My Realistic Simulation Game

Chapter 247 Is the Soviet Union better now or before?

St. Petersburg, City Hall.

As Qin Yuan sat in the car heading towards the municipal government, gazing out the window at the city known as the "Venice of the North," his thoughts were churning.

He never imagined that less than a week after the dramatic coup in Moscow subsided, a phone call would come directly to his office from St. Petersburg Mayor Sobček.

This political star, who closely followed Yeltsin in issuing a statement during this "historic event" and unequivocally opposed the State of Emergency Committee.

He is currently the most prominent radical reformist figure in Soviet politics, second only to Yeltsin.

At this crucial moment, instead of rushing to the power center in Moscow to share the spoils of victory, he chose to personally meet with himself, the "foreign businessman," at this critical juncture.

The implications of this are truly intriguing.

Qin Yuan knew perfectly well that Sobček was definitely one of the core members of the huge "club" behind Ekaterina that spanned politics, business, and intelligence.

This meeting was by no means a simple exchange of pleasantries.

The vehicle drove into the solemn and dignified compound of the municipal government.

As soon as Qin Yuan got out of the car, a young man of average height but with a steady gait and sharp eyes came to greet him.

He was dressed in a well-fitting suit, yet his demeanor exuded an undeniable air of competence befitting a disciplined force.

“Mr. Qin, hello. I am Vladimir, the mayor’s advisor. The teachers are waiting for you in the office. Please come with me.”

His attitude was neither humble nor arrogant, and his words were concise as he guided Qin Yuan into the building.

Qin Yuan nodded and followed behind without saying a word.

He did not adopt any superior attitude towards this person.

There was no other reason than that he clearly understood the principle that even a seventh-rank official is respected in front of the prime minister.

What's more, that mayor's advisor's face looks really familiar!

I used to be very surprised when I looked at his resume. Why was he promoted so quickly?

But now, living in this era, he sees everything clearly.

He was almost certain that this was related to Sobček and the "club" behind him.

Because at this moment, amidst the chaos in Moscow, even if Ye Jianying were to seize power, the area he could directly control would only be the Moscow region.

Each region has its own interests, and they maintain their autonomy. Not only now, but throughout the 1990s, they were unable to enter.

In the end, he could only win the second election by relying on oligarchy and having the oligarchs provide him with political donations.

But in the local areas, who has the most power?

Without a doubt, it was Sobchek and Catherine's faction.

He had previously said he wanted to acquire the Volga Tractor Plant, and the local government there immediately sent him a loan application.

This kind of control is terrifying.

It was under these covert operations that Yeh was powerless to do anything throughout the 1990s, and ultimately the two sides made a series of political compromises.

This led to the emergence of a new generation of powerful forces.

However, these things are still too far away for Qin Yuan.

The most important thing is right now.

What is the purpose of Sobček, or rather the forces behind him, summoning him here?
A larger-scale takeover?
However, Far East Group is still digesting those large food factories, as well as some local hospitals, sanatoriums, and other fixed assets.

Catherine knew this better than anyone!

If it wasn't for this matter, what else could it be that would warrant Sobček's personal appearance?

He decided to stop thinking about it and, after knocking on the door, Qin Yuan said directly, "Mayor, I am Qin Yuan." "Come in."

As a deep voice came from inside the door, Qin Yuan pushed the door open and entered.

The first thing you see is that square face, exactly like Ye's.

Then came an old man, as sharp as a hawk.

Beside the old man, Catherine stood respectfully.

Even when facing Ekaterina Sobchek, there was no need to show such respect, but towards this old man, such an attitude was adopted.

No need to think about it.

This person must be one of the KGB's directors.

With the arrest of Kryuchkov, the chairman of the Security Committee, in a failed coup attempt, his subordinates, the heads of the Main Directorate, are undoubtedly the leaders of this secret agency now.

Those who have managed to appear here and haven't been dealt with yet are all cunning and shrewd foxes.

"Qin Yuan, this is the mayor of St. Petersburg, Sobček, and this is our Second Chief of Staff, Latosvi."

Ekaterina, who had the most contact with Qin Yuan, introduced them in the middle.

"Mayor, Bureau Chief, hello."

Qin Yuan greeted the two men in turn, keeping his tone calm, but his mind was racing.

The fact that the director of the Second General Administration personally came forward suggests that the content of the meeting likely went far beyond the realm of business.

"Mr. Qin, is this our first meeting? I'm sorry, I couldn't make an appearance last time when your Far East Group acquired the Baltic Brewery in our city because I was busy with official business."

Sobček, with an amiable demeanor, said, "We made the right choice. I've heard about the Baltic brewery deal. The acquisition of eight breweries in succession is truly impressive. I also heard that you're planning to enter the cola market, is that right?"

Seeing that the other party seemed to want to start with business topics, Qin Yuan was happy to cooperate: "Yes, Comrade Mayor. We are indeed conducting market research and formula adjustments. Currently, Coca-Cola and Pepsi dominate, but to create a product that suits the tastes of the Soviets, we still need a process of exploration and optimization."

He gave a brief report on the progress of the Coca-Cola project, which consisted of legitimate business activities with nothing to hide.

Just as Qin Yuan and Sobček were chatting casually, the old man, Latosvi, squinted and suddenly asked, "Mr. Qin, what specific impact did the turmoil in Moscow a few days ago have on your Far East Group's business?"

He paused, then added a seemingly specific but actually profound question, "I've heard things haven't been peaceful in Volgograd lately, with some friction between the garrison and the local government. Has this caused any... obstacles to your plan to take over that tractor factory?"

Is it about the Volga City motorcycle trip?
It seems this bureau chief is very concerned about the military's movements!
Moreover, he specifically mentioned the acquisition he was currently undertaking, which was clearly a test.

Qin Yuan remained calm and cautiously replied, "Thank you for your concern, Director. There is indeed an impact, but it is still within a controllable range. We provided the Volga Tractor Factory with a loan. The more turbulent the situation there is, the more difficult it will be for the factory to complete its production orders. This may actually allow us to take over management sooner, in accordance with the contract."

He cleverly described the "acquisition" as "taking over management according to the contract," making it seem legal and compliant.

"The entity that is having the biggest impact on us right now is actually Far East International Bank."

"The fluctuation of the ruble exchange rate has led to a bank run, with people queuing up every day to exchange for US dollars."

"However, on the other hand, rising prices also mean that the value of our physical assets and commodities is increasing, which may not be all bad for the group as a whole."

After listening, Latosvi's lips curled into a barely perceptible smile, and he let out a low laugh: "Heh, interesting."

"It sounds like the more chaotic things are in the Soviet Union, the more money you make? Mr. Qin, you really are a business genius."

These words carried a clear scrutiny and a subtle hint of sarcasm.

Qin Yuan immediately shook his head, adopting a concerned attitude: "Director, you're joking. In business, the ultimate goal is stability."

"With continued political turmoil and a failing economy, no one will be able to do business. Of course, we hope that the Soviet Union can restore stability and development as soon as possible."

Latvís's gaze suddenly sharpened, and he abruptly asked, "So, from the objective perspective of a foreign businessman, do you think the current Soviet Union was better, or the Soviet Union of the past?"

(besides)
(End of this chapter)