2024: THE LONG PEACE [IC| OPEN | EU PLAYERS REQUESTED]

by **Greater Liverpool** » Wed Apr 15, 2020 10:24 am

The Kingdom of Spain

Since his ascension to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez had lead Spain for the past 6 years and currently had no idea of resigning his post. Spain under his rule has seen some promising times his new government helped to improve the economy of the nation while also improving its international standing in the world as well as a member of EU. For example Spain was one of the first nations to respond to Russian aggression in the Baltic, however at that time Spain and the rest of NATO relied heavily of US support which did not come. Since then Spain has attempted to modernise both it Military and Nation to make up for the gap the US left in Europe. Further military reforms were needed to increase the Military capability of the Spanish nation for Spain had big ambitions for itself.

The Spanish Military Reform Act of 2024 (SMRA 2024)

In order for the Kingdom of Spain to defend both the borders of the nation and the allies of Spain, as well as being able to maintain Spanish Political and Economic interests globally. Today the Cortes Generales has officially drafted and voted in a new piece of legislation meant to improve the Spanish Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas Españolas). The Act currently is waiting to be officially signed into law by his Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain. The full details of the SMRA 2024 are as followed:

1. Spain's annually military budget will increase from 2% of the GDP of the nation that was set during the Military emergence powers act of 2022 to 3% of the nation's GDP
2. The Spanish Army (Ejército de Tierra) will be revamping it's military equipment to better suit modern military warfare. This will be done through certain goals that will be reached by the end of 2025:
-The design and creation as well as implementation of a Fourth Generation Main Battle Tank
-Replacing the Old G36 rifles with a modern replacement the criteria for the rifle being that it must be chambered to 6.8mm calibre, no heavier then 4kg and must be able to use a multitude of different scopes, optics and attachments. Rifles that meet this criteria will be looked over and decided upon by the "Spanish Military Rifle Selection Board"
3. The increase of military helicopters with the purchase of 20 Apache Attack Helicopters.
4. Increase the development of Sixth Generation Jet Aircraft alongside other European countries as part of the Future Combat Air System
5. Changing the recruitment status of the Spanish Foreign Legion to allow recruits from all nations as long as they are eligible to gain full Spanish citizenship
6. A new report into the state of the Spanish Navy (Armada Española) will commence looking at the capabilities of the Spanish navy and how it measures up to other nations in regard to naval power and power projection
7. An increase of military aircraft from 533 total aircraft to 784 by at least 2027.

With this act the government hoped to that this would show the world a new Spain, one committed to international security. The bill was later signed into law and with it, the long road to a strong and proud Spanish military had begun. But that was not the only business that was done today inside the Spanish government. The foreign minister Arancha González Laya today released an officially statement on recent events in the world. "The Spanish Government would like to state the following officially that Spain supports the rightfully and elected government of Cameroon and has decided that the so called Islamic Republic of Fulania is a rebel organisation acting within the borders of the Republic of Cameroon." In further statements the Foreign Minister spoke about how it would support French efforts in the region to bring about Peace and stability she also stated that "Military action" could be used in very extreme circumstances to bring a conclusion.

In other lighter News, King Felipe and the royal family are planning a Latin American tour in the coming months. This is coming after a recent announcement that King Felipe himself was giving money to a Mexican Water charity in aid to the recent crisis there. Felipe has even spoke about how he wishes to first the areas most affected and see how he and Spain can help to respond to the Crisis calling on a Brotherhood of Hispanics to support each other in these trying times.

by **Fascist Republic Of Bermuda** » Thu Apr 16, 2020 7:37 pm

Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
Gangseong Daeguk

Ministry of Agriculture Announces Agricultural Reforms
Let Us Form Farming Co-operatives In Accordance With the Juche Ideology

KANGWŎN PROVINCE Today, reforms have been declared to assist the working proletariat of our great Republic further strive towards full implementation of the Socialist Juche lifestyle. For decades, our noble farmers have increased the bounties of their harvests exponentially. With their innovativeness and belief in the Juche spirit, they have even competed with our own collective farms!

Therefore, in order to encourage further agricultural prosperity, the Ministry of Agriculture has announced a new economic management system in our own style. Our noble farmers will now work together in farming co-operatives, to foster Socialist unity while allowing the farming proletariat to utilize their own inexhaustible strengths and talents. These new measures will assuredly bring the best of both our Socialist collectives and our noble individual farmers together! The farming co-operative is, in essence, a combination of multiple small family farms into a managing economic commune.

The Ministry has remarked that these are the first of many reforms to come, to further our dedication to Juche and improve our production of foodstuffs such that we may never need to undertake another Arduous March in the face of Western Imperialism. The West struggles to feed its own populations with infinitely more land than our Socialist Korea, but with these new measures and our noble Public Distribution System, none shall go hungry in our great Republic! Glory to the Eternal Leader, glory to the Supreme Leader, glory to Juche, and glory to Korea!

Pyongyang
Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

It was a busy day in Pyongyang. Citizens scurried about, traveling to and from workplaces or merely enjoying their days in the cold, smoggy city. The room the State Affairs Commission had chosen to meet in was heated, if nothing else, providing an escape from the winter weather. Of course, that meant being stuck in a room with the State Affairs Commission, which was quite trying in the best of times. To say nothing of a displeased State Affairs Commission. The debate about the new deal with the Russians had taken the entire meeting, and was still going strong.

“This new arrangement with the Russians brings with it great opportunity,” Kim Jong-Un reminded the table of generals, “Being allowed to inspect their weapons will advance our own efforts by leaps and bounds.”

“But in this way we have limited ourselves!” a General of the Strategic Rocket Forces voiced, slamming a wrinkled fist into the table, “We must maintain full control over our nuclear deterrent! It is only that which allows us to defend ourselves!”

“Do you imply the Ground Force is not strong enough to defend our great Republic?” a General of the Ground Forces shot to his feet, old face contorted into a sneer, “You dare assert that our Army cannot keep Juche Korea safe?!”

“You know as well as I that the Ground Forces are not the main thing keeping the American dogs at bay!” the first general retorted, pointed a bony finger at the other man as he rose to his feet, “It has long been the threat of atomic wrath on Tokyo, or now on Washington itself! The Strategic Rocket Forces have the reach to strike at the rotting heart of darkness of the United States should they invade, can the Ground Forces say the same?”

Kim was not listening to the argument. He looked back and forth, watching the lips of the old men move. He hated this. He hated all of this. The men surrounding him, the generals, the heads of the Korean People’s Army, they were by and large not his men, really. Certainly, he ordered them around, he was the Commander-in-Chief, the Marshal of the Republic, and all the rest, but they were not loyal to or appointed by him. His eyes slid past the two bickering old men to the set of three portraits on the tan wall. Himself, his father, and his grandfather.

The men surrounding him were mostly his father’s men. Or his grandfather’s. An older generation, born in the 1950s, although some pushed even older than that. They all had their own agendas to consolidate their own power, plotting under him or around him despite kow-towing in his presence. Some, Kim suspected, were perhaps just plain going senile.

But despite the senility, despite his title of “Supreme Leader,” Kim still had to tread carefully around these old men. They controlled the Army, after all. And while some soldiers, the most loyal and fanatical- or perhaps the most stupid- would side with Kim, most would just follow their orders. This meant he had to take great care to keep these ancient generals happy, keep their bellies full and keep the chestfuls of medals they didn’t earn shined. But that was just his own internal sword of Damocles to go along with the one the Americans and their dogs kept aimed at him. As long as the generals were happy, they would follow his orders, and he would be in charge.

“Both of you, be quiet,” Kim ordered. The two old generals stopped and silently turned to look at the Supreme Leader. Without a word, they bowed and sat back down, frowning. “I believe a next step towards development of our missile programs could come alongside development of our civilian space program. I intend to put an astronaut into space by the end of the decade.”

That silenced the room. Satisfied, the Supreme Leader nodded before carrying on. “Such a feat would not only serve as a massive propaganda boost both domestically and abroad, but it would easily strengthen our missile program and allow us to develop miniturization of technology, with applications both inside and outside the military. It would require cooperation- the National Aerospace Development Administration and Strategic Rocket Forces would develop the rocket required. The Air Force would bring a fighter pilot, increasing their own prestige- and, of course, the manpower of the Army would be needed to bring it all together.”

The old generals looked between each other. A few nodded silently. “When will NADA and other civilian authorities be notified of this new priority?” An Army general asked, the man particularly young in comparison to the pensioners who surrounded him.

“I will pass this proposal to the civilian government tomorrow, and our news will report our promise within the week,” the Supreme Leader informed the State Affairs Commission, “Comrades, this will be our moment to shine.”

by **The Baton Rouge Free State** » Fri Apr 17, 2020 2:26 am

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Autumn of 2024

Desert State Initiative

The Saudi Government has seen fit to begin the creation of a 1,000 Megawatt Solar Park outside the city of Hail. The plant will cost an estimated 980 Million US Dollars. It will be supported by an infrastructure expansion to support increased industrial movement. This will include an entirely new and modernized electrical grid for the city of Hail, a modernized water treatment system, and public mass transit network consisting a light rail tram system and a new bus fleet. The mass transit system will cost 1.5 Billion to construct 2 lines. For the bus system, 200 Million has been allocated for upgrading the bus fleet and improving city bus stations. Overall the infrastructure improvement project will cost upwards of 3 Billion dollars.

Foreign Aid

The Saudi Government is allocating the following for foreign aid purposes to these specific nations.
State of Palestine - 80 Million US Dollars
South Yemen - 80 Million US Dollars
Somalia - 40 Million US Dollars

In addition South Yemen will be given educational and monetary aid to support its development, the Saudi government has pledged to send food shipments each week in order to help stop famines from developing, furthermore the Saudi government would like to open a seed drive to supply farmers with seeds to grow and increasing food independence of the nation.

In Somalia the government is willing to send food aid and educational aid to help development in the nation, furthermore the government is willing to supply fisherman in Somalia with proper training, education, and equipment, as well as develop schools across the country.

Message to East African Federation

The Government of Saudi Arabia would like to strengthen ties with the East African Federation, and it is our belief that a relationship between our two nations would breed many benefits for both of us. We would like to invite your government to send a delegation to Riyadh in order to work on matters such as cooperating economically, development, a trade agreement, and further matters.

Best Regards,
Muhammad bin Salman Al Saud

by **Atrilan** » Fri Apr 17, 2020 12:57 pm

PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA

中华人民共和国

July - December 2024

Nurul Iman - Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

Over the past eighty years, the territorial disputes over claims in the South China Sea have complicated the relationship between Beijing and its neighbors in the sea. Since the turn of the century, the dispute that once lied in the backwater of the world has been pushed to one of the most major territorial disputes in the world. Media would oftentimes say that it was the powder keg for World War III, a notion which Xi himself always found preposterous. Regardless, as East Asia is moving to become the center of power in the world, the need for a resolution becomes more and more urgent. The time for a resolution was now, and Brunei was the obvious choice, being both an influential member of ASEAN and a proponent of Chinese-ASEAN relations.

The Chinese delegation lands in Bandar Seri Begawan, the capital of Brunei, protected by the 34th division of the People's Liberation Army Air Force. Xi stepped off the Air China plane and extended his hand towards Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah, the last true monarch of East Asia, "It is good to see you again my friend, it has been too long."

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah shook the hand of the Chinese delegate, "And it is good to see you as well, President Xi. Many here in Brunei admire the great strides you have taken in leading China. Come, we must go to Phon[i]gmun, it is a Chinese restaurant, number one in Brunei!"[/i]

The Sultan and his convoy led President Xi to the restaurant where they had already acquired a reservation. They all take their seats at a rather large round table in the Phongmun Restaurant off the northern side of the Brunei River. The Sultan speaks, "Your satisfaction is of utmost importance here in Brunei. I was briefed that you're coming here on matters of ASEAN, yes?"

"I am of the belief that bilateral ties between Brunei and China will increase Chinese ties with ASEAN altogether. Rather than this meeting being about the Chinese relationship with ASEAN and how Brunei can be a part of that, I would like it to be about just China and Brunei. Our friendship, our camaraderie, and our determination to forge a better path for our nations; ASEAN is peripheral."

"I would love to strengthen our friendship with the People's Republic. To start, I am willing to ease the current visa laws so that those coming from your nation will be able to visit Brunei for 90 days without need of a visa."

"A very generous policy, and opens an opportunity I hope many in the rapidly ascending middle class will take advantage of. The Chinese visa policy is notably rather restrictive to foreign nations, though we offer a generous 30 day visa-free stay in the People's Republic to a handful of nations. I believe it is fit to name Brunei as another nation under that fold. I would like to, however, turn to a matter which has lied as a point of contention, though decreasingly so, between our two nations for the past 80 years. I am of the belief that the squabbling over claims in the South China Sea has only sewed disunity between nations, we've been playing into the hands of the Americans which wish South East Asia to remain in diplomatic conflict so we can not notice what's taking place under our noses. My administration has been making preparations for months in order to find a solution to the nearly century-old question, and I believe Brunei to be the ideal partner in introducing this plan."

"And what is your solution, President Xi?'

"Brunei has often been considered the quiet observer oil the South China Sea conflict, much more resigned than the Philippines or Vietnam for sure, by-in-large because of the relationship between our two nations. The writing is on the wall for Brunei though, I'm afraid, as the oil resource that has commanded your nation's ascendance in wealth is beginning to run dry. Surveying efforts have found rich oil deposits off the northern coast of Borneo, billions of barrels resting under the water, so far left largely undeveloped because of the sea disputes. In exchange for the recognition of the nine-dash line by the government of Brunei, the People's Republic of China is willing to set up a joint economic and development zone in the South China Sea. The currently disputed zone would be placed under this banner, and both Chinese and Bruneian would commit resources to develop the region and engage in a joint exploitation of resources in the region. This includes not only the rich subterranean oil deposits, but also fishing and mineral resources as well," Xi pauses for a moment and takes a drink of his water, "The People's Republic understands, however, that though this would be a highly profitable venture, it does not change the fact that Brunei is running out of oil. Without those profits, Brunei stands to lose more than 60% of its GDP and a grand sum of over 95% of its export value: it would be a catastrophe for the economy. We will also extend our hand to Brunei, and offer the expansion of the ambitious second stage of the Belt and Road Initiative to Brunei; more specifically, to integrate the bold 'Brunei Vision 2035' as a part of the greater initiative. This would entail a sum of five billion over the next eleven years to Brunei in order to fulfill the transition from an oil-based economy to a high-tech economic center akin to Singapore or Shenzhen."

"An enticing offer, President Xi. Such a large sum is most generous. I must say however, that we would be needing guidance in diversification. We would need great assistance in developing the right academic institutions and infrastructure to pivot from oil. But that is not the only issue. You and I both know how aggressive our neighbors can get with this dispute. I will need more assurances. I want preferential agreements with Beijing. We are your loyal comrades in this contentious region, and pivoting towards you can hurt our relationship with neighbors. Bruneian exports to China must have a lower tariff than the exports of other nations in this dispute. Together, we can set an example of the power of good cooperation through this method"

Xi chuckles, "I'm not entirely sure I understand, the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement signed in 2000 removed many of the tariffs between Brunei and China. The most I'm able to offer is removing the final few straggling tariffs; footwear, consumer goods, wood, textiles, et cetera."

"And that is exactly what we want, Mr. Xi. And the guidance of the Peop;e's Republic in diversification."

"I believe that can be arranged for the next financial quarter, Sultan Haji. Thoughts, your majesty?"

"I love it, President Xi."

International Conference Hall - Abuja, Nigeria

Xi Jinping, and every other head of state across the African continent, gathered in Abuja for the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation. The forum was held every three years and covered the relationship between China and Africa. Abuja wasn't the immediate choice for the ninth summit, as every other one was designated to happen in Beijing, though it was allowed to be held in Africa as a move by China to project multipolarity. Even so, Xi Jinping reserved his agreement to hold the opening speech.

"It gives me great pleasure to meet so many African brothers and sisters, who are both old and new friends of mine, in the beautiful nation of Nigeria. As co-chair of the Summit, I wish to express my warm welcome to you for attending this summit on China-Africa Cooperation. I also wish to express my sincere appreciation to Nigeria, host of the Summit, for the meticulous preparations and thoughtful arrangements it has made for this meeting.

I have been to the continent many times, and every time I return, I see new progress and new changes on this continent. Today’s Africa is a continent of encouraging and dynamic development. Africa has actively explored a path of development suited to its conditions and adhered to the principle of solving African issues in the African way. Such a momentum of independent development is unstoppable. Africa has actively advanced industrialization and pursued sustainable self-development. Such a momentum of rapid growth is unstoppable. Africa has accelerated its integration process and speaks in one voice on the international stage. Such a momentum of pursuing strength through unity is unstoppable. We in China, both the government and people, heartily rejoice over and are proud of Africa’s achievements. We sincerely wish African countries and people greater achievements and an even brighter future in pursuing development and progress.

Since the 2021 FOCAC Marakesh Summit, China has fully implemented the cooperation plans adopted at the Summit. A large number of railway, highway, airport, port and other infrastructure projects as well as a number of economic and trade cooperation zones have been built or are under construction. Our cooperation on peace and security, science, education, culture, health, poverty reduction, and people-to-people interactions has deepened. The $60 billion financing pledged by China has been either delivered or arranged. These cooperation plans have brought huge benefits to the African and Chinese peoples. They have fully demonstrated the creativity, rallying power and efficiency of China-Africa cooperation, and lifted China-Africa comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership to new heights. To build an even closer China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era, China will, on the basis of the ten cooperation plans already adopted, launch seven major initiatives in close collaboration with African countries in the next three years and beyond.

First, China will launch an industrial promotion initiative. We have vastly expanded the China-Africa economic and trade expo to encourage Chinese companies to increase investment in Africa, and will build and upgrade a number of economic and trade cooperation zones in Africa. We will support Africa in achieving general food security by 2030, work with Africa to formulate and implement a program of action to promote China-Africa cooperation on agricultural modernization. We will train young researchers in agri-science and entrepreneurs in agri-business to facilitate prosperity across the continent. We will support Chinese companies in Africa to forge alliance of corporate and social responsibilities. We will continue to strengthen cooperation with African countries in local currency settlement and make good use of the China-Africa Development Fund, the China-Africa Fund for Industrial Cooperation, and the Special Loan for the Development of African SMEs.

Second, China will launch an infrastructure connectivity initiative. We have decided to jointly formulate a China-Africa infrastructure cooperation plan with the African Union. We will support Chinese companies in participating in Africa's infrastructure development by way of investment-construction-operation or through other models, with focus on enhancing cooperation on energy, transport, information, telecommunications and cross-border water resources. We will work with Africa to undertake a number of key connectivity projects. Most important among these is the Trans-African Highway and Railway Effort, which works to facilitate inter-connectivity and commerce throughout the continent.

Third, China will launch a trade facilitation initiative. We have decided to increase imports, particularly non-resource products, from the nations of Africa. We support African countries in participating in the China International Import Expo. The least developed African countries participating in it will be exempted from paying exhibition fees. We will continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation on market regulation and between customs authorities, and implement trade facilitation programs for Africa. We support the building of the African Continental Free Trade Area and will continue to hold free trade negotiations with interested African countries and regions.

Fourth, we will launch a green development initiative. We have decided to undertake 50 projects for green development and ecological and environmental protection in Africa to expand exchanges and cooperation with Africa on climate change, ocean, desertification prevention and control, and wildlife protection. A China-Africa environmental cooperation program will be set up, and more policy dialogue and joint research on environmental issues will be conducted. The China-Africa Green Envoys Program will be further utilized to strengthen Africa's human capacity for environmental management, pollution prevention and control, and green development. China will also work with Africa to raise public awareness of environmental protection.

Fifth, we will launch a capacity building initiative. China will share more of its development practices with Africa and support cooperation with Africa on economic and social development planning. Workshops will be set up in Africa to provide vocational training for young Africans. China will support opening of a China-Africa innovation cooperation center to promote youth innovation and entrepreneurship. China will provide Africa with fifty-thousand government scholarships and fifty-thousand training opportunities for seminars and workshops, and will invite young Africans to visit China for exchanges.

Sixth, we will launch a health care initiative. China has decided to upgrade 50 medical and health aid programs for Africa, particularly flagship projects such as the headquarters of the African Center for Disease Control and Prevention and China-Africa Friendship Hospitals. Exchange and information cooperation will be carried out on public health. Cooperation programs will be launched on the prevention and control of emerging and re-emerging communicable diseases, schistosomiasis, HIV/AIDS and malaria. China will train more medical specialists for Africa and continue to send medical teams that better meet Africa's needs. More mobile medical services will be provided to patients for the treatment of cataract, heart disease and dental defects. And targeted health care services will be provided to women and children of vulnerable groups in Africa.

Seventh, we will implement China-Africa poverty reduction plan. We will increase our aid to Africa to develop a program to combat poverty, especially on the poorer areas of the continent, by facilitating the construction of sites to provide clean water and food. We will cooperate with national governments to develop a plan to provide foreign aid to those who need it most and protect the most vulnerable members of African society.

Eighth, we will launch a peace and security initiative. China will continue to provide military aid to the AU, and will support countries in the Sahel region and those bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Guinea in upholding security and combating terrorism in their regions. A China-Africa peace and security forum will be established as a platform for conducting more exchanges in this area, to organize continental forces and to facilitate the deployment of Chinese forces where requested. Security assistance programs will be launched to advance China-Africa cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, and in areas of law and order, UN peacekeeping missions, fighting piracy, maintaining internal security, and combating terrorism.

To make sure that these eight initiatives are implemented, China will extend $75 billion of financing to Africa in the form of government assistance as well as investment and financing by financial institutions and companies. This will include $20 billion of grants, interest-free loans and concessional loans, $30 billion of credit lines, the setting up of a $15 billion special fund for development financing and a US$5 billion special fund for financing imports from Africa. We encourage Chinese companies to make at least $5 billion of investment in Africa in the next three years. In addition, for those of Africa's least developed countries, heavily indebted and poor countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing countries that have diplomatic relations with China, the debt they have incurred in the form of interest-free Chinese government loans due to mature by the end of 2024 will be extended.

The future of China-Africa relations lies in our young people. Many of the measures in the eight initiatives I just outlined are designed to help young people in Africa. These measures will provide young Africans with more training and job opportunities and open up more space for their development. 'The red rising sun will light up the road ahead.' I am confident that the baton of China-Africa friendship will be passed from one generation to the next and that China and Africa, working together, will build an even more vibrant community with a shared future. The day will surely come when the Chinese nation realizes its dream of national renewal and Africa realizes its dream of unity and invigoration!"

The room breaks into applause as Xi Jinping takes his seat, beginning the three-day forum.

by **The Industrial States of Columbia** » Fri Apr 17, 2020 8:06 pm

Fox News- Jerry Martin- July 24, 2024
After securing the Republican nomination several months back, Lynne Cheney has been making her rounds gathering support in the states. The former second lady has touched on a number of issues concerning Americans across demographics, from education to economics, in addition to reaffirming her strong support for LGBT rights to supporters. She spoke in a live interview earlier today, giving her goals for the future of the country.

“Our nation has faced many challenges over the last two decades. Terror, recession, and revanchism in our old adversaries have all taken their toll on the morale of the American people. We have gone through much, but we are and have always been a strong people. It's time for us to look to the future, a brighter tomorrow for all of us.

