The Importance Of Railways

Constantine and his team, including Banning and Schmidt, embarked on a diplomatic tour across key European capitals. Their journey took them to major cities such as London, Paris, Berlin, and Vienna, where they engaged with government officials, diplomats, and influential figures to present their case for the Congolese Commission's suzerainty over the Congo River Basin.

In London, they met with British officials to discuss the economic potential of the region and the benefits that British investors and traders could gain from a stable and well-managed Congo River Basin. The delegation emphasized the importance of fostering economic development in Africa and positioning the Congolese Commission as a responsible and reliable partner.

In Paris, Constantine held discussions with French diplomats, highlighting the cultural and historical ties between France and Greece. He underlined the mutual benefits of cooperation in Africa, emphasizing the Congolese Commission's commitment to maintaining stability in the Congo River Basin. The French, with their colonial ambitions, were carefully considering the geopolitical implications of this emerging power in Africa.

The delegation's next stop was Berlin, where they engaged with German officials, including diplomats and members of the aristocracy. Germany, as a rising European power, saw strategic opportunities in Africa, and Constantine worked to align the interests of the Congolese Commission with Germany's vision for global influence. The efficient German railway system and economic progress were points of interest for Constantine, providing inspiration for potential developments in Greece.

Vienna was the final destination of their diplomatic tour. In the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the delegation navigated the intricate political landscape and met with influential figures at the imperial court. Constantine leveraged his connections, including the recent interaction with Queen Elizabeth, to garner support for the Congolese Commission. The Austro-Hungarian Empire, with its ambitions in the Balkans, considered the potential impact of a Greek presence in Africa.

Throughout their diplomatic efforts, Constantine employed a nuanced approach, adapting his messaging to suit the interests and concerns of each European power. The economic reports prepared by Banning proved invaluable in providing data-driven insights into the potential benefits of recognizing the Congolese Commission's suzerainty.

As the diplomatic tour unfolded, the delegation faced challenges and encountered varying degrees of skepticism. Some nations viewed the rising influence of the Congolese Commission as a threat to their own colonial ambitions, while others saw an opportunity for economic cooperation.

Constantine, guided by a keen understanding of geopolitics and diplomacy, adeptly navigated these challenges. His ability to articulate a vision for the future of the Congo River Basin, backed by economic incentives and a commitment to stability, garnered attention and respect.

The success of the diplomatic tour would have a lasting impact on the trajectory of the Congolese Commission's influence in Africa. The stage was set for further negotiations, alliances, and strategic partnerships that would shape the geopolitics of the region in the years to come.