Negotiations with the British (Part III)

Seeing that Colonel W.L. Webb had become more open to discussions, Karan decided to push forward with another crucial request.

Karan: smiling "Colonel, we plan to send a delegation to Europe. Would you be able to assist us in establishing contact with the British authorities in the UK to facilitate our travel and investment opportunities?"

Colonel Webb: raising an eyebrow "And what exactly is the purpose of this visit?"

Karan: "We intend to invest in key industries, including CNC manufacturing, watch production, textiles, and food processing factories. With World War II devastating Europe's economy, many businesses are struggling. This presents a unique opportunity for us to invest and aid in reconstruction, which will also strengthen Kashmir's industrial foundation. We see this as a strategic move to secure essential resources, machinery, and skilled labor for our future expansion."

Karan: pausing slightly before continuing "Switzerland, being a neutral nation, remains one of the few places in Europe with intact industrial infrastructure. Their factories are operational, and they are looking for foreign investors to support their production. Investing in Switzerland ensures that we gain access to advanced technology without the risks posed by ongoing warfare."

Colonel Webb: leaning back, rubbing his chin "So, you wish to position Kashmir as an industrial player while Europe is still recovering from the war? Quite an ambitious move, Prince Karan. But how do you plan to negotiate purchases and establish operational control over these industries?"

Karan: "We will form strategic partnerships with factory owners in Switzerland, acquiring majority stakes where possible while allowing them to continue day-to-day operations. Our goal is not to relocate these industries but to profit from their existing market and technology. This way, we establish stable revenue streams while ensuring that, when the time comes, we can transfer knowledge and equipment to Kashmir."

Colonel Webb: leaning forward, intrigued "And how much do you plan to invest?"

Karan: "Between ₹10 to ₹20 crores, depending on the investment opportunities available."

Colonel Webb: visibly shocked "That is a massive sum of money!" After a moment, he regains his composure. "If you have that kind of capital, why not invest in the UK? Our industries have been hit, but we are still a leading manufacturing nation."

Karan: shaking his head "The UK is not a viable option for us. The factories there are damaged, and British factory owners are unwilling to sell to Indians at fair prices. Even if we buy a factory, we will have to spend a fortune on repairs while the war is still ongoing. If the conflict intensifies, my investment could be completely lost. Switzerland, on the other hand, offers fully operational factories, making it a safer and more profitable option, even if the initial cost is slightly higher."

Colonel Webb: "I see. But do you intend to relocate these factories to Kashmir?"

Karan: "No, not immediately. Kashmir's market is not yet ready for large-scale industrialization. The factories will continue operations in Europe, generating profits and securing technological expertise for our future."

Colonel Webb: thinking deeply "If the UK helps you acquire these factories at a lower cost, would you consider investing there?"

Karan: pausing, a conflicted expression on his face "If you can help facilitate the acquisition, it would make things easier for us. We are not opposed to investing in British-controlled factories, but the terms must be favorable."

Colonel Webb: nodding "I understand. I will assist your delegation with travel arrangements and speak with my superiors about possible deals."

Karan: grateful "Thank you, Colonel. That will make a significant difference."

Karan: "Additionally, I would like to request a license for mining-grade gunpowder. It will be used for road construction and limestone extraction to support our cement industry."

Colonel Webb: considering the request "Mining explosives can be risky. How do I know they won't be misused?"

Karan: "We will operate under strict regulations, and British inspectors can monitor the storage and usage. The demand for infrastructure is growing, and gunpowder will accelerate our projects, ensuring quicker completion."

After a brief pause, Colonel Webb nodded in agreement.

Colonel Webb: "Very well. I will approve your request, but I expect full compliance with British regulations."

Karan: internally relieved "Thank you, Colonel. This will greatly help in our development efforts."

Karan: "One last thing, Colonel. In two months, our potato harvest will be ready, yielding a large stock of 80 tons. If you're interested, we can sell 20 tons to British India at a 20% premium."

Colonel Webb: eyes lighting up "Food is scarce in wartime, and this is an excellent offer. I accept immediately! This will greatly assist our supply chain."

Karan: "Now that all the terms have been agreed upon, when can we finalize the contracts?"

Colonel Webb: "We can sign within the month, and it will take effect from next month. I will need to report to my superiors and obtain the necessary approvals."

Karan: "That is acceptable. I appreciate your cooperation."

Colonel Webb: "Likewise, Prince Karan. You are a sharp negotiator." He chuckles before standing up. "I look forward to our continued partnership."

After exchanging pleasantries, Colonel Webb took his leave.

As the door closed behind Colonel Webb, Karan turned back, only to find his father staring at him intensely. Karan took two steps back, surprised by his father's expression.

Karan: confused "Father, why are you looking at me like that?"

Hari Singh: after a long pause "Tell me, why did you agree to let the British collect tolls for five years while we only collect for three?"

Karan: "Father, British India will gain independence in 4 to 5 years. If we join the union in the future, the government will likely nationalize the road. If we had divided it into equal 5-year terms, the British would insist on collecting tolls first. By taking only 3 years initially, we gain a head start in collecting revenue without them questioning our motives."

Hari Singh: "And if the road is nationalized in the future, why invest so much in its construction?"

Karan: "Because the road will benefit Kashmir regardless. It will strengthen our economy, improve trade, and enhance military logistics. Whether nationalized or not, it will remain a strategic asset."

Hari Singh: nodding slowly "Clever. But now tell me, why did you give the British full distribution rights over hydroelectricity?"

Karan: "Because this is a long-term project. By the time it is completed, British rule in India will likely be over. They will invest heavily in the project because they think they have the upper hand, but in the end, we will gain cheap electricity to power our industries and factories."

Hari Singh: thoughtfully "And why did you reveal your investment plans in Europe?"

Karan: "Because it ensures that the British consider us an important ally. They will try to keep us investing in the UK after the war to rebuild their economy. This gives us leverage in future negotiations."

Hari Singh: "So, was your plan **to invest in the UK from the start?"

Karan: smirking "Not at all. I never put all my eggs in one basket. We will acquire factory not only in Britain but also in swiss, Germany. I also intend to buy Military technology from the black markets in Turkey and Persia, to manufacture weapon in Kashmir in secreate."

Hari Singh: pausing before nodding approvingly "I see… Very well. You may go now."

As Karan left for his room, he knew that the foundation for Kashmir's future had been set.