In a noble effort to bring the trade war that has been rocking the IDU in recent weeks to a peaceful conclusion, Eiria has agreed to host a mediation conference. Hopes are high that this conference will bring about the end to this dispute. The delegates have been arriving over the past 24 hours. The Zamastanian, Xiomeran, Kerlian, and Triuvian delegations have already arrived via Dunceda Airport. For the time being they are resting up for the conference. While they were landing, we managed to get an exclusive interview with Alice Lancaster, the conference coordinator and Eirian Minister of Diplomacy. When we asked her why Eiria decided to host the conference in the first place, she responded that they believed that, as a truly democratic and forward thinking state it would be in the collective best interest of the IDU for a conference to be held. She stated, "...we wanted to stop this trade war before it snowball[ed]." She further emphasized, "...we couldn't have let this lead to a depression" It would seem the Eirian government truly believed that, if left unchecked, the trade war would lead to a global depression. This idea has been supported by many economists. It is held that if the trade wars do not cease shortly a global economic crisis is likely. It would seem a lot rests on Eiria. Mrs. Lancaster also stated that she believes that, in the event that the conference's outcome is positive, diplomatic and economic relationships with other nations will be greatly boosted. When asked what the ideal outcome of the conference was Mrs Lancaster reportedly stated, "The cessation of sanctions... [and all] open disputes to be settled." This is a lofty goal but one that, if achieved, will seriously help the global financial situation. To insure a successful outcome to the disputes, Mrs. Lancaster has stated that she will do everything in her ability to keep discussion open. She stated that "Communication is key for resolving conflicts." She also stated that she wants to focus heavily on the Trive-Kerlile rift. All in all, Alice Lancaster has high hopes for the conference. For the sake of the prosperity of the IDU as a whole, let's pray her hopes come to fruition.