One of the best ways we can secure our future as a nation is by securing the future of the next generations. I have always said education reform can and will provide a solid foundation for future Americans to thrive on. We can accomplish this through better funding for schools, richer curriculum, and very importantly, forgiveness of past debts. Higher education is a boon for the nation, as a well rounded, educated people is an innovative and productive one. But many who get out of college, young people who haven't even gotten a job in their field yet, are looking at a mortgage's worth of debt. I think that is simply unnacceptable. We cannot allow the people of this nation to be shackled by overwhelming debt for wanting, of all things, the means to make their home a better place.

We can counterbalance this with a renewed commitment to fiscal responsibility. An economy is strongest when the government maintains the integrity of the currency, but does not overreach and try to over regulate it. As President Reagan once said, “Entrepreneurs and their small enterprises are responsible for almost all the economic growth in the United States.” A reduction of both taxes and spending will allow for our economy to begin to recover from years of mismanagement and neglect, while allowing the private sector to once again expand and thrive as it did before. Firm commitment to these principles will secure prosperity for the nation.

Through learning, understanding, and responsible economics, we can make tomorrow a new dawn for America.”

In other political news, Sheldon Whitehouse has suspended his campaign and endorsed candidate Amy Klobuchar, cementing her place as the Democratic Presidential Nominee. Klobuchar ran a chaotic campaign following Hampton's announcement that he would not seek a second term, struggling against disorganized campaigns by fellow Democrats. In spite of this, the senator performed well among women, and remained ahead of other candidates for most of the race.

Following the suspension of Whitehouse's campaign, Klobuchar's campaign press secretary announced that she would be running with Whitehouse as her new VP pick. This came as a surprise to many, as Klobuchar was previously rumored to be heavily considering Pete Buttigieg as her running mate.

Klobuchar spoke to press earlier today on her plans for the nation, in addition to addressing the concerns posed by President Hampton's choice to renounce his incumbent ticket and the uncertainty that brings.

“I think President Hampton is a great man, and has been a great president. I fully intend to continue his legacy, while bringing in a new perspective on the problems we face as a nation. Specifically, the elephant in the room I want to address is medicare. A goal and promise of my campaign is to expand medicare to all citizens of this country. Healthcare is not something like a license to boat or a pass to a special club. It's a fundamental human right. One that I think has been neglected by this government for far too long.

Continued reassessment of our foreign commitments is a goal as well. We currently spend more than the next several nations combined in military spending, several of those nations are even our allies. We cannot continue to be the world policeman, especially when we have so much work to get done at home first, and especially given what our latest intervention ended up causing. Its time for us to put down the big stick for a while and do our paperwork while we can.”

As the election approaches, both party candidates are expected to make visits to key swing states, with Cheney having a rally scheduled for September 4rth in Miami, while Klobuchar has recently made a bid to secure Michigan support, with Grand Rapids hosting a rally on the 15nth. We will as always keep you updated on the latest news.

by **Military Lands of the Scottish People** » Sat Apr 18, 2020 6:16 am

The Mausoleum of Ruhollah Khomeini

Qasem Soleimani waited at a table within a meeting room at the Mausoleum of Ruhollah Khomeini, waiting for the Chinese representative to arrive. The building was closed at the time for this very meeting, under the guise of maintenance. It was some what unofficial, and discretion was required.

A convoy carrying Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, along with several other prominent officials including Minister of Foreign Affairs Qi Yu, drives from the private airport in Tehran to the Mausoleum. Qi had often considered the Chinese relationship with Iran his doing; he worked behind the scenes during his period as Secretary of Foreign Affairs to increase China's relationship with the nations of the Middle East and especially Iran, though this was his first trip to the nation. The two leaders discussed en length the specifications of their positions going into the meeting with Iran on the plane, though in the car both simply observed the beautiful sights of the millennium-old city. The convoy pulls up in front of the Harame Imam and the officials wave to several cameras as they enter the Mausoleum. Li walks at the front of the group and extends his hand to the General, "It's nice to finally meet the second most powerful man in Iran, General Soleimani."
Soleimani smiled, standing up and shaking his hand "Yes, a blessing from Allah that we have the chance to meet. Please, sit, I have food being prepared elsewhere. We cannot discuss matters of the state with an empty stomach."

The various officials take their seats before Li starts, "A shame the Ayatollah could not be here, the People's Republic wishes him our best. His condition looks optimistic, I hope?"

Qasem would sigh, rubbing his temple. "I am afraid not. His time left here can be measured between days to months. Truly a dire situation. It is the reason I am here doing this meeting and not organizing our brave revolutionary soldiers abroad. It is my responsibility to help manage Iran into its next phase of leadership, and I am tasked to do it. But those are not relevant to you, what should be is oil."

"I thought we were waiting for food," Li jokes, "You'd like us to buy more from Iran, no doubt."

Soleimani motioned his hand, some servants leaving. "I was thinking something along the lines of improving infrastructure within the Oil Industry."

Tea and a box of Qurabiyas would arrive, an appetizer of sorts

Fu Chengyu, the CEO of Sinopec, speaks, "Sinopec has invested billions in the infrastructure of the Yadavaran oil field. What kind of expansion do you propose?"

"We could build all the rigs in the world, the issue we currently have is refining the oil. Currently we are outmatched by our competitors on the peninsula and we are looking for massive Chinese investment into the country, which we could repay you with by selling cheap oil."

Fesenjoon would be brought out to the table after.

"Chinese investment into Iranian oil refineries is something that we have expressed interest in in the past, and we will continue to do so. Construction of new refineries in Niksahir under a, say, two billion dollar investment fund could be mutually beneficial. Though I would argue that Iran's primary bottleneck, other than the American sanctions, is the oil output being a third that of the Saudis, and I encourage the construction of more extraction sites. My main caveat is the promise to repay China by selling cheaper oil, however. If other nations have access to the same cheap oil China is promised, what is the incentive for China herself to invest? We would also be reliant on the Chinese government constantly buying Iranian oil to possibly end up turning a profit. The other heads at Sinopec would be much more comfortable giving investments if we were paid back with the profits from your oil, not the oil itself."

Soleimani sipped on his tea, waiting for him to finish. "We can promise a portion of profits for a period of time. Our goal is to dramatically increase the production of oil through better refining practices, better transport of it, and better access to areas with oil. Rigs can be done on a regular basis, it's just hard to do a massive infrastructure project without support. But you are a business man, and I am a mere soldier, so please put forward your idea of a beneficial mutual relationship that would dramatically increase oil production."

"I believe the main bottleneck is the development of Iran's oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors. Depending on the split of profits, which can be discussed at a later date, Sinopec may be willing to provide around a total of 30 billion to grow these industries. Most of Iran's resources lie Khuzestan, so this area would be the primary investment center for oil rigs. Taking from the same potential 30 billion investment, the construction of oil refineries in Hormozgan and Nikshahr could be in a prime area to circumvent any potential conflict in the Gulf. To compound this, we would also like to offer a 14 billion dollar loan for the construction of a new economic corridor, leaping off the current CPEC system around the Iranian coast to Khuzestan to facilitate a more efficient transportation of petroleum resources to East Asian markets."

Soleiman finished his tea and bread. "The profits from this oil refining will be hard to acquire considering the vast sanctions against us done by the West. The deal that was made between us and the West has greatly affected our political system, it is rather insane that it as agreed upon. It is very likely this deal will not go through. We believe that it would be best to create a black market between Iran and China to avoid these sanctions and public scrutiny, which would allow us to develop further on our own and be able to pay back these loans and give these profits Sinopec desires."

Qi speaks, "China has spent the last decade demonstrating to the Americans that we will not respond to Washington's demands for sanctions. If the United States wants to pressure China, let them, it is more profitable and sends a clearer message to Washington if we trade publicly; just as we always have. Iran is already an active participant in the Belt and Road Initiative, we see no reason why it would be beneficial to either of us if we conceal the expansion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor into Iran. Anyone who's looking would be able to see it clear as day, regardless."

"I suppose you are right. Very well. The Russians are not willing, or capable to, support our market's needs. We will begin to begin moving our dependencies to China, until we are able to implement autarky policies. We aim for this relationship to be mutualistic, you come to us for oil and we come to you for economic growth. I believe that is all. Is there anything you wish to discuss, Mister Qi?"

"I believe so, General Soleimani," He says, only halfway through his meal "I hope that next time we hold a summit it will be in the face of success." He holds up a glass, "To a relationship of prosperity!"

Soleimani raised his glass, speaking calmly "To a relationship of prosperity."

Following that was small talk and a light lunch. Plans to increase Oil Rigs throughout major Oil Regions were prepared, however emphasis was put on railways, refineries, and transport of said oil instead of solely exploiting regions with Oil. Khamenei would sign off on this, despite being deathly ill. This would be his final action as Iran’s Supreme Leader

Milad Hospital, Tehran

Ali Khamenei laid on his bed, breathing slowly. His pulse was feint, and he had just spent much energy signing off on the deal made with China. Soleimani waited by his side, several Clergy men as well.

Khamenei looked briefly around, sighing.

”My time… here… is coming to a close… Holy men, please, assist me in my Salah, please…”

Several nurses and the Clergy helped him finish his prayers, laying him back down as he rested. Khamenei would catch his breath, and continued to speak after.

”My friends… Please leave me with General Soleimani for a moment… There are important matters to discuss.”

The group exited the room, the casually dressed Soleimani sitting beside him. Khamenei began to speak.

”It is good you were able to secure such a wonderful deal with the Chinese. If only you were in Switzerland for such diplomatic meetings.”

Soleimani looked puzzled, and said,

”I am no statesman, I am a Soldier. But regardless of that, what happened in Switzerland?”[i]

Khamenei sighed, looking to his right.

[i]”Those who wish to take the helm of Iran and lead it into the West met with American Leadership to discuss managing sanctions… They agreed, against my will, to commit Iran’s Nuclear program to the West… You know I despise Nuclear Weapons, however, that does not mean I will be willing to stop us from acquiring such a powerful source of energy. However, I am not willing to budge on selling our material to the Americans so that they might use it themselves. They are sly dogs, those Americans… They have even considered recognizing the need for an Israeli State, according to the transcript I recieved. Releasing American Prisoners as well. It is a truly dire situation...”

Soleimani was visibly upset, which was quite rare for the General, and replied.
”This is an outrage. Once the Clergy hears of this their heads will roll. My men have fought too long and hard for them to cave in at this moment. Give me the word, and I will arrest these men at once.”

Khamenei smiled, sighing.

”No, there must be some sort of organization to this. What you must do is simple… The Clergy will support you for a time. You must take the reigns of leadership and stabilize Iran for the person who replaces me… I know you do not want to involve yourself with such a position but you are the only person capable of doing so. Make a point, and arrest them and several more American Prisoners. We must show the US Irans government is not in the hands of exploiters. You will likely face protests from the youth, which you will likely crush. You must arm the men who have joined our world wide fight so we may reach peak efficiency. You must do this, or we will lose so much progress on what we worked on…”

Soleimani shook his head.

“You know I do not wish to lead Iran, my heart has been in the Army. I simply cannot take ahold of such a responsibility.”

Khamenei looked firmly at him, grabbing his arm

“The fate of Iran is in your hands. Allah has guided me through my life to direct us on the path of righteousness and you must take the reigns for now. It is out of my control.”

Soleimani sighed, recollecting his posture.

”I cannot guarantee I will be able to do such an action, but I will try. Get the Clergy on my side, Supreme Leader, and I will attempt to stabilize the situation.”

Khamenei nodded, resting his head. He dismissed Soleimani, who remained in Tehran, and gathered enough support to transfer emergency power to Soleimani following his death, which occurred a few days later.

The Streets of Tehran, Iran

A quick and large funeral is held for Khamenei, several million mourning throughout Tehran on the streets, with many businesses closed in respect of the great leader. Soleimani would direct the thing, making small speeches as he went. Protests occured in some areas but he and the crowd brutally shut them down. By the end of the day, several thousand were arrested, injured, or dead, with this news being kept quiet about and many areas being isolated by Soleimani. The Funeral was broadcasted live for 13 hours straight, and a live media broadcast to the West showing aerial shots of the Funeral. Soleimani had a daunting task ahead of him, one that only he could do.

by **Millennium Chronicle** » Sat Apr 18, 2020 7:14 pm

LYNNE CHENEY BECOMES FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
By James Maxwell

Lynne Cheney celebrating her victory with her husband

Lynne Ann Cheney was elected the 48th president of the United States with 286 votes in the electoral college, sweeping away the last gender barrier in American politics with ease as the country chose her as its first woman chief executive. Mrs. Cheney’s election amounted to a national catharsis, a repudiation of a historically divisive Democratic president and his economic and foreign policies, and an embrace of Mrs. Cheney’s call for a change in the direction and the tone of the country. But it was just as much a strikingly symbolic moment in the evolution of the nation’s fraught patriarchal history, a breakthrough that would have seemed unthinkable just ten years ago.

Mrs. Cheney, 83, an author and former Second Lady of the United States, defeated Senator Amy Klobuchar, Democratic Senator of Minnesota, a former member of the Senate Rules Committee who was making her second bid for the presidency. Mrs. Klobuchar offered a gracious concession speech at the Hotel Ivy in Minneapolis shortly after 11:35 p.m. Eastern time, quieting her booing supporters more than once when she mentioned Mrs. Cheney’s name. “Lynne Cheney has achieved a great thing for herself, and for his country,” she said, “I wish her the best of luck in taking up the office of President.”

Mrs. Cheney led her party in a decisive sweep of Congress, putting Republicans in control of both the House and the Senate by significant numbers and the White House for the first time since 2018, when Donald Trump was president. The president-elect and her expanded Republican majority now face the task of governing the country through a difficult period: the stagnation of the American economy and the potential for a national recession.

ISLAMIST SENTIMENT INCREASES IN THE SAHEL
By Muhammad Barbary

Islamic Technical in Timbuktu

France has had a presence in West Africa ever since they first colonized the region, and even with the official end of colonization, they haven’t left it since. The Francafrique system, as its known, has seen significant involvement from France, who have dumped billions into the region to keep it under their control. It has launched several coup d’etats against popular leaders, and economically isolated nations that managed to escape it. Though older generations of African leaders were proud to serve as French puppets, this is not a sentiment which has been passed on to younger generations. French neo-colonialism has become hated in the region, and resentment has boiled into open rebellion. While Sub-Saharan Africa has seen pro-democracy revolt, the Sahel has seen another anti-neo-colonialist ideology rise: Islamism.

Islamist groups have been operating in the Sahel for decades, working to oppose French influence and establish Islamic states in the region. While France has largely succeeded in fighting them militarily, they have failed to improve the quality in life in the region. That, combined with local resentment of foreign soldiers operating in the region, has made many experts state that the conflict has been an ideological victory for the Islamists. Recruitment for terrorists has increased rapidly, and local police often do nothing to stop it. Mosques from Timbuktu to Niamey openly praise groups such as Al-Qaeda, and pray for Allah to remove the white devils from their land. With a more supportive public behind them, terrorist groups in the region are becoming bolder, and more attacks have been launched against French convoys and bases, resulting in several deaths and dozens of injuries. Though there is still local opposition, the cry of Islamic anti-colonialism is becoming louder and louder. In all of this chaos, there’s one thing that’s clear: even if France is winning the war on the ground, it’s losing the battle for the hearts and minds of the locals.

MEXICAN MILITARY “OCCUPYING” MEXICO CITY
By Juarez Medina

Mexican woman getting water for home

President Carlos Slim announced an ambitious project to bring potable water to the 20 million residents of Mexico City by utilizing the military for distribution via invocation of Plan DN-III-E: Civil Relief and Aid Plan for Disasters, which allows the government to use the military to provide relief and aid. The announcement was meant to be an overhaul of the previous SACMEX water distribution program, which was noted for its inefficiencies and a cost burden being placed on the people.

The first two months of the program were successful. The water trucks had successful runs in all of the neighborhoods, providing enough water weekly and coming in on time. However, the program began to meet some hurdles. The biggest hurdle being local businesses and corrupt law enforcement, which have reportedly begun cooperating together to divert the transportation of water to the businesses, and have begun confiscation of water from families to resell in the black market. While the program shows some promise, local corruption continues to be the biggest hindrance to meaningful development in Mexico

JAPAN SEEKS MAJOR EXPANSION INTO OKINAWA PREFECTURE, THREATENS EAST ASIAN STABILITY
By Takemoto Yukito

Map of Senkaku Islands

The Okinawa Prefecture is notable for its storied history as a major strategic base for the United States military in East Asia, and for the Senkaku Islands, a series of largely uninhabited islands included within the Okinawa Prefecture that is claimed by the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of China. The desire to assert claims over these islands strengthened in 1972 when the US handed control of the islands to Japan, and a survey conducted believed that a large oil and reserve exists under the seabed of the islands.

Following China’s recent successful deal with Brunei regarding the South China Sea, Japan has gotten increasingly concerned over its own contested territory with the People’s Republic. Shortly after the announcement of the Brunei deal, Japan has announced a large infrastructure investment programme for the disputed islands as part of an overall economic expansion and investment initiative to bring up the economies of the outlying islands to provide opportunity for the locals. A part of this initiative includes finally easing restrictions on Japanese civilians to fish and settle in the islands for the first time since the formal transfer from the US to Japan, establishment of permanent Japan Coast Guard and JSDF naval outposts, and a small contingent of JSDF troops.

The proposed development has had the Asia-Pacific holding their breaths. The island chain represents a key strategic area due to its position near key shipping lanes as well. Ownership of the islands give the owning nation significant control over shipping into Eastern Asia. Japan’s increasingly aggressive stance in maintaining its administration over the Senkaku Islands has brought great concern to the international community. Since October 3rd, 2024, when the investment initiative was announced, the Japan Air Self Defense Force has been intercepting Chinese fighter jets at an average of 2 planes a week, with civilian passengers at Naha Airport seeing Japanese fighter jets scrambling on the regular. Some analysts believe that the aggressive actions undertaken by Japan in protecting these islands are a distraction from the increasingly worrisome public debt, which as of the end of the 2024 fiscal year, stands at $12.94 trillion dollars.

The most worrying issue with the recent expansion into the Senkaku Islands is that since the islands were handed over to Japan by the United States in 1971, then by the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security Between the United States and Japan, the United States recognizes Senkaku as Japanese territory, and any foreign incursion into the islands will force the United States to take action. With Lynne Cheney winning the 2024 election, there will be great uncertainty on how the United States will respond should China respond to the Japanese expansion.

GERMANY SPEARHEADS EFFORT TO END EUROPE’S RELIANCE ON RUSSIAN GAS
By Yah Boi

Current solar field as part of Rabat project

The Virumaa Crisis was possibly the most transformative event in the 21st century for Europe, alongside the 2008 financial crash. The event was followed with another round of European sanctions on Russia, the largest in scope in recent history, only comparable to the 2014 sanctions over the Crimean Crisis. Since the sanctions were implemented the European Union, and especially Germany, have been slowly moving towards other sources of energy to end reliance on Russian gas. With the announcement of the formalization of the Union State by the Kremlin last month, however, these efforts have been doubled-down as a political maneuver to force Russian aggression to cease.

Berlin announced a large package of measures designed to accomplish just this, with the hopes that many other nations of the European Union will follow their lead. Though the expansion of Germany’s native wind and solar farms was a significant part of the announcement, they also announced a significant investment package of 2.4 billion Euros to Morocco. The goal of this investment is to facilitate the development of the Rabat Solar Project, which seeks to use Morocco’s rich solar energy potential and connect it up to the European grid.

The same evening in Brussels, the European Commission released a document pertaining to the expansion of European gas pipelines to directly compete with Russia. Going against the American-backed sanctions which have been implemented on the Islamic Republic of Iran for years, the European Union would comply with the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges which would see a practical nullification of all sanctions. The European Union would also be launching a full cooperation with the nations in the Caucasus region to construct the Trans-Caucasian Gas Pipeline. This proposed plan would go from Iranian gas facilities, through Azerbaijan and Georgia, and into the Black Sea. If completed, the pipeline could undercut Russian prices and eliminate one of their few advantages in negotiations.

IRAN PUT TO TEST AS ESTABLISHMENT AND YOUTH MOVEMENTS CLASH FOLLOWING KHAMENEI’S DEATH
By Eric Ancel

Protests begin to look violent

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death echoed throughout the Middle East. In Israel and parts of Saudi Arabia, there was much celebration in the streets. Mass vigils were held in honor of the late Ayatollah in Lebanon, Syria, and parts of Iraq. But in Iran, analysts can only describe the situation as chaos. Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani, claiming to be operating under the Ayatollah’s final instruction, has declared to be the interim leader while the Assembly of Experts begin to deliberate on who to pick as the next Supreme Leader.

Following the end of the mourning period and Qassem Soleimani’s formal announcement as the interim leader, protests erupted throughout Iran’s universities, with many pressuring the Assembly of Experts to appoint a reformist to take the mantle as Supreme Leader. These protests have gotten violent, with some rumors and initial reports being released that Qassem Soleimani may have authorized excess force to pacify the protestors. Eshaq Jahangiri, the President of Iran and a technocratic reformist, has expressed outrage and shock regarding the violence. Based on information gathered and presented to the media, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps is holding him under house arrest.

Mohammad Javad Zarif, Foreign Minister of Iran, and several Iranian delegates in Switzerland have all come to form the Iranian Democratic People’s Representative League, claiming to be the legitimate authorities in Iran, and have declared support for Eshaq Jahangiri to be the interim leader. Time can only tell if the fledgling student movement for reform gains traction, or if the movement and her supporters will be crushed like many others.

UN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSIONER: EXCESSIVE FORCE LAW FACILITATES EXECUTIONS, STAGED CRIME SCENES IN BRAZIL'S DRUG WAR
By Juan Pablo

Brazilian police brutality

Last month, Brazil’s second largest city was shaken by the deadliest shootout in recent memory. According to the government, the incident started when a military police patrol returned fire at a convoy of gunmen on a back alley in Rocinha in the southeastern state of Rio de Janeiro, one of the most violent in Brazil. Trouble erupted within the Rocinha favela, with a five-hour firefight that left 36 alleged gang members dead during which residents say they were forced to dive for cover on the floors of their homes as several hundred military police closed off the streets. Rocinha, home to an estimated 100,000 people, remained tense in the days that followed, echoing sporadically to the sound of gunfire. Thousands of children had to stay home for a week because their schools shut down. The confrontation also claimed the life of one soldier and raised questions about the authority of the police to use excessive force, reviving the specter of notorious cases from the past. By death toll, it’s the deadliest incident by Brazil’s military police not including riots and forced evictions.

Police acknowledge having shot dead more than 600 suspects during drug interdiction operations since the Expansion Bolsa Família 2024 was signed into law four months ago, which included a controversial rider provision explicitly authorizing law enforcement to use “excessive force.” Police say victims were shot by officers in self-defence during legitimate anti-drug operations. Human rights monitors believe many of them were executed extra-judicially.

These beliefs were reinforced this week when the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights published a report claiming military police arbitrarily executed at least 22 of 36 suspected gang members killed during the Rocinha shootout and then moved bodies and firearms to fake a more extensive gun battle. Among the questions raised from the official reports the commission examined was “why did a Brazilian soldier shoot a wounded young man who was not a threat to his life six times in the head?” Two witnesses heard by the UN, one a retired police intelligence officer and the other an active-duty commander, challenged the government’s explanations for the shootouts.

