A New India
Chapter 229 - 229: The Delhi Agreement on the Suez Canal Crisis

The grand conference hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan was still active as the discussions that had dragged on for hours finally reached a point of resolution.

The heated debates, moments of near collapse, and carefully worded compromises had produced what many now believed to be a fragile but necessary framework for peace.

The leaders, seated around the long table, remained visibly fatigued but resolute, knowing that their signatures on the document now placed before them would mark a turning point in history.

Prime Minister Rohan, standing at the head of the table, broke the silence with his steady voice.

The determination in his tone cut through the air, commanding attention from every leader in the room. "After hours of deliberation, we have before us a framework that represents not just a compromise, but a commitment to a better future. The document we have drafted here today, the Delhi Agreement on the Suez Canal Crisis, aims to bring peace and stability not just to the region, but to the international community that depends on this vital artery of trade and cooperation. This is not a perfect solution, but it is the best path forward given the challenges we face."

The room fell silent except for the sound of aides standing behind the leaders, flipping through papers and reviewing the finalized text one last time.

"The agreement affirms the sovereignty of Egypt over the Suez Canal," Rohan continued, his gaze shifting to President Nasser. "This was a cornerstone of these discussions, and it is a principle that all signatories will respect. Egypt will maintain full control of the canal, and its nationalization is recognized as a legitimate exercise of its sovereign rights. However, to address concerns raised by all parties, Egypt will commit to operational transparency."

The mention of transparency caused a slight stir, but Rohan pressed on. "To ensure trust and fairness, we will establish a United Nations Advisory Commission on the Suez Canal. This body will not have executive authority but will act solely in an advisory capacity, ensuring that the canal's operations are conducted transparently and without bias. Representatives from major trading nations will form the commission, but Egypt will retain ultimate control over the canal's management."

The leaders exchanged glances, weighing the delicate balance of power this clause represented.

Nasser, seated stiffly, offered a measured nod, signaling his acceptance.

His face betrayed little emotion, but his agreement with this point was a victory for diplomacy.

"The agreement also guarantees the uninterrupted passage of vessels, regardless of nationality, through the canal," Rohan said, his voice unwavering. "This includes Israel, which will have the same rights of access as any other nation, provided its ships do not pose a direct threat to Egyptian security."

Israeli Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion shifted in his seat. "Prime Minister Rohan, these guarantees must not remain theoretical. There must be consequences for any nation that disrupts access to the canal or uses it as leverage."

Rohan nodded, addressing the entire table. "This agreement will establish a dispute resolution mechanism under the United Nations. Any disagreements or violations concerning canal access or operations will be referred to the Security Council. A fast-track process will be created to handle urgent cases, ensuring that disruptions do not escalate."

President Nikita of the Soviet Union leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "And this dispute resolution mechanism will it be controlled by the same Western powers that have already shown their imperialist ambitions?"

Rohan met his gaze evenly. "Premier Bulganin, this mechanism will operate under the principles of international law and neutrality. No single nation or bloc will dominate its decisions. The objective here is fairness, not control."

Mao Zedong, who had been listening quietly, spoke with calm authority. "Any enforcement must be collective and impartial. Sovereignty cannot be undermined, and the balance of power must be preserved. If this is guaranteed, China will support this framework."

Rohan continued, his voice steady as he moved to the next point. "To address the damage caused by this conflict and to ensure the canal's future viability, the agreement includes provisions for collaborative investments. A modernization fund will be established, with contributions from nations that rely heavily on the canal for trade. This fund will be managed jointly by Egypt and an international board, ensuring its resources are used effectively and transparently."

President Eisenhower nodded in approval. "The United States will contribute to this fund. Investments in the canal's infrastructure are essential not just for Egypt, but for global commerce."

Nasser spoke, his voice resolute. "Egypt will not accept investments that come with strings attached. This modernization must respect our sovereignty and be conducted in partnership, not as an imposition."

Eden, still visibly uncomfortable, interjected. "The United Kingdom is willing to contribute to this fund, but let us be clear: this must also address the economic damage caused by the canal's nationalization."

Nasser's jaw tightened, but before he could respond, Rohan stepped in. "Prime Minister Eden, this is not the time to revisit old grievances. The modernization fund is forward-looking and benefits all parties. Let us focus on building trust, not rekindling disputes."

The hall grew quiet again as Rohan addressed the final point. "Lastly, this agreement includes a formal non-aggression pact concerning the canal. All signatories commit to refraining from using the canal as a political weapon or a pretext for military action. Violations of this pact will be treated as a breach of international law and referred to the United Nations for resolution."

Rohan's paused taking a breath continued "This is the framework we have crafted together. It is not a perfect solution, but it is a step toward peace."

