Persian Empire 1845

Chapter 287 Prussian Envoy

"We have heard that your Shah originally planned to visit our country, but the plan was suddenly changed and he went directly to Russia."

"Due to unforeseen circumstances, and the fact that the Russian Emperor was very much looking forward to the Shah's visit, we had to change our itinerary. This has already been explained to your country. We apologize for this."

Friedrich expressed his understanding, saying, "Prussia has always maintained a peaceful stance towards Iran. However, your country should be aware of the situation between our country and Austria."

After a moment's thought, Amir replied, "His Majesty the Shah has always advocated peaceful coexistence and is unwilling to get involved in the conflicts of any country. We will handle our relations with Austria carefully to ensure that they do not affect Prussia's interests. At the same time, we also hope that Prussia can understand that the relationship between Iran and Russia is equally important, and the Shah's visit to Russia is also to maintain regional stability."

Friedrich smiled slightly and said, "We understand your country's position. Prussia also hopes to maintain friendly relations with Iran, especially given the current complex international situation. We are willing to further strengthen cooperation in trade, culture, and other areas to jointly promote the prosperity of both countries."

Amir knew that relations with Prussia might deteriorate because of the Austrian affair, but this was also an opportunity. It could not only draw Austria's attention to Iran, but also make Prussia unable to ignore Iran's influence on Austria.

After a moment's thought, Amir continued, "Our country could consider adding some new clauses to the new trade agreement, such as cooperation in energy, minerals, and technology transfer. Iran has abundant natural resources, while Prussia has advantages in industry and technology; the potential for cooperation between the two sides is enormous."

Friedrich nodded in agreement: "This is exactly what we are looking forward to. Prussia's industrial development requires a stable energy supply, and Iran's resources can provide a solid foundation for our cooperation. In addition, we can strengthen exchanges in the fields of culture and education to enhance understanding between the people of our two countries."

The talks primarily aimed to deepen economic ties between the two countries, but due to the internal struggle between liberals and conservatives in Prussia, foreign policy was wavering. They couldn't offer Iran anything better; this was all they had to say.

Friedrich leaned forward slightly, his tone tinged with a hint of probing: "Your country's mention of military and mining cooperation is indeed promising. However, Prussia's current relations with Austria are tense, and your country's close ties with Russia also give us some concerns. We hope that while cooperating with Russia, Iran can also ensure that Prussia's interests are not harmed."

Amir calmly responded: "His Majesty the Shah's foreign policy has always been centered on balance and stability. Our cooperation with Russia is based on considerations of regional security and will not affect the friendly relations between Iran and Prussia. On the contrary, we believe that cooperation between Prussia and Iran can contribute to the stability of the entire Eurasian continent."

Friedrich paused for a moment, seemingly weighing the pros and cons. He then said, “Prussia is willing to believe in your country’s sincerity. However, we hope to see more safeguards in the specific terms of cooperation, especially in terms of energy supply and technology transfer. Furthermore, Prussia would be even more grateful if your country could remain neutral on the Austrian question.”

Amir smiled slightly and replied, “Our country understands Prussia’s concerns. Regarding Austria, our country has always advocated peaceful coexistence and will not proactively intervene in the internal conflicts of any country. We hope that Prussia can also understand that Iran’s cooperation with other countries is not directed against any third party.” Friedrich nodded, seemingly satisfied with Amir’s answer. He continued, “In that case, we can arrange for the relevant departments to draft specific cooperation documents as soon as possible. Prussia also hopes to explore more cooperation opportunities with Iran in the future.”

After the meeting, Amir walked out of the conference room, pondering to himself: Although the relationship between Prussia and Austria was complex, Iran's position was clear. Through cooperation with Prussia, Iran could not only strengthen its own economic power but also play a greater role on the international stage. And the conflict between Prussia and Austria might just be an opportunity that Iran could exploit.

As tensions escalate between Prussia and Austria, the atmosphere on the European continent becomes increasingly tense. How Iran can maintain a balance among these parties and safeguard its own interests amidst the ever-changing international landscape has become the biggest challenge facing the Shah and his diplomatic team.

Meanwhile, Austrian Ambassador to Iran Sebastian also received news of the arrival of the Prussian envoy. This was the first time Prussia had sent a special envoy to Tehran, presumably to compete with Austria for Iranian support.

This is understandable, given Austria's recent defeat and Prussia's eagerness to seize Austria's position. The Iranian allies His Majesty the Emperor sought were indeed effective; it's said the Shah supported His Majesty's suppression of the Hungarians and the initiation of autonomy in Bohemia. Although he wasn't Bohemian, he favored granting these ethnic groups more rights; Austria had too many ethnic groups, and failing to do so would one day backfire on the empire.

Prussia did this simply to keep Iran neutral. Although Iran and Austria are too far apart, it might be useful, for example, by directing troops from the Black Sea.

Regardless, Prussia's sending of envoys should give Austria pause for thought. They also need to expedite their invasion of the Balkans, otherwise they'll be in trouble once Iran is drawn into the Prussian camp.

After their discussions with Amir, the Prussian envoys became unusually active in Tehran. They not only held secret talks with various Iranian nobles but also attempted to influence Iranian nobles and officials through various means, hoping to maintain Iran's neutrality or even secure its support for Prussia.

Amid this tense international situation, the situation in the Balkans has become even more complex. Austria realized that if it could not quickly stabilize the Balkans, it would be in a very disadvantageous position should Iran be drawn in by Prussia. Therefore, Austria decided to increase its military involvement in the Balkans while seeking to resolve its conflicts with local ethnic groups through diplomatic means in order to reduce internal instability.

The outcome of this diplomatic struggle will depend on the strategies and strengths of each country, and on the choices Iran makes in this great power game. For Austria, maintaining internal stability while effectively addressing external challenges will be key to its future policy.

(End of this chapter)