The Western Isles News

[Travencia]

4/19/2017


Travencia City: National Health Service has confirmed that President Fredo McMurray is in critical condition following complications of an undisclosed chronic condition. He was admitted yesterday morning into Travencia General Hospital after telling aides he felt unwell, and allegedly collapsed. Details are scant, with security keeping a firm guard of the wing the president is in for the safety of himself, and other patients nearby. Authorities were adamant about the fact it is NOT the ticking flu..

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Travencia City: Imperial Cruises has announced that Wellington, @Ainslie and Port Sinare, @Noronica as home ports and departure points for new cruise routes that are set to start in early May. The choice was done primarily to keep operations within the Cooperative Union, while also being able to offer routes in areas that weren't previously serviced by Imperial Cruises. Which ship will go where remains unknown, but its widely speculated both would receive modest sized ships filled with modern amenities...

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Coventry: Darkstar Industries has been scouting locations in eastern Romast zone for a future LOX production facility, and a Research and Development campus to begin testing of their upcoming proton rocket series. It has been speculated that they will relocate most of their employees to @Covonant if and when they begin on this new facility. CEO Alex Rook made a statement to reports outside his temporary residence in Coventry...

"The future of Space Exploration, is right here in Coventry. Right now as I speak to you, people are planning and making ideas of how to make a premier facility for the Cooperative Union Aerospace Council, and I highly expect @Covonant to be a leader very soon. I'm willing to put my money where my mouth is..."

Alex Rook is reportedly worth $90 billion dollars in a fortune his family had amassed over generations of commercializing new scientific discoveries and technologies. Prior to the announcement of the CU space program, he had reportedly been in discussion with authorities in New Holland about constructing an artificial island off shore to use as a base of operations for his Darkstar Industries...

[West Suomi]

SMN News (Suomi Media Network)
20 April 2017
Blue Waters, West Suomi

Jeyzor blasts off to the International District

Jeyzor left for the International District, or I.D. for short, last Sunday. He reportedly left to meet new leaders of the Western Isles, help other nations if possible and just because he wants to meet new people.

Jeyzor's first endeavour in the I.D. is to try and speak to Ariel Klein, president of the newly formed nation of Suniter, to potentially help his nation, as it is recovering from a very violent civil war.

The newly-elected Vice President Finn Deksin, is to take over Jeyzor's role as president until Jeyzor's return from the International District next week Monday.

Health screenings issued all across West Suomi to prevent the spread of the Ticking Flu

Various pharmacies, airports, ports, train stations and hospitals across West Suomi have issued free health screenings for Ticking Flu, hoping to prevent the disease from infecting Suomi citizens. Pamphlets about the disease"s symptoms are also being issued, so that if anyone finds symptoms of the Ticking Flu they can go see a doctor.

The government have decided to keep the borders open, but closely monitor any traffic through the borders to try and control the spread of the Flu.

Suomi scientists are working on a cure for the Ticking Flu as you read this article.

Weather


Blue Waters
Cloudy

High of 13 C
Low of 3 C
Chance of precipitation: 64%
Wind speed: 14 Km/h

Kasu
Partly Cloudy

High of 16 C
Low of 5 C
Chance of precipitation: 75%
Wind speed: 5 Km/h

Sudbury
Sunny

High of 14 C
Low of 2 C
Chance of precipitation: 35%
Wind speed: 18 Km/h

Tune in soon for another edition of SMN News.
Have a great day.

Article written by Matthew Alsky

[Samudera]

20/04/2017
Antara News Agency
Kotapura, Samudera

The last descendant of the last king of Kingdom of Samudera tried to claims the throne

After the last king of Samudera, King Sailendra II died in the battle against British in 1903, the grandchild of the king tried to claims the vacant throne that had been replaced by republic system since 70 years ago. Backed by the royalist, the 'king' tried to persuade people to return him to the throne and revolt against the federal government. This, of course, is a futile action. People had long enjoyed the democracy and the effect that resulted from it. Most people just ignored them and do their business. But some People's Representative Assembly (PRA) members are actually supporting them, mainly the corrupted one and some with relation to the so-called King. Peoples are nervous about this, and another demonstration were held protesting the royalist that can threatened the very existence of this republic. A riot could be evaded thanks to the police, because the demonstrator almost caught the royalist. Finally the President said he will do something about this. The next day they held referendum voting to preserve the republic or estabilish new kingdom. Turnouts the result is overwhelming support for the republic, with 99.87% voted for this option. Yet another problems could be solved by the means of democracy. Afterwards, the royalist and the so-called king fled from the prosecution to another country.

The Democracy, Republic, and Socialist state shall be preserved forever!

[Travencia]

4/20/2017
News Update

Travencia City: Moments ago Travencia General Hospital released a statement updating the press that president Fredo McMurray is in stable condition, after spending the last 48 hours in the critical care unit. Flanked by both the hospitals media relations team, and the federal press corps, his wife Martha McMurray made a statement to the press..

"My husband, your president, has suffered complications from a chronic condition. Previously precedent had been to conceal and not elaborate about that condition, until the right time. I ask you for your cooperation during this difficult time, and please respect our privacy during this troubling time."

Reporters repeatedly tried to get her to take questions, but she adamantly refused and was escorted back into the hospital. Speculations are abound what this condition could be, and whatever or not it would effect his abilities to do his duties as president of the nation.

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Port Sinare: The Cooperative Union leader summit will shortly be under way, but preparations have been ongoing for a smooth transition for acting president James Albano. This will be the first trip abroad where he's in the spotlight, which comes as his own conservative party further splits on the topic of union membership. The party is divided, with some hardliners claiming a loss of independence and sovereignty to the multinational organization. However a growing number of party members make a pretty strong point that union membership strengthens the nation's financial standing, and would be a boon to the message of being fiscally conservative. Albano is on the record as the highest ranking member of his party in favor of the CU, which has put him at odds with some of his peers and the rest of the party leadership.

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[Ainslie]

Welcome to Ainslie Daily's Broadcast

Today is the 20th of April. Here in Arnton it will reach 23 Today. And now to the news.

