

ARTICLE VIII

Final Provisions

SECTION 1. Member States agree to duly execute the appropriate measures as required in order to accomplish the obligations as stated in Article 4 of this Agreement.

SECTION 2. This Agreement shall be effective upon signing.

SECTION 3. Any amendments to the terms of this Agreement shall take effect five (5) working days after all Member States have achieved a consensus on the amendments in question.

SECTION 4. This Agreement shall be entrusted to the Office of the ATARA Chairperson, which shall promptly grant a valid copy of this Agreement to the National Secretariats of every Member State.

SECTION 5. No exceptions shall be made to the terms and provisions set forth herein.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, having been duly appointed by their respective governments, hereby affix their signatures to the General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement.

 

Done in Porto Altaria, this 14th day of June, 2018 in a single copy in the Anglish language. 

 

 

---

TL;DR — too much bureaucracy:

1. Keep your tariffs below 25%, you selfish fool. But hey, you have until 2023 to do so.

2. Things to read:

• Article 4, Section 1
• Article 4, Section 5
• Article 6
• Article 7, Section 1
• Article 8, Section 3

3. Yep, that's basically it. The only actual important part is Article VII, "Administrative Machinery":

• Establishment of the ATARA Economic Council, to be overseen by the Chairperson and composed of the economic/trade ministers of every member state.
• More cooperation between the ATARA National Secretariats and their delegates.
• Article VII is the only majority original-work section of the GENCOTS

4. Special thanks to the ASEAN CEPT agreement. I'm praying you don't notice any similarities between this one and that.

Edited March 18, 2020 by Andalla (see edit history)

[Iverica]

1st General Assembly

1040h IST | June 14, 2018
ATARA Headquarters, Assembly Chamber
Porto Altaria, Iverica

 

Let the following entries serve as the official record on the proceedings of the Proposal "GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT", taking place during the 3rd day of the First General Assembly (June 14th, 2018).

This post notes that these stages are accomplished:

1-Quorum Call 

2-Recognition Call

3-Introduction of the Speaker and recognition of the proposal

4-General Proposal

 

---

 

"Mr Bendtsen has completed his General Proposal. Esteemed Delegates, please take the time to consider the provisions mentioned therein. Hard copies have been provided to each of your tables for critique. The Madame Chair will move to open the floor to queries shortly", said the Chamber Clerk as Bendtsen returned to his seat.

Morra moves her table microphone closer and addresses the assembly.

"Thank you Mr Bendtsen. We shall now enter into a brief recess lasting precisely 30 minutes. The assembly may move to dicuss the Delegate of Andalla's proposal in the adjoining parlour. At the 30th minute, we shall resume the assembly in this chamber and commence the Open Floor. Should no queries, clarifications, objections, or motions to reconsider be raised during the Open Floor, any Nay votes during the later voting period shall warrant an extemporaneous justification from the voting delegate. Bear in mind that delegates Present but Abstaining are considered Aye votes by default", said Morra from her seat on the raised desk atop the dais. She then gestures to the clerk.

"This Assembly is now in recess. Refreshments are available in the parlour. Delegates are advised to remain in this wing. Ushers will cry time on the 15th and 29th minute. Delegates are reminded to open any comments with the appropriate title whether 'Query, Clarification, Objection, or Motion' and respect the Panel's recognition of their points", announced the Chamber Clerk, who then retreats to his seat.

Morra shuts her dossier and moves for the parlour with the rest of the panel members.

 

---

OOC: Andalla has just made his proposal. There will be some time (2-3 days) for most of the present members to see this post and make comments, objections, or launch motions to redraft the proposal (see the First Post for a guide). After which, Morra will give her Ruling on any outlying burderns (if at all any) that the proposal may not have addressed in good detail. The voting will follow immediately after this ruling.

Be aware! If no comments are made during the Open Floor, the Assembly's prudence required any Nay votes to be explained with a modicum of reason and logic. For guides on what sort of comments to make, see the above examples by other members or posts in the Hearing Chamber thread.

[Variota]

As before, Sjaak raised his cane and waited until he had been granted the permission to speak to the General Assembly. The refreshments had given him new energy. Of course, refreshments here would never be as good as those available in Variota but luckily, this proposal sought to lower the existing hurdles that kept Variotan refreshments from conquering the world. That having been said, it all depended on the answers delegate Bendtsen would give.

