After hearing him out, Han Niba finally had a clear understanding of the technological gap between Great Xia and Kona.
Now came the problem.
Great Xia could not provide most of what Kona needed, because the other side already possessed practically all the technology Great Xia had, and had even put it to more mature use.
Yet the technologies Great Xia needed were too numerous to list.
What could they offer in exchange?
He did not dwell on that question for long.
He was a soldier, not a scientist.
It was best to leave specialized matters to the specialists.
"Academician Qian," he said,
"I need you to take the lead on three things."
Qian Zhenhua immediately turned serious. "Go ahead."
"First, compile a list of all the technology Great Xia currently possesses, and see what Kona might need."
"Second, rank the technologies we need most urgently by priority and list them."
"Third." Han Niba paused, his tone growing heavier.
"Work out a technology valuation system to measure value when trading technology."
Qian Zhenhua froze for a moment.
Han Niba said:
"If we're exchanging things, there must be a unified standard of value."
"How much an engine technology is worth, how much an alloy formula is worth-we can't leave those figures vague."
"Like currency, there has to be a clear yardstick. Otherwise, future cooperation will be troublesome, and we might even lose out."
Qian Zhenhua's eyes lit up, and he nodded firmly.
"Right! We absolutely need that!"
"Otherwise, differences in how the two sides value technology could easily cause problems in our cooperation. We're the ones with the greatest demand. We can't afford to overpay."
He turned toward the scientists behind him, who had yet to fully calm down, and clapped twice.
"Stop looking! Come with me. We're holding a meeting!"