I suppose I didn't elaborate enough, mostly I meant if it hasn't been invaded yet, then invasion probably isn't their plan. It's only speculation, though. What do I know?

I should advocate for that, the best way to find out someone's terms is to face squarely up to them. The trade thing isn't a bad idea but it would definitely take longer. The only thing my experience tells me for sure is that war is not presently an answer.