''The delegate of Het Huisselant Variota requests clarification in regards to the proposal 'General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement' as put forward by the delegate of the Commonwealth of Andalla. Namely,

Article 2, section 3 states 'Any product shall be considered as originating from ATARA member states, if at least 45% of the product's total content originates from a certain ATARA member state.'. Does this delegate understand the meaning correctly by stating that this means that a product has to originate for at least 45% from one singular ATARA member state?

Article 4, section 4 states 'Any additional fees or charges other than those connected to the taxation of imports and exports shall reflect only the approximate cost of the services rendered (e.g. Customs inspections).'. One may, quite correctly in this delegate's opinion, associate the example given by the proposal, customs inspections, as a service connected to the taxation of imports and exports; after all, such inspections serve not only the public's safety but additionally allows for monitoring in regards to the actual value of the goods compared to what has been listed by the importing or exporting party. This is, obviously, relevant for the taxes levied on these products. Other delegates and governments may hold an entirely different definition of what falls under this category. Is the delegate from the Commonwealth of Andalla intending to put forward an addendum to this proposal at a later date to include a list of agreed-upon non-taxation connected fees and charges?

Article 4, section 5 states 'The provisions of each member state's tariff reduction scheme shall be made known to the general public quickly, honestly and efficiently, by means of publishing in conspicuous places in at least four (4) newspapers of general circulation within said member state, on or before the 11th of July 2018.'. This time-frame leaves member states with less than one month after the end of this meeting to investigate and vote on the best course of action for their situation as well as, afterwards, arranging for publications in four newspapers. This delegate finds this time-frame to be rather unforgiving and seeks clarification on the consequences for member states that find themselves unable to maintain it.

That marks the end in regards to what this delegate seeks at this moment. This delegate wishes to thank the delegate from the Commonwealth of Andalla in advance for the clarifications given.''

Edited October 22, 2019 by Variota (see edit history)

[Iverica]

1st General Assembly

1110h IST | June 14, 2018
ATARA Headquarters, Assembly Chamber
Porto Altaria, Iverica

 

Let the following entries serve as the official record on the proceedings of the Proposal "GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT", taking place during the 3rd day of the First General Assembly (June 14th, 2018).

This post notes that these stages are accomplished:

1-Quorum Call 

2-Recognition Call

3-Introduction of the Speaker and recognition of the proposal

4-General Proposal

5-Open Floor (Ongoing)

 

---

 

"The Chair recognises Lantheere fan Oliefaaire, of the Panel and Delegate of Het Huisselant Variota. Delegate fan Oliefaaire's request for clarification is valid. Delegate Bendtsen of Andalla is required to respond to this point--Mr Bendtsen, the floor is yours for a response", Morra stated.

As Morra finished speaking, her thoughts went to the proposal on the floor. If Bendtsen was able to clarify and frame his model in such a way that underscored safeguards for the more protectionist economies of ATARA, the proposal would almost certainly be an easy digest for the members of the Assembly. Even if Bendtsen bungled his explanation (she was fairly certain he wouldn't), Morra could see that the proposal could easily be salvaged with the addition of one or two pages--outlining the "non-taxation connected fees" that fan Oliefaaire mentioned. What really piqued Morra's interest was the establishment of the Economic Council. If passed and established, ATARA could easily move into more effective economic cooperatives. The Manamana countermeasures came to mind at that.

Other than those short addendums, perhaps the most pressing threat to the proposal was the short time frame of public information that fan Oliefaaire brought up. If Andalla agreed to revise that one quickly and allow perhaps the start of the next fiscal year at the longest, or 30 days passed the month of June (end of July-start of August) at the shortest, it would give time for the less efficient bureaucracies in ATARA to cope.

The clerk took to his podium.

"The Panel will alot the Assembly some 15 minutes to consider amongst themselves and their staff Delegate fan Oliefaaire's points. The period shall also serve as allowance for Delegate Bendstsen of Andalla to consider his impromptu response. At the 14th minute, the cry shall go out and Mr Bendtsen will have the floor."

---

OOC: Andalla at this point, can promise to amend the Proposal before it goes to vote. This will involve a short recess (for Lunch). If more time is required, the Assembly can go into recess for the rest of the day and resume on the 15th (last day of the GA).