The leaders exchanged glances, some nodding slowly, others remaining impassive.

The official copy of the Delhi Agreement on the Suez Canal Crisis was placed at the center of the table, its pages pristine and waiting for the signatures that would make it binding.

The press, who had been waiting for hours, were now ushered into the back of the hall to witness the historic moment.

President Eisenhower was the first to rise, his movements deliberate as he approached the document. "This agreement represents a collective effort to prioritize peace over conflict. The United States supports this framework wholeheartedly and will ensure its implementation." He signed his name with steady hands, cameras flashing as he returned to his seat.

Premier Nikita followed, his gaze sharp as he walked to the table. "This agreement is a step toward justice and the preservation of sovereignty. The Soviet Union will hold all parties accountable to its terms." His signature was bold and deliberate.

Chairman Mao Zedong rose next, his calm demeanor unshaken. "This agreement must be more than words. It must embody the principles of equality and mutual respect." He signed with precision before stepping back.

President Nasser stood, his face a mixture of pride and exhaustion. "For Egypt, this agreement is a recognition of our rights and our sovereignty. Let it mark the end of aggression and the beginning of a new era." His signature was bold, a statement of defiance and resolve.

Beaumont and Eden rose together, their faces tight but resolute.

Beaumont spoke briefly. "France commits to this agreement as a necessary path toward reconciliation.

Eden, his voice strained, added, "The United Kingdom will honor its commitments and work to rebuild trust with the international community." Their signatures followed.

Finally, Ben-Gurion approached the table, his movements cautious. "Israel signs this agreement with the hope that it will lead to security and peace for all parties involved." He placed his signature, completing the circle.

As the final signature was added.

Leaders exchanged handshakes, some genuine, others perfunctory, as the press captured the historic moment.

Aides moved quickly to make copies of the document for distribution to the United Nations and international media.

Prime Minister Rohan addressed the gathered press, his voice calm but firm. "Today, we have taken a step toward peace. This agreement is not just about resolving the Suez Crisis; it is a statement that diplomacy and dialogue can prevail over aggression and division. India is honored to have facilitated this historic moment."

Outside Rashtrapati Bhavan, the streets of Delhi buzzed with anticipation as the news spread.

The Delhi Agreement was not just a resolution to a crisis; it was a symbol of hope, a reminder that even the most fractured nations could find common ground.

For now, the world could breathe a little easier.

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The Delhi Agreement on the Suez Canal Crisis

1. Sovereignty and Control

The Suez Canal will remain under the full and undisputed sovereignty of Egypt.

The nationalization of the canal by Egypt is recognized as a legitimate exercise of its sovereign rights.

2. Neutral Operations and Transparency

A United Nations Advisory Commission on the Suez Canal (UNACSC) will be established.

The commission will ensure operational transparency and fairness but will act solely in an advisory capacity.

Egypt retains ultimate control and decision-making authority over the canal.

3. Guarantee of Free Navigation

Egypt guarantees the uninterrupted passage of all vessels, regardless of nationality, through the Suez Canal.

Exceptions will only apply to vessels posing a direct security threat.

4. Resolution of Disputes

Disputes regarding canal access or operations will be referred to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for resolution.

A fast-track mechanism will be established to handle urgent cases efficiently.

5. Collaborative Investments

A modernization fund will be established for the canal, with contributions from nations relying heavily on its trade routes.

This fund will be jointly managed by Egypt and an international board to ensure transparency and efficiency.

6. Non-Aggression Pact

All signatories commit to a formal non-aggression pact concerning the canal.

The canal cannot be militarized or used as a political weapon.

Violations of the pact will be treated as breaches of international law and referred to the UNSC.

7. Withdrawal of Foreign Forces

France, the United Kingdom, and Israel agree to withdraw all military forces from Egyptian territory within 30 days of signing the agreement.

Egypt guarantees the safety of retreating forces and refrains from pursuing claims for reparations, focusing instead on de-escalation.

8. Commitment to Sovereignty and Peace

All signatories reaffirm their commitment to respecting national sovereignty and ensuring lasting peace in the region.

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Signed by:

Prime Minister Rohan, Republic of India

President Dwight D. Eisenhower, United States of America

President Nikita, Union of Soviet Socialist Republics

Chairman Mao Zedong, People's Republic of China

President Gamal Abdel Nasser, Arab Republic of Egypt

Prime Minister Jacques Beaumont, French Republic

Prime Minister Anthony Eden, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, State of Israel

Witnessed and endorsed by the United Nations.

This historic agreement was signed at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi, marking a significant step toward peace and stability in the region.

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END OF VOLUME

Next Volume will start Internal Development and focus mostly on Internal Politics and development.