World Headlines

• Shanowinn: Tensions escalate as suspected Highlanders obstruct international trade routes
• Cathary: Governor arrested on corruption charges
• Samudera: Sherriff shooting leads to a ban on guns
• Travencia: President stable after sudden hospitalisation
• Occupied Territories: Various nations send diplomats to the International District, as diplomatic activity increases.

News

Foreign Investment breaking barriers in Siberia North
Vladivostok, Siberia North

National Security Minister Carboni and Foreign Minister Gifford today are spending the weekend in Siberia North. On the first day of talks, a partnership predicted by many has been officially revealed to the media, after the agreement was plagued by leaks and rumours. This prediction was based on the unusually open and supportive nature of the Ahnslen government toward this nation, which normally would be officially in the suspicious category, with limited contact between the two nations. Today, we know for sure that the latter was not the case. Carboni today revealed alongside his Siberian counterpart Uspensky that the Ahnslen National Security Ministry has invested into Siberia North’s military industry in order for the production of a patrol boat to happen, which will be revealed at a later date. In this thoroughly military agreement, our foreign minister managed to deliver one of her most eloquent statements yet.

“We reaffirm our commitment to the world, and to nations like Siberia North. Ainslie’s commitment to bridging ideological gaps and forging meaningful relations with nations not like us is a clear example of how we seek to foster international cooperation and improve our unique and distinct relationships with nations which may normally be seen negatively by nations similar to our own”

Gifford’s statement was not predicted by the media and political commentators back at home. It is clear however, that Ahnslens support these kinds of actions and that the basic fundamentals of our societies need to be compatible, not necessarily ideology for development and progress in relations and investments to begin. The two ministers will talk to business representatives and government officials, whilst touring the nation and seeing what it has to offer.

Blackwood enters I.D
International District, Occupied Territories of The Western Isles

Following an increase in activity and new leaders entering the International District, Ainslie has decided to send a representative of the nation to the diplomatic zone. The International District is, as Ainslie recognises it, an occupied territory of the Western Isles, an area owned multilaterally yet its governance not completely democratic or open to other nations in the Isles. The appointment and arrival of this representative appeared to be a rushed decision, as Blackwood was only appointed to the role of Deputy Ambassador to The Western Isles the morning before the plane departed Arnton.

Jacob Blackwood rushed onto the flight, which turned into a helicopter flight from Agadar to the International District in order to get there as quickly as possible. This helicopter then landed and Blackwood ran into the room in which the delegates and representatives were in discussion. Ainslie Daily will post more news from the International District as it develops.

World Weather

• Arnton - Max: 23, Min: 16
• Coventry - Max: 23, Min: 22
• Nolon - Max: 8, Min: 5
• Samadhi - Max: 32, Min: 26
• Shengang - Max: 16, Min: 10
• Toulon - Max: 21, Min: 10
• Vesuvius - Max: 17, Min: 2

Accessed from TWI Weather

[Shanowinn]

April 20, 2017

Ahernric Ship Turns to Fight For Us! Damages Owinn Naval Ship!


An RON vessel firing at our Carrighinnis.

Up until this point we have mainly covered the efforts made by our valiant Highland fighters on land. We hold them in the highest esteem, naturally. Yet due to recent events, we can also recognize efforts made at sea in defiance of the Ahernric forces. The "Owinn Ahern's Ship" Carrighinnis is now simply the Carrighinnis, as most of the crew has chosen to stand up for themselves and their tradition.

Aptly, most all of the crew of our Carrighinnis hails from the island of Carrighinnis. They most readily abhor the oppressive Ahernric power which has been exerted on their island of late, and took the opportunity to finally stand up for their threatened home and traditions.

So far the Carrighinnis has been wildly successful, and in only a short time! First it disposed of the Owinn freighter Curragh in the Four Passages. The freighter was transporting wool from Domanania to Shanowinn, in an attempt to bypass the crippling effects we have had on lowland textile industry.

Then, Carrighinnis took down another similar freighter northwards. However today it met not with cargo vessels, but with a ship of the Royal Owinn Navy. The Navy ship may be of the same type as the Carrighinnis. Reportedly, she came under fire from a pursuing RON vessel, and then returned fire. Our Carrighinnis appears to have struck the Ahernric ship hard--but unfortunately it also appears that she was damaged in the exchange.

Nonetheless, her crew's heart and soul is still in our cause. Carrighinnis will not go down without a good fight! If (when!) they continue to succeed, it will only mean good things for our cause! The Ahern and the lowland tyrants have attempted to trap us in their net, but it is too light to hold us down!

[Covonant]

April 20, 2017
Coventry, Covonant



Covonant prepares for state visit of Ahnslen Prime Minister



The Protocols Department is announcing the state visit arrival of the Prime Minister of Ainslie Andrew Kenzai. According to Gregory Mair, Director of the Protocols Department, the Ahnslen Prime Minister is expected to arrive in Coventry tomorrow for a two day state official visit. He notes that planning had been ongoing for the past three weeks.

We are expecting the arrival of the Prime Minister of Ainslie Hon. Andrew Kenzai. He is to arrive in Coventry tomorrow afternoon at approx. 3pm. The visit is to last for 2 days ending on Sunday. We have been in constant dialogue with the foreign ministry in Ainslie and have been planning for the visit 3 weeks in advance

Mr. Mair expressed that routes have been drafted and security measures have been put in place for the visiting Prime Minister and his team.

The Protocols Department and the Coventry Metropolitan Police High Command have been in discussions concerning the routes that the PM's motorcade is expected to pass through and the security of these routes and the overall security of the Prime Minister and his team. We also have received confirmation by The Praetorian Guards that they have been collaborating and cooperating with the Federal Corporals who are to be the co-joined security force of the Ahnslen PM.

Over at the Palatine Manor (the residence of the Covonantian Prime Minister) where the state arrival ceremony is expected to take place, Director of the Palatine Manor grounds Mrs. Elizabeth Reaves notes that the Palatine Manor grounds are ready for the Ceremony tomorrow and to welcome the Ahnslen Prime Minister.

