2012年ESL之日常生活 15 Negotiating a Peace Treaty（在线收听）

Negotiating a Peace Treaty

Ahmed: Have you heard the news? 

Menna: The nations of Palicia and Isram have signed a peace treaty. This means that there will be an immediate ceasefire and an end to hostilities. This is a historic day! 

Ahmed: I never thought I’d live to see this day. Has everything been settled? 

Menna: Only the most important things. The borders have been decided, there will be a recognition of statehood, and political prisoners will be exchanged. 

Ahmed: That’s great, but does the treaty need to be ratified by the people of the two nations? 

Menna: Yes, but the leaders have already signed the documents and the ratification process is just a formality at this point. 

Ahmed: This means that refugees will be able to return home. 

Menna: That’s right. They’ll be able to go home at long last. 

Ahmed: This is a banner day for world peace, don’t you think? 

Menna: Yes, and in that spirit, why don’t you call Hanna and invite her over for dinner? You two haven’t spoken in weeks. 

Ahmed: It’s not going to be that easy. A peace treaty with my sister will require a formal apology and reparations! 

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse