AMW News Centre

[The Amyclae]

The Cosmopolitan: International Paper, Zionist Perspective

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Zion Government Condemns National Governments for Usual Excess
_{18^th of the First month of Adar, 5774}
^{By Taylor Stein}

Zion's Foreign Office issued a series of trenchant, but admittedly toothless
remarks about the state of the world.

New Jerusalem, Zion In a recent press release the Jewish Republic and the Kibbutz National Association, the two heads of the Zion nation, condemned what both called Roman "adventurism" off eastern Italy and Geletian provocation in the Saimonas.

The release was characteristically pithy.

An amount of background: Rome's naval forces have continued an assertive nationalists policy that has been called, alternatively, by the Jewish Republic as "illegal," "regrettable" and "rude." Following reports of another boarding in the Adriatic, that has neither been confirmed nor denied by Rome, the latest condemnation has few adjectives left.

Elsewhere in the country, the national legislature recently passed a bill that recognizes same-sex marriages throughout the empire, and gives same-sex couples the right to a variety of bureaucratic minutiae. The bill allows the couples to file taxes jointly, hospital visitation rights, adoption rights, and inheritance rights. The bill also delineates "homophobia" as a "hate" crime and outlines a punishment regimen of those convicted of attacks against same-sex Romans. The criminal structure allows Roman judges to give sentences that are decades longer than previously afforded.

This has been met with eyebrows in Zion, who remains unimpressed that a blood-thirsty hereditary dictatorship is willing to throw a few scraps to its citizens. Per usual, the Roman government is delivered an admonishment that Jewish synagogues will, and should, do what they want regarding the contentious issue of gay marriage. Moreover, the usual call is sent out to Jews throughout the country encouraging them to emigrate to a country that is so long on empty gestures yet short on substantial reforms that would allow meaningful input from the interested and interesting citizenry.

Across the Adriatic continues the Geletian ethnic cleansing. While the current Geletian campaign to 'cleanse" the territory of the Tsags, while gruesome and tragic, is historically speaking neither new nor remarkable. Population removal and transfer have occurred in history more often than is generally acknowledged. But the banality of the Celts evil is not an excuse, and will not be accepted as one.

Ultimately, whether compelled by deliberate attempts at cleansing or by the "voluntary" flight of refugees, the processes that have shifted thousands of lives in the Saimonas will accomplish the same end. War, prejudice and a desire, finally, to be left in peace will have transformed the peninsula into a land more closely resembling other parts of Europe that have already undergone their own tragic upheavals. The Saimonas too may become a patchwork of ethnically distinct territories. With no sizable minorities left within any state and with the warring factions securely walled off behind "national" boundaries, the best that can be hoped for is that the motors of conflict will be disabled and the fatal cycles of violence that have marred Saimona history will finally have reached their end.

To that end, the various prince-states in the Saimonas, and that now compromise the former Tsag areas, should be detached from Geletia proper.

• Rome, Celts Continue Sniping [ 48 ]
• International Waffling Continues Apace[ 39 ]
• Why Zionism isn't that bad [ 13 ]

Comments [ 12 ] • .............E-mail this Article
© Cosmopolitan News

[Iansisle]

((ooc: see Ça Ira))

Premier: Attack at Durnford 'a Disgrace'
Director-President has harsh words for the Catholic militia which perpetrated the attack; condoloences for the families of killed Gandvians

....at a press conference convened just hours after the attack (see opposite side for details of the Durnford siege), Director-President Charles Bradsworth took the podium himself to call for peace and understanding in Editraequan...

..."This attack is an affront to the sensibilities of all good Christians everywhere," the Director-President said. "Causing death in the name of religion is abhorrent, an affront to all things holy. I call on all the armed religious militias in Editraequan to lay down their arms..."

...Asked about Gandvian allegations that the Republic was involved in the attack, Director-President Bradsworth issued a flat denial. "The first I heard about these attacks was at a briefing, post facto, just more than an hour ago...."

...sources asking to remain anonymous from within Jameston Place say that the press conference was called immediately following a personal phone call to the Director-President from Alderman Ahler of Nibelunc....

[Beddgelert]

Y Bardos: CHIVO STEPS DOWN
Igos, Kezo in Trevenya

The political picture in Geletia is changing apace. For months thousands have been on the streets in numerous cities, staging protests and counter-protests, often brawling with deadly results. Communist fighters, including those directly under the command of the Cornitouti chieftain, trained and armed as regular Geletian troops, have clashed with Chivo's security forces, most notably outside the Cornitouti capital of Dinasbrenos, where central forces were surprisingly over-run. The elected chieftain of the Silures, the first Communist to top a statewide ballot outside Cornitoutia, has been arrested and executed for supposed involvement in insurrection, and most recently almost the entire army of Y Berfeddwlad has crossed the border into Regnia-proper and been greeted with hugs and handshakes by civilians and soldiers alike.

Now it appears that Chivo, for years the most powerful figure in the nation and lately self-styled Emperor of the Geletians, has relinquished his post as quickly as he created it, apparently after meeting Colonel Kezo and the heads of the Clan Igo at Pencadlys, the monolithic Trevenya headquarters of the Geletian armed forces.

Unconfirmed reports from Dubeanach, as Akink refers to Tsagija, indicate that some of the settler militias and Geletian-dominated security forces have exchanged fire since Chivo's announcement, and the situation in that belaboured land seems only to have been further complicated over-night.

Meanwhile, state-backed newspaper Udgorn Rhyddid (the 'bugle of freedom', or 'freedom's trumpet') appears to have experienced its own volte-face, calling this morning for the impeachment of Durcodi Chieftain Danutalos for his role in the execution of Silurian premier Heulwen and for what it calls his, 'duplicity' and, 'grand campaign of deception', which the editor admits in a special column to having been taken-in by.

Chivo's present situation is unclear, though he is believed to be at liberty in northern Geletia. His resignation has been followed by a similar offer from daughter Aileana, who was elected General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Social Democratic Party in 2011. Presumably it is for the Party itself to accept or refuse such a resignation. Tonight, though, Geletia's political structure and leadership is uncertain.

Also in Y Bardos:
-'Heavy forces' moving into Tsagija
21st Scordisci Shock Army deploys armour, artillery, SAMs
-Celebrations in Dinasbrenos even as bodies collected from outskirts
Do they know something we don't? Watch the website for updates

[Nova Gaul]

読売新聞
Yomiuri Shimbun

War in Europe! The Yen spikes; the Nikkei rises!
TOKYO, Japan

War in Europe, again, long anticipated and half-heartedly avoided, again, is now apparently underway as substantial reports of a massive offensive by Gandvian forces in Weshield, Shadoran, and Thortraia emerge. What appear to be opening maneuvers in a Great War redux, which will likely draw the majority of Europe—and perhaps most Western powers—into a grueling conflict (including the economic powerhouses of Great Walmington and Nibelunc), have caused investors to flee to the rock-solid Yen and predictably profitable sphere of Japanese investiture.

The Nikkei ended an unprecedented 7.8 percent higher to 15,071.88 points, the highest close in the market’s history. Additionally, the Yen (¥)’s exchange rate has appreciated to a record ¥93.07 against the Walmingtonian Pound Sterling, often cited by the English as the world’s reserve currency.

Bullish enthusiasm in the Empire is largely echoed in the corridors of Prime Minister Baron Hiranuma Kiichirō’s government, which was seated one year ago by His Imperial Majesty the Emperor to ‘ensure Japan’s economic hegemony and focus, singularly, on empowering Japanese economic influence.’ With the Prime Minister’s assent, the Bank of Japan has raised the interest rates on three-month ‘short-term’ treasury bonds, seen by most economists as the leading indicator of market faith in a nation’s economy, to 4.00%. Unsurprisingly, demand has soared and the government was forced to impose a two-week moratorium on bond auctions.

Cautionary voices in Tokyo warn that excessive investment, of the sort that has occurred over the last twenty-four hours, might in fact be detrimental to the economy in the form of over-appreciation affecting the exportability of Japanese products. Prime Minister Kiichirō’s office has dismissed these concerns, according to a spokesman:

“In the long term this government is well-placed to deal with any matters of inflation, of over appreciation of the currency. However, in the short term, the instability in Europe, indeed the specter of total war in Europe which could conceivably wipe out several of the world’s strongest economies (or at least restrict them to a war-footing for an indefinite period of time), represents a golden opportunity for the empire to become the world’s economic engine. Business thrives on economic stability, on predictability, and on the surety of economic growth. Japan, now more than ever, represents the epitome of this paradigm.”

Empress Tsunako address legislature: education bill immediately adopted
TOKYO, Japan

In her first ever public address to the Diet and House of Peers Her Imperial Majesty Empress Tsunako, speaking in her capacity as the “mother of the divine Yamato Race”, called for immediate and comprehensive stimulus funds to be injected into the Japanese education system.

Long known as an advocate for improved education, and long seen as a symbol of devoted Japanese motherhood, the empress called for ‘swift measures’ to be taken to increase the Japanese school day and provide enough teachers to lower the student to teacher ration to 7:1 from its present 10:1.

The Empire of Japan has long been known to possess one of the world’s best educational systems, and, by some standards, consistently achieves the world’s highest test scores in the sciences and mathematics. Japan also has the world’s longest school day: on average students begin at 7:00 a.m. and end as late as 5:00 p.m.. Although the ten-hour day is a mix of lecture, laboratories, studies, sports, and clubs the empress, along with the motherhood of the nation, feels it is not enough. Kaizen, the Japanese term for continuous improvement, plays into this philosophy.

“It is not enough that the Empire exceeds the student’s of other nations,” said Empress Tsunako, resplendent in an austere rose kimono emblematic of the Sakura cherry-blossom season. “Nor it is enough that scores against the children of other nations improve. We must continually improve against our own high standards, by exponential factors, every year. Unless the quality and quantity of the empire’s academics improves by a factor of three next year, I say we are not doing enough! We are not honoring our divine ancestors, nor are we ensuring our children’s success!”

Her speech was greeted by a standing ovation.

Later that very day the Imperial Diet Passed the Empress Tsunako Education Act of 2014 which was quickly approved by the House of Peers and signed into law by her Divine Husband the Emperor. As a result of the act, one additional hour of mathematics will be added to every school day, along with two thirty minute additions for physical science and Japanese culture, respectively. An increase of the national educational budget, by 5% annually for the next six years, will also be implemented.

The legislation was greeted with wide approval by the Yamato nation.

Schoolgirl Michiko Kurame commented “I am so grateful that the Imperial Government takes such pains for the welfare of the youth,” she said, bowing eagerly. “We will excel all expectations, to the honor of our divine ancestors.”

Door to increased ‘extra-civilian’ trade opened in Anhuac
Staff Report

Deputy Prime Minister Katō Komei officially sanctioned the request of Mitsui Group to provide the Central American state of Anhuac with “vehicles and accessories that go beyond civilian use.”

The Empire of Japan has been historically reluctant to provide other state’s with materials that might have military applications, however the Kiichirō Government believes in this instance there are several significant extenuating factors.

“Every state has a right, indeed a duty to its people, to ensure its national sovereignty,’ said Deputy Prime Minister Katō. “Anhuac is a developing nation, which would be well served by increasingly the strength of its central government. By assisting them in doing so, the Empire of Japan is cultivating a future trade relationship which will redound to the benefit of both nations and peoples.”

He added: “It is also important, from a pragmatic perspective, that Japan provides Anhuac with these extra-civilian items. We must take the initiate to capture this emerging market, and prevent historically colonist powers such as Great Walmington from encroaching on this emerging nation-state. I think everyone can also agree that, given its history of insularity and non-aggression towards other nations, that such sales can be met with no ire by the global community whatsoever. Especially as the majority of the global community looks to engage itself in yet another European War of blatant aggression.”

In other news…
Front Page: Foreign Ministry warns Japanese nationals—businessmen and tourists—to prepare plans to leave Europe if conflict expands…prepares evacuation timetable…
Business Page: Where’s the beef? It’s coming to Japan! Record imports of beef from the United Gulf States abet the rise in popularity of ‘surf and turf’ dishes across the empire…
Business Page: A bullet train for the Golden West…exploratory committee from Sumitomo Group arrives in California to propose constructing a Japanese-style bullet train from Los Angeles to San Francisco. “It could be built in a year” they promise…
Culture Page: One hundred ‘gap-year’ graduates selected from Chrinthanium given language instruction visas to teach Chrinthani in Kyushu…move expected to increase business and cultural exchange with the empire’s southern neighbor…

[Iansisle]

Trending in the Blogosphere
Because old media is for n00bs

War in Europe!
Presidio Hill calls for calm, peace

It can hardly be said to be a surprise. Conflict had been brewing in eastern Europe since the collapse of the Shieldian Empire ([url=nationstates.net]link to infopost on the Gull Flag revolution[/url]) between major industrial rivals Nibelunc and Gandvik, with each seeking to impose its own vision on the nascent revolutionary nation-state.

Reports from the front are scarce and sometimes contradictory, but it would appear that Gandvik has crossed the border into the Shieldian Republic in force, with some estimates placing more than 500,000 Gandvian troops attacking. In other words, this is no mere dustup or limited conflict – it is a full-scale, industrialized and total war. Most analyists agree that the steps which have been taken cannot be reversed.

That may come as a bit of a shock to Prime Minister Garcia y Coswell, who is even now assuring Parliament that her government is working for an equitable peace. Exactly with whom Garcia is working is less clear; President Ewaa remains in country, despite rumors that he was to fly out immediately to Munstra.

While Garcia's speech to Parliament continued to hammer the now naïve sentiment that peace without victory could be achieved, she did issue a stern warning to both sides: namely, that the North American continent was to be strictly off-limits and that an unprovoked attack on any part of the English domains would be considered a “greatly unfriendly act” by the Californian Republic.

Asked in questions if she meant to pledge the Republic to war in the case of an attack on Amberland – “to save some English backwoodsmen” was the phrase – Garcia said that the circumstances would have to be considered and that it was unlikely military strikes would be the iniital solution.

Hearings to proceed despite news from Europe
Senate committee wishes to refer Ewaa issue to the Mandate Council

Just a few hours after receiving the news from the Shield, the Senate Electoral Oversight Committee, consisting of four Socialists and three Greens, voted 5-2 to renew their subpoena for Lucy Maher (formerly Ewaa) on the issue of the sex scandal that swept through the Republic following the 2012 elections.

Committee chairman Yadier Hernandez (PSC – Tucson) said that, despite the Prime Minister's calls for a suspension of the investigation during the foreign crisis, the work of government must go on. “There is the possibility of a fradulent election having been forced upon the country,” he said “and the Senate would be remiss if it didn't exercise every bit of its power to ensure a free and democratic California.”

The investigation has been continuing for several months and it is rumored that, after calling Lucy Maher, it will subpoena David Juan Ewaa and his aide Catrina Mendez. The President of the Republic has never before been called to testify before the Senate and some think the subpoena might present constitutional issues. So far the Electoral Oversight Committee has declined to state whether or not it will call Ewaa.

In a brief press statement, Prime Minister Garcia y Coswell called the investigation an “inquisition” and condemned Senator Hernandez for playing “partisan theater in a time of international crisis.” Several Green members of the Committee echoed this view.

Lucy Maher is scheduled to appear before the Senate on April 14th.

Other news from California:
Air Force exercises in Canada draw to a close. “I could have sworn there was a country right over there,” says one pilot, staring across the Bering Strait.
Confused Japanese tourists met with sympathy, helpful directions. After insisting they were here to initiate a high speed rail system, they were taken for a ride on CalRail, in existence since the 1960s, and dropped off at Disneyland

[Chrinthanium]

News From Rome

SCARAMELLA DEAD AT 67, CAESAR ASSUMES EMERGENCY CONTROL OF STATE
Roma - Consul-General Scaramella died this morning from an assassination-style shooting at his home last night. According to the Praetorian Guard, two men entered Scaramella's home and shot him center mast three times and fled the scene in a black sedan. At this time, the men remain at large and are considered armed and dangerous. Meanwhile, Caesar has announced a State Funeral for the late Consul-General next week. Under the terms of the Roman Constitution of 1950, Caesar will act with full executive power until the final results in the upcoming general election in October.

CAESAR ANNOUNCES MAJOR POLICY CHANGES TOWARDS GELETIA, GANDVIK
The Quirinal Palace announced this morning that Caesar has ordered the Roman Military to stand down. According to Caesar's Press Secretary Maria Spitafore, "Caesar has decided the current climate in Europe does not support a full-scale war against Geletia--in particular with the recent destabilization of the Geletian government with the resignation of Chivo. Sanctions will remain in place against Geletia for the long term until actions in Tsagija cease and the Slavs be given back their homes." Spitafore also commented on the Gandvian issue, "Rome has issued full economic sanctions against the Principality of Gandvik and has also pledged two divisions of the Roman Army to Nibelunc to use in the defense of their borders against potential Gandvian interference."