According to them, gang members will usually surrender after a strong enough show of force from police who will then execute the detainees, who are almost always disarmed, then plant the guns at the crime scene to justify the use of deadly force. The testimonials said officers plant guns in the dead suspect’s hand and pull the trigger with the victim’s finger so forensic testing will show that the suspect fired the gun. According to the UN, the new law authorizing excessive force in drug interdiction operations has only made extrajudicial murders like these easier.

Brazil’s Commission on Human Rights has reviewed the report and the accounts could open up new leads in ongoing investigations, according to its chairman. Government officials confirmed receiving the report as well but were not available for further comments. “We should do all we can to follow any lead that could ultimately shed light on these killings with the view to ultimately holding the perpetrators to account,” said Brazil’s human rights commissioner. The fresh claims come amid growing criticism of the drug war. The country’s influential Catholic Church called the excessive force law a “reign of terror.” The campaign has also sparked street protests and lawsuits.

The elections for the European Parliament saw the growth of several parties. The EPP and S&D garnered 200 and 180 seats respectively; together with Renew taking 95 and the Greens-EGA taking 98, Pro-European groups expectedly dominated. Out of the Eurosceptic or neutral parties, ID managed to gain the largest percentage with 53 seats followed by the new ES which took 44. Finally, GUE-NGL took 25, and non-inscripts managed only 10 seats, by far the lowest in European history... Continue Reading ⟶

The Democratic Progressive Party secured another victory in Taiwan. At her inauguration speech, Tsai Ing-wen made several vague remarks at the idea of Taiwanese sovereignty. The phrasing of these remarks has left analysts concerned of a possible independence referendum... Continue Reading ⟶

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The Cameroonian government, which has largely served loss after loss for the past year, managed to seize the city of Mankarin after assistance arrived from France. This in light of offensives from both CLIP in the North, with assistance from what is believed to be Algeria, though the claims are largely unfounded. The offensive largely broke down before completion, however, with a large amount of disorganization within CLIP militias causing the offensive to stall at Goho... Continue Reading ⟶

Sino-Indian relations are “absolutely stagnant” says Center for Strategic and International Studies... Continue Reading ⟶

Small protests in Latvia over language law, KNAB investigations into pinnacle figures of independent Latvia. The investigations are expected to drag on for months longer than expected, many citizens suspecting that the problem is more deep-rooted than initially suspected... Continue Reading ⟶

Crimean government lowers taxes on a fishing village near the Sea of Azov... Continue Reading ⟶

The National Democratic Alliance in India manages to gain a majority coalition with a margin of 2%. On the back of the dissolution of the Lok Sabha to call for re-elections, many supporters of the opposition coalition, the United Progressive Alliance, are claiming that the election results were falsified... Continue Reading ⟶

“Lukashenko for us! No Kremlin in Minsk!” Belarusians throughout the country decry the Union State on grounds that Moscow will impose a puppet in Minsk, rally behind Lukashenko to stay as leader of Belarus... Continue Reading ⟶

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The Arusha Conference over Somalia, while getting Russia to back down, has failed to change the situation otherwise. Somaliland has strengthened their resolve against “foreign influence”, and ceased talks with the federal government. Unrest across Somalia and its autonomous regions has increased, as Somalis feel powerless to enact change while regionalists feel emboldened by the federal government’s inaction... Continue Reading ⟶

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by **St George Territory** » Sat Apr 18, 2020 8:58 pm

FRENCH LEGISLATION

French Vocational Education Reform of 2023
For to long the French Republic has suffered greatly with unemployment, surveys and investigations have brought to light that while there has been a period of economic growth, it has failed to reduce the unemployment, primarily the reasons for this are that there is an immense skill gap found to be harming potential growth and leaving many French unable to reap the benefits of the economic growth, this reform will seek to:
1.) Rectify the skills gap to meet the requirements of a growing economy.
2.) Provide vocational education to citizens of France and the European Union.
3.) Provide businesses with essential skilled workers.
4.) Invest in French vocational and Universities to ensure that they are able to withstand the quantity of persons seeking education.

With these goals in mind, the French government will reallocate €899 million from the department of Solidarity, Readaptation and Equal Opportunities, and €15 million from the Department of the Army, and combine the new department with the budget for Investments for the Future to facilitate the ability to expand universities and colleges that will directly begin to grow not only France's workforce by providing free education, but those of the European Union that after a period of working three years in an in demand job, will be allowed to return to their home country with their degree and on the job training, greatly benefiting both France and the greater economy of the European Union.

With this act any person who lacks a disability and is not elderly will be required to consult with a social worker towards possible vocational positions. An advertisement campaign will likewise take place focusing primarily on rural communities and migrant communities in urban communities. Construction to expand the Universities and Vocational schools will take place at once, opening campuses in rural communities and developing online means to suit communities unable to attend campuses outside of their region.

Along with this a separate fund of €500 million will be allotted to assist small businesses and the trades in hiring full time staff by covering fifty percent of the workers first year of employment, with fifteen percent for the following year, to ensure continual employment. Full time shall be classified as forty-plus hours a week.

This reform is open to future amendments as a living document.

For: 489
Against: 88

FRENCH LEGISLATION

To advance one's rural economy, it is prudent to look towards the profession that has sustained humanity for as long as history has been written, that industry being agriculture, the purpose of this reform is to implement fact-based practices throughout France to develop the French agricultural sector, primarily by using other European Union tactics that have proven effective in areas that they have been implemented. France is a leader in European agriculture, with an estimated 730,000 farms a total of seven percent of the French workforce is employed by agriculture or related industries, with this reform the government of France seeks to increase the amount of workers that the agricultural industry is able to hire, targeting specifically youth and migrant labour.

1.) The Agriculture ministry shall lobby the European Union for an additional €1.5 Billion
2.) Of this fund, €500 million shall be allocated towards assisting owners of agricultural property exceeding 50 hectares with the hiring of workers by supplementing fifty percent of the salary of the worker.
3.) €750 million of the fund shall be to consolidate food production, as detailed in the Polish bill, Agricultural Food Revitalization Bill, 2024 in the effort of increasing efficiency, by uniting business leaders in the effort of growth.
4.) €150 million shall be allocated towards disaster funds in the event of drought, excessive rains or other events that may result in reduction of production.
5.) €50 million shall be allocated towards an advertisement campaign to be spearheaded by Department of Agriculture in the effort to grow the image of French agriculture.
6.) The remaining €50 million shall be reserved to improve the French fishing industry, focusing on oversea departments, where it shall be assigned to assist in hiring workers and invest in equipment for fishermen with an interest free loan of €50,000.
6i.) The fishing season shall be extended by two weeks temporarily by two years as an incentive the the fishing industry.
7.) In the event that the extra funds are denied by the European Union, the French government shall review ways and means of acquiring the necessary funds to fund the Agricultural reform.

For: 547
Against: 29[/box]

French labour laws are to be scrutinized and reviewed for potential ways to alleviate stress upon employers as a means of lessening the unemployment rate, suggestions that are being implementing is reducing severance pay and allowing companies that hire less than 150 people to negotiate salaries and other benefits, these are proving to be very controversial.

As well, the National Assembly shall form a commission of accountants to review potential waste within the French government with an allotted budget of €250 million.

Tomorrow, at dawn, at the hour when the countryside whitens,
I will depart. You see, I know you wait for me.
I will go through the forest and over the mountains.
I cannot stay far from you any longer. -Demain, dès l'aube, Victor Hugo

It was a long day, they all started to feel like they drag on, it had been an emergency meeting of his cabinet to discuss the situation in Sahel, Macron could help but gaze at the Seine, that ancient river. But in a moment he was brought back to reality. "Monsieur Président, we were discussing the Sahel." announced one of the generals at the table who had been invited by Madame Parly, minister of the Army. Général d'armée François Lecointre and the head of the French Foreign Legion, Le général Denis Mistral and Bernard Émié, Director of the Directorate-General for External Security.

"Yes, how many did you say were killed in the attack?" Macron responded

"Two, and seven wounded, the bastards are getting brave." General Mistral responded, adding, "We need more reinforcements or a change of strategy, every time we do fight them, we slaughter them Monsieur Président, but it is not enough." To which Macron leaned back in his seat and thought.

"You may have your men, I want to see these 'Young Africans' put down as much as you, perhaps it may be necessary to recruit partners in the region?"

François Lecointre spoke up and said, "We have the Spaniards willing to assist in the campaign, which would give us the option of being able to take more ground against them and train local forces."

"Good, I will be contacting the Spaniards to discuss what they can offer, perhaps maybe the British can be approached- they seem to have the same interests in a 'stabilized Africa." Macron said, even the word 'stable' felt like a dirty word, the truth was that perhaps the British would like to help keep status quo, that felt more honest. "We are in troubled waters. The Chinese have more money then they know what to do with, our advantage seems that we're the only thing that they know."

Lecointre carried on, "There is another option that we could use, M. Parly?"

Florence Parly quickly spoke up, "The East Africans may be of some use, surely they must also recognize the danger of the Young African movement, and a fight against Islamic extremism may prove to be of some value to them considering their neighbours."

Macron thought on this, "We mustn't be to hasty in this, but I do like the idea, I will see if they would like a tour around Paris and discuss it as a possibility. Now, onto further strategy."

Parly spoke again, "Hearts and minds Mon Président, as General Mistral has pointed out, we are winning in the field, but we are in desperate need of finding a way to work with the people. We are suggesting a campaign of building roads, mosques, irrigation, rebuilding homes, spearheaded by the engineers after an area has been cleared."

Macron interrupted with a sigh, "Yes, I suppose that is an option that we should take, along with increasing surveillance in the region."

For the first time Director Émié spoke up, "We are more than able to implement a campaign using drones, primarily for surveillance, but we can reach out to the Americans for purchasing additional reaper drones. As well as to bring pressure on the Fulani's."

'Mérde, Mérde, Mérde.' Macron thought to himself, what a time to decide the fate of the Francafrique, a thousand different enemies, and few friends to count on. "An additional three thousand Legionnaires will be able to address it, containing the second foreign engineer regiment for the purpose of construction... hearts and minds, what a battle, no?" Macron chuckled to himself as he then continued, "Inform the East Africans that we wish to invite Emmanuel Ugirashebuja to Paris, and speak with the Spanish and British that I would like to speak with them, contact the Italians as well. I suppose an additional budget for building up the Sahel could be discussed, €2 billion?" Nods of agreement were had as Macron made a note to speak with the leaders of the assembly after the meeting. He waved the cabinet off and turned his chair to resume his look at the Seine, the ancient river, so full of beauty.

by **Hanoverian Great Britain** » Sun Apr 19, 2020 1:05 am

THE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN
المملكة الأردنية الهاشمية
Al-Mamlakah al-’Urdunniyyah Al-Hāshimiyyah

Jordanian Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Khaled AlHneifat to open dialogue with French government concerning agricultural development

A recent announcement by the government revealed that the Minister for Agriculture of Jordan, Dr. Khaled AlHneifat is seeking to convene with the French government in regards to agricultural matters. The decision, which was received widely among Cabinet members and the public was seen as a huge and important step in combating Jordan's long standing issues in regards to its domestic economy. As a country in the Middle East, Jordan suffers from a huge scarcity of water and unlike its neighbours such as Saudi Arabia, the Jordanian economy is mostly depended on foreign aid which is proven dangerous to the survivability of the state.

Several rumours were raised that the government had initially considered on enlisting Chinese aid as if to renege on their previous commitments but no official statements has since been published by the government whether they would be closing their doors on other foreign countries.

Raghadan Palace, Amman, Jordan

It had been a usual day for the new king Hussein II, who since succeeding his father upon the latter's unfortunate passing in 2021 has seen the country through its developments and also through its harshest times. While he went to sit down in his office, he kept thinking about the scheduled phone call with the President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Bahari.

"Peace be upon you Mr Buhari, I am Hussein II of Jordan, I thank you again for your willingness to accommodate your time for this moment", soon after exchanging friendly greetings, Hussein quickly got to work. "I believe the situation with Boko Haram has not seen any wide progress?", questioned Hussein. "Not exactly Your Majesty. Over the years, we have seen some progress in curbing these terrorists with our improved air force, thanks to your assistance but however, they have chosen to go deeper underground and unsuspecting ambushes has been on a considerable rise in the locations where they used to reside", explained Buhari thoroughly. Surely, he was enthusiastic himself when the new king Hussein informed him that he would continue to pursue Jordan's commitment in the ongoing fight against the militant group. After listening to the "briefing" for a few minutes, the king quickly made up his mind.

"It's like this Mr Buhari, I am aware that I and my country are always committed into assisting your country in this war, but I believe that in order for it to succeed, there must be an execution of a new phase and strategy", the king's sudden request had been both shocking and mesmerising to Buhari. For him, though he knew well that the presence of Jordanian SOF operators would greatly help in downsizing the conflict, he could not allow it to turn into a full scale war between the two sides for the sake of his country. At the same time, Hussein was adamant, as he moved to reassure Buhari about his intentions and its goals. "While we are aware of the savagery of these militants, I can assure you that it is our number one priority to ensure that our operators would be able to quell most of the effective resistance. The remainder is up to you". After about 5 minutes later, Hussein left the room with a seemingly ambitious expression, thankful that it was finally time for them to take direct action, whatever it takes.

by **Latvijas Otra Republika** » Sun Apr 19, 2020 4:53 am

LATVIJA

Latvija 2025 - Mūzika - Now tuning in to Radio Skonto - Mūzika - Latvija 2025

Architect of Populism

*Rudolfs Meroni

One man, the owner of more than five companies and the holder of a dozen lucrative shares, can be pinpointed as the benefactor to the now incumbent KPV-LV party. Rudolfs Meroni, self proclaimed 'employer of Latvia', and well known ally to Artuss Kaimiņš who founded KPV-LV. When Aivars Lembergs took public flack for years as being a simple oligarch of Ventspils, Meroni quietly maintained his ties to the many leading political figures of the coastal city. His opportunity for political leverage came in 2022, the invasion of Latgale and the resulting parliamentary elections were a perfect storm that guided his financed party of choice to power.
He's almost unknown to the public eye, a shadow that backed the foundation of the European Sovereign Group and has been in the back line of nearly all those that are in power now. He's held several private meetings with Gobzems, out of business interests of course, all the while doing nearly all to avoid the attention of the populace. His secrecy, little media coverage, have hidden any traces of his personal goals or doctrine. What is known, to a select some, is that his opposition to Lembergs will be made apparent in such an obvious manner that none would even think for a moment it was his orchestrated plan, having a proven-radical in decision making populist party at the helm of all such an action would cover all of his footprints. The present face of the oligarchy will witness it's downfall.

Lembergs Faces Sate Seizure of Shares in Port

*Lembergs faces multiple legal challenges

On 7 April 2020 State Police of Kurzeme began a criminal process into Lembergs due to claims of defamation from a politician named Valdis Kristovskis, a local city deputy. Lembergs had continually stated Kristovskis was a past agent for the KGB in City Council meetings, despite a lack of apparent evidence to satisfy the case. In December 2019 The U.S. Department of State introduced a travel ban to Lembergs and his family, stating he had made serious breaches with his corruption. All of this wasn't enough to satisfy direct action by the Latvian government until this present moment. The ministry of the interior has stated that due to a legal probe that has been launches against Aivars Lembergs and past jeopardising actions his share of Ventspils Free Port will be seized by the state, ensuring that the Latvian Government has total control of the port while also limiting the monetary gain of Lembergs.
The total revenue of Latvia should increase as a result of the seizure while perhaps also increasing Latvia's ability to trade on the Baltic sea and benefit economically through that. The seizure of assets also aided KPV-LV politically, as one of their main goals written in the party's manifesto was for all large Latvian ports to be nationalised.

Senatne Think-Tank Established

*Official logo of Senatne, adapted from an obscure journal prior 1930

A group of academics, professors and other such 'intellectuals' have manifested their shared interests in a think-tank dedicated to the uncovering of Ancient Baltic history and cultural backgrounds. Having some ties with the Ministry of Culture, the Think-Tank has the main objective of chronicling and relating archaeology of Baltic settlements to it's past in a cohesive way. It has also delved into linguistic backgrounds and history, exploring past Baltic runic calendars and manifesting a culturally Baltic script that could be followed in reading and writing. Much of Latvian history has been based on the studies and accounts of foreign intellectuals, the Think-Tank has aimed for a native and 'pure' account of Latvian culture. Due to past disinformation attempts and conquests by foreign powers a large amount of history has been reduced to legends and myths, evidence destroyed and history re-written to best suit those in power. Their first studies have gone into the ancient Prussian King of Widewuto, spiritual figure Krīvu Krīvs and Namejs all in pursuit to create a distinct account of their achievements and lives.

The Balts once inhabited a large territory to the extent of modern day Moscow and Belarus, evidenced by numerous archaeological findings in such territories. Raising public awareness of such historical truths and the influence of Baltic culture on Europe would be detrimental in improving the identity of the everyday Latvian.

'Republic of Latgale' and 'Virumaa' Unrecognised

The Latvian Republic, in multiple press conferences by government officials, has stated that 'Latgale' and 'Virumaa' are illegitimate 'Republics'. The overall census from the Ministry of Foreign affairs and the Interior is that the occupied dominions of Russia are attempting to imitate the well established democracies of Estonia and Latvia. The neighbouring government & elections will not be recognised, including the Latvian-Russian Union Party that has defected to the Russian Federation (who's politicians have now broken the constitutional oath in honouring Latvia's sovereignty). Prime Minister Gobzems has said in a briefing that he 'hopes other European nations shall also respect our territorial integrity and historic homeland'. The actions of the Russian Federation has also meant that the 2007 Russo-Latvian border treaty is now nullified, meaning Latvia shall continue to justify it's claim on the small pre-WW2 territory of Abrene.

No dealings or diplomatic relations will be established with both 'Republics', neither embassies nor formal meetings shall be formalised officially. The territories in the East will be named appropriately the 'Russian Occupation Zone'. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also stated that refugee status will be given on a case by case basis as to allow for thorough background check in each individual or family. President Jūlija Stepaņenko has also made a statement that the territories are artificial, urging any minority to reconsider if they want to live under a 'leather boot' or the European community of nations'.

Addressing KNAB Investigation Extension

*Prime Minister Aldis Gobzems addressing the media, outside the steps of his residence

Perhaps due to internal struggles within the KNAB agency or due to the true extent of Communist related corruption, the investigations have met a prolonging extension. This has been greeted with concerns from cabinet members and senior officials, it indicates a very serious flaw in Latvian democracy and the the very political establishment it has been built upon. Some have called for the Internal security bureau to aid in the investigation, such calls have been largely ignored by the cabinet due to fears that it would undermine the investigation process of the KNAB by adding bureaucracy to their work. It is also to note that this unfolding of events has lead to some legitimacy to corruption related conspiracy theories, sparking more open debate around free journalists and political pundits who would otherwise instantly dismiss such notions altogether.

This morning the Prime Minister, Aldis Gobzems, has made multiple statements to several outlets in order to clear the situation. Some questions were more critical than others, his responses didn't vary much. When asked what will be his general moves in order to aid the KNAB, as it is overwhelmed by the current situation, he has stated the he's considering forcing the VVD (Sate Security Service) in allowing the KNAB to access monitored and continually accumulated information on the individuals targeted. Under his benchmark legislation, the Patriot Act, such a move would be theoretically be possible and such information would in general be available as the Patriot Act has put in place powers relating to monitoring digital activity. Along side other things asked, a constantly repeated 'what if any corruption is more deep rooted' was what sparked him to say that he'll 'flip the table'. He followed on by explaining that the 'Republic shall serve the people and not the other way around', indicating that populism is the main driver behind his internal domestic policy. What this will do to the stability and framework of Latvia is unknown, for since Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga there hasn't been a leading Latvian political figure that has the intention of bring such large scale fundamental reforms.

As of the afternoon of the same day, Gobzems announced in an official state sanctioned statement that the KNAB will in fact collaborate with the Security Agency. A deal was reached between both agencies, any individuals under investigation by the KNAB shall have all possible evidenced surfaced by the VVD. Allowed due to the near total control of the cabinet that KPV-LV exerts. The aim being that the investigations will become more streamlined and effective, making up for the delay. Critics say that this might set a dangerous precedent for Latvian democracy & policing matters.

KPV-LV Discusses Electoral Pact with Coalition

*Artuss Kaimiņš pondering one late-evening in the Saeima

The current situation involving language reform protests and a prolonged investigation may put a strain on the electability and popularity of KPV-LV, although coverage of the protests dose put media attention to the Latvian language orientated policies passed. Losing the KPV-LV majority would cause a serious strain in passing any further reforms or legislation, resorting to parliamentary factionalism would also further erode the public's trust in the government. Winning the upcoming 2026 Parliamentary election has been the main goal for the founder Artuss Kaimiņš after the European Parliamentary elections had passed. The current situation may or may not be a 'make' or 'break' situation, that all depends on the manoeuvring of Party Chairman & founder Artuss Kaimiņš.

After discussing various pragmatic strategies with fellow party members, he realised that the obvious is staring him in the face. The officially named 'Brīvības un Patriotu Koalīcija', the other two Coalition Parties could potentially be inclined to an electoral pact due to proximity of ideologies. Although slowly incorporating JKP (Conservatives) and NA (Establishment Nationalists) into KPV-LV would be difficult, as a pragmatic approach would be required in legislation and dealing with the deputies of each party. Artuss Kaimiņš right now feels the leading KPV-LV has done enough in satisfying both of their political ambitions, NA with education language legislation and JKP (which runs on a platform of anti-corruption) with the recent investigation. Promising to further both of their goals, with a proven track record, would be an easier sell to them.

Kaimiņš has gone with a proposition to both parties. The deal includes that JKP and NA may run independently in Latvian municipal elections without any interference, that present JKP and NA Saeima deputies will be granted ballot spaces (in their region) for the KPV-LV in the 2026 election ballot list, that these ballot spots will be reserved for each party if the deputy in question is out, JKP and NA politicians go under the KPV-LV Parliamentary Fraction due to aligned goals. Sacrificing potential municipality control seems trivial for the KPV-LV chairman considering he has the potential of further absorbing any of his coalition members.

Latvia Welcomes New U.S Incumbent

*Latvian Embassy in the U.S

Despite the Latvian public's now negative perception of America after the diplomatic and military 'betrayal', a sentiment now named 'Liela nodevība', the Latvian foreign ministry sees a new opening for somewhat renewed U.S relations. With Hampton out the picture, the embassy plans to use the Baltic-American Freedom Foundation and Joint Baltic American National Committee in order to normalise diplomatic relations after a cold silence. Though a full restoration of relations between Latvia and America, or even Europe and America, is a near enough a far-gone concept, the assigned ambassador to the U.S has congratulated Lynne Cheney on her recent election & has wished her success in her administration.

The Latvian President Jūlija Stepaņenko, second female to be one in the country, has made a public statement in full support of Lynne Cheney's accomplishment. Stepaņenko has supported previous Republican Administrations in the past when she had been a deputy.