We are nearing completion with preparation for tomorrow's state ceremony. The carpets have been rolled out and ironed, the flags have been broken out as well and the perimeter for the audience has also been put in place. What is left for us to do which will be done tomorrow morning is put in place seating for the important invited guest as well as iron out the carpet once more but there is not much left to do

Earlier at the Palatine Manor Coldstream Guards were seen rehearsing for the ceremony tomorrow. The state visit of Prime Minister Andrew Kenzai to Covonant will be the first state visit by a foreign head of state to Covonant since the year started. The CBC will bring you updates on the ceremony tomorrow.

Covonantians voice opposition to death penalty ruling, calls for repeal of the law

Following the ruling by the Zonal Court Senior Judge Hannis Reevers to have the 3 San Javieran individuals who were caught trying to transport illicit contraband into Covonant sentenced to death by lethal injection. Many Covonantians and mostly those from the Zone of Roberticis have been calling out against the ruling, claiming it to be too harsh and archaic, and are demanding its repeal.


Protestors outside Zonal Court of Roberticis

I think that law needs to be changed. I mean, who are we to decide who lives or dies. This, what the courts did today was harsh. I believe the sentence could have been more relaxed

Paul, resident of Roberticis.

I am appalled that in Covonant we still have law that carries the death penalty, we should be more progressive than that and remove the death penalty from our laws. Do we not have anymore cells in our numerous prisons in Covonant and on Senoica to house persons convicted of crimes. The government needs to revise and repeal the Dangerous Drug Act, it is archaic and some parts inhumane.

Action Covonant CEO Cynthia Barnswell.

Opposition Spokesperson on Justice Jonatan Smikle expressed that the government needs to review the clause of the act that carries the death penalty. He is advising the Justice Minister to table a bill to the Consul to have certain parts of the Act repealed.

The government needs to for once stop focusing on matters of foreign politics and focus on its domestic affairs. There are certain parts of the Dangerous Drug Act that needs repealing, and the government must listen to the plea of its electorate. I have written on numerous occasions to the Justice Minister advising him to have it deliberated in the Consul. I would advise him to make use of the discussions going on around the country and bring the conversation into the Consul. This act affects not only Covonantians but as we can see foreigners as well. One can only imagine how the San Javieran government will respond

The Minister of Justice Tiberius Ignacio has dismissed the claims that the clause and ruling is harsh and archaic. He also called the Opposition Spokespersons response as "election soundbite"


Minister of Justice, Tiberius Ignacio

The Justice Ministry supports the rulings of the court. The Act being enforced is doing what the government that legislated it had intended for it to do. I believe all the talks around the Act is a one day wonder as we see this happen many times. An event happens and we jump on it. There is nothing wrong with the law. The law is there as a deterrent to Covonantians and foreign nationals from committing crimes in Covonant, or crimes that may impede on our sovereignty and cohesiveness of our society. The opp spokesman needs to stop being hypocritical as I would remind him that it was under his CCP government that had legislated the act, now they are calling for a repeal. I call his rhetoric as trying to score electoral points. As long as I serve as Justice Minister, the law will remain. As for the San Javieran government, they have not reached out to us, but this matter concerns us as an independent sovereign state and we will handle it under our jurisdiction

Action Covonant CEO Cynthia Barnswell had requested a meeting with the Justice Minister but the Ministry has declined the offer to a meeting.

Do remember you are with the CBC.

Reporter: Likalia Reid

[Areguelista]

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Areguelista to Send Diplomat to Cruxa

Apr. 21, 2017
Contera, Areguelista

The Areguelistan government has announced that it will send a diplomat to the summit in Cruxa regarding the missing Belisle Airlines Flight 3737, which was found in an Areguelistan hangar. Areguelista 24 will continue reporting on the summit until it concludes.

[Shanowinn]

April 21, 2017

Carrighinnis Defeats Owinn Warship!

This is only a short update, but it is very good news regardless. Yesterday we already brought news about an exchange between the now-Highland aligned Owinn Navy warship Carrighinnis and an actual Royal Owinn Navy vessel. Both ships sustained damage in that fight. However, the Carrighinnis engaged yet another RON vessel in the night--with excellent results!

The crew of the Carrighinnis have shown themselves to not only be brave and skillful, but clever as well. We don't know exactly how, but the Carrighinnis managed to get very close to the larger Frigate OAS Viridovix, and destroyed it! It is likely that the crew used the battle damage and past engagement to their advantage, confusing the Viridovix, which thought Carrighinnis was the original damaged Owinn ship.

To the crew of the Carrighinnis: we salute you! Fight on, you are inspirational!

[Travencia]

4/21/2017
Special Report w/Paul Duke

Capitalone: TNN's own Paul Duke is in Covonant covering the Roberticis demonstrations, joining him as a special guest correspondent is Lonny Chong founder and owner of Chong Cannabis Corporation.

"Isn't it kinda ironic to punish drug traffickers with lethal injection, or death by drugs? That's kinda far out man"

Lonny Chong spoke to the camera, behind him thousands of demonstrators have assembled in protest of the policy. Until recently he had avoided commenting on social or political issues, but has become an activist in recent years with regards to cannabis prohibition.

"Well Lonny, Mrs. Barnswell did bring up a good point it is barbaric to let the state execute an individual, but that's a different topic for a different day. I wouldn't be surprised if police and corrections unions have a vested interest in keeping the status quo. Think about it, for them decriminalization would be a nightmare. I wonder if we can dig up any statistics about drug use and incarceration in Covonant"

Paul Duke sometimes spoke in such a rapid fire machine gun like way, but it was effective at commanding attention. He motioned to an assistant to try have them try and locate Action CEO Cynthia Barnswell and try to convince her to speak with him on the air about the situation. The camera pans the crowds, which are of significant size here in Covonant's largest city..

"You know Lonny, we need to get the minister of justice, what's his name, Tiberius Ignacio on the program. I would love to debate him on air, especially to get his view of the intent of the Dangerous Drugs Act. If he's so sure he's right, he'd have no problem debating us right?"

Duke was starting to get frantic, a stark contrast to Chong's mellow vibe.

"I'd give him some of my products but I wouldn't want to be beheaded, or thrown in a cage. Think he's ever used a drug duke?"

