That sounds good! Perhaps the Union is interested in literally getting its feet off the ground and came to review and study a highly developed Air Force and the Empire answered the call, inviting major leaders to a annual military exercise to see it first hand. During this main event, the representatives would discuss things such as labor, trade, ect. if they're sold on the idea. 

We could start with whoever the Union sends arriving in the Arkillian capital after landing at one of the few naval ports the Empire has. They could even be all unimpressed by the Empire being all like "What is this? Look at this pitiful dock. Not a drydock in sight nor a battleship to behold!". XD