THE HOST IS SET:
FRANCE SHALL HOST THE CONFERENCE OF EUROPE
The Ottoman Empire has switched its nomination for host to France, and to confirm the majority the Austro-Hungarian Empire has submitted their vote in favor. Emperor Napoleon IV has accepted the nomination, with honor, and the Conference shall be held in
Évry, France. A small, unassuming suburb of Paris, it was chosen by the Emperor for its relative remoteness from the traffic and bustle of central Paris, and as a measure of personal fondness for the town from his incognito tour of the city's arondissements and industrial suburbs. It has since been transformed to receive the massive influx of important diplomatic envoys destined for the venue of Europe's most important international conference in at least a decade; some noting the renovations, some noting the still wet plaster, some noting its rustic charm, others the sound of the
Ateliers de Petit-Bourg factory but a mile away. Nonetheless, working-class associations of this seemingly odd choice for a Conference will perhaps have their part to play in the negotiations to come, with the Madrid Commune slated among many issues to be resolved for the good of peace in Europe. Prestige lays on the line for every participant and European onlooker to see the Approved Issues resolved to a successful diplomatic conclusion, none more than the new host of the Concert of Europe. We pray God will bless Évry, and make its name famous as the place where the peace of Europe was restored; or the scourge of war unleashed.
Of last note among the increasingly crowded pages of newspapers, but amidst deliberations to decide the host city for the Conference while in Brest, the Emperor and his Cabinet were interrupted by a dull boom resounding from the harbor. It seems an older, aging Ironclad had an incident in the ship's magazine, causing the poor vessel to explode at dock, with thankfully light loss of life as most sailors were on duty for a parade for the presence of the Emperor. A most unfortunate incident, to be sure.
With the Host City chosen, we shall consider the deliberations in full swing. Contact pertinent nations required for the joint submission of geopolitical issues to the Conference, gain supporters, argue for your cause, and do everything in your power to preserve the peace. Discussion in the Conference is to be limited to proposal or support for issues pending approval, and pertinent discussion/negotiation of jointly Approved Issues. Non-European nations can participate as Observers, but will have no say in the ultimate decisions of the Conference. As of now, the Conference has until the end of the Order phase to be complete. There is still time, and extensions will be considered if necessary. Peace in Europe lays in your hands, ladies and gentlemen. Do what you can, before it is too late.
Regards,
Your Hosts