Paul Duke quickly turned and faced the camera...

"If he had, do you think he'd still stand by the law as infallible? I mean here's a guy that thinks opium smoking will contribute to the breakdown of society, without a clue of a reason why, and likely no answer for how! But how civil is a society that has capital punishment for a victimless crime?! Just because somebody is caught in possession of say a few kilos of opium doesn't mean they had planned to sell it, or turn it into heroin, for all we know they might just really like smoking opium, which doesn't impede on anybody else and their enjoyment of life and liberty. If somebody wants to spend they're days chasing the damn dragon, so be it! But you've gotta be pretty high to think that contributes to crime when the only thing criminal about it is the fact its illegal!"

Duke had his trademarked crazy eyes, but lacked his usual cigarette which has been rumored to usually be a mixture of cannabis and tobacco. He was clearly animated, and unlike his typical late evening news shows managed to avoid uttering strings of profanities in between his comments. He walked towards the crowd, with the camera person trailing behind him. He kept saying excuse me, I'm doing a news story and I would like to interview you for our broadcast. Most just ignored him, until finally a man who appeared to be in his 30's or so agreed..

Duke asked the man, who remained off camera "Do you know anyone who uses drugs?"

"Well, yea doesn't everyone?" he replied.

"Probably, now isn't the dangerous drugs act supposed to eliminate drug use?" Duke asked the man.

"Yea I think so, why?" the unidentified Covonantian responded

"Well clearly then it's failed, at least at eliminating drug use. Do you think the state should execute someone via lethal injection just because that person possess a particular amount of a drug? Seems like faulty logic if you ask me, don't do drugs or we'll kill you with a drug overdose" Duke was struggling to restrain his animated personality...

"That doesn't make any sense, is that what lethal injection is?"

Duke's eyes grew wild as he went off on a rant on camera...

"Yes sir that's what a lethal injection is, it is a drug overdose, which is a mind boggling way to punish people for having drugs, hell I don't think I've ever been high enough to think that fighting drug use could be solved by killing people with drug use. talk about hypocritical! isn't that giving the social junkers, the dope heads, the fiends to borrow their terms exactly what they want?!

He stopped himself, and asked the man "Do you know what happens where I come from if you get stopped with drugs on your person?"

The man had a confused look, and asked what?

"Nothing! you know why? because drug possession or use isn't a crime, its a public health issue! best left to DOCTORS, not police, judges and jailers!"

Duke thanked the man for his time, and proceeded to look around the crowd to find where Lonny Chong had went. It took him a few moments to realize standing in the thick of the crowd holding a "Citizens Demand Common Sense" sign was indeed Mr. Chong. He instructed his camera person to take some scene shots, and a few pans of the demonstration. Then he looked right at the camera...

"My name is Paul Duke, I'm a reporter for the Travencian News Network covering the hypocrisy of Covonant's methods of fighting drug use with death by drug use. I will remain here for the time being in Capitalone to cover the story as it unfolds. I would like to personally ask Minister of Justice Tiberius Ignacio, and Action Covonant CEO Cynthia Barnswell, as well as reporter Likalia Reid to join me in a live discussion on this topic."

The camera cuts to black, followed by a simple scrolling text that reads "disclaimer: the views on this program do not represent the views of TNN"

[Papparvania]

22 April 2017
PNN (Pappar News Network)
New Cape Town, Papparvania

Newly-built Barnes International Airport opens

Late at night yesterday, the recently finished Barnes International Airport, which is located in New Cape Town, opened for business! The airport is named after Max Barnes, the current president of Papparvania. This new airport promises a burst of tourism to the country and a burst of trade with other nations of The Western Isles.

We interviewed one of the airport's new employees. The man who wishes to stay anonymous said,
"This is the best new development for our nation in the past 5 years. This new airport will give jobs to many Pappar citizens, it will increase tourism and it will surely also increase trade. I am already enjoying my new job at this airport and I hope that I will always enjoy it!"

ALSO IN THE NEWS

Goverment issues free health screenings to prevent Ticking Flu from infecting Papparvania

The Pappar government has issued free health screenings at various hospitals, the new airport, train stations, pharmacies and ports to let people know if they having the Ticking Flu so that they can go and see a doctor. The government is also issuing out pamphlets which give information about the Ticking Flu's symptoms, so the public can self-identify if they have the Ticking Flu.

That's all for the news today, tune in soon for more information about Papparvania and The Westen Isles.

Article written by Sarah Klein

[Samudera]

22/04/2017
Antara News Agency
Bhinneka, Capital Region, Samudera

The New Kalikota Port Welcomed It's First Cargo

After the ambitious construction of New Kalikota Port began exactly 4 years ago, Bhinneka finally got her own port after several decade connected to the oceans and major trade route mainly from neighbouring state port. The old Kalikota port isn't large enough to handle the big cargo that had to be traded around the capital and the country. This will be a major boost to the country's and Bhinneka's economy after several years of recession that makes the people uncomfortable. "This will mark a new era for our country. We shall preserve the unity of our beloved country and makes our country prospered for the generations to come!", shouted the President. The newly-built port is planned to handle 5 million TEU per year. The railway and the highway had connected the newly-built port that hopefully will makes the connection to the other part of the country faster and therefore will reduce the cost for many goods. The new Putranto Airport is being built by the government in the southern suburb of the metro Bhinneka. Coupled with the port, this program was planned by the President as 'Moving Forward Economy Plan' that will ended the recession that plagued the country since the oil price dropped in 2012.

[Covonant]

April 22, 2017
Coventry, Covonant



Covonant welcome Prime Minister Andrew Kenzai of Ainslie



The Prime Minister of Ainslie has arrived in Covonant and we here at the CBC will provide the overview of his visit. We go to CBC correspondent Mikael Stokes to give the report.


"At approximately 3pm yesterday afternoon the Ahnslen Prime Minister Andrew Kenzai arrived at the Coventry International Gateway Airport (CIGA) to begin his two days visit to Covonant. Greeted by the Director of the Protocols Department Gregory Mair, the Ahnslen Ambassador to Covonant His Excellency Jordan Willmore, and the Permanent Secretary in the Foreign Affairs Ministry Mrs Likalia Cassia representing the Foreign Minister who is on diplomatic mission in Bhumidol.