-A Letter From the Latvian President-
- Jūlija Stepaņenko -

To President-Elect Lynne Cheney

I dearly congratulate your success in surpassing your expectations and rising to your honourable high office. As one female President to another I wish you future success in future domestic endeavours, may your administration reign long. Our Republic hopes our relations may once again be tolerable and shared in mutual understanding, we hope you share the same sentiment. We also hope that the NBA brings unveils more Latvian talent, such as Kristaps Porziņģis, so that we may cooperate through the shared expression of sport. Wishing you all the best Madam President.

Military Matters

The Military of Latvia has increasingly stressed the need for the development of military general staff and a professional delay & response military that could withstand foreign invasions for an appropriate time. The lack of sophisticated strategy by Latvia has also put pressure for the armed forces to request for the government's support. In order for the national armed forces to fully be capable of conflict multiple requests have been issued to CESDOT nations relating to military expertise and practical knowledge accumulation.

Encrypted CESDOT Telegram
To: the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Republic of Italy
From: the Republic of Latvia

- To further our defensive capabilities and establish closer military relations the Republic of Latvia wishes for your assistance. In development of our military strategy and the training of our national armed forces we require additional experienced external personnel. Such aid would be appreciated and go along way in furthering the aims of CESDOT.

Encrypted CESDOT Telegram
To: the French Republic
From: the Republic of Latvia

- If France sees it fit, the Republic of Latvia would like to aid any foreign interventions your military presence is active in. We would like to assist by sending a rotation of 10 officers, swapped on a monthly basis, in order to gain additional staff experience and of course aid our European ally. The Ministry of Defence, on behalf of the Latvian Republic, wishes for further French victories in their operations.

Premier Nights

Two pills and a line in the stalls, now onto the straight cognac with ice. A crumpled up ten euro note to the bartender. Five women in neon dresses next to you. Lights and music in the back. Strobes, flashes with waving beats of music that rock you. Yet you're still just invisible, just a nobody. You hear someone say 'ain't you that guy' until his speech turns to incoherent rambling. The suits, the money cars and power means nothing, chasing that high everyone wants just gets you back to here. Dark nights are the only thing that keep your heart beating, and right now your waiting in solitude until your sober mundanity passes. You see, you might be the most powerful man in your country, but that doesn't fill the unexplainable vacuum inside your very core.

Your eyes sharpen and blur, a sizzling heat comes over your forehead. Now you might be sitting on a barstool, the next you're among a faceless crowd lifting your arms into the fog of steam machines. It's funny, just like those machines, the girl in your taxi you're coming home with is a facade, a brief artificial spectacle, yet you're too gone to care. But maybe you don't even want to care, maybe she'll fix you for that one night.

Tomorrow's a work day, tomorrow you'll come back to preach about things you don't even understand. A slave, a simple face, for an uncontrollable machine who's uncontrollable direction remains a mystery for you.

by **The New Greek Republic** » Mon Apr 20, 2020 6:18 pm

ABB

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Abottabad, Pakistan

Sitting quietly while only somewhat listening to his advisers brief him on the current happenings around the world and around Pakistan, President Zadari found himself daydreaming of his vision for the country. He was already a year into his term as the head of state, however, he felt he'd accomplished very little in this timeframe. The wasn't a deterring thought for Zadari, rather, another motivating factor for him. He could feel the constraints of his term breathing down his neck already. And while what his advisers were saying to him was very much important to him, he couldn't shake the feeling that he needed to take action on the issues that had been hard pressing the country for some time now.

Failures in education, allotment of terrorism within the country, neglect of social injustices, and shortcomings in regards to developing all corners of Pakistan have all led to a situation that appeared to be bleak at best to the president. He had taken some normal measures to try and counteract these issues such as more investment in basic education, increasing funding and resources for local police forces and what not but Zadari wanted results and wanted them now. He loved his country, but he knew it had it's issues and he was determined to fix them, no matter the price.

"..and that's a major reason for.." One advisor spoke.

"Hold that thought please." Zadari interrupted. "I'll be honest here fellas, these matters seem no more important than they were yesterday and seem trivial to me." His advisers looked confused. "Quite frankly, I am SICK. OF. HEARING. NOTHING."

"You guys come to me, make these suggestions, and they sound good on paper. They do. But, here we are. Months after I assumed office and I've seen nothing come from these suggestions. Still, Pakistanis struggle gaining proper education. Still, Pakistanis are dying from senseless violence. Still, income inequality ravages swathes of the country. Worst of all, we have put NO pressure on the Indian government to loosen its grip over Kashmir."

"Today, we're changing Pakistan. I am changing Pakistan."

ABBOTTABAD - President Zadari released an official statement today, introducing sweeping changes and reforms to the nation. This comes after Zadari has grown increasingly frustrated with the lack of progress his current policies have shown and hopes that the new ones show much faster results than those they succeeded. One of the more questionable changes the president is taking is a change to Pakistan's formal name, revoking the "Islamic" from it's title stating that it "..unnecessarily intertwines religion and the state..". The President declared that from this date going forward the state shall now be known, formally, as the "Democratic Republic of Pakistan."

The President's memo also unveiled several new measures to combat domestic terrorism by increasing federal funding to local police forces and granting them access to military grade equipment. To go along with this, several new social programs were introduced to help further Zardari's development efforts. Government-sponsored education for all aged 3-18 has been made mandatory by the state, quarterly standardized testing is also to be implemented following the current school year. A brand new program called the Rural Investment Plan showcases the President's intent to heighten the standard of living across the country. The plan dictates that the government will invest in agriculture and manufacturing industries and will also assist in attracting private investors to do the same.

Further announcements included the President also stating that he intends to simplify the nation's healthcare system and has been working closely with lawmakers to do so. Zardari also again condemned the brutal occupation of the Kashmir region by the Indian government, calling their actions "..despicable and deplorable..", accompanying his condemnations was a list of sanctions towards the Indian economy effectively cutting them out of the Pakistani economy almost entirely. The president pleaded to other world leaders that action needed to be taken to combat the tyranny taking place in Kashmir."

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT FROM THE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN
To: Whomever it may concern, People's Republic of China
From: The Office of President Zardari, Democratic Republic of Pakistan

It is with great honor that I write this letter to the great nation of the People's Republic of China. What China has been able to accomplish throughout history and in modern times is truly amazing and inspiring. Throughout my presidency I have had my shortcomings in regards to reaching out to other government and establishing a dialogue between them and Pakistan. That is apprehensive. No more I say. And that is the point of this transcript.

I wish to send a diplomat to Beijing in hopes of establishing a better relationship between Pakistan and China then, pending the first meeting's success, host a Chinese diplomat in Abbottabad to solidify the relationship. In these meetings, I hope to achieve agreements regarding our economies, military coordination, and unparalleled diplomacy between our to sovereignties. I hope to hear back soon to good news.

Signed,
Bilawal Zardari

by **The National Dominion of Hungary** » Tue Apr 21, 2020 12:46 am

Rzeczpospolita Polska

Fears

President Kaczynski sat down and sipped his tea waiting for the "guests" to arrive. Kaczynski rubbed his temples with his index fingers, hoping that the headache that had been plaguing him since he was so abruptly woken up by the phone would soon fade away. The day before had been yet another long eighteen work hour day filled with meeting after meeting with no let up. Not even his strongest legal painkiller had managed to fight off the pain emanating from his head. With a pop from the pill container, he doubled his dosage of painkillers and watched as the Palace staff prepared tea and coffee for the friends, generals, ministers and advisors on their way to meet him. He smiled as he could feel one of his cats walking up and sitting down, watching him intently. He petted the cat but the feline's attention soon snapped to the door which opened and soon several men entered with quick, long paces. Prime Minister Andrzej Duda, Foreign Minister Witold Wasczcykowski, Chief of the General Staff - General Rajmund Andrzejczak, Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak and last but not least the Operations Director of the Agencja Wywiadu - Lieutenant Colonel Piotr Krawczyk.

"How's your head doing?" Prime Minister and former President Duda asked as he pulled out one the chairs and sat down.

"Not as bad as it once was an hour ago, although I’ve just taken some stronger painkillers which are also helping." President Jaroslaw Kaczynski replied to his protege, taking a sip of his tea.

"Here's the initial report, bare-bones as all hell as for now, we are still in contact with our sources." Poitr Krawczyk said and slid an envelope over to the President marked with large, red 'CONFIDENTIAL' letters.

"It's happening then..." The President sighed. "Belarus is gone. That's some shit..." The existence of Belarus was despite the fact that the nation was a Russian ally a step between Poland and Russia proper.

"Kaliningrad is larger issue now that it has been for three decades." Prime Minister Duda said tersely tapping his fingers on the table. "It could very well act as a springboard to outflank us just as the Nazis did in 39' when it was still Königsberg. We need to increase our presence in the region to project a credible deterrent posture."

"Very much so." General Andrzejczak and took off his cap, placing it on the table and taking a cup of coffee. "I suggest we raise another division of the Land Forces centered in Grajewo and covering the eastern part of the border with Kaliningrad as well as the northern half of the Belarusian border. Then the 18'th Mechanized can focus on the southern half of the Belarusian border and Ukraine."

"That would be costly..." The President said, leaning back in his chair. "Another divisions worth of equipment taken from orders that were supposed to modernize our current forces will have to taken to raise this new force to our modern standard."

"It has to be done." Foreign Minister Waszczykowski added. "Not only to project credible deterrence but to reassure our Baltic allies that Poland will keep the land corridor between them and the rest of the EU and CESDOT open if Moscow tries anything else in the region. However, I do hope that the upcoming Russian state visit to Latvia can calm things down."

"Hope won't be enough though." General Andrzejczak said. "We still need to increase our capabilities in the air, at sea. The Armed Forces are still lacking strength in the air and in our air defense capability. The Patriot deal and the F35 Lightning deal helped to alleviate the problem but it still doesn't solve the issue. We need to improve the medium and long range air-defense capability of our Ground Forces, just as we must invest in raising our situational awareness capabilities. I have a number of things in mind. And we should also start getting rid of our old combat jets, replacing them with newer models. Then we can sell the MiGs and Sukhois which are simply not cost-effective in their current state." The general said, shaking his head.

"I agree that we need to prepare our defenses but we also need to improve the efforts of our intelligence efforts in Belarus and in Russia, the AW is currently formulating a plan of action which we will put on your desk as soon as possible. The AW needs more funding to invest in agents and assets to properly counter the threat of SVR and GRU operations in Poland."

"We have to reach out eastward as well." The Foreign Minister said. "We have been talking to the Ministry of Internal Affairs on a program to stimulate the return of the Polish minorities in the post-Soviet states."

"Ever since 2005 the Polish minority in Belarus has been facing increasing levels of repression, scapegoating and marginalization from Lukashenko's Russian-backed regime." Duda said. "With the outbursts of support for the regime from the Belarusian people, well I for one am worried that their plight might get worse."

"Agreed." The President said. "I want a report from the Ordnance Board on my desk ASAP general." He said and then turned to the Prime Minister. "Also, we cannot forget the Manufacturing Industry Support Act and the 2030 Infrastructural Re-haul Program, will they be ready to be put to the Sejm later this month?"

And so, another 18-hour workday began for the President.

First models of EMPL cars go into production

Poland, despite being one of the largest car manufacturers in Europe has no large-scale native automotive company, but that may be about to change. Launched in 2016 was ElectroMobility Poland S.A, the neonate company was quickly jumped on by the state, with the country's state-owned energy companies purchasing much of the company's stocks and footing much of the development costs for the vehicles as well as nearly half the bill for the factory which recently opened in Psary on the outskirts of Wroclaw. Initially planned to have a production capacity of 100 000 vehicles per year, the plant will employ over 3000 people and has been constructed with plans in mind to expand the operation to produce 200 000 vehicles per year. In this company the state saw a chance for Poland to use the growing electric vehicle revolution to catapult a Polish brand to the international forefront as it is after all easier to acquire a strong position in a developing market than to try and compete with well-established players in equally well-established markets.

The vehicles have been tailored to primarily fit the needs of local national and regional customers in terms of costs, accessories and parameters but there are hopes to export them to nations with similar levels of wage to provide a simpler, cheaper alternative to more expensive western-made electric vehicles to local consumers, as the larger Tatra model will have a base price-tag of 95 000 Zlotys, a bit above 36 000 USD. Coming out on the mass-market, EMPL will find itself competing with established companies such as Nissan with the Nissan Leaf, the Volkswagen E-Golf and Hyundai Ioniq. A large scale public-relations campaign has been launched nationally and internationally to promote the brand to the tune of several million dollars largely payed for by the state-owned energy companies who are the largest shareholders as EMPL hopes to leap onto the electric vehicle market.

PZL and IL unveil new joint project for training and light attack aircraft

With significant support from the state in the form of an RnD risk mitigation program, the Polish aviation companies PZL and IL have unveiled a mockup model of a new light attack and training airplane. Marketed immediately as a "counterinsurgency aircraft", the IL-PZL 25 Lampart or "Leopard" is to have a maximum service ceiling of 10 000 meters and a climbing rate of 35 m/s. The two companies are looking to partner with western companies, mainly French, German and Israeli to provide the electronics for the aircraft such as it's INS and is also to include an airborne weather mapping system. The engines are being developed by PZL though there are rumors that a more expensive version with two light jet engines will be made available later if interest in the aircraft proves high enough.

"We see how conflicts change in the modern era, with many nations around the world suffering from instability which gives rise to rebel movements and insurgent groups which spiral nations in regions such as the Sahel and Cameroon into civil war. We see the peacekeeping missions undertaken by France and the ones that the Polish Armed Forces themselves have participated in such as for example in Afghanistan and the Central African Republic. Fighting an irregular enemy with little anti-air capabilities using modern combat jets is simply not cost-effective given the maintenance, facilities, supplies that they require, often in remote locations along with the costs per combat-mission flight hour. This reality is what gave birth to this project, a low-cost aircraft that can land on a country road a be supplied from a medium truck." Said one representative of PZL in a press release.

This new aircraft, the IL-PZL 25 Lampart is according to the goals set by the two companies to have a unit cost of no more than 20 million dollars and a combat-mission flight hour cost of no more than 500 dollars, intended to be a low-cost system operated in low-threat environments. It is planned to be a twin-engine turboprop aircraft with it's engines in a push-configuration, the two engines are to have a combined output of 1200 kW's giving the airplane a top speed of 620 km/h. The Lampart will have a nose-mounted 23mm autocannon with 600 rounds as well as 9 hardpoints, 4 under each wing and one under the fuselage which are to be able to carry a wide variety of weapons, including precision-guided munitions. The Lampart will weigh 1800 kilograms and is to have a maximum takeoff weight of 5000 kilograms.

Policymakers at Work

The process manufacturing sector emerged as a powerhouse of Polish economic growth after the fall of the communist regime in 1989 and the subsequent market liberalization. The sector includes strong segments in vehicle manufacturing, furniture production, food processing, textile production and chemical production among others. The industrial sector is second only to the service sector in advancing Poland's competitive position and as such is poised for expanding it's share of the international market. Measures taken regarding the manufacturing sector shall be built on solid, proven advantages of the Polish economy as has the potential to become a powerful engine of growth over the coming decades. However, in order to do this some changes must be made to the current Polish growth model. Polish companies must diversify their selling points from competing on costs alone to competing on brand and technology as well, as Poland's industrial sector cannot and will not be successful on a predominantly lower labor cost model in the long term. To build scale and promote growth the following active measures will be taken by the government.

* Active Measures.
- Encourage sector consolidation in Poland as well as the acquisition of foreign players to gain scale and enter new markets, measures shall be incentivized with a 150 million Zloty fund.
- Expansion of the Polish export market in part by establishing production outside of the EU to connect directly with the markets of Africa, Asia and South America.
- Facilitating the move up in the value chain for producers by financially encouraging the development of R&D centers and investments in proven technologies by opening an investment fund of 3 billion Zlotys in state grant money. Companies may seek support from to fund through low, fixed-interest loans covering 40% of the cost of a given modernization/expansion project after private investment has already raised 60%. The sum of the grant given shall be re-payed within a period agreed upon at the application for the grant.
- Spend 850 million Zlotys yearly between 2025 and 2028 to facilitate further development of the cluster-model to promote industrial cooperation, knowledge-sharing and significantly improve the efficiency of supply chains.
- Encourage improvement to operational practices to improve and/or maintain cost advantages.

Sejm votes:
AYE: 284.
NAY: 176.

Senate votes:
AYE: 59.
NAY: 41.

The bill is passed.

There are over 735 000 poles living in the post-Soviet states and over 500 000 in those post Soviet-States that are not part of the EU. The status of Polish minorities has been in flux since the fall of the Soviet Union, for example the Polish community in Kazakhstan has generally been seen in a positive manner by the Kazakh majority while the Polish community in Belarus has since 2005 faced increasing levels of repression and persecution under the Lukashenko's Russian-backed regime. In light of the announcement on the formation of the Russian-Belorussian Union State and the subsequent outburst of pro-Lukashenko sentiments and the ongoing situation in Eastern Ukraine, the Polish government sees the current climate in the post-Soviet region as increasingly volatile and it is the fear of the government that the Polish minorities in the East may become targets of repression and scapegoating. It is the intent of the government to help the Poles of the east to return to their homeland where they can be pursue life, love, happiness and prosperity feeling safe and secure in their own country. The government will work with it's embassies, consulates, NGO's such as the Foundation of Aid to the Poles in the East and various local Polish community and cultural organizations to stimulate the return of the Eastern Polonia. Persons of polish descent who are citizens of non-EU Post-Soviet states shall have the ability to apply for a Charter of Return. The Charter will be granted to people who do not have Polish citizenship or permission to reside in Poland and who are citizens of the former Soviet Union states who declare their belonging to the Polish Nation and meet the following requirements.

* Eligibility Requirements.
- The person proves his/her relationship with Polishness by at least a basic knowledge of the Polish language, which shall be considered their native language, along with knowledge of cultivating Polish traditions and habits.
- The person submits a written declaration of belonging to the Polish Nation in the presence of a consul of the Republic of Poland or an authorized employee of a Polish cultural organisation participating in the initiative.
- The person provides documented proof that at least one of his/her parents or grandparents or two great-grandparents were of Polish nationality or held Polish citizenship.

* Charter Holder's Rights.
- The person is exempt from the obligation to have a work permit and residence permit normally required for non-EU foreigners.
- The person has the right to set up a company on the same basis as a citizen of Poland.
- The person has the right to study, do a doctorate and otherwise fully participate in the educational system on the same basis as a citizen of Poland.
- The person has the right to fully utilize the public healthcare system on the same basis as a citizen of Poland.
- The person has the right to receive pensions if retired in a similar amount to what their pension would have been had they spent their professional life in Poland employed in the same field.
- The person has the right to free admission to all state museums.
- The person's spouse/partner has the right to accompany the person and enjoy the same rights as the person in question.
- The person's children have the right to accompany the person and will enjoy the same rights as the person in question.
- The person is granted the opportunity to seek financial assistance for repatriation with the following measures. Social Housing. Monthly allowance for the first two years. Rent subsidies. The size calculated on a case by case basis.

* Rights not granted by the Charter
- Polish Citizenship, however it opens a fast-track option to acquisition of citizenship.
- As the Charter of Return does not grant Polish citizenship, it also does not grant access to free movement in the Schengen area, only giving access to enter the Republic of Poland.

Sejm votes:
AYE: 246.
NAY: 214.

Senate votes:
AYE: 52.
NAY: 48.

The fact remains that while significant progress has been made in bringing the Polish infrastructural network into the modern age, especially since joining the EU and getting access to the European Investment Bank and EU Structure Funds, there is still much that needs to be done to undo the damage left by the mismanagement and poor funding of infrastructure by the communist regime. Even though the regime fell more than thirty years ago, it's effects are still felt by our country, as are the poor decisions regarding infrastructure made during the tenure the PO Party and it's Komorowski administration. The Infrastructural Re-haul Program for 2025 - 2030 shall act as a complement to the 2017 - 2025 Infrastructural Improvement Program. While costly, these two initiatives together will do much to finally bring Poland's road and rail infrastructure into the modern age. It will provide many jobs both during construction and also after completion. A finalized infrastructural re-haul and the improved communication resulting from this will allow people to save great amounts of time spent on everyday travel as well as allow companies to save both money and time with quicker, more effective deliveries of goods. This initiative will be critical to facilitate growth opportunities for private business and improve the quality of life for the people of Poland while finally allowing us to undo the damage done by the Communist Regime. Due to the high costs, this program shall be funded in between 35% and 40% from the EU Structure Fund grants that will be given to Poland between the years of 2025 and 2030.

* Active Measures.
- Allocate a 17 billion Zlotys yearly in between the 2025 and 2030 period to construct a total of 250 kilometers of primary highway and 1500 kilometers of expressways and 80 city bypass routes to largely complete the modernization and interlinking of Poland's road systems. Thus truly allowing them to cope with modern day demands and levels of traffic. With the approximate 4000 kilometers of modern roadway including more than 250 kilometers of primary highway and 2500 kilometers of expressway built as part of the 2017-2025 Program, this will allow us to close the last remaining highway and expressway gaps in the country.
- Allocate 5 billion Zlotys yearly from 2025 to 2030 to local governments on the Gmina and Powiat level in order to facilitate the expansion of local road networks as well as improving the level of quality and maintenance on existing local roads.
- Allocate 2 billion Zlotys to local governments on the Gmina and Powiat level in order to facilitate the construction of new bridges as well as improving the level of quality and maintenance on existing bridges.
- Construct a tunnel linking western Swinoujscie to the Polish mainland to ease car traffic across the Swina river without impeding the vital ship traffic to the port of Szczecin, the tunnel will have to be 4.5 kilometers long and cost approximately 800 million Zlotys.
- Allocate a total of 6 billion Zlotys between 2025 and 2028 to construct and improve the maintenance levels of walkways and bike-routes, especially in larger cities in order to improve the safety of pedestrians and cyclists in traffic.
- Allocate 12 billion Zlotys yearly between 2025 and 2030 to either modernize or re-lay old train tracks and construct new train tracks. The total length of railways touched by the program will amount to 9000 kilometers of track overhauled/constructed. During this period, 150 railway stations shall be modernized and a further 100 new ones constructed for a total cost of 1.5 billion Zlotys. By the end of the project the government aims for all towns with a greater population than 10 000 people to have a direct rail-link of some form to the capital of the Voivodeship.
- As rail communications are expanded, improved and adapted for higher speeds, 7.5 billion Zlotys shall be invested in the purchase of 200 new locomotives and 1000 new train-cars between 2020 and 2025, Polish rolling stock manufacturers such as Newag S.A and PESA S.A shall be prioritized in these contracts.
- Raise the yearly national infrastructure maintenance funding by an additional 420 million Zlotys.

Sejm votes:
AYE: 282.
NAY: 178.

Senate votes:
AYE: 55.
NAY: 45.

The bill is passed.

In light of the formation of the Russian-Belorussian Union State and the memories of Virumaa so recent in the memories of the East, the Polish government will take the steps necessary to secure Poland's territorial integrity and it's ability to respond to attacks against itself and it's allies in CESDOT, the Visegrad Group, Three Seas Initiative and the European Union, notably reinforcing it's commitment to it's allies. The expansion of the Armed Forces outlined in this plan will improve the ability of the Armed Forces to project a credible deterrent posture against possible rivals. Ever since the formation of the earliest states, among the primary responsibilities of the state has been to be able to defend it's claimed territory and citizens, something the Polish state is keenly aware of.