[Andalla]

At that moment, Bendtsen's eyes were opened to the realization of the mess he had just created.

Fool.

In one fell swoop, the intimidating Mr. fan Oliefaaire had managed to highlight—in one way or another—all three major flaws plaguing the draft proposal.

Bendtsen was far too ambitious. Dare he, the little delegate of a little island-nation, confront an intercontinental forum with such an audacious proposal—on its first-ever session?

Neither was he an expert on the topic at hand, that he might be able to gain a proper grasp of his proposed actions. No, that duty should have belonged to Tom Svert, Ph.D., President of the Andallan Institute of Economics and Business Management—the oldest and most prestigious business school in the country. Dr. Svert was a close friend of his, whom Bendtsen had considered talking to regarding the draft proposal. Despite this, it was Bendtsen himself who hesitated contacting Svert, as he thought it be better not to disrupt the Doctor's busy schedule. He was left with nothing but his experience on chairing the Andallan parliament's Small Business Development Committee.

To top it all—in his fruitless haste, Bendtsen had also managed to slide in a few errors and poorly thought-out clauses. The dates mentioned Article 4 were mostly placeholders that he had forgotten to revise; likewise, "a certain ATARA member state" was supposed to be "any".

Alexander Bendtsen: Foreign Minister, Delegate of Andalla, national embarrassment.

The events of two days previous played before his eyes. Mr. Caballeros' proposal had been shot down for an apparent lack of proper details; and though Bendtsen's was far more lengthy and extensive, he knew his GENCOTS was severely lacking.

Nevertheless, after fourteen minutes of frantic revision, Bendtsen once again assumed his place on the podium. Placing a dark-green binder notebook atop the lectern, he lowered the two mics and began to speak.

"To the Panel, most esteemed delegates, colleagues and guests. The Delegate of Variota raised three points of clarification, specifically regarding Article 2, Section 3, and Article 4, Sections 4 and 5." He turned around momentarily to face Mr. fan Ollefaaire, bowing his head slightly as if respectfully acknowledging his remarks.

"Firstly, this delegate would like to correct the wording found in Article 2, Section 3, '... if at least 45% of the product's total content originates from any certain ATARA member state.' Additionally, the clause shall be amended to clarify that the 45% in question may not necessarily originate from a single member state."

"Likewise, Article 4, Section 4 shall be appended to include a clause defining the 'costs' in question, specifically: handling fees, consular transactions, customs documentation fees, financial transactions, and inspection & sanitation services."

"Lastly, all the due dates mentioned specifically in Article 4, Sections 1, 3 and 5, shall be pushed forward; the said sections will be amended accordingly. '11th of July' as mentioned in Article 4, Section 5 shall be moved to the 30th of September, giving member states 3 and a half months to consider the regulations and requirements as set out by this Agreement. Similarly, Article 4, Sections 1 and 3 shall be amended, such that the process of reduction begins on 1 January 2019 and ends 31 December 2024."

"In summary, member states will be given 3 and a half months from signing in order to lay out their respective plans and frameworks, to be announced publicly on the 30th of September. Thus the entire Q4 from October to December shall be allotted for companies to prepare for the said tariff reduction measures, which will begin to take force on January 1, 2019."

Unsure of what to do next, Bendtsen remained on the podium, trying to close his binder notebook very slowly as if eagerly awaiting Morra's reponse.

 

Quote

 

GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT

The member states of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association (ATARA),

NOTING that Clause III of the Preamble of the Charter of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association, done in Porto Altaria, Iverica, on the 12th of December 2017, states that in an increasingly interdependent world, nations must strive to cooperate and work together to achieve common economic goals;

RECOGNIZING that, in numerous instances, the Charter also states the Association's desire to secure peace and prosperity through economic cooperation;

UNDERSTANDING that higher or lower tariffs imposed on certain nations may cause inequality and a lack of economic diversity, thereby creating an unwanted monopoly in the exportation or importation of certain products;

Furthermore, UNDERSTANDING that such a monopoly would reduce competition, an important factor needed for effective economic development;

KNOWING that a common tariff scheme between member states would reduce the chances of such a monopoly endangering the market, thereby fostering competition and economic development;

CONCLUDING that the adoption of a common tariff scheme between member states of the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association would encourage economic development;

HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

 

ARTICLE I

General Definitions

For the purposes of this Agreement, unless the context requires otherwise:

SECTION 1. ATARA shall mean the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association.