From the CIGA the motorcade of the Prime Minister was ushered off to the Palatine Manor to meet the most powerful man in the country, Prime Minister Imperatus Marl. At the Palatine Manor were Coldstream Guards, military marches and music, and of course to top off the whole ceremonial affair the speeches.



In his speech, Prime Minister Marl expressed his admiration of the Ahnslen people and his hope of both Covonant and Ainslie creating an unbreakable bond.

I am pleased to have visiting Covonant, Prime Minister Kenzai of Ainslie, whom I have great levels of respect for and to note that Covonant has always admired the Ahnslen people and the country of Ainslie and my government looks forward to solidifying our relations to creat a bond that is unbreakable

Prime Minister Marl also praised the Ahnslen people for their leadership on the international stage in hosting the TWI Human Rights summit and for being a leader in their own right in health services.

Just like Covonant, the Ahnslen people and government supports rights of all human beings. And the Ahnslen people have expressed that support in no better way than hosting a human rights summit which Covonant is playing a part in. I must also commend the government of Ainslie for creating the atmosphere that have allowed your nation to be a leading force in health services and the health industry and I hope from this visit Covonant may be able to join the ranks of leaders in health services

Prime Minister of Ainslie Andrew Kenzai thanked the Covonantian Prime Minister and people for their warm welcome and expressed his hope for a successful visit. Following the pomp and affair at the Prime Minister's residence the motorcade moved on to the Presidential Palace for the meeting of the Prime Minister of Ainslie and the President of Covonant and also to retire as the Presidential Palace plays as residence for the visiting leader.

On Saturday morning the Prime Minister of Ainslie arrived back at the Palatine Manor for bilateral talks with Prime Minister Marl where both leaders agreed to greater collaboration between the two CU states. Prime Minister Marl pledge to create the necessary room to have Ahnslen business operate in Covonant while being assured the same from his Ahnslen counterpart. The Minister of Health Robert Staci being at the bilateral meeting also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ahnslen Pm to have technical support from medical organisations and practitioners from Ainslie to contribute to the Covonantian health sector while also encouraging health businesses to operate in Covonant as well. Covonant can also see to import its financial expertise to Ainslie by giving technical support to the country's banking sector while seeing Covonantian financial institutions being opened in the country as well.

The visit of Prime Minister of Ainslie Andrew Kenzai is expected to end tomorrow when he returns back to Ainslie. Back to you Gloria in the CBC Studios."

Thanks Mikael. At this time we pause to go live to CBC TWI to bring a special edition of SIMPLY POLItics where Likalia Reid will host the programme on the topic of the Dangerous Drug Act. Pleasant Viewing.

Reporter: Gloria Stiles





Hello and thank you for joining us on SIMPLY POLItics. I am your presenter Likalia Reid. On tonight's programme we will explore the Dangerous Drugs Act under the Covonantian constitution and try to answer the question is it necessary in our Modern Covonant. Joining me on tonight's programme is The Hon. Tiberius Ignacio-Minister of Justice, Mrs. Cynthia Barnswell-President and Founder of Action Covonant, Paul Duke-Reporter from Travencia News Network (TNN), and Lonny Chong-Founder and Owner of Chong Cannabis Corporation in Travencia. We are in for an interesting show tonight so let's get right into it. This is SIMPLY POLItics.

The Dangerous Drug Act (DDA) under the Covonantian Charter is "An act to regulate the importation, exportation, manufacture, sale and use of opium and other dangerous drugs". It was first legislated in 1948 by then Justice Minister and member of the Covonantian Conservative Party Julianus Granger. In 1986 almost 40 years since it had been legislated had the act been amended. Called one of the harshest law in Covonant to date, the amended act legislated for the death penalty on certain drugs. The one that surely influenced it was Opium, that was being widely used throughout the country in the 1980s having been imported into Covonant by San Javieran drug traffickers and drug lords at the height of the San Javieran internal political crisis.

I will start with an open question and I will allow the Justice Minister to speak first. Is the stipulation that calls for the death penalty being granted for persons trafficking drugs into Covonant necessary especially today. Minister Ignacio.

Min of Justice:Firstly I would like to say good night to all your viewers and also to the panelist here on the programme. To answer your question, Yes I believe the Act in itself is a necessary and the clause that speaks to the granting of the death penalty for Trafficking of listed substances chief among those being Opium is also necessary. We have to look at the act implementation. When it was amended in the 1980s it was to lead to a total reduction of drug trafficking primarily from San Javier into Covonant, and over the years we have that the trafficking of Drugs have been greatly reduced, not non-existent but if we enact stronger criteria to the act we can achieve it.

Cynthia Barnswell:I am in total disagreement with the Honourable Minister. The Dangerous Drug Act served a certain period I am not disputing that for that period it hadn't served its purpose but for today in the 21st century, Covonant being a leader in many areas and a progressive nation still has a policy that can see an individual being killed or shall I say murdered by the state not only foreigners but Covonantians as well. What I am more so disappointed in is the fact that successive governments have not tried to come up with new ideas and new ways that are less harsh and inhumane to combat the trafficking of drugs. The dangerous drug act is necessary what is not necessary is the coarse language used in the act, and the stipulation that can see individuals killed by the state.

Paul Duke: In my country, a debate like this of us trying to understand if the government is allowed to kill an individual as Mrs. Barnswell rightfully expressed for the use of drugs would see Travencians writing to their representatives and MPs demanding its repeal. I am to understand based on the views of the Minister that it is trafficking that is sanctioned with the death penalty but I am led to believe that it may have some other interpretations such as is it only trafficking to Covonant or around and within Covonant's territory what are the stipulations of those as the Drug act doesn't in simple terms explain what would happen under those instances so I am led to believe that the courts being the finally arbiter in the matter decides the fate of the person/persons in question and may give rulings that can in effect be unconstitutional.

