Martin Chávez

Evaluación Sumativa
102

Lin Zexu, China

1879

China Emperor, Beijing

UK request to China for commerce

Your Highness, as the most respected authority in the Chinese dynasty, I would like to
comment on an issue that can harm Chinese society, such as opium. The British natives have
had some contacts with us to declare their business interest with our government, they are
clearly superior to us in armament, economic and social advances, so it is very delicate to
negotiate with them.

In my capacity as Her Majesty's advisor, I would like to suggest two scenarios in relation to
the British government's proposal.

The first alternative would be to open our borders completely and allow free trade of goods to
the whole world, which could clearly benefit our economy through the exchange of our
traditional products (tea, porcelain, silk, looms etc.) with inputs that would benefit our
handicraft and industry that wants to get out of the crisis.

On the other hand, if we do not accept a trade agreement with the United Kingdom, we would
be allowing our neighboring countries to benefit from the agreements, which would cause our
economy to slow down and we would also be encouraging the illegal trade of products
including opium, which is produced by the British in Indian territory.

In view of the above, may I recommend the following: Negotiate an agreement between both
parties to allow the export of traditional Chinese products, and also to receive articles like new
invents in tech or industrial that will help us in the optimal development of our dynasty and to
be able to advance as a nation.

I am grateful for the opportunity to advise Your Majesty and hope that everything I have said
will be of benefit to our kingdom.

Lin Zexu