KHITOMER — In what’s sure to become one of the largest events in recent galactic history, staff from the Federation and the Klingon Empire are working overtime to prepare next month’s celebrations on the Klingon planet to mark one hundred years since the signing of the Khitomer Accords in 2293.
The Khitomer Conference was the first step in a century of peace between the two powers, which has only been disrupted briefly in 2372, when the Klingon Empire withdrew from the Khitomer Accords and fought the Federation while under the covert influence of the Dominion. The following year, Chancellor Gowron reinstated the treaty and the Klingon Empire, Federation, and eventually the Romulan Star Empire all united in the war against the Dominion that lasted until 2375.
Though there have been tensions at times between the Federation and the Klingon Empire, most recently when the Klingons invaded Romulan territory in 2389, the alliance overall has been credited with helping usher in a period of galactic peace and stability not seen in centuries.
“Do we have disagreements with the Klingons from time to time? Of course,” said Professor Emil Arbelaez, chairman of political science at Pike City University on Cestus III. “But like any good friendship, we understand we can have those disagreements and still respect one another and be there for each other in times of need.”
Not everyone is so sure of the lasting effects of that friendship, however. Continued piracy and raids from what the Klingon High Council officially deems as rogue elements have caused consternation along the Federation’s border worlds.
“If the Klingons are really serious about peace and the alliance, then they need to do a better job of cleaning house,” said Federation Transport Union official Akilah Kalu. “The Federation has ensured the safe passage of Klingon merchants throughout Federation space. It’s time the Klingons do the same for Federation merchants on their side of the border.”
Such disputes and disgruntlement is unlikely to be discussed at the anniversary celebrations which will be held on the same site as the original Khitomer Conference of 2293. Event organizers have scheduled a number of high profile speakers including both current Federation President Narala, current Klingon Chancellor Daeshon, former Federation President Nan Bacco, and Churok, a columnist for the Federation News Service who covered the original Khitomer Conference and who later served as press secretary for Federation President Ra-ghoratreii, who signed the original Khitomer Accords alongside his Klingon counterpart Chancellor Azetbur.
In addition, both Starfleet and the Klingon Defense Forces have made arrangements to showcase the pride vessels of their fleet, with demonstration performances by both the Federation and Klingon fighter corps and a parade of ships that will feature both current and historical vessels from the late 23rd century.
Among those from Starfleet will be the vessels of the Invicta Expedition: USS Tiger, USS Garuda, USS Mercury, USS Syracuse, and USS Invicta herself. Rumors are circulating that a certain fabled Constitution class vessel may be pulled from the Starfleet Historical Museum for the occasion, although museum officials had no comment when asked.
“It’s going to be both celebrating history and making history at the same time,” said Professor Marius Stana of the University of Alpha Centauri. “Even if you’re not a history buff, it should prove to be quite the party.”
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