Larry Chong: I don't think it is my place to tell a government what they can do but I feel as though Covonant is a special case, not only is it a leader in many areas but it is also a state that many country look to especially Travencia in terms of our financial and business expenditures. And I can't help to think that a country such as Covonant that should be liberal and free and progressive has its dark side. I for one look at laws and the implication to the business sector. I believe Covonant stands to lose billions with how the dangerous drug act is crafted so from a financial viewpoint I don't see the necessity of it.

Thanks to our panelist for their opening remarks. I will now ask individual questions and persons can respond to the question if they would like. I would like to note that for this segment of the programme there should be no foul language as this is an educational programme and please keep your thoughts short and your responses short. I will start with you Larry. You noted the economic gains to be made could you explain more on that.

Larry Chong:Well in Travencia we do not arrest you for drugs which I find it weird that Covonant does as I had the impression that Covonant was a liberal progressive nation. Travencia gain billions from our stance on drugs while I can bet that Covonant stands to lose billions. For example in Travencia when one person buys drugs over the counter the government gains from that sale through taxes Covonant on the other hand would lose because if drugs are illegal the black market must be blowing up and the government is losing on that action.

Any takers...Minister Ignacio.

Min of Justice: Covonant's situation is not the same as Travencia. We are two different countries similar practices but different ideologies and philosophies. Our laws are implemented and created to deal with matters that affects us and as I have stated before that it was a serious problem in the 80s and the amendment gained bi-partisan support. We can't equate having a cohesive society or economic gains. It has to be a matter of either or. In Covonant roughly 215,300 individuals are convicted for possession of drugs under the DDA. 45 are convicted of trafficking drugs. Over 8 million are believed to be users of dangerous drugs so we obviously still have a problem. Our laws are to ensure those problems are mitigated and curtailed.

Paul Duke go ahead.

Paul Duke:I am shocked that Covonant the largest economy of the CU, the largest population of the CU, a founding member state of the CU, and a economic power and a revered country throughout the Isles has archaic inhumane laws. Not only is it inhumane but downright stupid

Mr. Duke I would advise you to not be insulting, but respectful of other countries and their laws,

Paul Duke:I apologize Mrs. Reid I will retract from that statement. Minister Ignacio I don't believe that the DDA leads to a cohesive society as you expressed on the news recently. When the Covonantian authorities kills individuals, foreigners for drugs with drugs that borders on hypocritical. You are being an hypocrite. In my country there is a safety network in place to ensure that those who want to do drugs are those that are legal to do so. Also instead of wasting your resources to find drug offenders why not direct those state resources to actually save peoples lives not all drugs kill you know Minister. You have a better chance surviving drug use than being in a terrorist attack. If Covonant is so willing to kill a foreigner, you would kill a CU citizen as well right minister. Oh so the Covonantian state is a killing machine now.

Mr. Duke you have overstepped. That is crossing the line sir. I am not sure how you conduct interviews in Travencia but in Covonant that is not the way it is done. I would appreciate if you would leave my set.

Mr. Duke walks off shouting "Hypocrites you all are. Covonant is a killing machine. Only they could get away with killing foreigners. No country even questioned the legality....Hypocrites

I believe at this time we should take a commercial break. We will be right back.




Welcome back to SIMPLY POLItics, I am your presenter Likalia Reid. We are on our final segment of tonight's programme where we are discussing the Dangerous Drug Act.

Mrs Barnswell you have called for a meeting with Minister Ignacio and I believe it was declined I will give you the opportunity to ask the Minister one question that you had wanted to ask if you were granted that meeting.

Cynthia Barnswell:Thank you. Good night Minister Ignacio. I must first say that I was very disheartened that your Ministry had declined my offer for a meeting. I believe that the public should be able to voice their opinions and concerns to government officials and representative. I am however grateful that you have decided to come on this show. I would like to ask you one question in two parts. You expressed that the amendment was to reduce the trafficking of drugs to the country and to contribute to a reduction in its use. You have stated that there has been reduction in trafficking but it is still there. Hearing the views from the others of the financial gains to be made or the safety issues that it could provide for vulnerable individuals in the event the law was repealed and also I should add that a softer stance and opening up of a drug industry could lead to employment opportunities which is in line with what Mr. Chong does and contribute to the tax revenue. But anyways, do you believe that the law can be reviewed or should possibly and also would you be open to reviewing the law and subsequently carrying a bill to the Consul.

Min of Justice:Good night as well Mrs. Barnswell. I must state that I personally had not been notified of a invite for you to have a meeting. Those are normally sent to my aide who assessing my schedule would approve based on priority not saying a meeting on this matter is not of priority. But listening to the views of the other guest on the show, I stand firm in my sentiments that the law serves its place. We can't follow other states because what works for one country may not work for another. Travencia and possibly other states has not had the history of drug abuse and trafficking that we have had in Covonant and we have to make laws that fits our reality. Am I open to a review? Yes I believe laws should be reviewed and I can assure that it will be reviewed, however not in the Consul as I believe the Ministry of Justice is capable of carrying out that review and in time I will announce to the nation the next step if any.

Well I believe that is a good note to end the show on. Thanks to our panelist and thanks to our production team for yet again another great production of SIMPLY POLItics. And also thanks to all those in Covonant and around the Western Isles that have been watching on the regions number one channel CBC TWI. I am Likalia Reid and do remember this is the CBC.

[Ainslie]

Welcome to Ainslie Daily's Broadcast

Today is the 23rd of April. Here in Arnton it will reach 25 Today. And now to the news.

Announcement: Ainslie Daily has now gone global. Headlines and Weather will come from around the world, from an Ahnslen focus

World Headlines

• Highland Republic: Civil War on land begins to emerge as a battle on the waters.
• Covonant: Ahnslen PM visits nation to discuss future collaboration and how to support leading domestic industries.
• Travencia: President stable after sudden hospitalisation
• Papparvanias: New International airport opens, and free ticking flu scrennings endorsed by the government

News

Kenzai visits Covonant
Coventry, Covonant

Kenzai arrived in Coventry yesterday, as he discussed a variety of topics with the Prime Minister of Covonant, Imperatus Marl. Marl's speech surprised diplomats, Ahnslens and the Prime Minister. He unveiled plans for increased bilateral business opportunities, openly encouraging businesses to operate in one another's nations.

