(2)

A:Good morning,Mr.Hoffmann.Any news?

B:Yes,I’ve succeeded in persuading our export manager to agree to a reduction of 10 percent.He made this an exception with an eye to future business.

A:Good.We certainly appreciate your making these concessions for us.

B:May I repeat 15 Tunnel Drillers,specifications as shown in the technical data,at 57,000 euros each,FOB European Main Ports.Business is closed at this price.

A:Yes,that’s right.Shall we go over the other terms and conditions of the transaction to see if we agree on all the particulars?

B:All right.We have no objection to the stipulations about the packing and shipping marks.As a matter of fact,we always pack our machines in new strong wooden cases suitable for long-distance ocean transportation.

A:The machines must be well protected against dampness,moisture,rust,and be able to stand shock and rough handling.

B:We’ll see to that.

A:They are to be shipped not later than September,2021.

B:There’s no question about that.

A:And about the terms of payment?

B:Payment by L/C,to be opened by the buyer 15 to 20 days prior to the date of delivery.That’s what we’ve agreed upon,isn’t it?

A:Yes,quite so.

B:We’d like to add the condition that the letter of credit shall be valid until the 15th day after shipment.You know,sometimes it takes us a week or so to get all the shipping documents ready for presentation and negotiation.This will give us more leeway.

A:That can be done.Any questions about the commodity inspection and claims?

B:None whatsoever.The quality and performance of our machines can stand every possible test.We agree to your conditions.

A:Do you also agree to the condition that all disputes,if unsettled,shall be referred to the Foreign Trade Arbitration Commission of the CCPIT,China Council for the Promotion of International Trade?

B:Certainly,but I’m sure there will be no occasion for arbitration at all.

A:Well,then,we’ve agreed on all the major points.

B:Yes,Mr.Gao.We’re glad the deal has come off nicely and hope there will be more to come.

A:So long as we keep to the principle of equality and mutual benefit,trade between our two countries will develop further.

B:When can the contract be ready for signing?

A:I’ll have it ready in a couple of days.

B:The earlier,the better.I’m leaving next week.

A:How about next Monday afternoon at 5? I’ll have a copy of the contract sent to your hotel in the morning for you to look over.

B:That suits me fine.