Ministry of State Releases Documents and Statement

The Ministry of State released two documents regarding Delveran foreign policy earlier today. These are the Declaration of Influence and Exclusivity and the Definition of a Legitimate State, which announce the creation of a Delveran Sphere of Influence and the Confederal government's criteria for a legitimate nation respectively. To coincide with this, Minister of State Jordan Brizendine released the following statement:

"Today is a historic day for the Grand Republic of Delvera. For the first time in our nation’s history, we have realized that our potential is matched by our capabilities, and we have resolved to strive toward reconciling these factors. It is to this end that the Ministry of State has released the Declaration of Influence and Exclusivity and the Definition of a Legitimate State.

Some may wish to know the reasoning behind such a radical advance in policy. This move was not the result of a sudden decision, but rather the culmination of several weeks of planning and deliberation. During this formative process, several key justifications which I will now explain were enumerated.

First, we believe that Delvera has a destiny to expand westward to the Rocky Mountains, much like its predecessor, the NottaLottan Empire, did in 2012. We also recognize the historical precedents of various other nations, namely the colonial powers of Europe and the United States, regarding this kind of arrangement. A significant model for the Declaration was the Treaty of Tordesillas between Portugal and Spain.

Second, as previously stated, Delvera has vested interest in the areas included in the Sphere of Influence, as well as the capability to project itself over areas in the region. This is not to say that we have the resources to exert control over the whole area, but that we are capable of concentrating resources and power in locales throughout the region, and can thus physically affect our activities there.

Third and finally, multiple extra-territorial Delveran citizens reside in the region, including one in the far western reaches. These citizens, though removed from de jure Delveran territory, are an important consideration in questions of future expansion and development.

With these in mind, allow me to dispel some misconceptions which may be generated by these developments. The Sphere of Influence does not designate claimed territory, but territory in which the Grand Republic reserves exclusive rights to make claims and engage in other activities. As a result, Delvera does not claim ownership of any legitimate states which may exist within the region, and alterations to the extent of the Sphere may be discussed with such nations through diplomacy. Further, the Grand Republic does not “derecognize” entities which do not fulfil the criteria for a legitimate state. Existing Ministry of State policy espouses non-recognition, on the basis that states do not need recognition in order to exist. Therefore, Delvera does not deny the existence of non-legitimate entities, merely said entities’ claims to statehood and associated rights and powers.

It is my hope that this statement will clarify the intent and purpose of the new Ministry of State policies released today. Thank you.

Jordan Brizendine
Minister of State
Grand Republic of Delvera
December 18, 2016"