* Active Measures.
- Raise the total military spending from 2.5% of GDP to 2.75% of GDP. As in the previous military budgeting approximately 30% shall be used on arms/equipment acquisition and 70% for wages, maintenance, training etc.
- Raise a total of three new Territorial Defense Force Brigades in the most vulnerable regions of the country, namely one new TDF Brigade in the Warmian-Masurian Voivoideship and one new TDF Brigade in the Podlaise Voivoideship. One TDF Brigade shall also be raised in the Mazovian Voivodeship to improve the security of the region housing the national capital. The total numbers of the TDF after the formation of these units will rise from 48 000 to 57 000 troops, orders shall be placed for the needed equipment and until it is delivered, stored equipment shall be used.
- Raise a second Military Police Brigade numbering 3500 personnel to be headquartered in Bartoszyce, orders shall be placed for the needed equipment and until it is delivered, stored equipment shall be used.
- Raise a new Mechanized Division (2 Dywizja Ulanow "Bohaterow Armji Krajowej") consisting of one Armored Brigade and two Mechanized Infantry Brigades, in addition it shall also consist of one Air Defense Regiment, one Artillery Regiment, one Logistical Support Regiment and the Command and Control HQ Battalion. The formation will be headquartered in Grajewo and will have the same number of personnel as the similarly structured divisions of the Polish Land Forces, namely 13 500 troops. Orders shall be placed for the needed equipment and until it is delivered, stored equipment shall be used. The formation shall be operational for defensive operations by 2026 and fully operational for all mission-profiles by 2027.

- Place an order with the PGZ Group's relevant subsidiaries for the order of 25 000 MSBS Assault Rifles, 25 000 VIS-100 Pistols, 5000 PM-06 SMG's, 125 Bor Sniper Rifles, 24 WKW Wilk Anti-Materiel Rifles and 2600 UKM-2000C GPMG's to be produced yearly between 2025 and 2030 to largely replace the older firearms still in service with the armed forces. Estimated costs around 120 million Zlotys in total, 24 million to be payed yearly.
- Place an order with the PGZ Group's relevant subsidiaries for the production of 464 KTO Rosomak IFV's to be produced between 2025 and 2027. Each one shall be equipped with the ZSSW-30 unmanned turret. The total cost is estimated at 4.58 billion Zlotys, 2.29 billion to be payed yearly.
- Place an order with the Gdynia Shipyard S.A and PGZ Group's relevant subsidiaries for the production and launch of 4 further Gawron-Class Corvettes (ORP Krakowiak & ORP Mazur & ORP Goral & ORP Wislanin) to enter service in 2027-2028, the total cost is estimated at 6 billion Zlotys, 2 billion to be payed yearly.
Place an order with the Gdansk Shipyard S.P z-oo and PGZ Group's relevant subsidiaries for the production and launch of 2 Ratownik-Class Rescue Vessels (ORP Rudolf Weigl & ORP Eugeniusz Lazowski) to enter service in 2027-2028, the total cost is estimated at 1.6 billion Zlotys, 533 million to be payed yearly.
- Expand the 2022 Borsuk IFV order from 800 vehicles to 1000 vehicles for an estimated cost of 5 billion Zlotys.

Sejm votes:
AYE: 290.
NAY: 170.

Senate votes:
AYE: 60.
NAY: 40.

The bill is passed.

Foreign Policy Moves

Greetings and salutations to our valued Friends in the North.

As the specter of the Virumaa Crisis still lingers over us and with the recent Russian-Belorussian announcement on the formation of a Union State between them, Poland looks at it's eastern border with a rising degree of worry. While there is hope for a detente in CESDOT-CSTO relations we cannot hinge our national security policies on hope. In light of this, Poland hopes that the Swedish Government and Saab Aerospace Industries will consider a deal wherein the Polish Air Force will purchase for it's use three SAAB 340 Erieye AEW&C aircraft for the estimated price of 1.25 billion USD including maintenance training, ground equipment, spare parts and operational training. We hope that this will no only improve the security situation on the eastern flank of the European Union but also lay the ground for deeper cooperation between the Kingdom of Sweden and Republic of Poland, nations that have not always seen eye to eye in the recent decade.

Greetings and salutations to our valued Friends in the North.

The Kingdom of Norway and the Republic of Poland have been enjoying an increasingly positive relation in strategic terms, something the Polish government readily welcomes. The completion of the Baltic Pipe LNG pipeline did much to free Poland from dependence on a blatantly hostile state and indeed, Poland and Norway have had increasingly close ties in regards to arms sales. Poland has purchased Norwegian Anti-Ship missile systems for it's coastal defense and the Armed Forces are highly interested in acquiring the NASAMS 2 surface-to-air missile system to replace the old Soviet-era Kub and improve the medium to long range air defense capabilities of Land Forces formations. In total, the Polish Land Forces hope to acquire 9 full batteries of the NASAMS 2 SAM System, each one containing 12 missile launchers, eight radars, one fire control centre, one electro-optical camera vehicle and one Tactical Control Cell vehicle. The deal would amount to around 1.6 billion USD with an estimated 1 billion USD for 680 AIM-120D missiles, spare parts, maintenance training and operation training. We hope this is of interest to the Norwegian government and Kongsberg Defense Industries.

Greetings and salutations to our good and gracious allies in the West.

The Polish government applauds the recent reforms made by the Macron Administration to raise french growth figures, the Polish government hopes to do the same and we are hoping to share best practices with our honored peers in Paris. France is known for the application of nuclear energy to power it's growth and development, the Polish government is planning to hold a new nuclear energy referendum either this year or in 2026, should it pass, we hope that France would be willing to invest and engage in technological transfer that would serve greatly to reduce CO2 emissions and raise energy production levels in the EU. In addition to this, we see increasing levels of instability in the Sahel region, threatening to spiral out of control and result in a situation similar to the 2015 Migrant Crisis as vast numbers of people flee the violence. Poland would like to discuss with France the possibility of cooperating with the French government in it's peacekeeping efforts and it's investments into raising regional stability in the Sahel.

* The Points of Discussion Shall Be.
- Discuss the future possibility of French investment and technological transfer in possible construction of Polish nuclear energy infrastructure.
- Discuss measures on attracting more FDI from France to Poland.
- Discuss the situation in the Sahel region and the possibility of Polish support for French operations.

by **Kargintina the Third** » Tue Apr 21, 2020 7:12 pm

United Kingdom
Part 6: Free Money!

BBC Broadcasting House
Westminster, London
United Kingdom

"Hello everyone this is Huw Edwards with the BBC News at Ten. Our first story of the night comes from the constituencies of Bristol North, South, East and West where a historic experiment is said to be about to take place. Starting on the first of next month, the four Labour-held regions will become the first to implement a form of welfare known as Universal Basic Income, or UBI for short. Once implemented, every single citizen will receive an allowance of 700 pounds per month. This new system of economic security will entirely replace the current welfare system in place, and it is hoped that this system will not only be cheaper on both the government and Bristol's taxpayers but also more effective at taking care of the cities' economically challenged and at-risk populations. During a televised speech the other day, Bristol East MP Kerry McCarthy said this:

"Our duty as lawmakers is to provide for our people, it is the reason our jobs exist. This system is not designed to 'promote laziness' as our colleagues on the right would say, but to provide a safety net to all cities of our city. This system is made to protect all citizens, not just the wealthy upper class that the Tories prefer. It doesn't matter if you are white or coloured, straight or gay, CIS or Trans, native-born or immigrant, this system applies to you."

Conservative MP Alex Chalk of the nearby Cheltenham constituency tweeted out a harsh response to McCarthy's speech stating on Twitter, "Does this also apply to the man you said should be killed before he breeds?"referring to 2012 comments made by McCarthy on Twitter about a man she saw on the tube. When questioned on his thoughts on the program, Prime Minister Johnson simply stated "Will we see what occurs." There has been much debate over the implementation of UBI throughout the United Kingdom since it's popularization by American Presidential candidate Andrew Yang during the American 2020 Election.

In other news, The HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier arrived in the Gulf of Aden last week, presumably to assist in the current operations underway to fight against the terror group known as Al-Shabaab. So far British involvement in Somalia has remained severely limited, with several MPs from the Liberal Democrats and Labour voicing against largescale involvement. It is unknown at this time whether the Prime Minister wishes to increase operations or not. As always my name is Huw Edwards and this has been BBC News at Ten."

HMS Queen Elizabeth sails through the Gulf of Aden

Galaga Mountains
Bari Region, Puntland
Federal Republic of Somalia

The night sky over Somalia was mostly silent with the exception of the light wind. Deep within the Galaga mountains was the headquarters of Abnaa ul-Calipha, or the Islamic State in Somalia. MI6 estimated the group at only about 300 members, but had taken an interest in them nonetheless.

A lone AgustaWestland AW101 of the Royal Navy launched from the HMS Queen Elizabeth in the Gulf of Aden flew over the mountains, filled with exceptionally important cargo. It’s mission was to carry out the next phase of Operation Ajuuraan, the name for the UK’s campaign against Al-Shabaab.

“Everything ready? The Co-pilot turned around to the loadmaster in the back.

“It’s ready!” He shouted in reply and pushed the cargo out the door. The cargo was a massive load of pamphlets with a message written in both Somali and Arabic. The message was as follows:

The message was dropped all over the Galaga mountains where ISS resided. If even one Jihadist turned himself in with useful information it would be a victory for the UK’s operations against Al-Shabaab. The autonomous government of Puntland was promised extra money from the British government in exchange for their co-operation in the operation. Now only time could tell until the Jihadists make their decision.

North of Jilib
Jubaland
Federal Republic of Somalia

An Al-Shabaab militant approached the Jubba River, ready to throw rocks carelessly and pass time until his guard shift was over. In an instant, he was pulled into the water by his shirt and gutted with a large knife. The SAS team emerged from the water, silenced rifles in hand. The team was much smaller this time, with six men on site as opposed to twelve.

"Command this is Bravo Six, we have reached the target area." The Captain called into command.

"Confirm Bravo Six. Destroy the target and get to exfil ASAP. Prayer hour is about to begin and you will have a small window to hit the target before sunrise."

"Understood command, Bravo Six out." The mean set out through the lush grassland that surrounded the river, an oasis in the vast Somalian desert. The sun was just starting to rise, a sign that the militants would soon be deep in prayer towards Mecca. But not quite yet.

"Sir, two targets incoming." One of the other commandos said.

"I see them. We can't risk them noticing that we're here. Take them out." As soon as he spoke silenced weapons open up and the two militants dropped to the ground. "Targets down." The men moved on after the two militants were confirmed dead, rapidly moving to their objective. By now the sun was in view, and the sounds of loudspeakers blasting in a nearby town lit up. The call to morning prayer had begun.

After a short trek, the objective came into view. It was a small relay station out in the middle of the grassland, surrounded by a small fence. The few guards around it were all laying over their rugs, praying to the north towards the Islamic holy city of Mecca.

"Take em out." Prayer time was cut short as rifle rounds cut through the hunched over men. As soon as the men were dead, they moved up to the fence. One of the team's Sergeants pulled out a wirecutter and started cutting through the wires of the fence. "Hurry, we only have a short window before the prayer time ends." The Captain barked for him to move faster.

"Done!" The Sergeant yelled and moved through the fence. He pulled out his bag from behind him and withdrew several C4 charges and planted them on the relay. It was believed by MI6 to be a broadcasting Radio Andalus, Al-Shabaab's main propaganda network. If the mission went as planned, it would be a major blow to Al-Shabaab's capability to recruit.

"Get clear!" The Captain shouted and the men sprinted away from the station. The loudspeakers had died down and it seemed prayer hour was ending. "Hit it!"

The Sergeant clicked the detonator and the station went up in a bang.

"Bravo Six, we strongly advise immediate exfil. Massive hostile QRF is inbound on your location."

"We need to get the fuck out of here, move!" The men made a mad dash for the nearby brush, in a hope of gaining concealment before the enemy force arrived. "Command, what's the ETA on our exfil?"

"Aerial QRF is ETA ten mikes, they're lifting off in Mogadishu now."

"Bollocks, we'll be corpses for five minutes by then."

"It's the best we can do Bravo Six, Command out."

The six men set up along a small ridge overlooking the smoldering wreck of the relay station. When the Jihadists arrived they would have to approach directly within their line of fire. They had removed the suppressors from their rifles, allowing them to fire at a faster rate when the time came. One of the men pulled out a HK417 sniper that would be helpful in the elevated position.

As expected the sounds of trucks rolling up at the nearby road quickly came and boots loudly hit the ground. The six commandos lay prone on the ridge with their weapons aimed down at the grassland below.

"Don't fire until I say, make sure to have a target sighted before I give the order." The Captain said just before the enemies came into view. Dozens upon dozens of militants slowly approached the relay sight, scanning the area with their AKs. The men all acquired a different target and moved their fingers to their triggers. They had no choice but to fight, the hostiles would reach them at any moment.

"OPEN FIRE!" The Captain shouted and the six men opened up. Six insurgents went down instantly. The rest scrambled for cover and returned fire with AKs. However their accuracy paled in comparison to the men of the 22nd SAS, who gunned down several more before they could scramble for cover.

However the battle wasn't permanently in their favor, as several militants approached with RPGs.

"Move now!" The Captain shouted and they quickly jumped up and ran from the ridge before an RPG incinerated it. To the luck it was now the sound of helicopter blades in the sky begin to come within hearing range. A minute later an Augusta Westland Apache arrived and sent the Jihadists fleeing into the brush.

They loaded up onto a Chinook and lifted off towards Mogadishu.

by **Monipolois** » Fri Apr 24, 2020 3:12 pm

Foreign Affairs:

Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Brazil
Gabinete do Presidente da República Federal do Brasil
Praça dos Três Poderes - Brasilia, Federal District, 70150-900, Brazil
Ordem e Progresso

A NAÇÃO E OS DIPLOMATOS DA REPÚBLICA FEDERAL BRASILEIRA

To - Foreign Ministries of Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico.
From - President Manuel Barbosa I, Sitting President of the Federative Republic of Brazil
Subject - Good Tidings
Encryption - Public

Dear Prestigious Latin-American and South American Neighbors,

As the current President of Brazil I feel that it is my duty to ensure that we, as the Latin Americans we are, stand strong together against a few forces together. Our nations have been looked down upon by the entire world and I would like to use this opportunity to show them that we stand together, and it is only together that we fight our common enemy.

It is no secret that our nations have been faced with uncertainty. The daunting task of the cartels and crime is no joking matter. In fact, European and Western organizations claim that our methods of handling our own problems are ‘barbaric’ and ‘violate human rights’. What they don’t see is the bloodshed these criminals cause. They do not see the children infected by drugs that are going through withdrawals before they finish grade school. They do not see the teenage soldiers in the street given guns to protect their gang. They do not see the brainwashing, the arson, the murder, the rape, and the violations of human rights that come with these gangs. They do not see this, because they do not care.

These problems are our, and ours alone. It is very evident that the outside world does not want to help without causing their own bloodshed or abusing our own sovereignty. I want to see Latin America grow to its full potential. I want to see us rise up and show the world that we are a strong, loving, and prosperous people. That is why I am asking to not only strengthen the Rio Pact, but to utilize it further.

Up until now the Rio Pact hasn’t kept with the times. It has been a loose collection of documents and meaningless words. I am inviting all of you to join, and those who already are in it I am thanking you for your determination. Under the Rio Pact I believe we can not only collectively deal with the cartel problem as our own, but we will deal with it better than the United Nations or any other exterior force could possibly deal with it. We know what these struggles are like, we know how these entities act, and we are the only people capable of stopping it.

With the increase in the Rio Pact I’d also like to open up trade between our nations, of course the specifics will be talked about at the Rio Pact Assembly of 2025, which will be hosted in Rio de Janeiro August 14th, 2025. This will be the, hopefully, biggest meeting yet where new policy and ideas about the future of our nations can be discussed.

May this message reach you all in good health. Thank you for your times in consideration and may God the Father bless you all.

-President Manuel Barbosa I, The Federative Republic of Brazil
Ordem e Progresso

Integralism:

The Integralist Party has chosen their candidate ahead of time. While most other parties wouldn’t choose their final candidate until later this year or even the middle of next year, the Integralist Party made news as they chose Joseph Paschoal to lead the party in the Presidency Race. Joseph Paschoal is one of the younger candidates, only 40 years old. He was a Captain in the Brazilian Army and pursued law after that. His passionate speeches and public displays of charity and strength have landed him as the Integralist parties selection for president of Brazil.

His passionate criticism about President Manuel Barbosa I have brought him on news channels across the nation. The skilled debater challenges the president constantly and President Barbosa has yet to respond. His biggest critiques of the current President are his weakness, at times being very brash towards the sitting president, but always pulling out the numbers. His endless parades, campaign speeches, and charity events across the nation has had an exponential amount of Brazilians register as an Integralist. While the current administration largely ignores this rise, some older Brazilians question it. In his speech last Friday he had this to say:

“Hello, hello, thank you. Thank you so much, your applause means so much to me. As much celebration as we have done here tonight I would like to take a step back from it all. I am not here because of something positive, in fact, the reason I have to be running in this campaign is a disgrace. Our leaders, those vile men and women who call themselves ‘leaders of the Brazilian people’ have failed miserably. You folks here in the state of Piauí have seen some of the most devastating effects of it. The government has taxed everyone here to death, they’ve let foreign businesses come in and steal our money, and yet they say they are for us? We’ve all seen it, job after job get snatched away from us. Our people are slaving away in the factories for some foreign business, their fruits of labor something we will never see.

“They say they are the leaders of us, and I say who the hell are you to say that? Just last week a Brazilian man was shot right here, in this town square, because Barbosa and his corrupted buddies thought it was okay. Let me tell you what the problem is, it's not us, it is not the blood of the Brazilian people. It is the Americans we should be worried about. It is their insatiable addictions to our land that bring crime and drugs. It is there filthy money that comes here and corrupts our people. It is their guns that come here and arm criminals. But you’ll never hear Barbosa or any other clown in Brasília say this.

“Think about that for a second, our own government is more willing to kill our own people than to blame American influence. How sick is that. Every day it’s just getting worse out there. Every day I see another one of my brothers being shot and killed in another careless raid as puppets of the American regime. It is absolutely sick what has happened to us, absolutely sick.

“Earlier this week Barbosa sent out a mail piece, one that was quite interesting. He was trying to set up and strengthen the Rio Pact and I almost, just almost, thought maybe I would finally agree with him on something. Except for he doesn’t address the issue. He is too scared to blame America for their drug addictions, the addictions that feed the cartels with more cash than they could possibly need. Brazilians are not drugged out people, Colombians are not drugged out people, Mexicans, Hondurans, Argentinians are not drugged out people. Latin Americans are strong and hardworking people, we are not junkies. We do not have the money, time, or moral failures to be addicted to these drugs. It is the Americans, they are why we are struggling so bad. So many of them cry out for ‘oh, look at how bad it is down there’ but they keep turning their blind eye as millions are flooded into the pockets of these dealers.

“Some have said to me, ‘oh, Joseph, do you think you are talking too bad about them?’ and I say ‘what are you talking about’. Look around you, the jobs we have, the cars we drive, the places we live in. Do you know why it is like that? It is because these foreign factories come into our countries and drain us. They drain our people of everything they have. They take our resources, our hard work, and they export it all over. They pay us meager wages and take our food. Oh, no, not when I’m elected. Brazilian hard work will be rewarded with Brazilian success. Your hard work will be visibly making Brazil wealthier, not some fat cat up in America or Europe.

In his speech he mentioned unity between Brazilians, and even South Americans. Joseph stated over and over his admiration for the people and their prized gem, the Amazon. Joseph’s speech featured 10 minutes of explaining why the Amazon was their most precious asset and why it needed to be protected. After endless waves of roaring applause Joseph concluded his speech and stepped from the podium to shake hands with the Brazilians.

In Other News:

The Libertarian Party of Brazil has actively protested the police departments claiming this is yet another example of failure in the state.
President Manuel Barbosa I boarded a plane to take a trip to the beautiful city of Canberra earlier today. He is said to meet with the President of Australia by the end of the week.
Government auctions have increased as the number of raids on drug spots have gone up, police often grabbing anything valuable to mark as evidence so it goes to the Government Auction sites.
Before leaving for Australia President Barbosa I held a ‘Thank Our Law Enforcement’ rally and dinner where he raised money for local law enforcement and held a speech about why they are the ‘heroes of Brazil’.
Production of the 27 JAS 39 Gripen aircraft started back in 2024. They should be done by early 2026.

by **Lan Khao Xang Hom Krung Tai** » Tue Apr 28, 2020 1:14 pm

State of Palestine
دولة فلسطين

Passing of Abbas and the Presidency
Flags fly at half-mast as it is a day of national mourning for the State of Palestine. President Mahmoud Abbas has passed away from multiple health complications and had succumbed to a stroke. While Fatah organizes rallies and a funeral for their fallen leader, the respective Palestinian institutions look to electing a new leader, rumors emerge from Fatah members that the exiled Mohammed Dahlan will be returning to Palestine in a bid for election. Another rumor emerges that Nasser al-Qudwa, Palestine's diplomat to the United Nations and the nephew of Yasser Arafat, is also backing his return to a post-Abbas Palestine.

Mohammed Dahlan, exiled in 2011 and a political enemy of Abbas, is immensely popular within many Fatah members in the Gaza Strip, and even rumored to be popular with many members of Hamas as well, including Hamas head Yahya Sinwar, who had previously tried to bring his return. Dahlan, reportedly the UAE's 'most favorite Palestinian', has the wealth and backing of the UAE behind him for rebuilding a stable Gaza. Some however do not believe his re-entry into Fatah to be easy, and perhaps creating a new political party may be a possible solution.

Nasser al-Qudwa, nephew of the national hero Yasser Arafat, is a senior member of Fatah and popular within the West Bank, considered by some as a natural successor to the Palestinian Presidency. He is also a favorite with foreign nations as a level-headed and highly respected diplomat. Some wonder if an Al-Qudwa-Dahlan Alliance could be in the works.

Aid from Saudi Arabia
80 Million US Dollars. 80 Million USD for the State of Palestine's development, though with the death of Abbas and the elections hopefully coming soon, it would seem that this 80 Million would sit in the West Bank, leaving Gaza in limbo until the Palestinian Authority's plan for the Gaza Strip would be created with the new presidency. The West Bank, however, would be enjoying the fruit of the Saudi aid, and perhaps use it as bargaining chip against Hamas, who's power and water infrastructure in Gaza is reliant on Israel.

Current West Bank plans include on using these funds for power, water desalinization, and even prospects of taking 'Dahlan plan', named after the former Palestinian Preventative Security head.

Palestinians in Area C
The West Bank, split into Areas A, B, and C. Only in Area A does the Palestinian Authority exercise full control. In Area B, only civil control. Area C is a whole different beast entirely. With settlers from Israel moving into the West Bank's Area C, many in Palestine are getting riled as settlers already displacing Palestinians as the majority in the area designated by the Oslo Accords. In response, some within major Palestinian factions are calling for Palestinians to disregard Israeli policy for the West Bank and rebuild in Area C to not allow for their settlers to continue.