"Thank you, Honourable Prime Minister. We are genuinely moved by the commitment and enthusiasm your government, and the people, towards the Ahnslen people. We can guarantee to you that this is reciprocated. Our two nations have prominent and world leading industries, in which we can further cater for. We commit to the Mesder region, and Covonant is an integral part to the region. We thank the nation for their leadership in the world."

Two nations with similar values, ideas and opinions greatly breaks down negotiatory banners, and progress has already began despite the Prime Minister still in negotiation with the Covonantians.

What has been done since Marl arrived

• Leaders agree to greater collaboration.
• Pledges from both ministers to allow leading national industries to operate and propser in the two nations.
• A memorandum of understanding involving technical support from the Ahnslen health sector to contribute, whilst encouraging and supporting an emerging Covonantian healthcare sector. Covonant will also import their financial expertise, whilst encouraging and supporting the Ahnslen financial services sector.

World Weather

• Arnton - Max: 25, Min: 15
• Coventry - Max: 24, Min: 22
• Nolon - Max: 8, Min: 4
• Samadhi - Max: 39, Min: 23
• Shengang - Max: 17, Min: 8
• Toulon - Max: 22, Min: 11
• Vesuvius - Max: 17, Min: 8

Accessed from TWI Weather

[Michigonia]

Trending Stories

• GMEX slips after 1st
  quarter gains
• Alland Symphony kicks
  off concert season
• FC Cortes look to hold
  on for 14th title
• Opinion: Schisms Surfacing
  in Liberal Party

Joint Forces Exercise Begins off Calionte Coast


Michigonian frigate MJN Roelfdam during exercise


Cortes- Operation "Lion Fortress" is underway as of Saturday morning, 22 April. The week long exercise brings together the Michigonian Joint Forces, comprised of the six states' reserve armed forces. The first phase simulated a naval skirmish off the coast of Calionte early Saturday morning, where a Michigonian Joint Navy destroyer group deployed from Castillo Joint Base, near Cortes. The exercises have been planned for over a year, a Defence Ministry spokesman said.

Chairman of the Joint Forces, General Wilmon P. Whitney, lead a short press conference Saturday afternoon, reiterating the MJF's mission to defend the nation and the open seas.

"This is a routine exercise for the practice and training of our armed forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Our operations will not interfere with commercial shipping, or air and ground transport, as our footprint will be light." The general said that most of the exercises will simulate anti-terrorism and anti-pirate activity in the Argean Sea.

[San Jimenez]

Free Market or Government Market?

On April 19, The Laredo Partnership Bill was passed with a 63-287 vote by the Representative Branch. The bill was a purchase of Laredo Tech and making the government its new owner. It was then sent to the president to be approved. President Canone however, vetoed the bill immediately. President Canone said in a public meeting that "the government needed to halt its interventions in the free market. The federal government is supposed to protect its citizens and allow them to prosper. However, the government has bought out each business that has had a chance of success so that the federal income may be increase and each business bought has failed". The representatives have declared a vote to override the veto made by the president. To override the veto, half of the regional governments must vote YES. The voting will begin on Tuesday and end on Friday. President Canone has scheduled speeches across the nation to convince the people to vote NO. Governor of Xulun, Samuel Davis, has proposed dividing the political party into two. No one is quite sure where the government will go from here. Everyone is aware that the size of government will decrease if the agenda of Canone is carried out.

Tornado Shelters Being Constructed

On April 16, a EF-3 tornado struck Marlett killing 33 people and leaving many people homeless. The federal government has provided aid to the victims of the disaster. Researchers have concluded that the reason for the high death count is the lack of tornado shelters in San Jimenez. In response, the Theocratic Branch issued that each church have a public tornado shelter to house the citizens of each city. Business that created public shelters in their property were given a tax break by the government. Home owners have also invested in the construction of shelters to protect themselves. Cities across the country are being funded to construct more of these shelters for the public.

[New Aapelistan]

25th of April, 2017
New Aapelistanian News Agency
Dovgorod, New Aapelistan

Languages/Žoteku/Языке: English|Sevériok|Русский|

Official State Visit to NA by the Premier of Bhikkustan

In yesterday afternoon the premier of the People's Republic of Bhikkustan, Sangyal Mattahyom, arrived with his delegacy of Bhikkustani representatives to the governmental airport of Dovgorod. The honorable guests to our country had arrived to negotiate more economical and political co-operation between the two countries, who already have extremily good relations. Talks between the delegates from Bhikkustan and high representatives of NA are expected to start today.

When interviewed, NA's Minister of Foreign Affairs Dimitri Gladuluv stated his positive hopes for these talks, that have "a high chance of promoting our friendship and benefiting both sides".

[Liveri]

25 April 2017
Public News Distributor of Liveri
Figunni, Capitol District

Speaker Portelli calls snap election in light of recent protesting

As the nation grows closer to the celebrations of the People's Victory Day some within the People's Parliament have made several attempts to protest the celebrations, which are seen as a national holiday to commemorate the victory of the People's Revolution over the corrupt and oppressive government that predates modern Liveri, with tales of how much more can be done for the nation with the return of some aspects of Old Liveri such as Private Enterprise and Land Ownership that were all done away with when Liveri was restored as a nation in 1994.

The protesting has, with time, reached the ears of our great citizens who have been told numerous lies about the benefits of the capitalist way over the socialist way that has granted our people Security and Equality like never before seen. Violence against public protectors escalated earlier this week with multiple violent attacks against Protectors and subsequent arrests made by the perpetrators who'd threaten the safety of our nation. Speaker Portelli, in response to the growing violence has called for a General Election to be held on June 15th where he hopes to gain both more power for the Socialist and Communist Alliance and maintain the peace necessary to properly operate the government.

The General Election was initially scheduled for late 2018, following a two-year cycle initiated back in 1994.

