Arthur and William II's discussions went very smoothly. In less than three hours, they had finalized the framework of the aid treaty and reached agreements on the purchase of important technologies, including those related to the military industry.
Regardless of William II's intentions, this treaty could only benefit Australia. It brought no disadvantages.
With Germany's assistance, combined with aid from the United Kingdom, Australia's economy and industry would enter a period of explosive growth.
Although the signing of the aid treaty also clarified several military agreements,
the good news was that William II had not explicitly demanded that Australia participate in any future war.
Australia only needed to provide Germany with resource-related support within six months of war breaking out, while taking the opportunity to find ways to harass France's various colonies.
That was completely acceptable to Arthur. Without directly sinking into the quagmire of war, allowing the conflict in Europe to rage even more fiercely would bring no harm to Australia.
After all, war would also create countless opportunities for wealth. Australia's military industry would be supported by both the United Kingdom and Germany, and would naturally be more acceptable to both countries as well.
After all, when one had a choice, becoming more proficient with standardized equipment was far better than using different equipment, and the resulting combat power would naturally be much greater.
December 19, 1900—the day after Arthur and William II concluded their discussions.
Once the monarchs of both countries had finalized the framework of the treaty, the officials also began working busily to settle its details.
Since the general framework had already been determined, negotiations proceeded quite quickly. The thornier issues had already been resolved by Arthur and William II, leaving the officials of both countries only to discuss the types and specific quotas of