NEWS FROM CHRINTHANIUM

EMPEROR REMAINS IN FAR NORTH, EXEPCTED TO RETURN TUESDAY
Emperor Nathaniel remains in secluded vacation with his fiancee, Eastern Roman Prince Theseus. It's expected the emperor will return to the palace either late Monday or early Tuesday. Prince Peter has been acting in his place since he left for Pacifica last week.

TASMANIAN CONCLICT IMMINENT
Talks between Hobart and the palace broke down last week and self-proclaimed President of Tasmania, Luca Minelli, vows that the island is a free and independence nation, no longer subject to the whims of an emperor with absolute power. Chrinthani military assets have been building in the Southeast of the continent preparing for an all-out war against the rogue province.

[Amerique]

Ballyston Globe issue, dated March 24, 2014

Dia mbeannaí Poblacht Mheiriceá
God bless the Republic of America

The Ballyston Globe

Nation celebrates St. Brendan's Day!

All across our grand republic, cities and towns nationwide undertook festivities with zeal on the weekend of March 22nd for one of America's "other national holidays", St. Brendan's Day. To outsiders not familiar with the custom, it is important to note that St. Brendan's is also a day of celebration for the majority Hibernian-Americans, commemorating the hardships faced by those early pioneers in arriving to a new land and making it their own with no colonial sponsorship, then enduring centuries of British occupation. The festivities notably also laud the hardy Gaelic spirit and the struggle of their cousins overseas under either English or Norse subjugation, whether in the long forgotten past or in the present (in the case of the former). While originally an ethnic holiday and religious feast day, the American Gaels at large, from our founding fathers to the present day, are quite inclusive and fraternal with all the nations of the world who have come to claim American identity, incorporate their own identities towards it and call our nation home, be it adoptive or by birth. Indeed, St. Brendan's Day, while definitely having a Fenian focus, is also a day for all the peoples of the American brotherhood who came from subjugation in their own lands to be included in the American family, for our shining city on a hill and place of refuge, safety and liberty. On St. Brendan's Day, the addage goes, all men are Hibernians, at least for all men for whom perserverance and desire for liberty is a first-hand experience.

No major event is without controversy, of course, and this year that quarrel came in the form of the notably uncharacteristic decision by the South Ballyston Veterans Association, one of the organizers of the St. Brendan's Day parade in the capital, to exclude gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender groups from participating in the parade celebrating, for many queer Fenians, their heritage. Initially, at the head of notable American ale breweries withdrawing their sponsorship of the parade in favor of equality, the organizers were still defiant with some reluctance. The decision was ultimately reversed by a congressional ruling which deemed that while privately-organized, it countermanded the constitutional protections on free assembly and free expression which still applied given that the parade, and others like it, occur on public property and require approval and support by a public government body to operate. Indeed, the matter of the celebration, while originally a religious holiday, being a national holiday as well underlined the importance of inclusivity in festivities. The ruling was made with all three parties in Congress, the Liberal Party (neo-liberal), the Republican Party (social democrat) and the Socialist Party (democratic-socialist), taking a stand in favor and exhibiting a socially liberal consensus, though the SBVA decision does highlight that despite being one of the early nations in the world to embrace same-sex marriage legalization, in 2003, the political norm and majority opinion in favor of gay rights, there are still some opposed.

Not too long after St. Brendan's Day, partially inspired by the festivities, protesters from various Celtic-American communities and sympathizers amassed in front of the English and Valendian consulates and embassies in both Ballyston and New-Cork in a now yearly tradition protesting the perceived repression and lack of self-determination for Celtic nations abroad under imperial suzerainties. While considered to be valid, and sometimes popular, movements within their respective nations, such as Brittany, Gascony/Basque Country, Scotland, Ireland, Canada and New England, the demonstrations are somewhat of an awkward spot for American authorities, especially since the widespread violence in the Celtic territories of the English Empire during the 1970s and 1980s were for a healthy part financed and armed by American citizens contributing to funds towards what the English authorities labeled "terrorism". Indeed, awkward statements whether private or public have been made before by key American political figures which provides some unease in an otherwise close-knit and fruitful Anglo-American alliance since the Great War in matters such as the Drapoel Wars and free trade issues. The issue of Valendia is somewhat recurring as well every year on the 30th of May, where some Americans celebrate Ste. Jeanne-d'Arc Day, leading to similar demonstrations for a Free France and a Free Normandy from "Belkan Teutonic oppression" among the populace, with a notable chant of "Vive la France libre!" parelleling the words of American President Séamus Cartier to a crowd during a visit to Paris in 1978. As with Britain, an amicable relationship exists with the Valendian Empire due to shared democratic principles in their present-day governments, though animosity towards Valendia remains slightly fueled by memories of the Great War, the right-wing authoritarianism (dubbed "fascism") of the Great War Valendians and the attempts by Valendia to seize back mid-Atlantic possessions which became American maritime territories in 19th century naval wars.

The day is notably a feast day on the liturgical calendar for many, in particular the Roman Catholic Church and the autocephalous Church of America, which is a remnant of the Fenian observance of old Celtic Christianity which has become unique and separate from the Church during their time of separation from Europe. Members of the Reformed Church of America, while adhering to Calvinist principles in not recognizing saints, nevertheless have come to celebrate St. Brendan's Day in a secular sense, along with many others, including secularists, Jews, Muslims and people of other faiths. St. Brendan is typically regarded as the patron saint of America and of mariners and divers. During his life, St. Brendan conducted many voyages which exist today in the "Voyages of St. Brendan the Navigator", of which the most famous but unconfirmed one is the discovery of the New World and the one with archeological evidence is his discovery of the Azure Islands for the early Hibernians, and his seafaring prowess inspired many of the early ocean-bound Gaels who had not yet converted to take to Christianity with renewed fervor. There is some debate as to whether the accounts of his New World voyages are a popular folk reimagining of the experience of early Gaelic fishermen who followed the cod stocks to the New World. Nevertheless, these accounts led to a larger, better outfitted expedition some time in the 7th or 8th centuries to be conducted by a pre-Norse Hibernian Gaelic Tuath to the New World, called the Land of Promise and Paradise of Birds in the Brendanic manuscript, and also termed an tOileán Úr, meaning the New Island, a poetic term still used for America as a whole, or referred to as Fiannatír, anglicized as Fenster and meaning Land of the Fianna after the mythical warriors the expedition saw themselves as emulating.

In Other News:
- Go, Go, Black and Gold! Ballyston Bruns secure playoff spot for the North American Hockey League as well as the President's Trophy for the highest-scoring team in the NAHL regular season after legendary 8-game win streak. Expected to face off against the Mount Royal Walmingtonians in first series - Sports
- Editraequan Crisis intensifies as Gandvik mobilizes; Nibelunc slowly begins to follow suit. President Marascail yet to take stance beyond neutrality, states economic recovery and progress greater priority - International Affairs
- Economic reform underway! National Banking Act and economic centralization expected to target key culprits of corporate hegemony and decadence which threatened thriving economy - Financial Report

OOC: I originally created this to celebrate St. Patrick's Day and then moved it to March 22nd, St. Brendan the Navigator's feast day on the Old Irish liturgical calendar. However, RL distracted me for a bit and while I had this finished two weeks ago, I never got around to posting it. I thought I might as well not let the work go to waste so I've posted it backdated to March 24th. I hope that's agreeable and not a problem with everyone. Nothing really game-breaking here, just some belated St. Patrick's spirit.

[Beddgelert]

Handover 'Remarkably Peaceable' As Chivo Seems Set to Participate in New Government
But heavy forces continue to enter Tsagija and now concentrate in Northern Confederacy

After the Federal Democratic Republic's rough treatment of radical students and left-wing politicians in Siluria and Durcodia, and the medieval carnage of the 'Battle at Dinasbrenos' in Cornitoutia, wherein LoC fighters over-ran Federal positions and took few prisoners, the relative lack of further violence since Chivoist, Kezoist, and Igoist leaders met last month in Trevenya has been at the very least remarkable, if not at all unwelcome.

