Persian Empire 1845

Chapter 284 St. Petersburg (Part 3)

Alexander II was also discussing strategy toward Iran with Foreign Minister Gorchakov. The previous disastrous defeat in the Crimean War had severely damaged Russia's prestige, and it was even more important not to lose to Persia in Central Asia.

"Your Majesty, I believe we should adopt a flexible strategy towards Persia. We must avoid direct conflict while ensuring that our influence in the region is not diminished."

Our country must first stabilize our rule in the Kazakh region, and then proceed gradually after that.

Alexander II nodded slightly, his gaze fixed intently on the Central Asian region on the map. The defeat in the Crimean War still lingered like a thorn in his side. He knew that Russia could not afford another major diplomatic or military setback, especially in this strategically important land of Central Asia.

“Gorchakov, your suggestion is very pertinent,” Alexander II said slowly. “The Kazakh region is indeed our top priority at present. Only by consolidating our rule there can we exert further influence on Persia and the regions further south.”

The Tsar's fingers traced lightly across the Kazakh steppe, then moved south, stopping at the border between Persia and further India. His brow furrowed slightly, as if weighing the pros and cons of each step.

Gorchakov pondered for a moment, then said, “Your Majesty, your concerns are very valid. Britain is indeed our main competitor in Central Asia. However, a direct conflict with Persia could provoke a strong reaction from Britain, and might even lead them to strengthen their military presence in India and Central Asia. Therefore, I suggest that we adopt a more covert strategy.”

"A covert strategy?" Alexander II raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the suggestion.

“Yes, Your Majesty,” Gorchakov continued, “we can exert influence indirectly by supporting certain forces within Persia. I have heard that some tribal leaders in Persia are not entirely subservient to their government. If we can establish contact with them and provide some economic and military support, they may become our allies within Persia. In this way, we can gradually expand our influence in the region without directly confronting the Persian government.”

Alexander II nodded slightly, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes. "This strategy sounds very feasible. We mustn't let the Persians discover our intentions."

However, we must proceed with caution. We must ensure that every step is carefully considered and that no oversight is overlooked. The lessons of Crimea are profound enough; we cannot repeat the same mistakes.

Gorchakov nodded solemnly: "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will personally oversee the implementation of this plan to ensure that nothing goes wrong."

Russia's objective is clear: to secure more access to the sea while ensuring its interior remains untouched. The upcoming trilateral talks are particularly important, but at best, they will only serve to buy time.

The most important outcome of Nasser al-Din's visit to Russia was the signing of a trade agreement between Iran and Russia. This agreement allows for a larger share of goods traded between the two countries, primarily raw materials and handicrafts. Iranian fruits and carpets, and Russian timber, represent the largest segments of the trade.

Naser al-Din left Russia, and both sides had agreed to discuss the situation in Transoxiana in Tehran. Naturally, he had to return to prepare. "Shah, Russia is only relying on its large population, but in reality, their industry is even inferior to ours. There are dilapidated machines everywhere, and although slavery has been abolished, landowners still resist government orders and refuse to release their people. Moreover, those peasants have no money to pay the ransom, and it looks like they will have to work for them."

After several days of investigation, Abdullah came to this conclusion. Russia currently lacks funds, technology, and infrastructure. Developing industry is impossible without foreign capital. It seems the Tsar will have to search the world for money, and Iran might be a suitable investment destination.

He continued, “Shah, Russia is only relying on its large population, but in reality, their industry is not even as good as ours.” His tone was somewhat disdainful. “Their factories have outdated equipment and low production efficiency; they even have to import the most basic textile machinery from Britain.”

Nasser al-Din nodded slightly, but his gaze remained fixed on the agreement. While Abdullah's words were somewhat exaggerated, they weren't entirely without merit. Russia's industry did lag behind Western Europe, but its size and military strength remained far beyond Iran's reach.

“You’re right, but we can’t underestimate the Russians’ ambitions,” Naserdin said slowly, his voice low and calm. “Their expansion in Central Asia is far faster than we imagined. If we don’t take more action, Transoxiana will fall into their hands.”

At this point, Abdullah immediately stated that it was essential to control the Syr Darya River, a vital waterway. He argued that using the river as a border could have some negative implications for Iran's future.

When Nasser al-Din heard Abdullah mention the Syr Darya River, his brow furrowed slightly, and his gaze returned to the small map of Central Asia. The Syr Darya meanders through the vast steppes of Central Asia, eventually emptying into the Aral Sea. This river is not only an important water source for Central Asia but also a strategic waterway connecting Persia with Transoxiana.

“The Syr Darya…” Nasser al-Din repeated softly, his finger tracing the river on the map. “You’re right, Abdullah. If the Syr Darya is the boundary, our future will indeed be at the mercy of others.”

Seeing that Shah agreed with his point of view, Abdullah immediately continued, "Shah, the Syr Darya is not only a water source, but also a vital transportation route. If we lose control of the Syr Darya, the Russians can easily cut off our connection with the Kazakh region."

Nasserdin nodded. He knew that Abdullah's words were not alarmist. The Syr Darya River was not only a geographical barrier, but also Iran's lifeline for the future. Losing this river would put Iran in an even more passive position.

“Once we return to Tehran, we will immediately summon the ministers to discuss this matter,” Nasser al-Din finally spoke, his tone resolute. “We must develop a detailed plan to ensure we do not fall behind on the Syr Darya issue.”

Abdullah nodded solemnly: "Yes, Shah. I will speak with the Grand Vizier."

Nasser al-Din closed his eyes slightly, the image of the rushing Syr Darya River appearing in his mind. He knew that this river was not only Iran's shield, but also its hope for the future. And he had to do everything in his power to secure a bright future for the country.

(End of this chapter)