Chapter 409： Austro-Hungarian Special Envoy 1 (1/2)
The Austro-Hungarian Empire also attached great importance to this marriage, not because it would make the relationship between Germany and Austria-Hungary closer, because whether it was Emperor Fritz or other high-level officials, they knew that the German Emperor did not want to see This marriage. They regarded this marriage as the key to the reconstruction of the old friendship between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the former southern German states.
The Austrian emperor knows very well that now the Austro-Hungarian Empire can only respond to threats from its surroundings by relying on Germany. The weaker Austro-Hungarian Empire is a bit like Germany's younger brother, not an equal ally. And if it is possible to establish an extraordinary relationship with an influential state within Germany, then it is naturally very desirable for Austria-Hungary. What's more, the economic and military cooperation between Bavaria and Austria-Hungary has been around for a long time, and Austria has benefited a lot from it. This time, the Austrian emperor sent the Count Taf, known as the ”iron ring”, to further strengthen the two sides. Partnership.
His father Ludwig III and Earl Schelling are responsible for the specific matters of marriage, and the prince only needs to follow their plans and go step by step. Of course, the cooperation between Bavaria and Austria needs to be handled by the prince himself.
”The imperial government has agreed to the Turkish government's proposal to join the Allied Powers system. As long as General Shefkai and the Young Turkish Party can succeed, then the imperial government will have no objections.” Count Taf said.
Emperor Fritz is still very entangled in accepting a prey country to become his ally. The Austro-Hungarian Empire, especially Austria, is interested in the Balkans. This interest is not only aimed at small countries like Serbia, but also at Turkey, the sick man in Europe and Asia. If it were not for the fact that the two sides were not next to each other, the Austro-Hungarian Empire would be more likely to choose Turkey instead of Serbia. After all, the latter had a boss named Russia, and Turkey was alone.
In order for the Austro-Hungarian Empire to accept this proposal, the prince had to transfer some of the benefits, such as agreeing to give the Austro-Hungarian Empire a 20% share on the issue of arms exports to the Turkish Army. At the same time, it will persuade Turkey to give certain preferential policies to the Austro-Hungarian Empire in the fields of trade and agriculture.
”I am very satisfied with this result. The joining of Turkey will make the Allies stronger.” The prince smiled and nodded.
”But there are three countries in the Allies. It is not enough for Germany and us to accept it. Italy must also express its stance. Although it will not sign the relevant treaty now, it must at least release some goodwill to Turkey.” Count Taf said.
”I understand what you mean. Do you want Germany to come forward to further suppress Italy? Is your country still worried about Italy?” A simple statement is not what the earl needs, although after the prince ”visited” Italy. Italy said nothing more on the issue of Germany and Portugal. But anyone with a discerning eye can see that Italy is very dissatisfied with this. Austro-Hungary, which has always had a bad relationship with Italy, hopes to further suppress this dishonest ally.
”To be honest, we do lack control over Italy. They follow standardism. And their diplomatic policy is more flexible. But I will ask the Kaiser to send a note to Italy for them to express their views on the Turkish issue. It's just a statement. It shouldn't be difficult,” the prince said.
”I heard that you and the Kingdom of Württemberg have signed a new cooperation agreement. In the future, part of the car engines of the two parties will be imported from the Kingdom of Württemberg, is this true?” Count Tuft said.