All reliable sources in Geletia suggest that Chivo will soon assume the role of Tribal Chieftain and Republican President in one of the Northern Confederacy's three influential states -Durcodia and Regnia would surely elect him in a heartbeat, while a potentially tougher Silurian electorate does find itself with a leadership vacancy-, and Kezo appears to have secured for Y Berfeddwlad a genuine autonomy within a new federal whole that makes Akink the wheelhouse of a state 76 million strong.

Meanwhile, convoys containing armoured vehicles, heavy artillery, and surface-to-air missiles have continued to pass through the Celtic settlements in eastern Tsagija, heading west, while elements of the reorganising 'Southern Group of Forces' appear to be drawing down substantially in the Southern Confederacy and Macedon, and relocating to the northern states of Beddgelert and even Y Berfeddwlad.

Also In Y Bardos This Week
-Danutalos Indicted Over Killing of Heulwen
Durcodi Chieftain first to face sack since Geletian Spring of '82
-West Thrace Annexed to Cornitoutia
Greco-Gaulish Communists dominate plebiscite; Athen 'glad to sever Geletian block vote' ahead of national elections; Hellenic Nationalists and Communists to launch campaigns in Macedon
-Gogs Gain Autonomy
Northern-speaking Gwynedd becomes Socialist Autonomous Province within Scordiscia
-'No Further Encroachment' as SR Dindaria Establishes Celtic Homeland in Dubeanach/Tsagija
Geletian settlement-building beyond new Celt-lead Socialist Republic to require approval from equivalent Slavic authorities in what will be called 'Tsagska'
-Marken Elected President SAP Wyclyfe; Promises C'wealth Funding for Infrastructure, Fuel Relief
Kezo endorsement 'a factor' in 71.4% landslide as ad hoc opposition fails to organise on short notice; Kurosites may have botched partial boycott

[Beddgelert]

Udgorn Rhyddid: KINSHASA - AKINK ESTABLISH NEW TIES
Fresh diplomatic representation exchanged as plans for space-launch centre in Congo revealed

Becoming the first nation state to extend formal diplomatic recognition of the Saimonas-wide Commonwealth of Socialist Republics, the Congolese Socialist Federation now looks set to host a space-launch facility to be established and operated by GDG, the Space Industry Group.

Most of the pre-existing Geletian Space Agency's work was done either, early on, in the vast deserts of the Byzantine Empire and very much in the manner of second-fiddle, or more recently by small-scale balloon launch experiments over the Black Sea. In addition to having rather more thinly populated expanses with which to work, the Congo also lies upon the equator, from which it is less challenging and expensive to achieve orbital flight.

The arrangement is not without complications, of course. Commonwealth and Federation lie many thousands of kilometres apart, and the Commonwealth's maritime and aerial haulage capabilities are likely to be tested by the ambitious scheme, but League of Communists representatives assert that this fact can only strengthen such capacities in the long run, and stamp the Commonwealth's name on the strategic map.

Security will also be a concern, with counter-revolutionary and other reactionary thugs causing great difficulty for people in many parts of the vast and in parts virgin Socialist Federation. CoM Chair comrade Aileana has said that the new GDG facility will be situated and constructed in accordance with the respect afforded to local ecology by the Socialist Federation, and calls it regrettable that enemies do not always show the same concern, making some districts difficult to secure against terrorism and banditry. The Commonwealth intends to shoulder its fair share of the burden, and will redistribute resources to comrades in Congo in the interests of security and co-prosperity.

With the backing of Commonwealth resources, a new light battalion is to be raised amongst the Congolese masses for the purposes of the facility's defence against both terrorism and espionage. In the not so distant future, Congolese soldiers shall guard a space centre launching Congolese satellites on Commonwealth rockets for the purposes of weather patterning and land surveys, allowing great efficiency in agricultural planning and ensuring the health and security of the Socialist Federation, even as the Commonwealth continues to prosper.

Meanwhile, in Y Bardos
-Ex-pats feel pressure as Euro-war intensifies
Geletians in Nibelunc: whose side are we on?
-Troop redeployments continue across Commonwealth
Byzantine frontiers 'all but vacated' by combat-effective forces says our analyst as new manoeuvre units move north
-PG Gwladbrog coach suicide
Gwynedd-born Akink-sponsored Geletian-rules football pioneer hangs self in Cassanos home
-'Political police' investigate Saimonan journalists
'Patronising' and 'stereotyped' language highlighted by authorities in revolutionaries' own reporting of African ties

[Chrinthanium]

Juan Diego Alvarez elected Consul-General

Consul-General Elect Alvarez giving his victory speech

Juan Diego Alvarez (FD) was elected the 52nd Consul-General of the Roman Empire with 57% of the vote on Saturday, becoming the first Spaniard in over 20 years to gain the highest office won easily and handily over his opponents in the general election.

The election of Mr. Alvarez amounts to a repudiation of the historically troubled Scaramella and his strong-armed foreign policy and domestic agenda. It is a call for change in the empire, a classical awakening in some respects of a time where Roman politicians were expected to be virtuous, generous, and, above all, defenders of the ideals of what it means to be Roman.

The seven-tern Senator from Tarraconensis defeated three competitors for the highest office in an election many predicted would come down to the wire. To the very end, Mr. Alvarez rejected the position that the best way to win an election in the empire was to sling mud at opponents, destroy their character, and placate the people with patriotic talk and half-hearted promises. He stood firm on his position that a proud Roman people deserve a fair, honest, and transparent government. Something the previous administration simply wasn't.

In his victor speech, Consul-General Elect Alvarez declared, "Today the Roman people have spoken. They're tired of the lies, the back-room deals, the under-handed politics of the previous years. They want a government that prioritizes citizens above all." He continued, "For far too long our nation has acted in secret. It has devised plans, schemes, and dirty policies aimed at chipping away the very fabric of our glorious culture. In my administration, we will have none of this. My office will be open to the people. My dealings will be done in public. My policies will be transparent to the people. Today, the Roman people have won."

The 58-year old Alvarez will take office on August 1, 2014.

Caesar Hadrian II commented on the election of Mr. Alvarez in a televised address after the election. "Once again the democratic process has prevailed and the Roman people have decided for themselves the best course for their nation. I welcome Mr. Alvarez to Roma and look forward to working with him to build a stronger, more prosperous Roman Empire."

Factio Democratia Makes Gains on Alvarez's Coattails

In the Roman Senate, the Factio Democratia party made significant gains. Now controlling 48% of the Roman Senate, they are the dominant party of the Senate, but failed to meet the 50%+1 requirement to control the august body. Talks are underway with Societatis Viridis to create a coalition Senate where the Greens and the Liberals will jointly control 51% of the Roman Senate.

In the Concilium Plebis, members of Factio Democratia easily took control of the People's House, gaining 35 seats, giving them a 58% majority and full control of the lower house of the Legislature.

[Chrinthanium]

RTR: Where Romans Get Their News!

Headlines from Across the Empire

Senate Votes To Drop Sanctions Against Geletia
With overwhelming support, the Senate votes to end sanctions against Geletia. The move indicates Roma's interest in establishing new diplomatic relations with the reoganized Commonwealth of Socialist Republics. Incoming Consul-General Alvarez said in a press conference after the passing of the measure, "The time for healing from the Scaramella Doctrine towards the Celtic Nation has come. We must bring the new Commonwealth into the diplomatic community and work with them to create a stronger, peaceful Europe." Caesar Hadrian II, who caught much flack from his support of Scaramella's potential war against Geletia, has not commented on the recent move by the Senate and his office declined to comment.

Italian Praefectus Election Still Too Close To Call
In a bitter campaign, Nico Bonpensiero (FD) and Riccardo Petrillo (SV) continues into the recount stage as less than .02% of the vote separates the two men.

Donatella Petrangeli-Barone to Become New Ambassador to Nibelunc
The mother of Caesar Hadrian II has accepted the position of Ambassador to Nibelunc, according to the office of Juan Diego Alvarez the incoming Consul-General. This marks the first time that a woman has been selected for the empire's most prestigious diplomatic post.

Scaramella, Jr Declines Consul of Education Offer
Fabrizio Scaramella, Jr, Mayor of Roma, rejected an offer from Consul-General-Elect Alvarez to head the empire's education consulate. According to Mr. Scaramella's office, the mayor believes his talents could be better spent improving the empire's capital city. When asked for comment, Mr. Alvarez simply said, "Guess he's busy." This is the third appointment by the incoming Alvarez administration flatly rejected by the new Consul-General's top choice.