SECTION 2. Member state/s shall mean the respective nations comprising the Argic-Thalassan-Alharun Regional Association, whether collectively or individually, as the context requires.

SECTION 3. Agreement shall mean the General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement.

SECTION 4. Agricultural products shall mean:

(a) those which fall under the definitions stated within Chapters 1 to 24 of the Harmonized Nomenclature System (HN), and other similar raw materials or unprocessed products listed under other HN sections; and

(b) raw materials or unprocessed products that have undergone little change in form from the original product.

 

ARTICLE II

General Provisions

SECTION 1. All member states shall be obligated to participate in the tariff reduction scheme.

SECTION 2. Any party may voluntarily choose to exclude specific products, i.e. on the HN 8/9-digit level, from being subject under the Agreement's terms, if said product is deemed too sensitive to be included under the Agreement's terms.

(a) Under this section, no party shall be penalized for withdrawing any product from under the terms of the Agreement.

SECTION 3. Any product shall be considered as originating from ATARA member states, if at least 45% of the product's total content originates from any certain ATARA member state.

(a) Under this section, any number of ATARA member states may contribute to the aforementioned 45% of a product's total content, whether in part or in entirety.

 

ARTICLE III

Product Coverage

SECTION 1. The terms of this Agreement shall apply to all manufactured goods, including capital goods, processed agricultural goods, and those products falling outside the definition of agricultural products as stipulated herein. Agricultural products shall be exempt from the provisions of this Agreement.

 

ARTICLE IV

General Tariff Reduction Measures

SECTION 1. The reduction of existing tariff rates between member states to 25 per centum shall be completed within a span of 5 years, beginning 1 January 2019 and terminating 31 December 2024, subject to a program of reduction to be determined by each party to the Agreement.

SECTION 2. Existing tariff rates already below 25 per centum shall not be included in the reduction of tariff rates. Likewise, any products that reach a tariff rate of 25 per centum shall no longer be included in the following stage of reduction.

SECTION 3. The aforementioned terms shall not impede any party from completing the reduction of existing tariff rates to 25 per centum before 31 December 2024.

SECTION 4. Any additional fees or charges other than those connected to the taxation of imports and exports shall reflect only the approximate cost of the following services rendered:

a. handling fees
b. consular transactions
c. customs documentation fees
d. financial transactions
e. inspection & sanitation services

SECTION 5. The provisions of each member state's tariff reduction scheme shall be made known to the general public quickly, honestly and efficiently, by means of publishing in conspicuous places in at least four (4) newspapers of general circulation within said member state, on or before the 30th of September 2018.

(a) All parties are encouraged to reduce tariffs orderly, preferably by means of assuming an annual rate of reduction, to prevent any undesirable consequences that may have been caused due to the rapid reduction of tariffs.

SECTION 6. All parties shall undergo the process of eliminating all other non-tariff barriers on an annual basis, within a period of five years following the completion of the tariff reduction schedule.

 

ARTICLE V

Most-Favored Nation Status

SECTION 1. Any advantage, exemption, favor or privilege granted by any party upon a certain product originating from or destined for other parties shall likewise be conferred, immediately and without constraint, to a like product originating in or destined for all other parties to the Agreement.

SECTION 2. The provisions stated within Section 1 of this Article shall not obligate any party to eliminate any preferences in regards to charges levied on or connected with the importation and exportation of products, provided that said preference falls within the description hereon:

(a) Preferences in force exclusively between two or more contracting parties, which shall be subject to the provisions stipulated therein;

(b) Preferences in force exclusively between any number of member states and non-member states, which shall be subject to the provisions stipulated therein.

 

ARTICLE VI

Emergency Suspensions

SECTION 1. If any product, which is eligible under the terms and policies of this Agreement, is imported in such a manner or in such quantities as to cause or threaten serious injury to sectors engaged in the production of like or directly competitive products in the importing member states, the importing member states may, for the appropriate duration of time as needed to resolve such issue, tentatively suspend the provisions stipulated herein.