Hamas, Fatah, and Others in Elections
More than a decade since the last Palestinian Elections, with the passing of Abbas, new elections were coming, whether the establishment liked it or not.

With different Palestinian factions vying for power, Palestinian third-parties unaffiliated with Hamas or Fatah, grouped in a political coalition dubbed Democratic Alliance, has arisen once more with the return of Dahlan, hoping to take away Fatah's monopoly on Palestinian politics. With the sixty days now announced by the provisional Palestinian leader, elections are now headed to take place with figures such as the exiled Dahlan, Fatah's Al-Qudwa, Hamas' Sinwar, and others. Though Hamas would be excluded from the race for the Palestinian Authority's Presidency, they still have the chance for presidency for the State of Palestine, though now competing the popular figures of Dahlan and Al-Qudwa, both rumored to be in a political coalition together.

Dahlan, runs with a third-party, the cooperating with the Democratic Alliance as to garner more support with those in Hamas and in Fatah, while not alienating the other with running on the ticket of a hard rival. His running policy is in-line with the Democratic Alliance, without the fundamentalism of Hamas, nor the corruption and factionalism of the recent Fatah leadership, hoping to appeal to the moderates in Hamas and his followers in Fatah.

Al-Qudwa runs on the popular ticket of Fatah, pulling on its youth and old-guard to revive the Fatah movement to what it had once been under Arafat in strength and to unify the PLO.

Sinwar goes on the popularity of Hamas and its strong opposition to Israel as well as fundamentalist policies against the Israeli state.

Hamas is projected to have less popular votes since their 2006 victory, at 27% of Palestinians. Fatah, while higher than Hamas, does not enjoying that much higher of popularity, at 36%, leaving a possible opening for the Democratic Alliance.

by **The New Greek Republic** » Thu Apr 30, 2020 5:42 pm

The Democratic Republic of Pakistan

Islamabad, Pakistan

President Zardari found himself inside his office looking over some papers left over from the morning's briefing session. He was tired, but use to it as he had been working tirelessly recently to reform the nation's healthcare system. He had a rough draft finished already, which entailed of a mostly state-sponsored system though it did allow some privatization in special cases. The draft was being looked over by his Prime Minister currently however, to be critiqued and improved upon before becoming law. The healthcare reform was a big deal to Zardari, but it was put to the side in his mind as he awaited it's return to his desk.

He turned his attention to another report that cited continued violence and brutality in the Kashmir region by the Indian government. The president sighed, deep enough that it might as well have been a groan instead. He needed to apply pressure to the Regime in New Delhi to show that he wasn't joking when it came to Pakistan's right to the region. Zardari got on the phone with the top general in the military, Mohammad Shabb, instructing him to authorize emergency exercises for the military along the Indus River and demanded some exercises take place "dangerously close to the Indian border".

Zardari got off the phone without giving the general much of an opportunity to speak. Biting his nails, rubbing his eyes, and yawning, he cleaned off his desk. He looked at the clock. 8:46pm. He was tired, and really yearned for a break. He pushed forward, though, after taking a moment to gather his bearings he returned to work once more, writing new legislation to heal the nation.

ABBOTTABAD - More news out of Islamabad, where President Zadari continues to roll out sweeping reforms to help across various sectors of the nation. This includes the Fiscal Equality and Tax Redistribution Act, which increases income tax on the wealthiest citizens to help fund various social programs to aide those in need. The President also announced that his healthcare bill is in it's final stages after being looked over by his ministers and plans to introduce it to the legislature very soon.

Another plan that Zadari has laid out deals with the environment and shows his commitment to climate change, he announced that Pakistan as a country would reduce greenhouse emissions greatly over the next decade, as much as 35%, and an increase in funding in renewable energy.

by **Latvijas Otra Republika** » Fri May 15, 2020 7:07 am

LATVIJA

Latvija 2025 - Mūzika - Now tuning in to Radio Skonto - Mūzika - Latvija 2025

The Rīga 'Gambit'

*The capital city

Out of all the cities in the three Baltic states, Rīga sits on a geographical advantage that has been used very little for Latvia's benefit. Through it flows the large river Daugava, beside is a gulf perfect for maritime trading that connects to all the capitals of Scandinavia. The white beaches of Jūrmala occupy it's west and to the north, where Sigulda lays, are ever present traces of cultural heritage accompanied by a flourishing wildlife. All of these factors considered, adding the large workforce at disposal, Rīga should be the standardised trading hub of both the East-West and the Baltic States. Yet at the present moment this is not the case, the development of the city has been hit by impediments such as the 2007 recession and recent security fears combined with governments that have lacked concrete doctrine.
Though there have been roadblocks, an up-coming project may accelerate the 'destiny' of Latvia's capital. The Rail Baltica project, projected to be concluded in 2027, has put emphasis on the coastal city. Having a large & modern train station, the envy of Tallinn and Vilnius, included as part of the Rail Baltica deal may cause Rīga to be the very centre of the Baltic region in terms of infrastructure. This new train station is also in close proximity to the old-Soviet & presently used train station of Latvia, a point that connects with other cities abroad and nationally. A smaller note is that the Riga International Bus Terminal shall also be heavily linked up to this train centre. Riga International Airport has also seen large modernisation efforts throughout the 2000s and 2010, with facilities and architecture matching those of western Europe (aided by €50 Million government investment in 2020). All of these important & key international transportation points, including the historically large Freeport of Riga, combined puts Latvia in a position where it may in the near-future call herself the economic link between East and West.

But to reap properly from these advantages there need to be incentives for business to operate and be based around the capital. Currently there are numerous industrial ruins around the city which serve no practical purpose, cheap land that has resulted from the collapse of the USSR. This is near enough free land, space that can be used to limit urban sprawl and house businesses and all manner of corporations. With a relatively low minimum wage 430.00 EUR per month, there's a pull for employers to begin operating here. Infrastructure, growing far links to Russia and thus China for executives in Europe, can further convince those seeking convenience.
The Latvian government has thus announced an initiative, in summary new businesses that branch out and establish themselves a physical presence in the Riga Planning Region will receive a 25% income tax deduction for eight years. Requirements for this include that at least 60% of those employed are born in Latvia or have Latvian Citizenship, that this 60% is maintained for the eight year period. There is also a requirement that the business in question has some continually maintained and staffed building in Latvia that has practical use, all measures to prevent loopholes.

This may be signalling the beginning of a concrete Latvian foreign policy, domestic analysts argue that Latvia is prepping an economic base from where to exert soft power from. An apparent weakness to this strategy may be that this relies somewhat on foreign interests and corporations to kick start, yet the Latvian government remains hopeful it can wield Baltic influence through important multinational links.

Raising the Baltic Assembly's Role

*The three Baltic States flags

The Baltic Assembly has long been the foundation and backbone of cooperation in the Baltic States, it's headquarters located in Riga and it's leadership swapped in rotation between nations on mutual grounds. In a recent public statement by the Ministry of Foreign affairs, Latvia has announced that it is willing to listen more closely to the interests of Lithuania and Estonia. Having the Latvian Prime minister take the role as negotiator on the behalf of the European Union and the Baltic States to Russia has sparked ambitions of working even more closely across borders. The Prime Minister himself stated that 'I want to see how we can synchronise with our close neighbours more often'. The leadership of Latvia has expressed wishes for more frequent visits of Lithuania and Estonian delegations to Latvia for further strengthening of bonds.

With the announcement, Latvia has proclaimed that it will sponsor the creation of a proper base of operations for the Intergovernmental organisation within Riga. Sessions have usually occurred in Latvia's capital yet only in the Saeima, so to solidify the diplomatic relations and Baltic links at this volatile time the Government will finance a proper place of operations and meetings.

Latvijas Republika
Republic of Latvia

Latvian - Baltic Assembly Commitment

- Allocate 11.5 Million Euro into the creation of a physical 'Baltic Assembly' within proximity to Riga, utilising a mixture of modern & classical architecture to house a 'Hall' likened to a parliament arrangement for allocated assembly members. Security features and office space financing covered. Utilise ancient Baltic related imagery in areas of note.

Aye: 85
Absent: 11
Nay: 4

This has been mainly used as a gesture of good will for the Baltic States, emphasising the common histories of all three states & their aligned diplomatic goals. The Baltic Assembly is designed to hold a combined 90 people delegation and gives adequate space for discussions to take place, microphones and a main speaking stage mirroring traditional parliament layouts.

Municipality Reform

*Map of the Latvian 110 municipalities

The greatest challenge in face of proper healthcare reform, wealth distribution and local corruption has been argued to be the vast array of municipalities Latvia holds. Most of these small areas of land can't sustain academic institutions by themselves which has also led to Latvian academic decline with constant closures of schools (both putting a strain on sometimes already underdeveloped urban facilities and rural transportation links). Corruption can also be felt heavily with financing to these municipalities, the central government has to maintain control over 110 municipality governments while they sustain more numerous local parish governments. There have been arguments that his system of governance can't continue due to concerns over efficiency, the central Government now only listening due to the projected savings and theorised financial benefit.

The re-organisation will for now combine several municipalities into 'Apriņķi', handing out parishes to these new local and merged regional governments. Essentially 110 municipalities will turn to just 19 while Republican Free Cities will remain the same with their special status and privileges. There has been fierce debate over this territorial reform, with arguments about cultural loss in Latvia regarding regional naming (a concern that has been addressed through adequate ceremonial naming of these Latvian areas). A prominent concern has been the cut back in the size of the government and the new role of administrative government workers, a question largely ignored by supporters of the reform due to past corruption within regional governments.

Latvijas Republika
Republic of Latvia

The Second Latvian Municipality Reform of 2025-2026

- Through combining municipalities to reduce the municipality count to 19, preserve parishes that go beneath them in governance. Centralise local and regional governments through this merger thus reducing the size of the overall government which costs the average taxpayer. Build the frameworks of national reform implementation through newly created centralised territories. Cut overall expenditure for Government salaries. Allow for more efficient delegation and control from the centralised government thus reducing corruption.

Aye: 78
Absent: 0
Nay: 22

Nils Ušakovs Faces Trial

*The now 50 year old political veteran

Former mayor of Riga, sacked by the government over the uncovering of corruption in 2020, is now officially awaiting trial due to numerous charges and allegations. All of which including the loss of €28 million in municipal finances during his time in office, breaking the “Law on Prevention of Squandering of the Financial Resources and Property of a Public Person” and the “Law Local Governments Budgets."
His wife, Iveta Strautiņa-Ušakova, has all been put on separate charges due to her leading role in the funnelling of tax payer money through a Rīgas Ūdens contract with her privet company.
Nils Ušakovs had once been a prominent member and leading figure of 'Harmony', a Social-Democratic Party which has utilised Russian minority orientated politics to maintain its influence and divert attention from inner party corruption. He still retains a seat at the European Parliament and has faced little repercussions for the multiple failures of his reign as mayor until now. KPV-LV control over the Government has allowed for more liberties in matters of legal justice dispensation, as the political party has no real ties to Ušakovs' political allies. The likely outcome of the trial is not yet known.

2026 Election: KPV-LV Launches Re-Election Bid

*Prime Minister Aldis Gobzems meeting with supporters after announcing re-election campaign

'One Nation', 'A Fourth Atmoda' and 'Four More Years' are some of the KPV-LV slogans that have surfaced both publicly and on social media. The populist party has announced that it is seeking a longer extension for 2026 to continue its work & efforts with fervently combating all forms of corruption. Their main manifesto has touted their achievements in taking initial steps to rectify the Latgale problem, passing legislation on the diaspora issue and fully nationalising the free-port of Ventspils. A recurring hopeful number of ‘5 Million’ Latvians by 2100 has been plastered on their website. They have included new plans, such as public Presidential election reform and fundamental Parliamentary reforms going against the reliance for career politicians. Strangely, KPV-LV is in a juxtaposition of both being now the status quo yet also having been branded an outsider group in the 2022 Election.
Party chairman Artuss Kaimiņš is hopeful that the present centre-right coalition will suffice in maintaining power in the Saeima if the party itself does not reach an overall majority.
In a press conference, Aldis Gobzems has been quoted saying 'The Latvian people are at odds with a prominent and unseen enemy, I believe when the polls close we'll truly see that our combined will can topple those that wish to enslave us.' These words can be interpreted in a manner of ways.

In the opposition stand the political 'Attīstībai/Par!' alliance (Pro-EU liberals) and the 'Sociāldemokrātiskā Partija Saskaņa' (Social Democrats). The Social Democrats have nominated a regional politician named Andrejs Elksniņš, a relatively young face in the party and fairly inoffensive in background. He states that he is of mixed Russian-Latvian ethnicity, a fact which aids his minority appeal. His platform seems fairly socially conservative with undertones of wanting a harmonised society both ethnically and economically, he has also proposed a series of policies and schemes that add to the country's 'greater good' such a standardised healthcare system and several public transport reforms.
The liberals have nominated Mārtiņš Staķis who is also relatively new to Latvian politics despite holding an extensive business background. His manifesto argues for more lighter anti-corruption efforts and further European integration. His public image is mainly based around being a common family man, an average hard working citizen.
Some minor parties in the opposition, such as The Progressives, have nominated their own candidates. Edmunds Cepurītis standing for the progressives, making history as the youngest official candidate for Prime Minister in Latvia. The Latvian Association of Regions has nominated Vents Armands Krauklis whose career has garnered little attention. The recently registered ‘Pērkonkrusts’ has created its own ballot of deputies causing controversy, a Ethno-Nationalist Facist movement stemming from the 1920s.

Philanthropist President

*President Jūlija Stepaņenko overlooking guest attendants at an annual ball

Before even rising to any political office, Jūlija Stepaņenko was a supporter against foreigner adopting rights and a proponent for childcare in general. Her signature policy stance has been orientated on family values and preserving the safety of children, her lobbying and speeches have pressured for action in the Saeima numerous times. In accordance to these principles the President has begun focusing on these personal aspirations by founding her own limited charity organisation, donating 60% of her own Presidential salary to the organisation. The charity describes itself as a provider for vulnerable children and families by donations and some financial aid. This has brought the potential of increased approval ratings at expense of cutting some time in her limited daily duties.

ES Proposes ‘Cultural Protectionism’

Some notable politicians within the European Sovereign group, now being in the EU parliament, have proposed legislation that’ll curb the influence of outside cultural forces and streams of traditional media influence. They have motioned for tariffs/taxes on media corporations backed by Asian and North American investors and governments in order to revert the cultural alignment and influence America has exerted upon the continent. Alongside this the Group has advocated that the nations of the EU should follow the ‘2 hours of native language’ music law France has imposed upon radio stations, to shift away from the mainstream usage of English due to past occurances regarding the U.K and the U.S. Amongst all this, a call for limited forgien backed advertising has been expressed by Group members as to prevent further erosion of European culture and corporate misinformation.

The ES is beginning to become more vocal regarding the cyber ‘war’ being waged upon the European continent, expressing concern that the free nations of Europe have done little in tide against the stream of forgien information which daunts the European man.

The New Silk Road Potential

In July 2017 Latvia agreed to be included in the New Silk Road project due to its connection to Russian rail networks and the geographical proximity to the Nordic region. This decision put Latvia in slight odds with the neighbouring Lithunians due to potential competition for funding, a slight consequence that the Ministry of Forgien affairs has so far disregarded. With the observable overhaul of African funding, a moment in the future may arise where the Silk project is financed further to expand Chinese influence elsewhere. The ‘Latvian Railways’ organization has stressed the need for further infrastructure modernisation efforts which the Asian powerhouse may aid in. Internal talks within the cabinet have led to a private census that if any further Silk Road developments occur the Government will attempt talks with the far East.

EU-Russia Meeting

*Rundāles Palace

Arriving by private jet and eventually a completely black vehicle which transported President Medvedev to the Rundāles palace. Not surprised that the meeting he was about to discuss was being held in the country Putin four two years ago invaded and successfully liberated Latgale and Virumaa from the oppressing Baltic nations. But now, he was in charge and had to save Russia from disaster.

Pulling up to the front of the palace, President Medvedev opened the car door and stepped out, looking at the palace, in another cheaper looking car a small team with a camera was unpacking and unloading equipment, another factor needed for the meeting, just as much as the translator next to him.

Several Latvian honour guards marched by the sides of the palace, upon arrival of the car they ceased and stood to form a pathway leading to the entrance of Rundāle. Their assigned duty to protect all of those present in the palace, the brims of their caps reflecting the sailing clouds above. Out of concern for a European diplomatic liability Stepaņenko was called off from the meeting, instead of her stood Prime Minister Aldis Gobzems outside the large oak doors. A small Latvian flag pin upon his lapel glinted in the cold sun.

The President was honestly, disappointed. He was hoping for a more neutral representative of the European Union, instead he was given one of the leaders of the very nation the Russians had violated. But no matter, it will hopefully be the same results he is looking for. Walking past the honor guard with his translator and behind him the small crew to operate the camera, he gave a smile to the Prime Minister.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, I hope our meeting will be successful despite the current situation between our nations."

Gobzems' bottom lip slightly rose, turning into somewhat of a smile, he moved his hand for a brief handshake. He had only just the night prior discussed the contents of the meeting with notable Latvian diplomats and figures of interest in Brussels, yet he still knew not what exactly Medvedev was here for.

"It's splendid to meet you, may it be so- may it be so. Strange to think your last visit had been in twenty-ten with Zatlers, well I welcome you back. Come inside." He motioned, slowly walking inside a grand hall of polished wooden floors and a ceiling whiter than marble. In the centre was large stout table adorned by velvet chairs.

Medvedev kept closely behind the Prime minister, looking around the beautiful interior of the palace. Although not as well known as the others across the world, it holds a small beauty and modesty without the unnecessary large amounts of fame and tourists. The President stepped over to the velvet chair situated to the right of the table, turning back as he motioned for the crew to set up in front of them.

"I hope you do not mind if we record this meeting, after all, this is going to be seen as monumental in the relations of Russia and the European Union. A new way of change that I plan to bring to my country, one beneficial to both of our peoples. After all, the people deserve to know what goes on between our nations."

Gobzems stood opposite, quietly clearing his throat when Medvedev mentioned the people and access to free information. The arriving camera work had been a last-minute surprise for Gobzems and those present at the palace, a slight worry sparked in him that this may be used for misinformation purposes yet he gave a slight tilting nod.

"You may, but you may also want to be reminded that your federation have put some impediments in the way of successful and positive relations. Europe has wished for transparent and mutual relations with Russia, yet in repeated moments it has proven difficult for such things to occur. No matter, we will see if such wishes will be realised here."

"Which I understand, but I am here to mend the relations from my predecessor. I am President of the Russian Federation, not Putin. It is not the fault of Russia as a whole, but of the few. Now, I believe it is best to begin our talks this meeting has been called about, unless you have some other words that you wish to say."

Medvedev took his seat, looking at Gobzems with a patient expression.

He pulled out the chair, slightly lifting it as he did so, and sat down. Creaks of wood echoing for a brief moment.

"We can let the discussions commence, what is it that you have come here for?"

"I have come here to discuss the removal of European sanctions on the Russian Federation of course, along with supporting the right for the people to choose where they wish to be in. Those in the Donbass of Ukraine, I believe together we can find a peaceful solution to the conflict and finally put such a humanitarian stain to rest. Letting clear minds and peaceful solutions take control over radicals and short sighted politicians who care for nothing but themselves. Don't you agree?"

"You have certainly come with an entrance here today, radical changes to European geopolitics would you not say. I support the ceasing of conflicts and choice of the people, yet these sound more as concessions right now. Why would Europe suddenly cease all sanctions, why would Europe possibly endanger the interest of Ukraine. We are here to negotiate the future of our relations yet this increasingly sounds more of something that would jeopardise European interests."

"Why, we are more than ready not demanding concessions. We are more than willing to return the provinces of Virumaa and the province of Latgale to both Estonia and Latvia, with a promise of citizenship for all in Latgale and equal treatment in both Latgale and Virumaa. As for Ukraine, we ask for the European Union to support a referendum in the region and to remove the sanctions placed upon the Russian Federation for the invasion of Latgale and Virumaa. The sanctions for Crimea are also to be expected to be removed, if the European Union agrees towards the efforts of a peaceful referendum in the provinces in the Donbass region."

Medvedev smiled at his counterpart, "Doesn't that sound like an ideal situation? If a referendum is held with combined efforts from the European Union and the Russian Federation, the people of Donbass will not feel any sort of bias in their vote, nor would Ukraine believe it is outright betrayal and abandonment by the EU for Russia. It also supports the people of Latgale and Virumaa who deserved better representation and equality which the ruling Governments had neglected and from what I've seen in the news for Latvia concerning the language law...Have been more than happy having them removed from your hands."

Gobzems leaned back, pondering for a moment after the slight surprise. His briefing prior had not readied him for such suggestions in any manner, in fact he needed a moment of silence to think.

"Truly? We have in fact made moves in eliminating the legal category of 'non-citizen', in fact no 'non-citizen' has been born since 2018. We hope you appreciate that any issue of voting rights and other matters have been the legacy of the Soviet Union, that these issues have been caused by very real post-soviet concerns in protecting democracy and validity of our government. We wish for peaceful integration and cooperation with those of other ethnic backgrounds in our nation and we'd be accepting of the giving out citizenship. The standardisation of our language education would be the same if you'd teach Swedish in Sweden, I hope you understand."

"That aside, we'd be willing to cooperate on the matter of the Baltic regions. Easing tensions would be beneficial to all those involved. I do believe if such an action would be reached those in Brussels would lift the Latgale crisis sanction. As for the Donbass..-" Gobzems sunk his knuckle into his chin.

"As for Donbass- I believe if a referendum will cease all bloodshed and conflict, and if the Ukrainian populace of the region will not be trampled or repressed in case the vote goes in favour of Russia, than it may go through. EU-Ukrainian oversight and Russian oversight, accompanied by independent UN vote talliers & observers in stations, could work if you would so wish. It is important the conflict ceases, I've myself heard rumours of great personal tragedies of those in the Donbass which truly is saddening."

"The dropping of Crimean sanctions would be a slap in the face for Ukraine, considering we've near certainly would give you control over Donbass. Although if peaceful Ukrainian-Russo relations are maintained I believe Europe would perhaps be willing to drop the Crimea sanction. You see our agreement on a peaceful Donbass resolution can not coincide with matters relating to Crimea, Donbass fighting can be regarded as separate to the diplomacy related to Crimea between Ukraine and Russia."

"That is excellent to hear, as long as all in the region are capable of voting for their future then it can be done greatly. But I believe Ukrainian soldiers who are not native to the region should not be able to vote in the referendum, that would cause further conflict by showing Government tyranny, encouraging the rebels in the region to launch another wave of attacks after such a long turbulent time with a referendum finally bringing peace.
"As for the sanctions, I give you my word that the Russian Federation and Ukraine can truly work out a peaceful relationship if this referendum goes through. The Russian Federation is on a new path which I envision, to bring it to the modern world and truly bring peace. Securing the freedoms of the people who desire to be equals in the nations of Latvia and Estonia, so we will oversee their reintegration of your nation and Estonia's, that the abuse of the Government does not overstep its legal bounds and can relieve the tensions which have grown from before the crisis and afterwards. Along with a pardon for any crime of treason against the parties who have created a stable Government for the Republics so that they are not wrongfully punished simply trying to bring a sense of normalcy. After all, many have managed to obtain jobs due to their ability to speak Russian and Latgale after previously being unable to due to the lack of compensation for the barrier language has for the common people.