Caesar Hadrian II Engaged
The Quirinal Palace confirmed this morning that Emperor Hadrian II is now engaged to Carla Lombardo. The wedding date has yet to be released.

RTR, Primus agree to new 10-year, 10 Billion Solidus Contract
Primus, the premier soccer league in the empire has reached a broadcasting agreement with RTR which will continue the lucrative relationship both corporation have had since 1972. The new deal begins in September with the new season. It has also raised the league salary cap by 7 million solidus per team.

Romans Continue to Explore Religion
In recent decades the number of Romans faithful to the Catholic church has continued to decline. Most cite uninspired masses, stances on birth control, and the Child Molestation Case as the main reason for their exploration of new religions. Romans defining themselves as Catholic have dropped 25% since 1980. The fastest-growing self-reported religious group in the empire remains Roman Polytheism, which has increased its numbers by 17% since 1980.

Matristensis Mayoral Election Results
Incumbent Mario Rodriguez wins a third term as mayor of the empire's largest city. Exit polls suggest the mayor won handily owing to the sharp decrease of the city's crime rate since Mr. Rodriguez took office 8 years ago coupled with the recent passing of an increase of minimum wage to 17 solidus per hour throughout the city.

[Chemaki]

KHABAR UMMAH
News and updates from around the world

Protests continue as Free House debates Saimoan oil deal

With the Dagarzai administration set to double oil production by 2020 and take 'full advantage' of the Ummah's extensive oil reserves, long-awaited trade links with the Commonwealth of Socialist Republics have been high on the political agenda. With formal relations existing between the two nations since the 1963 Arms Deal, the Commonwealth and the Ummah are widely regarded as cousins; Socialist Federations preserving two ancient cultures. Strange then, that after a brief renaissance between the Geletian Spring of 1982 and the Glorious Revolution of 1987, economic ties with the emerging Beddgelert were cut entirely, whilst the post-Yasir transitional government sought to repair relations with Byzantium and Indus. It was only until the late 90s that trade between the two nations began to flourish again, though oil exports via the Occidental Pipeline were restricted due to the rivalry between Byzantium and the Democratic Republic.

With relations softening since the formation of the Commonwealth of Socialist Republics and the stability the union is bringing to the region, Mirzal Dagarzai revealed plans earlier this year to build a second Occidental Pipeline to transport 200,000 barrels of oil daily, along with the necessary infrastructure to extract and refine it. With start-up costs exceeding 4 billion rial, the proposal has already faced widespread opposition from the Federal Council, and a decision to eat into the budget surplus to fund the project passed narrowly by a margin of 4 votes. Whilst this would normally be enough to ensure that the project goes ahead under a new state-run business, Novaceltia, the scale of both the proposal and the opposition has seen Dagarzai relent and put the proposal to a vote in the elected Free House. Economists, including the Federal Council's Arman Darvish, have supported the move over an earlier proposal to subsidize the Samartian Army's Adarcom, which has a 35% stake in the extensive Kurdish oilfields which are the focus of petro-development. However, many believe that artificial competition between state-owned companies is not enough to encourage development in the region, and local Kurds, disillusioned by the petro-boom which has given little back to the state, are demonstrating in their thousands, both in the Kurdish capital Ahvaz and outside the Free House of Darazad, where a vote on the issue is expected later today.

[Chrinthanium]

The Gold Standard

BREAKING NEWS

PERTH, New Italia: Chrinthani Airways has confirmed that its flight 219 disappeared from Perth International Airport's air control tower about 45 minutes ago. The Airbus A340 bound for Rome departed Perth International Airport about 20 minutes before its disappearance. According to Rachel Felton, CEO of Chrinthani Airways, the flight is believed to be carrying over 300 persons. Residents along the west coast reported seeing an explosion towards the horizon around the time the plane disappeared from radar. These reports are unconfirmed at this time. Elements of the Imperial Chrinthani Navy are en route to the location where the flight is believed to have crashed at this time.

[United Kongo]

Ukweli Wafanyakazi – The Workers Truth

SCREENING PROCESS BEGINS FOR SPECIAL BATTALION

In light of the announcement of the creation of a new Space program by our Comrades in the Socialist Commonwealth, the Congolese People's Army in joint work with the Congolese Communist Party has begun the process of selecting recruits to serve in the soon to be created Security battalion. In order to both secure the safety of the new facility and staff, an a agreement was reached between Kinshasa and Akink to raise a separate brigade that focus it's efforts purely on maintaining the security of the innovative new station.

Recruits will be drawn from all Republics of the Congo, and will be selected on qualities such as discipline, experience, and dedication to the Internationalist cause of Socialism. Officers will be drawn primarily from the ranks of the Internal Police due to their experience with counter-terrorism and security, as well as maintaining the idealogical well being of the battalion. Those eligible for joining the battalion will also take an introductory course in learning standard Geletian and Geletian culture to better facilitate understanding and relations between personal. Given the Bilingual, trilingual or more nature of Congolese citizens, Army officials are confident recruits will be able to pick of relatively quickly.

Potential recruits will also be shared with Socialist Commonwealth authorities, and a number of Commonwealth officers are also invited to serve as attaches in the brigade to promote integration among Congolese and Commonwealth staff.

DIVISION AMONGST MUJAHIDEEN RADICALS?

Increasing reports of Violence in the Kwanza Republic amongst the Majority Mulsim community there has lead to a growing belief in both local and Federal Authorities that a political split may have occurred amongst the militant Mujehedeen.

The Congolese Mujahideen, a terrorist organisation whose origins lie with the Mujahideen fighters of the civil war, traditionally have enjoyed the strongest support amongst the devout Muslim population of the Kwanza republic where the population has largely held onto their religious values. While a majority of Kwanzans are indeed loyal Congolese citizens, a small minority continue to reject the leadership of the party sanctioned Caliph, Ismail Rahman ibn Yusuf al Bolu, and instead embrace radical values, such as the creation of a separate Islamic state. Despite it's aggressive ideology, the Mujahideen have remained largely quiet in recent years, despite a spike of violence occurring Last year in the Atlantiki Republic to the north between Christian and Muslim militias.

However, reports show that the increased murder rate and bombings occurring in the Kwanza's urban areas primarily, are not merely a result of Gang related violence as elsewhere, but instead directed against targets and facilities that are known to be associated with the Mujahideen. Highlighting this is the assassination of a radical Cleric by culprits later revealed to have had extensive connections with the Mujahideen, and the a shoot out occurring in a suburb of Luanda notorious for it's links to the fundamentalists.

Although the alleged new faction has yet to announce its self or it's goals, officials investigating the matter have come to informally name the group as “Neo-Kharijites”, citing reports of dissatisfaction for the current leadership and accusations of heresy and unbelief.

While the this new group seems to represent a new threat to the National security of both the Kwanza Republic and the Socialist Federation as a whole, Premier of the Kwanza, Malik Olambo, has dismissed the group as a threat, claiming they represent only a small and disorganised faction. Malik is also quoted saying “I have no qualms about radicals killing each other, it merely saves us the effort”

Other news in the Federation
-Union threats dismissed
Threats by the Miners Union in both the Katanga and Lukela Republic to strike have been dismissed as empty and groundless by the National Economic Minsiter
-Housing Issue to be adressed
New development plans for increased housing to be announced in the Congo's most densely populated cities
-Kalashnikov new cultural symbol?
Increased use of the Kalashnikov in relation to the Traditional diety of War amongst the practioners of Traditional Congolese faiths shows the disturbing impact of guns and violence on Congolese culture
-Archduke of Tulgary an International Criminal?
The completion of an academic study by Congolese historians allege that the current Archduke of Tulgary is guilty of committing crimes against humanity against the Congolese people

[Chrinthanium]

The Gold Standard

FLIGHT 219 DISASTER

PERTH, New Italia: The search and rescue operation in the Indian Ocean off the western coast of Chrinthanium continues in full force as elements from the Imperial Chrinthani Navy and the Coast Guard continue to scower the area where Chrinthani Airways Flight 219 went down. Wreckage from the plane was found floating in the ocean in an area around 100 kilometers away from the coastline. The cause of the crash is still under investigation at this time. Eyewitness reports indicate an explosion towards the horizon around the time that the plane disappeared from air traffic control radar. There has been no official announcement confirming the explosion as the reason the plane crashed from Chrinthani Airways. The Imperial Aviation Authority will be hosting a press conference tomorrow morning to detail what information has been confirmed in regards to this tragedy. Chrinthani Airways has confirmed that there were 340 person on board including 2 pilots and 7 flight attendants. The names will not be released until contact has been made with all families affected by this incident.