SECTION 2. Pursuant to Section 1 of this Article, all parties shall agree to implement the aforementioned suspensions in an honest and orderly manner, taking into consideration the framework and goals of this Agreement as stated in the Preamble.

SECTION 3. Any actions undertaken by a Member State in relation to Article 6 of this Agreement shall be reported immediately to the ATARA Economic Council as established in Article 7 § 1 of this Agreement.

(a) The aforementioned resolutions implemented may be subject to revision and consultation by the Economic Council.

 

ARTICLE VII

Administrative Machinery

SECTION 1. Pursuant to Article 3 § 4 of the ATARA Charter, Member States shall establish a council to oversee the implementation of this Agreement, to be known as the ATARA Economic Council (hereinafter referred to as the Council).

(a) The Council shall be composed of one (1) Economic Minister from every Member State, working in conjunction with the country's National Secretariat as referred to in Article 3 § 5 of the ATARA Charter.

(b) In the event that any Member State does not have an acting ministerial-level economic official, the National Secretariat of the Member State thereof shall be obligated to nominate the most relevant senior position as representative to the Council.

(c) The Council shall be chaired by, and report directly to, the ATARA Chairperson.

(d) The Council shall submit a report to the ATARA Panel biannually detailing advances in the implementation of the terms stipulated by this Agreement.

SECTION 2. The National Secretariats of every Member State shall be obligated to notify the Council immediately of any additional tariff arrangements between two or more Member States, in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

 

ARTICLE VIII

Final Provisions

SECTION 1. Member States agree to duly execute the appropriate measures as required in order to accomplish the obligations as stated in Article 4 of this Agreement.

SECTION 2. This Agreement shall be effective upon signing.

SECTION 3. Any amendments to the terms of this Agreement shall take effect five (5) working days after all Member States have achieved a consensus on the amendments in question.

SECTION 4. This Agreement shall be entrusted to the Office of the ATARA Chairperson, which shall promptly grant a valid copy of this Agreement to the National Secretariats of every Member State.

SECTION 5. No exceptions shall be made to the terms and provisions set forth herein.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, having been duly appointed by their respective governments, hereby affix their signatures to the General Common Tariff Scheme Agreement.

 

Done in Porto Altaria, this 14th day of June, 2018 in a single copy in the Anglish language. 

 

 

 

 

Edited March 18, 2020 by Andalla (see edit history)

[Iverica]

1st General Assembly

1110h IST | June 14, 2018
ATARA Headquarters, Assembly Chamber
Porto Altaria, Iverica

 

Let the following entries serve as the official record on the proceedings of the Proposal "GENERAL COMMON TARIFF SCHEME AGREEMENT", taking place during the 3rd day of the First General Assembly (June 14th, 2018).

This post notes that these stages are accomplished:

1-Quorum Call 

2-Recognition Call

3-Introduction of the Speaker and recognition of the proposal

4-General Proposal

5-Open Floor

 

6-Ruling of the Chair

7-Speaker Response (Just Finished)

8-Assembly Breaks for Recess 

---

After Bendtsen had closed his binder, Morra addressed the Assembly.

"The Chair recognises Delegate Bendtsen's promises to amend the points in question by Delegate fan Oliefaaire. If the Delegate of Variota or any other Delegate here wishes to correct or add to what Delegate Bendtsen has just promised to amend, let the points be made now. Please note that; if Delegate Bendtsen has reasonably and objectively satisfied the concerns brought to the floor now, there should be no reason to hear any Nay votes during the Voting Period. Delegates voting Nay during the later Voting Period will be removed from this session by this Chair if they fail to bring up their protests or concerns at this juncture."

It was within the power of Chair to oversee the proceedings and given how much effort had been put in by all parties assembled it would be improper in the extreme for any delegate to obstruct the proceedings by voting irresponsibly. Meaning that it would behove them to at least declare the rationale of their disagreement now so Delegate Bendtsen would at least have a fair chance of amending his proposal.

---

OOC: If no questions follow (None have for a few months now), we will time skip to the 15th, where @Andalla's amended proposal (see above) will go to vote. Since abstaining is considered tacit approval by the Assembly, there is no need for a poll. No response means approval. 3 Days will be given until the Proposal in considered passed.