Disputes over direction existed in every nation with ideals. It was an unsolvable problem—there was no absolute right or wrong, only whether something was suitable.
At present, both the Balkan Faction and the South German Faction had ample justification for their positions.
From the perspective of development, the Balkans possessed more fertile land and richer resources, which could accelerate Austria's economic growth; meanwhile, South Germany had the population Austria needed most.
Both sides were important, but considering the issue of ethnic integration, Franz still leaned toward prioritizing South Germany.
Once South Germany was annexed, the Austrian Empire would be secure. The government could use immigration to mix the various ethnic groups together and hasten the pace of ethnic integration.
In Franz's view, the best way to accelerate ethnic integration was intermarriage. The union of one couple meant the recognition of two families, and it could also influence the positions of a whole host of relatives and friends.
Once such intermarriages became numerous, the next generation would all be of mixed ethnicity. As products of ethnic integration themselves, these people would naturally have the strongest sense of identification with it.
Metternich said slowly, "Whether we head west first or south first, this question must be approached with caution.
"The international situation changes by the moment. Even if we make a decision now, we may still encounter forces beyond our control and be compelled to abandon it when the time comes.
"The Russians may attack the Ottoman Empire, but that is only a possibility. What will ultimately happen remains an unknown.
"Russia and the Ottomans have fought so many wars, yet the Ottoman Empire still stands tall. Who can guarantee that the Russians can swallow them in one bite? I fear none of you believe the Russians can accomplish that, either.
"In