Emperor Nathaniel spoke briefly on the incident earlier this afternoon during the palace's daily press briefing. "Our hearts and prayers go out to the families and friends of those touched by this tragedy. We will marshall the full resources of local, state, and Imperial government assets to assist in the search and rescue operations currently underway in the Indian Ocean." He deferred to the IAA to comment on potential causes for the accident.

More news as this story develops.

TASMANIAN INDEPENDENCE?

HOBBART, Tasmania: The Tasmanian legislature voted today to secede from the empire in a near unanimous vote. The measure passes from the Tasmanian House to the Tasmanian Senate for a vote tomorrow. Emperor Nathaniel stated earlier, "The problem isn't whether or not we believe any portion of this empire has the right to self-determination. It's clear in our constitution, which has been ratified by all imperial territory, that no state can declare itself independent without consent of the national congress and the emperor. To date, the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate have both stated they doubt such a bill would reach the required 3/5th majority to pass. If such a bill would pass, then I would consider signing it. They can have all the votes in their state legislature they wish, it's not legal."

[Chrinthanium]

RTR: Where Romans Get Their News!

Headlines from Across the Empire

Top Stories

Assassins Caught

VINDOBONA - The men responsible for the murder of former Consul-General Fabrizio Scaramella, Sr have been apprehended at Vindobona-Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart International Airport according to the Praetorian Guards. The three men were allegedly attempting to flee the empire after a long nationwide search. Details regarding their destination have been withheld. The three men are believed to be associated with La Cosa Nostra. Full story.

Praetorian Guard Scandal

ROMA - According to reports, Caesar Hadrian II has dismissed his chief Praetorian Guard, General Marcus after an incident last night at a local nightclub. While details surrounding the event at the nightclub remain sketchy, the palace has deemed this behavior unsuitable for a Praetorian. According to the Roma Police, a young woman around 19 years of age has filed charges against the general for sexual assault. Full story.

Plebian Council, Senate in Recess

ROMA - The Senate and the Plebian Council adjourned this afternoon and will not reconvene until the new term begins on August 3. House-cleaning measures were taken up to bolster funding for the military, including a 2.5% pay raise for all personnel. Full story.

Sport

Keep Your Shirts Off?

FLORENTIA - Primus has rescinded a previous decision making it a penalty to remove a jersey after scoring a goal. According to Primus, the decision was based on female viewership, which has declined in recent seasons. Proponents of the rule are concerned that the excess celebrations could interfere with play. Full story.

World Cup Selections

FLORENTIA - The Roman Football Authority will be announcing the 2014 World Cup players selection at a special press conference tomorrow afternoon. The press conference can be seen on RTR 2 and RTR Athletica. RTR has a mock selection board on its expanded coverage page. Full story.

Roman National Rugby Team Faces the Chrinthani

SYDNEY, Chrinthanium - The Roman National Rugby Team landed today at Sydney. The team is participating in an international friendly with the Chrinthani. The match is scheduled to start at 5PM Sydney time on Saturday. Full Story.

[Iansisle]

Trending in the blogosphere...

Mandate Council rules 5-2 in favor of Socialists

Three months after the Ewaa Hearings and the admission that former Prime Minister Coswell y Garcia knew about the President's impending divorce before the 2012 election, the Mandate Council has ruled in favor of the Socialists in their lawsuit to invalidate the results of the election. The Mandate Council has ordered that new general elections take place within four weeks.

The controversy has dominated the Californian news-media, even pushing stories about the war in eastern Europe and the reorganization of Geletia to the side. The verdict lead to a revolt against Garcia, led by the Socialists with support from the Bears and some Green backbenchers. Alberto Padrigo (PSC; the plaintiff in the Mandate suit) was able to scrape together a coalition government to finish out the lame duck parliament session, with the general election tentatively scheduled for August 29th, 2014.

Coswell y Garcia herself could not be reached for comment, although one of her lawyers characterized the Mandate Council's decision as a “gross overreach of their authority” and maintained that her client “did absolutely nothing wrong.”

Early Polling

A study conducted by the University of California released its early polling data for the August elections on Thursday. More than one third of the respondents in the survey of 2,500 potential voters declared themselves “undecided,” including fully half of those surveyed with a formal Green Party affiliation.

If the Elections Were Held Today:
Socialist Party of California: 29%
Green Party of California: 19%
Bear Party: 4%
Other: 10%
Undecided: 38%
Margin of error +/- 3%.
Source: University of California, Berkeley

Samuel Thomas, a polling expert with Beckett Partners, a nonpartisan thinktank in Los Angeles, said that the Berkley poll indicated widespread dissatisfaction with both current major parties and opined that a door might have been left open for third parties – the Bears, the Communists, or the Alvaros – to make significant inroads, perhaps even ultimately holding the balance of power in Parliament.

The primary issue for most respondents was security, with continuing news of the war in Europe, followed closely by concerns over the drought and worries of a potential economic slowdown. The poll also took data on performance, with only 38% of respondents saying that parliament was currently doing a good job.

Coswell y Garcia off the List for 2014

The revolt against former Prime Minister Coswell y Garcia continued on Thursday, with the Green Electoral Committee announcing that her name would not appear on the party list for the August 2014 election, effectively ending her 36 year political career. Several other top ministers named during the Ewaa Hearings were also axed, along with the typical shakeups on the bottom half of the list.

A source close to the GEC said that the party leadership, including Garcia, had agreed that their appearance at the ballot would be toxic for the party. However, another GEC source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that Garcia was furious over the slight and had announced her intention to run for the Senate in Ventura, a Green-majority district that narrowly broke for the Socialists in 2006 and 2012, as an independent or whatever ticket would have her.

[Chrinthanium]

[Nova Gaul]

読売新聞
Yomiuri Shimbun

Empire of Japan Announces Ambitious New Economic Plan: The Pacific Trade Organization
TOKYO, Japan

In his monthly address to the Diet Prime Minister Hiranuma Kiichirō called for an ‘ambitious new dynamic of trade’ between the Pacific nations of Japan, The United Gulf States, the Federated Islamic States, the Republic of Anhuac, and the Grand Republic of the Indus.

“The Japanese Empire has a vested interest in the growth of its friends,” stated the Prime Minister, “and it is perhaps serendipitous that Providence has granted the advanced, manufacturing state of Japan with friends endowed with abundant natural resources. The time has come to formalize our friendship with an enduring treaty, to increase trade, and to mutually reap the benefits of such an arrangement.”

According to the Prime Minister’s proposal the organization would allow for free trade between the member states, which would gain unprecedented access to Japan’s highly valued technology and industrial markets. Hiranuma Kiichirō has hinted, although he has not directly stated, that if the states were to be party to such an agreement they would also have access to Japan’s advanced and lethal arms industries. If so, this would be a departure from the Empire’s previous prohibition on the export of military goods.

In return, the import-dependent island state of Japan would be able to gain cheaper access to the vast energy reserves of the less industrially developed states. Implicit such an agreement as well in that Japanese companies would begin to more heavily invest in the infrastructure of possible ‘PTO’ states. Interestingly, closing his speech, the Prime Minster also proposed that in such an agreement the member states would agree to invest in the Yen (¥) as their primary reserve currency: on the one hand increasing the scope of the Empire’s credit market and on the other allowing the investors themselves to shore up their weaker currencies with one of the world’s strongest.

As yet, there has been no comment from the prospective Pacific partners. The Imperial Palace has stated that His Majesty the Emperor supports the plan, and if accepted by the other nations it would meet with his benevolent approval.

Waseda University economist Taro Sakanaka commented that the Prime Minister’s move “fit with the general trend of the government to increase the breadth and depth of its foreign investment. For some time now Japan has been chomping at the bit to knock its greatest industrial competitors, Great Walmington and the Federal Republic of Nibelunc, down to second tier status. With war raging in Europe and looking only to expand, Tokyo sees this as the perfect opportunity to stake its claim as the world’s preeminent economic power. That may potentially happen if the other nation’s sign on; at the least, if some nation’s sign on, the Empire of Japan will become the financial bastion of the Pacific.”