"But with European support for this referendum and if it is carried out, then the return of Latvian and Estonian territories can be carried out. Sanctions removed and Russian oil being able to flow into the region and supporting the economies of all who are willing. Peace can truly be made, our names being made into history of doing something our predecessors could not, an awakening of reason. Peaceful relations and a dawn of relations that will warm instead of becoming cold."

"And likewise for any other volunteers operating in the region, the Donbass region can be a bastion for improved Eastern-Western relations. Proof that there can be practical and effective solution to the greatest of difficulties. Military or militia personnel of whatever grouping stepping back in order for free elections to occur would be the ideal, we agree that no provocations or violence should occur in such places and that the people should voice their views."

"We hope that by oversight you mean it to be limited to your Baltic regions in question, for I do not want to relinquish my control over the central government or jeopardise national interests. Other than that the President of Latvia would be supportive of handing out such pardons, for she has in the past advocated for minority groups, and would probably due so over her own concerns. I do not know if political groups such as Latvian-Russian Union can be directly re-integrated into politics, for though the individuals may have blame lifted the name itself may cause internal strife for my people."

"We believe it would be in Europe's best and upmost interests if the referendum is carried out, heralding with you such monumental change between Russia and Europe, even Latvia for that matter, would be best for all peoples. Peace and prosperity should reign once more."

"Of course I mean only the regions such as Latgale and Virumaa, though for all I know it would only make such groups disband and new political parties be formed in their place. I believe in the democratic process which will be made by them, following their beliefs closely. I wish to personally thank you, for seeing the ideals this referendum can carry out. Peace with the East and the West, getting rid of that Cold War mentality which has plagued out politics.

"We look forward to seeing the European Union's official stance, but I believe with you at the forefront and the people of Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania being the advocates for such a deal. We truly believe that it will be carried out, keeping the peace between our nations secured." With a smile on the President's face, he stood up and extended out his hand to the Prime Minister.

"To a peaceful future, don't you agree?"

"You came here perhaps as a foe to us, but may return a friend." Gobzems stood up and shook his hand "To peace and prosperity, let the world breath more freely once more and let your days be long with it." He smiled, this time more genuinely.

"Thank you, now please. Show me more of this palace, it intrigues me more than I can ever admit it the longer I stay within." Once the President heads off, the camera crew checks their equipment to ensure that they have indeed been recording as they've done throughout the session and packed their things away as they leave the palace grounds, with a couple agents escorting them back to their vehicle, the car drives off and the meeting officially comes to a close.

The Saeima Address

*Gobzems speaks to his audience of cameras and deputies

The Prime Minister has increasingly used the podium of the Saeima as another means of addressing the Latvian public and reaching his legislation across the media representatives and cameras. His record of speeches has been now added to by his newly required need to respond to the developing situation in Belarus and the upcoming Parliamentary Elections, the public's concern for security has never been greater after the announcement of the Union State and the enlargement of Russia into Latgale. A transcript of the publicly aired speech has been made available to international news reading audiences.

"I have not come here as a merchant of promise, I am here as a man of action. I have spoken to Medvedev, I have spoken to our brotherly Europeans as well. My work these past few months can equate to twenty of my predecessors, and through this work we're at a point where in the near future the sons and daughters of Latvia shall walk freely In Latgale once more.

With more hope, more of this work and determination we shall see our sun reign down easy and free. The struggle still endures, yet it shall loosen. We have more changes to bring, more work that still needs doing. Right now we have further municipality reforms lined up, highway renovation programs that need implementing and social policies that'll give unprecedented economic benefit.

Men that have stolen from you shall pay their sums, the ineffective coalition and bargaining politics that lead to the first Republic's downfall shall no longer endure. For twenty years our country had been stolen from us, ripped and created into an atrocity of business interests by those with no ideology but finance. Our people have struggled in poverty, in post-Soviet boxes, while our industry and national banking institutions were decimated by a select few that deemed Latvia as backwards. They've made jokes and laughed and they have continued to laugh as they tried to end my administration time and time again, their laughter will soon end rest assured. If the KGB sack wasn't enough, just wait.

Those men, fathers, husbands and friends that perished in Rēzekne before the monument of Māra shall be remembered. We will create a country that would honour their legacy and a land where the veteran is protected.

If you right now, member of the public, are listening right now and are in the greatest of doubts and pains. If your light has set, don't forget that once Latvians only numbered 40,000 with salt for soil. Do not forgot the darkest of days when the Latvian spirit went into the night of Siberia nor the destruction of every Great war that has bashed our ancestral home. I speak to you as a fellow human, we will get through this."

by **The National Dominion of Hungary** » Mon May 18, 2020 4:01 am

Rzeczpospolita Polska

A Path to Discovery

Poland has contributed some fine, very fine scientific minds who did their part in contributing to the shared advancement of human knowledge. Mikolaj Kopernik, or Copernicus as he was better known around the world published his De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium, a work that sparked the Copernican Revolution while his works on the quantity theory of money made him a pioneer of economics as well as astronomy. Even today, the work and achievements of Mikolaj Kopernik have cemented themselves among the principal pillars of Polish culture and cultural identity. In the time of the partitions, anti-polish repression, especially prominent in the German and Russian partitions led to most Polish scientists and researchers choosing to work aboard, the most famous of them being Maria Sklodowska-Curie. The first person to win two Nobel Prizes and later played a key role in establishing Poland's Radium Institute in 1925. Indeed, during the Interbellum Era Poland was a flourishing center of mathematics. Outstanding Polish mathematicians formed the Lwow School of Mathematics with Stefan Banach and Stanislaw Ulam among it's most famous members, the latter of whom participated in the Manhattan Project.

Today, there are more then 40 research and development centers in the country, making Poland biggest research and development hub in Eastern Europe outside of Russia. International tech corporations such as ABB, Google, Hewlett–Packard, IBM, Intel, LG Electronics, Microsoft, Motorola, Siemens and Samsung all have set up research and development centers in the country. The government had held several meetings with goals of developing a roadmap to chart the path forward with the goal of making Poland a more significant nation of science and technological development. It was hoped that it would primarily also help in the growth of domestic high-technology industries. Today, high-tech industry only accounted for around 2% of Poland's total GDP, but those companies that were indeed present had a powerful and stimulating effect on the local business environment.

To this end the government was hoping to use the cluster model in order to provide local and international investors with environments conducive to large scale cooperation and knowledge exchange. One possible policy response to the issue of market under-provision being discussed were measures to substantially strengthen the intellectual property rights laws in the country by granting the developers of new ideas strong and long-lasting claims to the economic benefits of their discoveries. This approach has significant drawbacks of its own, however, in that strict limitations on the free use of new ideas would inhibit both further research and the development of valuable commercial applications. Thus, although patent protections and similar rules remain an important part of innovation policy the government would focus on other incentives while reviewing current intellectual property right legislation and where needed amend it.

A Meeting of Close Minds

After a time of preparation, Wawel Castle in Krakow had been closed for visitation by the public for the duration of the summit and now finally stood ready to receive the leaders of the Visegrad Group for the planned conference. As the aircraft touched down in Krakow's International Airport and the Czech and Slovak Presidents alongside the Hungarian Prime Minister were welcomed to the country, they and their closes staff-members were then taken to a convoy of limousines which drove them to the castle guarded by a BOR and Police escort. Near the entrance a host of journalists had assembled and cameras flashed as the leaders of the three V4 members left their limousines and walked up the red carpet into the castle's main courtyard. There they were welcomed by President Kaczynski of Poland and his staff. Flags of each member-state adorned the castle and flew on pennants of old battlements. The four leaders shook hands and exchanged customary greetings and small-talk in good cheer before gathering for a group photo-session after the journalists were let into the courtyard while a military band played the anthems of the four nations in turn. After the show was done, they retreated into the halls of the castle and sat down around a finely decorated baroque table, mineral water had be placed and the flags of the members hung from the ceiling. "Welcome once more." President Kaczynski said after he sat down. "We have much to talk about, and I would like to begin the discussion talking about joint infrastructural projects between us to closer integrate our economies and expand our mutual trade. Much of the infrastructure in our countries is focused on an West-East axis, remnants of the times when our nations were battlegrounds for Western and Eastern Empires, made to facilitate troops movements and bind trade. To construct infrastructure focused on a North-South axis would offer more integrated supply lines for our private companies which would boost all of our economies."

The Prime Minister of the Czech Republic leans back in his chair and responds, "The Three Seas Initiative has been a major project throughout Eastern Europe for years. You propose an extension onto it?"

"Hungary would be interested in supporting such a venture in the theory. Now, the only major concern I hold is funding and investment for this project. I am not necessarily opposed to further extension of the The Three Seas Initiative, however I would prefer if the private logistical enterprises utilizing our supply lines would be from the V4 nations rather than multinational logistical corporations from outside of the V4 nations." Viktor Orban said.

“I’m in full agreement with Mr. Orban.” The Slovak representative stated. “While an admirable proposal, I would hate for this to fall out of the hands of the people.”

"In a way it is an extension of the 3-SI, yes. But I mostly look to growing the Initiative and the V4 closer together, were you, my honored peers, to support such a measure that is." President Kaczynski said with a nod to Czech Prime Minister Babis. "This will not only facilitate regional cooperation and provide a larger policy forum for Eastern nations to discuss issues pertinent for us. but either irrelevant or unpopular in the West. I also have to ask, where would we extend it would you propose? Bosnia? Serbia? Ukraine?" Then he turned to Hungarian PM Orban. "As to funding for the joint infrastructural investment, we could turn to the Three Seas Investment Fund and perhaps the International Visegrad Fund along with priorities being given to investment from private entities registered in and operating from member nations to favor our native companies and-or set a percentage cap on funds from foreign entities, anything above you need to be from local enterprises and joint state investment funds. As for the projects themselves, I would like to propose a gas-terminal similar to the one built in Poland not too many years ago to be built in Croatia, with a connecting pipeline running North-South with a branch toward Brno. The Baltic Pipe project finished in 2022 was a major step in freeing us from dependence on Russia, we need to extend those possibilities. I would also like to propose a six-lane highway running from the Baltic to the Adriatic passing through all our countries, some of which could be accomplished by expanding existing expressways." The Polish President paused and sipped from his glass of mineral water. "This might provide an opportunity to extend a V4 membership offer to Croatia, if you would support such a move?"

"The Czech Republic has always been in favor of expanding the Visegrád Group, especially to Croatia, we will continue to support such a measure as we have for decades. As far as your other proposals go, Mr. Kaczynski, I find myself mainly worried that that the six-lane highway proposed would simply end up a costly, but unused project. Especially when the road network is as adequate as it is. I do believe, however, that the proposed gas-terminal in Croatia could be a fantastic idea, though I would like to come to a consensus on their membership before we proceed on that front." Prime Minister Babis said and took a sip from his glass of water.

"I'm glad that the Czech Republic shares in the Polish opinion that an offer of extension of V4 membership to Croatia would be a positive development for the Group. That as well as the expansion of our combined LNG gas infrastructure to reduce our dependence on a blatantly hostile state for a critical resource and I wait to hear what our honored peers in Slovakia and Hungary say on that regard." Kaczynski paused for a second. "I understand your concerns regarding the Baltic-Adriatic Highway Mr. Babis, they are indeed warranted and perhaps we should seek different ways of interconnecting more closely, by rail perhaps, taking cues from the Rail Baltica Project. Or perhaps we could create a joint maintenance fund to improve the levels of upkeep on existing highways and expressways instead as a more prudent and cost-efficient investment."

"I believe the V4 would be better off remaining as 4 nations." Prime Minister Orban said. "So that there will be a more cohesive and united push for our common goals within the EU. Any further expansion of the V4 weakens this resolve to push forward our shared ideas and goals. I'm not in any way opposed to the V4 working closely with Croatia, but I am not in favor of expansion." He said with a nod toward Babis and Kaczynski.

“I’m inclined to agree with my Czech counterpart on the matter of Croatian membership. They have a similar culture, history, and mindset to the V4 member states, and I believe if they were to join our bloc it would become a much more powerful bargaining force within the EU.” The Slovak representative noted.

"I understand your concerns mister Prime Minister." Kaczynski said with a nod in Orban's direction. "But with another nation so similar in it's culture, history and mindset to the rest of us as our Slovak friend pointed out, we will gain a fifth nation's voice raised in unison with our voices. It will give us greater abilities to raise Eastern concerns in the face of the West and make sure the Germans and French pause and listen to us in the crafting of EU policy. We could ask them to voice their official support and dedication to the vision that our governments put forward in the V4 Statement on the Future of Europe in 2018 as a requirement for membership, as a sign they share our goals and ideas for the future of this continent. Would that assuage some of your fears mr Orban?"

Orban sighed and leaned back, brow furrowed in throught. "Well, if me make it a condition and they put forward that statement then I will not be so opposed to sending them an invitation to the organization. I also think a joint maintenance fund would be a more cost effective choice over an ambitious rail project. I think we ought to push that for a later date though."

"Very good, I'm glad to hear that Mr, Orban." The Polish President said. "So, are we in agreement on sending a joint message to Zagreb, offering membership and our interest in jointly constructing an LNG terminal in on the Adriatic coast and a connecting pipeline to the new terminal on the Baltic coast running through the four current member-nations should they voice their support for and sign the 2018 V4 Statement on the Future of Europe?" He leaned back in his chair. "Also, in order to limit undue foreign funding, should we infuse funds into the Visegrad Road Fund by a portion of our infrastructural spending? Earmarking the fund to be used on the most important highways and expressways connecting the Baltic ports in Poland with the major cities within your countries, hopefully all the way down to the Adriatic should the Croats decide to join the Visegrad Group."

"If need be we could infuse funds, but would the Three Seas Investment Fund and International Visegrád Fund not be sufficient as you suggested earlier, Mr. President?" The Czech PM said, raising an eyebrow. "If placed under the Three Seas Initiative, we would be entitled to having much of the funding taken care of."

"It would if we wish to make it more of a 3-SI Project and less of a V4 undertaking, and we could also apply for EU Structure Funds to aid in it's financing." Kaczynski said. "That depends on in which framework we wish to keep it, we could always split the sources, let's say 30% from the Three Seas Investment Fund and then attempt for another 20% from the EUSF while we use the International Visegrád Fund for the remaining 50%?"

"That would likely be a better way to accomplish it without having to pull from our infrastructure funds." Babis nodded.

"Very well, then glad we could reach an agreement on those two issues." Kaczynski said. "One more issue I would like to bring to the table is the possibility of joint research. We have recently launched the Reproductive Health Research Institute which is tasked with studying reproductive health currently an issue that flies under the radar but one that threatens to sneak up on us in the near-future. By some estimates, one in four couples trying for a baby in Europe will face significant issues in conception due to reproductive health issues by 2030, and I wonder if the renowned universities in your nations would be willing to participate in this joint research endeavor combining the fields of pharmacology, medicine and biology?"

"The Hungarian government is more than willing to participate in this institute." Prime Minister Orban said. "It is imperative we ensure that families can not only prosper but can also be created and grow as well."

"I'm glad that Hungarian expertise in these fields will join in a project important not only to our countries but Europe and the world. I hope that Czechia and Slovakia decides that it is in your interest to join in this project as well." President Kaczynski said with a smile.

"I believe it is." Babis said with a nod.

“Likewise.” The Slovak representative said, raising a hand.

"Very good gentlemen." Kaczynski said. "I'm glad we could come to an agreement on these important issues. Now let's have our negotiation teams earn their pay and write down the agreement. Now, if you were to accompany me to the Hall where the official dinner is being served." The Polish President said and rose from his chair.

"Gladly, will there be knedles?" The Czech PM said with a friendly laugh.

Policymakers at Work

Technologically advanced industries in Poland, such as advanced manufacturing and pharmaceutical production contribute around 2% of the total economy compared to 6% in Germany and 3% in Czechia. While the adoption of foreign technology has helped tremendously in increasing Polish economic growth, the nation's future as an advanced economy is dependent on the development of advanced technologies at home. Yet, given their small overall share of the Polish economy, Poland's advanced industries have a strong indirect effect on the national economy as a whole as it contributes positively to the performance of numerous other industries. Active public policy measures shall thus be taken by the government to encourage technological development and produce an environment more conducive to high-tech growth.

* Active Measures.
- Invest around 400 million Zlotys yearly between 2025 and 2030 in the development and expansion of high-tech industry clusters around the nation, providing firms with environments conducive to large scale cooperation and knowledge exchange.
- Implement programs to strengthen ties between business and academia to ensure that the talent needs of high-tech industries are met.
- Allocate 150 million Zlotys of public spending to support R&D-driven projects with the goal stimulate research.
- Implement a state debt guarantee fund of 650 million Zlotys which shall be made available to mitigate risks of high-capital R&D projects.
- Increase the targeted R&D spending through the removal of tax barriers and facilitate easier access to financing through venture capital.
- Review Polish Patent Laws to strengthen developer's claims to the economic benefits of their discoveries.
- Earmark a sum of 20 million Zlotys to the Ministry of Education to improve the quality and availability of special classes for pupils who show themselves to be exceptionally gifted in STEM-related classes.
- Enter talks with the European Commission about extending Poland's participation in ESA.
- Increase total state spending on research and scientific development from the current 1.6% of GDP to 2.0%.

Sejm votes:
AYE: 255.
NAY: 205.

Senate votes:
AYE: 59.
NAY: 41.

The bill is passed.

Foreign Policy Moves

We extend our warmest greetings to our friends in allies in Croatia.

It is with great elation that we write this message, as in accordance with the latest summit between the nations of the Visegrad Group the decision was made to offer an extension of membership, making the V4 into the V5. It is our hope that the Croatian government sees the merit in this as it would be a great step in empowering the unified voice of East European nations withing the EU, as a nations closely related to the one of the current V4 in history, culture, ideals and identity, we have come to the realization that a Visegrad Group that involves Croatia would empower all nations involved without bloating, weakening and compromising the work of the Visegrad Group. We hope the Croat government sees eye-to-eye in this and is willing to make a full and public commitment to the V4 Vision of Europe outlined in 2018, if that is something Zagreb can do, the door to the V4 will be open and we shall immediately enter talk of bringing Croatia into the V4's framework of mutual cooperation, mainly the possibility of extending energy infrastructure to reduce our dependence on a blatantly hostile Russia. We look forward to the response of our honored peers in Zagreb.

by **Monipolois** » Thu May 21, 2020 5:38 pm

Politics:

With elections a mere year away the political fire-up in Brazil has gripped the world's attention. The major parties are at play and clear leaders have been distinctly found in the polls. These past few months have been absolutely brutal for President Manuel Barbosa I and the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party as the other parties have burned all resources in campaigning against the current president.

The first major party that Brazilians are going to know this year is of course the classic Brazilian Democratic Movement Party. This is one of Brazil’s biggest parties and its only candidate for president is the current president, President Manuel Barbosa I. In these four years the president has been faced with some of the hardest decisions of all time. A failing Brazilian economy, the pink tide, and of course the issue of gang/cartel violence. Brazilian President Manuel Barbosa I hasn't paid much attention to the campaign side of him. In fact, his campaigning has been very minimal. President Barbosa I has been instead traveling all around. Most notably he traveled to Australia as well as South American and Central American nations for support in the Rio Pact Assembly.

The second leading nationwide and viable contender for the 2026 presidential race is the right-wing Alliance for Brazil party. This party has gained large amounts of traction in going against the heavy left-wing policies of the current establishment. The clear leader in the polls is ex-Governor Raul Monteiro. Monteiro has pushed a ‘Brazil First’ agenda which includes heavy tax and government funding cuts. The Alliance for Brazil has seen a skyrocket in followers for the upcoming in the 2026 election, almost as a direct response to President Barbosa I tax increases and increased police presence. Monteiro also has a strong economical perspective and believes he can put Brazil’s money in Brazilians hands by increasing the prosperity of Brazilian businesses within Brazil.

Campaigning the hardest would have to be the Brazilian Integralist Party. Their massive anti-establishment and their parties presidential candidate pick, Joseph Paschoal, has actively criticized President Manuel Barbosa I’s leadership abilities. The Integralist Party stands for strong national unity, strong leadership, and taking the government away from the corrupt foreign paws. The Integralist Party has come in great tidings with the population as Joseph Paschoal and his crew travel around. The Integralist Party is one of the only minority parties that has people running for every office available in Brazil’s Federal government as well as many of the offices in Brazil’s local state governments. The party does military style marches across towns before they give speeches, tossing green armbands and handheld flags with the infamous Integralist symbol on them into the masses of people. They have constantly been on the news as the rapid growth and popularity of the party is intense. Will they be Brazil’s choice in 2026?

The Workers Party has a few key candidates this year. The Brazilian Workers Party has been Brazil’s second biggest party and their foot-holding in the Federal Government shows this. Currently two candidates lead in the Workers Party polls; Senator Jessica Paiva and Chamber of Deputies Member Enrico Guedes. Senator Jessica Paiva has taken the lead over Chamber of Deputies Member Enrico Guedes. Their main disagreement points are on the benefits of the pink tide. Paiva believes the pink tide is a good South American movement that should be harnessed and pushed forward. Her policies are heavily socialist, including a heavy tariff on the United States and taxing some of Brazilian’s richest people up to 60%. She is a younger Senator, 37 years old. Guedes on the other hand is gaining the votes of the more moderate voters in the party. He believes the pink tide is too extreme and volatile for South America, especially Brazil and he disagrees with a tariff on the USA.

Another interesting prevailer in these elections is the Communist Party of Brazil which has no doubtetly gotten its popularity due to the pink tide. The Communist Party has chosen its presidential candidate, doing shortly so after the Integralist Party. The Communist Party of Brazil chose Gilmar Chagas to lead them to victory in 2026. Chagas is a Brazilian veteran and is currently 53. Chagas claims he is the true voice of the people and that the capitalist pigs have ‘shat’ all over Brazil and its glory. Chagas is extreme and gains following against the current regime. Chagas campaigns hard, going to some of the poorest areas of the nation to speak his rhetoric. The Communist Party has taken the media by a storm, getting coverage by far left media sources.

One of the other big time moderate parties of Brazil is the Brazilain Social Democracy Party. This party has not selected a candidate and has two leaders in the polls. Senator Bosco Neves and Mayor Rosa Santos. Santos is a 48 year old Brazilian woman mayor of Rio and adamantly campaigning against the atrocities that President Manuel Barbosa I has put in place. Her moderate viewpoints have really gained her traction in being a viable candidate to beat the President in 2026. She believes in peace, love, and overall government welfare support. Neves is just behind her in the polls but is losing by more each day. Neves is an anxious person who has been joked at as being the ‘Jeb Bush’ of Brazilian Politics. He is bashed by his opponents for not taking any real stances on positions and changing his viewpoints constantly to fit the public's perspective.

The last interesting contender for 2026 is the Brazilian Libertarian Party. The Libertarian Party, while not gaining nearly as much media attention, has become a consistent talking point in everyday Brazilian politics. The clear presidential candidate leader in this race is Romeo Barrosso, a Brazilian millionaire with a humbling backstory. Barrosso is a heavy advocate for anti-statist beliefs and has been rallying on how terrible the government is so far. As he was first gaining prominence the media gave him coverage, but, his heavy anti-statist beliefs pushed him off the air and have only helped him grow a grassroots following of Brazilian Libertarians.