[Lechen]

April 25, 2017
Unknown
Diaban-Kur

Shadows of Darkness

316 Davarians living in Diaba-Kur, a village in Northern Lechen, are told to head south to the city of Blucher, but all of them are killed as they attempt to head there. They were told to head there by one road, where they were greeted by 3 military Humvees. The Davarians are the longest lasting ethnic group in Lechen, that haven't been wiped out. The military humvees arrested them, and they never made it to Blucher. Rumors say 500 Davarians were arrested from fifteen towns and villages in the North. Davarian-specific sporting events are all canelled, and Davarian-written books are burnt. Construction of artificial villages begins on the west border, near Donné.

[West Suomi]

SMN News (Suomi Media Network)
26 April 2017
Blue Waters, West Suomi

International Headlines

• EF-3 Tornado hits Marlett, San Jimenez, killing 33 people. The San Jimenezian government provides aid to victims who weren't killed
• Lechian armed forces kill and arrest doezens of people of a native ethnic group in Lechen
• Travencian President stable after he is sent to hospital for unknown reasons

Jeyzor returns from the International District
On Monday, Jeyzor returned back to West Suomi from the I.D, where he had been for the past week. He spoke to several diplomats from other countries, including Suniter and Ainslie.

Jeyzor spoke to Ariel Klein, the president of Suniter and agreed to help Suniter, as they are still recovering after a rebellion which granted them independence.

Jeyzor also spoke to Jacob Blackwood, the delegate representing Ainslie, and they discussed increasing foreign relations.

Results of referendum received
While Jeyzor was in the I.D, vice-president Finn Deksin held a referendum in West Suomi. The referendum was to decide whether taxpayers would be happy for some of their taxes going to aid Suniter. The results were:
In favour of their tax money going to help Suniter: 63%
Not in favour of their tax money going to help Suniter: 37%
Aid (food, water, infrastructure) is to be sent to Suniter as soon as their president, Ariel Klein, hears about the results of the referendum.

Laura Forster to visit Ainslie and discuss foreign relations
Later this week, minister of foreign affairs of West Suomi, Laura Forster, is set to blast off to Arnton, Ainslie, to discuss foreign relations between the two nations. Since Jeyzor met Jacob Blackwood, (the Ahnslen delegate sent to the I.D.) he has wanted to improve relations between Suomi and Ainslie, as the two nations are incredibly similar, both politically and culturally. Jeyzor would go, but he is attending the Cooperative Union's Leader's Summit.

Weather


Blue Waters
Thundershowers

High: 17C
Low: 4C
Wind speed: 16 Km/h

Kasu
Sunny

High: 20C
Low: 9C
Wind speed: 7 Km/h

New Des Moines
Cloudy

High: 18C
Low: 5C
Wind speed: 5 Km/h

That's all for the news today, tune in soon for more headlines across The Western Isles.
Have a great day!

Article written by Emma Lovett

[Lechen]

April 26, 2017
Unknown
The Four Passages

The Sinking of One's Own Ship

234 Davarians are loaded onto the LMS Duton, which leaves Feschau at 2:00 AM. Before they can get away though, a explosion occurs at the rear of the ship, sinking the Duton. As the ship has no lifeboats, all of them are killed. A further 120 are arrested while they sleep. Davarians are pushed into certain sections of each city for further managability. The Duton, headed for the International District for refugee-keeping

____________________________________________________________

Three universities are forcibly put on Government comissions, and the first house in the artifical village of Nassicht is completed.

[Shanowinn]

April 26, 2017

Carrighinnis, Rise!


Our war flag is cropping up around Carrighinnis.

Our brothers and sisters on Carrighinnis island are rising! Once again they are making an attempt to throw off the Ahernric yoke. It seems that the evasiveness and successful nature of our newly sympathetic warship Carrighinnis, whose crew is from Carrighinnis, has prompted the island to rebel. Especially after the Carrighinnis managed to destroy one Royal Owinn Navy ship, and damage another.

This corollary to our own cause is shaping up to be the largest and most forceful rising on the island yet. Our brave relations on Carrighinnis are not only securing the city, but the more rural parts of the island as well. The war flag of the Highland Republic has been sighted on seized buildings and in secured areas.

We have also heard vaguely that there are some peculiarities with this uprising. For instance have received word from a Highland sympathizer on the island, who claims that him and his fellow sympathizers are "especially well equipped, well led, and determined." We can only wonder what that means, exactly. However something appears to have changed, for the better.

Is it possible that our relations on Carrighinnis have received some kind of outside aid? We shall see.

[West Suomi]

SMN News
26 April 2017
Lechen

BREAKING NEWS
West Suomi sends help for Davarians in Lechen, and opens their borders to Davarians refugees
The government-sanctioned genocide of Davarians in Lechen is continuing. This has prompted Jeyzor to have a quick meeting concerning the matter.

It was decided in the meeting that West Suomi will send:
1. Peacekeepers to Lechen
2. Armed forces to protect the Davarians
3. Military soldiers to find and detain the people behind the genocide
4. Open its borders to Davarian refugees

Several ships have also been sent to Lechen to collect Davarian refugees, although many people fear that they will get bombed by the government.

We will keep you updated on this issue.

Article written by Henry Floyd

[Lechen]

April 26, 2017
Lechen News Network
Feschau

West Suomi lauches false accusations

In a speech in Feschau, the Honorable has said,
"West Suomi leader Jeyzor has implied us comitting a genocide, which we have never and will never do. This is a atroctious accusation and will be met by retorts from Feschau."

[Siberia North]

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Prime Minster Announces Pact!

Today the prime minster announced that a new pact has been formed by Siberia with Samudera. He expressed excitement in the new pact "I am excited to announce the new pact between us and Samudera. This will allow for free trade and for tourists and workers to get free visas when visiting Samudera."

We interviewed some citizens after the speech.

"This alliance sounds very exciting. I can finally tour Samudera with out paying the full price of a visa!"

We also interviewed a economist on the matter. "The free trade agreement will definitely benefit both nations economy by a good amount.

Hopefully this pact will connect the two nations.

For more info please go to this link here.

---

Minor News:

• National Siberia cricket team loses quarter finals.
• Craze over new Zelda game.
• West Suomi claims Lechen is doing a genocide. Is this true?

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