[Chrinthanium]

The Gold Standard

Japan Announces Pacific Trade Organization, Includes Non-Pacific Nations
SYDNEY, Chrinthanium

Japan announced its intentions to create a new Pacific Trade Organization. The proposal, as issued by Japanese Prime Minister Hiranuma Kiichirō, would include The United Gulf States, The Federated Islamic States, The Republic of Anahuac, and the Grand Republic of Indus. The proposed trade organization would allow the signatories, if they approve the treaty in their respective legislatures, the ability to enter into a free trade pact with the Japanese Empire. In exchange for access to Japan's technology sector, Japan would gain access to signatories natural resources--something which Japan lacks in abundance.

It was intimated, but not directly stated, that this agreement could allow the signatories access to Japanese military technology. This being the topic of discussion at the Imperial Palace this afternoon.

"We would regard the transaction of Japanese military technology to fellow Pacific Rim partners as a direct threat against Chrinthani interests in the Pacific basin. Furthermore, we're taken aback by the boldness by which such an agreement was offered," Imperial Press Secretary Marjorie Ross stated at the mid-afternoon palace new briefing. Ms. Ross was asked about further steps the empire would take if Japan pressed on with this agreement. She stated that the Palace would decide what actions to take if and when it became apparent that Japanese military technology were shared among signatories. "We would do whatever is necessary and prudent to protect Chrinthani interests along the Pacific Rim."

Ms. Ross stated that it was the belief of the Imperial Government that this could be the first steps in Japan attempting to build up its military in a manner concerning national security. "If it were to become apparent that Japan has less-than-honest intentions regarding this measure, the government would respond in kind." She continued, "While Japan is nearly devoid of natural resources, our cup runneth over--so to speak."

The Imperial Press Secretary also showed a moment of light-heartedness when asked about the inclusion of Indus and the FIS. "Well, the last time I checked, the Grand Republic of Indus and the Federated Islamic States were not part of the Pacific Rim. Perhaps the Japanese need a new world atlas."

"We have spoken to the Californian Ambassador regarding this matter in an effort to convey our concerns to San Diego, a trusted Pacific partner of the empire. Emperor Nathaniel is scheduled to meet with the Walmingtonian Ambassador later today to convey his concerns to Great Walmington."

[The United Gulf States]

Times of Fredonia

Twister Kills 140 Africans in Pessaminia

Ripping through the community of Bennett's Bluff this weekend, the tornado laid waste to a shanty town surrounding the state's north-western mercy mission, which was also lightly damaged. Volunteers from the city of Shreveport... [cont.]

Japan Trade Talks Take Expansive Turn

-Federacy awaits Californian response
-Tarascan Senator raises prospect of Japanese investment in Port of Curonia
-Profiles: where and what are the FIS, Indus? Find out with our concise guide to the exotic curiosities

Vanguard - Voice of the SPP

Lies, Damn Lies, and Statistics

Reporting in state-sanctioned media of a disaster in Pessaminia this morning is received by closed minds as sympathetic to a blighted community, evidence that the minority establishment is even-handed and concerned for all. In fact the decision by Times of Fredonia to lead with a number, posted above a wide shot of a debris field, is in sharp contrast to yesterday's ”He Was A Hero” leader accompanying an academy graduation photograph of a smiling police officer killed when his cruiser over-turned during a border patrol.

They want to acclimatise people to large numbers of black deaths, make black people seem incapable of making self-preserving decisions, otherise by contrast of statistics with personal stories of smaller white tragedies.

Another Theory - 'Theo'

New 17th Division recruit 'Theo' (identity protected), a teenager who's earned the admiration of commanders after several commando actions that we can not report, contributes an opinion piece from the trenches:

They're lying. Actually they are over-stating the casualties to make it seem old-hat when more of us die, and even to cover for deaths caused directly by the state, or planned for the future. I ask all my brothers and sisters to be prepared for new enemy actions. They tell us 140 died today, next week twenty of us will be killed in a security sweep, and it won't be worthy of headlines [cont. at length]

[Nova Gaul]

読売新聞
Yomiuri Shimbun

Prime Minister retrenches Pacific Trade Organization proposal; seeks to calm Chrinthani criticism
TOKYO, Japan

Making several brief remarks this afternoon in an impromptu press conference, Prime Minister Hiranuma Kiichirō retrenched his position on the Pacific Trade Organization:

“Economies grow, or they decline,” said Baron Hiranuma. “Japanese economic growth, the high standard of living amongst the Japanese people, let me be explicitly clear: these are non-negotiable.” He continued on in an uncharacteristically stern mood that “the sovereign Empire of Japan shall conduct its economic affairs in whatever manner seems best to it, and criticism, no matter how abject, from other nations shall have no impact upon it.”

At the same time he directly addressed certain critical remarks from a Ms. Ross, the Chrinthani Press Secretary.

“We have always entertained the most excellent and cordial of relations with our friends ‘down under’, and this unlooked for statement has taken me quite by surprise. The Empire of Chrinthanium, and Great Walmington and California for that matter, ought have no cause for concern, let alone alarm, at the prospect of Japanese economy more interconnected with those of its Pacific neighbors. Such confluence will serve economic, and not imperialistic, purposes. And for the record, Ms. Ross” he added pointedly “the Pacific Trade Organization was suggested as a title because the majority of its commerce will transit the Pacific Ocean. We are quite well aware of geography, perhaps some etiquette on your part is what is required here.

“In closing please allow me to be explicitly clear once more: the Empire of Japan is committed to realizing the Pacific Trade Organization. Thank you.”

In other news…
Front Page: Deputy Prime Minister Katō Komei to the United Gulf States: sign on to the P.T.O. and Japanese corporate investment into the Gulf oil producing infrastructure will increase by 100%; ‘special’ investments and ‘upgrade’ assistance into the Port of Curonia ‘virtually assured’…
Front Page: Chairman of the Imperial Privy Council Field Marshal Prince Yamagata Aritomo to P.T.O. prospectives “military commerce with Imperial Japan will assuredly come with Pacific Trade Organization membership…
Tokyo News: Members of the right-wing Kokumin Dōmei party gather in Ueno Park, conduct brief and well organized ‘march of resistance’ against liberal Chrinthani interference in the ‘sacred sovereignty of the Yamato race’; march followed by refreshments and open air concert…

[Kyr Shorn]

सच क्षेत्र

Truth Sphere

Headlines from Indus

Pacific Trade Organization proposal welcomed by the Aristocrats

SAIDPUR: The Imperial Government of Japan has launched an ambitious project to create a major economic union of the pacific states, and has also included Indus within it's proposed structure despite Indus having a geographic connection to the pacific ocean. While surprising on the surface, the facts on the ground spell out how much sense this really makes. When taking into consideration the extensive trade between Japan and Indus, and the growth of the unregulated Japanese factories in Indus to manufacture goods cheaply, bringing the Indusi nobility further into Japan's grip would only increase profits for both groups, and increase the misery of the slaves in all but name in those factories.


Talks to establish a new capital continue to languish

SAIDPUR: Within the joke that is the Great Assembly the public discussion of moving the capital of the republic to a city that isn't so close to the FIS border continues on, even decades later. A legacy of the FIS-Indus war that resulted in the loss of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region and a large part of Kashmir, the city of Saidpur and the personal lands of the Primus of Indus became the borderlands, and one of the first things done by Delem Brahma upon his election to Primus was to begin plans to move the capital elsewhere. However while a good idea on paper, getting the Indusi nobility to agree on which city it should be, since said city would have to be ceded to the nation as a whole, has proven much more difficult to procure.


More shocking video of the conditions in the slums of Saidpur released

SAIDPUR: Saidpur, once the gleaming jewel of Indus, devastated by war, officially rebuilt as a 'paradise reborn' by the funding of the wealthiest families in Indus, is in fact well-known to be a hell on earth. While the central areas of the city were rebuilt, and skyscrapers have been going up at the direction of hired architects from overseas, surrounding the city is a series of vast slums. While this has been documented, recent footage shows that conditions in the slums has deteriorated still further. This situation is being 'solved' by Rama Brahma, the Viceroy of Saidpur and one of Delem's sons, through a dully named group called the 'City Management Commission' which is made up of armed soldiers and the sole mandate is to remove the slums by physical force. While in the past the CMC used to notify residences, these days they just send the bulldozers and flamethrowers in without notice. The death toll from the latest wave of slum removals is unknown.


----

IC Information:

Truth Sphere: A news site owned and operated by the Indus Democracy Front, the largest organization of the Indus exile community. Officially dedicated to providing real information from within Indus itself, though at times with questionable accuracy. The Truth Sphere is banned within Indus for obvious reasons, and is blocked by the government. However enforcement of this is sporadic, but due to internet access being inaccessible to the vast majority of society, the Truth Sphere tends to be more geared for an international crowd.