An Integralist March:

Thousands gathered in a brutal demonstration last week to rally for the Integralist Party in Rio. The banner of the party hung from thousands of peoples arms as the Integralist Party made their public demonstration within Rio. The parade was created with beautiful orchestra music composed by Brazilian composers, green and blue fireworks, marching of the political Camisas Verdes or the green shirts, a group of Integralist officials that are running for office everywhere. Another group that was shown marching was the parties Esquadrão de Proteção or the Protection Squadron of the party. The Protection Squad also deals with higher up logistics, security, public propaganda, and public relations. They are the major components of the back end of the party.

Men and women who have volunteered to the party march in the uniforms of the Integralist Party carrying weapons and banners of the party. The ceremony had Brazilian musicians sing the national anthem as well as notable figures within the party giving energetic speeches on the failure of the Brazilian state.

Integralist Candidate for a seat in the Federal Senate, Alceu Quintana, an esteemed Brazilian businessman and philanthropist, gave a passionate speech on his views for the party. Here is an excerpt:

“Ladies and Gentlemen we have here today a devastating realization of the failure of the modern day democratic system. The irregular failure and corruption of all non-European or non-American states is a primary example of how they have rigged the world against us. Brazil is a glorious place, once thought to be a contender to a world power, but today we sit in failure. It is due to our current politicians being bought out by forces that want to see Brazil fail. They want to see Brazil fail because they know what happens if a nation that succeeds in our part of the world looks like. They know what will happen if we put our nation first. And this election, the most important election in Brazilian history, this election will show the world that Brazil is being placed back into the hands of the Brazilian people. Brazil first! Hail victory! Hail the glorious Brazil!”

Another notable speech given was from the famous Brazilian actor who supports the Integralist party, her speech was a sort of introduction to the Presidential Candidate, Joseph Paschoal, speech of the evening. Celebrity Gislaine de Salles, a famed Brazilian singer, actor, influencer, and Green Shirt had this to say:

“Everyday I go out and do what I can. I am constantly trying to see good done in our communities, whether it's by having community gardens, setting up food banks, making women and children feel safer within our own communities, or helping get our brothers and sisters to a rehabilitation facility. I see the gemstone that is our nation being cracked and destroyed. It really beats me to my knees to know that I can never outdo the damages done by the United States, by our own corrupted officials. I do not have the money or power to combat that alone. Then the Integralists came along and, *Gislaine wipes a tear from her face*, and I felt hope again. I felt that I could make a difference, a real difference. The Integralists have set up shelters for the abused, they’ve put people in rehabilitation facilities, and they have used the Integralist Protection Squadron to patrol neighborhoods so the residents could feel safe again. That is tangible progress, and they, no, we aren’t in office yet. They’ve done all this good and what does President Manuel Barbosa have to say about it? He has arrested our people, jailed them for protesting and marching. Even tonight the police who act as his undying hounds of war were arresting some of our own. They want to silence us and stop us, but I know they can’t. They never will. Look at the crowds tonight, the crowds of workers. Everyday people, not people like me who are financially secure, but you. The people who make Brazil work, the people who make the money of this nation, who make the majority of the taxes that go into those corrupted politicians. It is the miners, the farmers, the factory workers, the house-wives, the waiters, the attendants, the manufacturers, the people of Brazil who make this nation what it is. It just isn’t fair that the fruits of your labor are shipped off to satisfy some fat cat that could care less about our prosperity. I support the real Brazil, the hard working Brazil, the Brazil that lies within all of us. Hail victory! Hail the coming wave of Brazilian success and prosperity! Hail the great Integralist Party of Brazil!”

The roars of Lady Gislaine de Salles’ speech are said to have been heard from miles away. They were followed by the orchestra playing a patriotic and uplifting tone as Presidential Candidate Joseph Paschoal walked on the stage saluting the masses. His speech had many highlights that were emotional, intense, uplifting, hopeless, and hopeful. His strong character and charismatic personality have given the party a heroic style figure to rally around, a person to believe in amongst all else.

“Last week right here in Rio a woman by the name of Magali Bonfim Yamada was murdered by the Brazilian regime that corrupts our nation. She was a loving woman, a local baker, and participated within her church very dearly. Her devotion to God, her family, and her nation was unremarkable. She volunteered at local soup kitchens, worked in the Church’s outreach programs, and most of all she loved her family, who is here with us tonight. Come up on stage, please, Yamada family. *Three children ranging from the age of 4-14 along with a middle age Brazilian man come on stage* This is what is left of the Yamada family. They had a piece of their kin stolen from them at the marks of President Manuel Barbosa. He is a murderer, one who would rather murder a fellow countryman than the actual enemy. The Yamada’s lost their loving wife and mother because she happened to be in the bad piece of town on an outreach mission while the bought out soldiers came in and killed her in crossfire with the cartel activity. The disheartening thing, the saddest thing, is that Miss.Magali isn’t the only occurrence. Our own people, the Brazilian people, are being shot down for the sake of ‘safety’ and ‘freedom’. The corrupt establishment have fully betrayed our people, they are more loyal to foreign powers instead of their own people. Not under my rule. Under my administration I’d organize it all. I’d put those politicians who sit on their ass all day and steal from us, kill us, and look the other way, I’d put them in jail. I’d give the highest ones the worst punishment. I’d hold them responsible for what they did to us.”

Latter on in Joseph’s speech he talks about the economy:

“Our economy is struggling greatly, there is no doubt about that. Under my administration I could not only jump-start our economy, but get it on the steamroll that it deserves. We’d slash unemployment by empowering Brazilian factories, businesses, and manufacturers. Those foreign companies will not be allowed to milk cash from Brazilians, they won’t be allowed to steal from us like they do, instead we will make it to where they have to give us what we deserve if they want business here. Oh, the economy will grow. Factories will open up, infrastructure will be built across the board, and Brazil will dominate. We will slash poverty where it lies, giving out more jobs than people. We will make Brazil strong and mighty. I, and some of the highest economic advisors of the party, have plans drafted to cut regulations on our own companies, establish strict tariffs, and even empower the small business owners of Brazil. It is the small businesses, the Brazilian owned companies, that will clearly dominate far more under my administration. Currently, the small local business that a family has worked so hard to run is on the verge of collapse. Why? It is because a foreign company has come in and stolen the business. A foreign power wants to show petty dominance and take out our businesses. And who is there to help the small business? Not the government, the government is so happy to encourage the banks to foreclose on them, to steal away their property and possessions. To crush the dreams of our own people. Not under my administration. Not anymore.”

Roaring applause echoes after Joseph concludes his speech. Green and blue fireworks boom throughout Rio as emotional and uplifting music blares from the orchestra. The city seems to be moved, thoroughly touched by the outstanding impact of the night. Armed police units patrol heavily and arrest a total of 26 people that night. Protests and marches are shown throughout the city and a faith is placed with the Integralist Party. The whole nation saw tonight's event, whether through attending or through the television, and it stands to be one of the most historic Integralist Events to date.

Rio Pact Assembly of 2025:

Lights and camera flash as the leaders and diplomats of Latin and South American nations arrive in Rio. The building heavily secured by Brazil’s toughest fighting force stands grand and tall. The press snapshotting every leader pulling up to the meeting in complementary Brazilian SUVs or limos. President Manuel Barbosa I waits at the entrance to the building, where a thick red carpet has been placed, and he shakes hands with every leader as they walk up.

The scene more resembles a movie premiere instead of a political conference. The future of South and Latin America will all unfold at this conference and Barbosa smiles greeting each and every attendant. Just a few weeks ago this city was rocked by Integralist action and it still shows.

On Barbosa’s drive to the spot he saw banners and signs demonstrating the Integralist symbol. A symbol which has left a sour taste within his mouth. The rapid expansion of the Integralist Party and the harsh criticism of his administration has proven to be somewhat critical to his own interests. It, however, didn’t matter today. On this day the Rio Pact Assembly would commence and the Central and South American Nations would come to unite as one, working together for a unified sense of progress.

After the seemingly endless hours of arrival and greetings the assembly begins. President Manuel Barbosa I of the Federative Republic of Brazil takes the stage and gives a speech.

“Ladies and Gentleman of Central and South America, it is with honor and adornment that I welcome each and every one of you to my nation, and it is with my deepest pride and greatest pleasure that I officially commence the Rio Pact Assembly of 2025. Our common identity of South and Central American nations should act as the great unifier of our peoples. We all face similar struggles, trials and tribulations, things that all of our nations have in common. The crisis in the Amazon, the Cartel’s ravaging war across our nation, and a common economic disparity between our nations are just a few of the major issues that we all share. It is a failure of modern policy that we do not work together on these things, for we are not enemies but should be each other's greatest allies.”

“I have called all of us here to agree to some things, to establish policy when it comes to certain things. I think without any hesitation we can all agree that our nations would fare so much better if we relied on each other instead of external powers. If our money flowed with each other instead of out, spilling into external nations, and never returning. That is why I think that the first major initiative to be passed by this assembly should be that of free and open trade between all of our nations, as well as setting a base tariff for any external nations that wish to buy their goods. This should be the first major initiative, however, this assembly in its modern form is young. To reap the full benefits of a South American alliance we should first establish a Central American location for assembly. Here in South America Rio is the assembly place. Rio is a strong city in South America and acts as a shareholder and representative body for a South American congregation. I feel that the Central American States do not have this liberty, and together they should decide where the focal point to establish a place of operation for our alliance should be. That is why before we make any official deals we must allow our Central American brothers and sisters to converse and meet upon to decide a location for this meeting place.”

“As this is just a precursor to the first glorious meeting of an alliance I would like to put some ideas in place, that way we can today sign that our nations are a part of this alliance. First of all I believe that what previously stood as the Rio Pact should be abolished and replaced by this new alliance, an alliance that should include more than just Brazil and her interests. Although the Rio Pact won’t immediately be disassembled, replacing it and disassembling it as this new alliance progresses will be something that will be adamantly pushed forward.”

“As a South and Central American alliance I believe it will be extremely important to utilize a non-aggression principle for all of our nations as well as work towards a defensive pact. We stand stronger together, not separated and left to starve on our own. I think we can all agree that foreign factions like the United Nations and their peacekeeping forces do more harm than good when it comes to securing our nations. With this alliance, in the future, I’d like to see a similar force being made up within the alliance to support our nations with internal conflicts and strife, such as cartels or natural disaster peacekeeping missions. As I said, together our nations are so much stronger. I don’t want this to be seen as a pact that only supports one nation over another. This pact is the pact for all of South and Central America. It is the alliance that will ensure our nations can stand in independence and away from foreign discrimination and prosecution.”

“Now, I will wrap up quickly here as I know everyone has prepared talking points for what they wish to see this treaty become. I cannot wait to hear the ideas of each and every one of you. Together our ideas will strengthen and grow a bond between us that couldn’t be found anywhere else in the world.”

President Manuel Barbosa I introduces the next leader to speak. Throughout the next few days the leaders meet, discuss, strategize, and debate future plans of the new established pact. The only piece of tangible legislation is the signing of the Pact agreement which states that their nation is a part of the newfound alliance. It comes with nothing other than agreeing to participate and be recognized as a member of the alliance. The next date for the next meeting is set to October of 2026 in the city put forth by the Central American subcommittee.

Legislation:

National Assembly of the Federative Republic of Brazil
Based in Three Powers Square, Brasilia
Federative Republic of Brazil

Order and Progress
Assembléia Nacional da República Federativa do Brasil
Sediada na Praça dos Três Poderes, Brasília
República Federativa do Brasil
Ordem e Progresso

Bill: Brazilian Public Security Act of 2025

Author: Chamber of Deputies Member Cícero Cordeiro <MDB>
Co-Authors: Chamber of Deputies Member Renato Damasceno <MDB>, Chamber of Deputies Member Vitor Câmara <PSDB>, Chamber of Deputies Member Cristiano Carvalho <PSB>

Summary: Giving more security and overall protection to the Brazilian people as well as ensuring investigative agencies have the legal procedures necessary to combat cartel organizations.

SECTION I:
All state owned and funded investigation and law enforcement teams may use expanded means to obtain information on suspects.
----> Tactics such as those listed will be legal for all of the Federative Republic of Brazil’s Law Enforcement, Criminal Investigation Branches, and Legal Proceedings as well as any of the States forces under the Republic. All of these divisions will from here on out be notarized and referred to as ‘The organizations’.
a)The organizations will be allowed to tap phone lines and record any and all phone conversations (such as but not limited to phone calls or text messages). This also applies to all private messaging services that do not rely on cellular transmissions. Evidence gained by this method can be used in the courts during a fair trial.
b)The organizations are allowed to monitor computer activity and use such information to conduct investigations. All internet traffic may be investigated and agencies are allowed to set up a ‘flagging system’ to flag certain types of internet traffic. Evidence gained by this method can be used in the courts during a fair trial.
c)The organizations may conduct thorough investigations on imported mail or packaging. This may include methods like random searches or having trained dogs sniff packages. Suspicious packages, by terms that the Organizations set, may be opened and investigated. Evidence gained by this method can be used in the courts during a fair trial.
----> Those who are tried and found guilty of distribution or manufacturing of any illegal substance will have extended consequences.
a) Those found distributing in small (Under $1000 worth of quantity, this included the amount of cash, substance, and estimated value of firearms combined the detainee is arrested with added on to any substance that is found when personal units such as housing and car) amounts will serve the same sentence they would have before this law.
b) Those found distributing over $1000 of cumulative quantity will be put to life in jail with a chance of parole after 25 served years. All money found or illegal items, such as firearms or drugs, will be turned over to the state. The punishment can increase with severity if the judge sees fit.
c) Those found manufacturing illicit substances, no matter the quality, will have life in jail with the chance of parole after 35 years. All money found or illegal items, such as firearms or drugs, will be turned over to the state. The punishment can increase with severity if the judge sees fit.
d) All violent offenders that can be linked to a cartel or gang will be put on life with chance of parole after 35 years. All money possessions as well as firearms or violent tools such as knives or shivs will be seized as property of the state. The punishment can increase with severity if the judge sees fit.
e) All money gained through arresting and confiscating possessions will go right back into the legal sector, primarily into funding the jailing and criminal judicial system

Section II:
All of Brazil’s legislative branches, both federal and local, have the right to anonymity. Through various measures it should be ensured that politicians in the various legislative branches are allowed to vote freely as they choose without external bias. This is to prevent excessive lobbying as well as a bought vote through anonymizing the voting process.
---->All members of the legislative branch and foreign affairs branches have expanded rights concerning anonymity.
a) Votes on bills or policy will not be public information. How a candidate votes will be private. The candidate may publicly announce they voted however but the records will be anonymous.
b) All documented legislative conferences may have any information deemed by the majority of the legislation (must be a two thirds or higher majority) may be redacted. All televised legislative activities, news or otherwise, may be edited and none of which live streamed.
c) Foreign affairs of the President, those acting on the President’s behalf, and other policy makers who participate in foreign affairs may redact or privatize any information they see fit.
d) The public are entitled to know how many people voted either way on a policy, just not who placed which votes.
e) Under the circumstances of political fraud or any other investigation the voting record may be made public in legal proceedings.

In Other News:

-Public clashing between police forces and Integralists rise as heavy police presence is on the rise at protests and rallies.
-News companies have swarmed Integralist candidates, making it one of the most covered aspects of this next election. Some are weary and warn against the uncertain tide in Brazilian Politics.
-A major drug bust outside São Gabriel da Cachoeira has led to the localized fame of Captain Tadeu Linhares Prestes, a man who is glorified for risking his life to capture and take down a high ranking warehouse of cartel goodies. Captain Prestes went on the news saying he is happy to do his service for the nation and he thinks all the tactics he used were more than necessary. This action movie mindset has come up in question within Brazil’s political commentators.
-Production of the 27 JAS 39 Gripen aircraft started back in 2024. They should be done by early 2026.
-Army General Juliano Hamada Cavalcanti has donated and become an open supporter of the Brazilain Integralist stating ‘It is the only way for our nation to prosper and keep up with the rest of the world’
-Famed Brazilian Investor and Banker Juan Carlos Piscaliano criticized the demand for more government in an interview claiming ‘You are just giving up your own rights for more taxes,’ and ‘Nothing is wrong with the American nation, it is villanizing them that will lead to our own destruction.’
-President Manuel Barbosa I commented on the ongoing investigation of the Brazilian Board of Human Rights saying; “It’s rather unfortunate, really, but I understand it. To the outsider, the policy of my administration may seem brutal, and they [The board of Human Rights] are influenced greatly on the position of exterior congregations like the UN and whatnot. I understand that here and there officers will act out of line, and I want to see those officers punished as well, but we got to understand the actual problem here. The cartels are devastating our country and quite frankly they act as vicious as any other terrorist would act. I equate them to terrorists, and believe we should treat them as such. I wouldn’t want the police to go shoot up a local pin of common thieves or other petty crimes, there is no sense in that, but this isn’t that. These are terrorists. I mean look, just last month cartel members opened fire on a rival gang in the middle of a town just north of Petrolina. Kidnappings, rapes, arson, murder, and all sorts of nasty acts are committed by these people. We can’t continue to treat it as just any other crime, its terrorism and my administration will deal with it as such.”

by **The Surge Empire** » Tue Jun 30, 2020 11:34 am

Republic of Italy

The Italian Energy Reforms

It had been a tough couple of years for Italy, The Virumaa Crisis seriously deteriorated Russian-European Relations, and to prevent getting blackmailed by Russia through Gas production, Conte had an idea. France had proven Nuclear power to work, and while the Italian public had banned Nuclear production in the 2011 Referendum. Conte knew that was 3 months after Fukushima. Despite the fact that 94% of Italians voted to ban nuclear production in that referendum, Conte felt It would be very possible to convince them of the good that could come. Conte specifically was excited by Thorium Production, but it would be very likely that Uranium Reactors would be built if the Government was allowed to begin construction.

"People of Italia, Our Economy has grown greatly during my administration, The Recession is over and a new age for Italy is coming along the horizon. The Futility of the past decades are over, the errors of the past administration are long gone. Over the past year, i have enacted policies and started programs and task forces to prepare our economy for the new era that we are facing. But we need to go Further, We are dependent on Russian Gas, 33.5% of our country is powered by Natural Gas.

The Russians have for far to long tried to push the boundaries of what they can do, First Crimea, Next Virumaa, and Now, We no longer have America backing us, what will they do Next! This is a risk we can no longer take. We can no longer economically support their government through our importation of Russian Gas.

Or Country uses roughly 280 Billion Kilowatts of Energy, France produced more than Twice that, on Nuclear Energy alone. and with promising advancement into Thorium Technology, it is my belief that the Nuclear option is the future for Italy. We Banned the construction and Reopening of Nuclear plants in 2011, after Fukushima. But i believe that was rash, and with France having jumped head first into this field of energy, they have proven that this path forward is viable. It has been 4 Decades without any accident from faulty engineering, Nuclear is a safe option, and our best option

With the support of The Five-Star Movement, And our Fellow Italians in the Coalition, My Administration wants to move forward.

We Want to break the Shackles that have been place upon our hands, by the central government's own volition, By the Russian Bear. It is time to break free and write our own destiny as Italians. So I am here to announce a Referendum to reverse the ill-fated decision we made back in 2011. And Soon we shall, hopefully.

The Italian Federal Reforms

"Welcome Back to Italia Tonight, My Name is Alexander Romano, and here we have Julius Mussolini. We heard a few hours ago the Prime Minister's speech on the need for nuclear energy and it appears Martin Salvini has expressed discontent with the Prime minister over a few choice words. But what we haven't heard in a while is the progress of federalization by the Conte administration, which is while i have brought Mr. Mussolini with me tonight."
"Now, Mr. Mussolini, We have heard outcries to get federalism underway, and after the debacle a few months ago, The Government has been radio silent about the subject. Would you like to speak about it at all?"

"Yes i Would Alex," Julius Starts "Italy as it stands is a quasi-federal state. We have certain federal qualities, but in the end of the day, we act as if we are a unitary state, one where we put our trust into Rome. However over time we have decentralized more and more, but we're not quite there yet. People in Venice or Naples have to put their trust in Rome to pass laws that suit them, rather than their own regions, since regional laws can't defy National Laws. This needs to change, and its a major obstacle to our federalization. and because of that, a major aspect of Phase one."

"Phase one, you say, So there are multiple phases of your Federalization plan"

"Yes Alex, There are multiple, This one will give regions this new ability to defy Rome, Which will only help our decentralization process towards a Federal State. We will also Shift powers towards the regions that would be more effectively and efficiency be handled by them then up in Rome. Moving Forward other Phases will make certain institutions more decentralized and implement them on a subnational level.That is our Goal with Federalization. We want people to no longer have to rely on Rome, but their own region, their own city, it will be quicker, more effective and far more efficient then what we have now."

"this will have to go to a referendum to truly pass, Correct?"

"of course, as with all Constitutional Reforms would"

As Conte walked down the halls of the the Parliament, Two Aides flanked him.

"Sir, The 'Marsilio' Reforms have passed, and the New Israeli Ambassador has arrived, his name is John Hurwitz, he sends his regards" says Sofia, an Aide of conte

"Good good, Good on Mussolini, he was the main promoter of that, and send some flowers to the ambassador" said the Prime Minister

"How is the Federalization bill going" asked Alberto, another aide of Conte's.

"Mussolini says he finished it to his liking,"

Sofia turns around, with a concern look on her face "Salvini blown up again, he wants you in the conference room"

"God Damn, that man, This relationship can't last, what did i do this time. was it my damn choice of words, i can never satisfy him. "

"So Mussolini is going to propose the Bill soon" says Alberto moving the subject along.

"Yes, Phase one of the Federalization is ready to hit the Aisle of Parliament"

The Italian Assembly

The 'Marsilio' Reform

Independent of the Prime Minister's larger Economic Initiative, Marsilio (Brothers of Italy) has brought a plan to reduce many so called unnecessary regulations
The Opposition to this Bill has augured that by the regulations are neccessary.
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Senate Votes

YEA Votes: 174(Governing Coalition: 122)
NAY Votes: 26
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Chamber of Deputies Votes

YEA Votes: 320 (Governing Coalition - 224)
NAY Votes: 80

The Bill Passes

Phase 1 of Federalization

As part of the Governing Coalition's Federalization reforms, Mussolini has brought a plan to Federalize the nation, with support of Conte, and the rest of the Governing Coalition.
Changes would be:

Allowing Regions to Pass laws that change Laws passed by Rome.
Shift of Powers Awarded to the Central government towards the Regions (Welfare, Education Standards, and Cultural heritage protection)

The Opposition to this Bill has augured that Federalization, or as they put it, Decentralization will greatly harm the Republic of Italy
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Senate Votes

YEA Votes: 135 (Governing Coalition: 122)
NAY Votes: 65
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Chamber of Deputies Votes

YEA Votes: 278 (Governing Coalition - 224)
NAY Votes: 122

The Bill Passes

2024: THE LONG PEACE [IC| OPEN | EU PLAYERS REQUESTED]

2024: THE LONG PEACE [IC| OPEN | EU PLAYERS REQUESTED]

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