章 204: London Conference - IV

Hassan responded. "Global stability, or British stability, Prime Minister? Because from where we stand, stability always seems to mean the West keeping control, no matter what it costs the rest of us."

The tension boiled over. Delegates from Iran, Turkey, and Syria joined in, speaking passionately about the need for Arab nations to control their own destinies.

Gromyko leaned forward, his voice calm but pointed. "Perhaps this meeting is a sign that the world is ready for a new order. One where we don't have to argue for the basic right to control our own resources."

Dulles glared at Gromyko. "Don't kid yourself, Gromyko. We know exactly what kind of 'new order' you want. One where countries 'control' their resources under Soviet influence. That's not independence; it's just a new type of dependency."