[Chrinthanium]

The Gold Standard

Emperor Nathaniel Addresses 'Japan' Situation
SYDNEY, Chrinthanium

His Imperial Majesty surprised the Imperial Press Room this afternoon when he took to the podium unannounced including Press Secretary Marjorie Ross. The Emperor kept his remarks brief and answered only a few questions before departing the briefing room.

"We have no issue with Japan wishing to keep its economy strong and its people living the lifestyles they wish. But, the biggest fear of all is the conditions of those factories in Indus, the Gulf States, the FIS, and Anahuac." His Imperial Majesty continued, "And certainly this isn't intended as a slight against those nations, but a fear that this is an attempt by Japan to take advantage of people who are, by all accounts, less fortunate than the Japanese. There are basic human rights protections we wish to see in place from Japan. Guarantees to the international community that the people working for these Japanese firms will be treated humanely, will make a living wage, and will have all the safety protections that are the rights of workers everywhere."

Speaking in more relaxed tones, the emperor also spoke the kerfuffle over the naming joke, "The Chrinthani are a sarcastic lot who do not hold much sacrosanct. While a public forum may not have been the best place to air these comments, it is Chrinthani humor at work. I extend my sincerest, heartfelt apologies to the Japanese Prime Minister and the Japanese people if any offense was taken from these comments."

'Japanese Atlas' Goes Viral


The meme as currently seen on social media

Far be it for the Chrinthani to let things go quietly, the recent comments by Press Secretary Marjorie Ross have spawned the latest Chrinthani Internet Meme: the Japanese Atlas. This map made by an unknown source appeared on social media feeds within minutes after Press Secretary Ross' comments yesterday. By this afternoon, the image had been shared over 3 million times.

[Nova Gaul]

読売新聞
Yomiuri Shimbun

Nikkei Spikes on Grand Republic’s Premier P.T.O. Membership
TOKYO, Japan

The Nikkei market index spiked a full 6.87% on news that the government of the Grand Republic of the Indus, long a trading and industrial partner to the Empire, would formally enter into a series of comprehensive economic alliances (vis-à-vis the Pacific Trade Organization) with Japan. The news from Saidpur, which has galvanized the Japanese economic community, is that Primus and the Great Assembly will (presently) become the first new member in the grand construct which will become the Pacific Trade Organization, stretching (many in Japan hope) from the Federated Islamic States in the west to the uttermost Anahuac in the east.

“The mood here is very bullish,” said broker Akira Kobayashi. “The labor potential in Indus in huge, and with many Japanese companies already attaining record profits conducting business there, the prospect of an even more integrated market is exciting Japanese investors: from mega-corporations to the proverbial ‘mother and father’ small businesses.”

Bank of Japan preparing to issue ‘significant’ new release of short-term treasuries and securities as the Indusi banking sector and aristocracy prepare to snap up the Japanese Yen (¥) as the reserve currency of Indus
CHUO, TOKYO, Japan

Chairman of the Bank of Japan Yoshihara Shigetoshi welcomed a delegation of Indusi aristocrats and bankers this morning through the wide open doors of the Neo-baroque Bank of Japan headquarters in Chuo this morning in a well publicized ceremony. With camera flashes bulbs ablaze Shigetoshi-san literally and figuratively welcomed the heart of the Indusi financial community into the fold of the Japanese Yen (¥) as the South Asian country prepares to utilize it as their reserve currency.

Critics have pointed out that while the Indus adopting a strong Yen would benefit the Indusi aristocratic and business community, who own the elephant’s share of Indusi hard assets, it would further send the impoverished masses of the Grand Republic into abject poverty as they witness a dramatic decline in their purchasing power parity. Both Chairman Shigetoshi and his Indusi counterpart were quick to dismiss these claims, citing the integration of the Grand Republic’s banking reserve system into the framework of the Yen as a ‘rising tide’ affair.

According to the Chairman: “With its utterly vast natural resources, namely abundant labor and natural resources, quite naturally the government of the Indus wishes to anchor their growing economy to a firm, financial bedrock. There is no currency is this world, especially given the wars raging in Europe, that is as sound and backed by such a diverse economy as the Japanese Yen. The move of the Grand Republic to invest into the Yen is both a statement to their own vision as an economic power and a reaffirmation that the economy of Japan remains the strongest in Asia – if not the world.”

IJAAF Military Transport arrives in Saidpur bearing Japanese engineering/military delegation; speculation grows Japanese military aid to the Grand Republic imminent
SAIDPUR, Grand Republic of the Indus

As what no doubt many will see as a de facto reward for their early support of the Pacific Trade Organization the Grand Republic of the Indus is getting a very different species of Japanese help: military assistance. An Imperial Japanese Army Air Force heavy transport touched down this morning in Saidpur bearing a number of army engineers and training staff.

The goal of this new mission is speculated (though not confirmed) to be the imperially orchestrated creation of a modern, technologically advanced motorized brigade—boasting a fast attack element—for the Grand Republic. According to sources close to the Yomiuri Shimbun, Japanese civil engineers with the aid of local Indusi laborers have begin the construction of an army base several kilometers outside Saidpur where the advanced, perhaps elite, force will be housed, trained, and equipped. Although all conjecture at this point, it is not unreasonable to assume that the Japanese-trained Indusi force will be sold such Japanese arms as the Type 74 Main Battle Tank, the Toyota Type 73 Medium Truck and the Isuzu Type 73 Heavy Truck

Given that many have seen the construction of an airfield at this army base, it is also reasonable to assume that an aerial support element will be sold by Japan to the Indus as well. From the length and breadth of the runway, most likely the aerial force will comprise Japanese manufactured jet fighters such as the Kawasaki T-4 or perhaps even a number of the ultra-advanced Mitsubishi Ki-251, IJAAF code-named "Type 99 Assault Planes".

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries opens six new Lead-Acid Battery ‘mega-factories’ on the Chenab River: Regional Director states workers and environment “perfectly safe”
SIALKOT, Grand Republic of the Indus

Continuing on with the slew of recent developments between the Empire of Japan and the Grand Republic of the Indus, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries just announced the opening of six thousand-plus meters squared lead-acid battery manufacturing centers located in Sialkot along the Chenab River. The batteries, which have been known to involve a fairly toxic production process, are indispensible components for the much-vaunted Japanese automobile industry—for both conventional and so-called hybrid vehicles which are among the empire’s most popular exports on account of their price and reliability. The Japanese-owned Indusi factories will provide employment for tens of thousands of local residents, and are expected to be a major boon for the Grand Republic’s economy.

The batteries, it has been revealed, will be produced in the Sialkot plants before being exported to Japan, where they will be employed in the automobile manufacturing process.

Regional Director for Mitsubishi H.I. Masa Kotomato has rejected claims that the factories will expose their workers to potentially lethal chemicals, and that (as was recently implied by the Chrinthani emperor) Japanese factories underpay their employees.

“The suggestion that lead-acid battery production is harmful to these workers is simply untrue,” Kotomato stated. “Mitsubishi H.I. takes every precaution for its employees, and moreover is an environmentally sensitive conglomerate.” He continued, “of course it is technically true that overwhelming majority of the Indusi employed in these factories are not technically employees of Mitsubishi H.I. but subcontractors provided by local firms in the Grand Republic—and therefore not subject to our company’s safety regulations nor eligible to receive our company’s benefits. Nonetheless, these workers are being well cared for. Let no one worry about that.”

When asked what their rate of pay would be, and under what system the employees would be paid, Kotomato bluntly replied that this was ‘a matter for the local Indusi firms’ and that he was sure that the workers ‘would be paid more than if they weren't working at all, which would be the case if the factories didn't exist in the first place, of course.’

Zion invited to join Pacific Trade Organization
TOKYO, Japan

Prime Minister Hiranuma Kiichirō’s office released a statement this morning amending the initial proposal of the Pacific Trade Organization to include an invitation for the Jewish Republic of Zion.

The Republic of Zion was not overlooked as a prospective member, read the statement, they were simply thought to not have a prospective interest in the organization on account of their past isolationism. However, recent developments suggest that the Jewish Republic might credibly wish to become a member of the P.T.O, and therefore the formal invitation was extended. The Japanese Empire has every hope that this dynamic and strategically vital nation will consider membership..