News Thread [Kylaris|Canon|IC]

by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Thu May 07, 2020 9:35 pm

PIPELINE BILL GETS PARLIAMENTARY APPROVAL DESPITE PROTESTS
Taoiseach reaffirms his commitment to green causes as plans to build the Tuaisceart-Süd 2.0 pipeline proceed

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Séamus Ó Ceallaigh (@soceallaighgbf)
^{7 May 2020 | Spálgleann, Caldia}

Taoiseach Stiofán Mac Suibhne argues that the pipeline is "critical" infrastructure to secure Euclea's energy independence.

SPÁLGLEANN – A bill that would grant the Caldish government the necessary powers to push ahead with the Tuaisceart-Süd 2.0 pipeline project passed the Comhthionól Náisiúnta today. The Mac Suibhne government plans to go ahead with the project despite opposition from regional governments and climate activists. Recent demonstrations throughout Northern Euclea have shown grassroots opposition to the pipeline, but the project has not stalled and the Caldish and Weranic governments are close to having the legal powers needed to proceed.

The bill, which heads to the Seanad for a vote on Monday, gave the Caldish government the powers to build the pipeline bilaterally. Plans for the project to be built under the scope of the Northern Forum fell apart after opposition from the Azmaran and Ordennian governments. The existing Tuaisceart-Süd pipeline that already connects Caldia and Werania was built through the Northern Forum in the 1990s. Taoiseach Stiofán Mac Suibhne had hoped to secure additional funding and regional cooperation through the organization, but was met with opposition from usually friendly governments. The bill also allocates the required funding for the Tuaisceart-Süd 2.0 project and grants the Caldish government the powers to contract out work. A similar bill has already passed through the Weranic Reichstag, where it enjoyed broad support.

Commenting on the passage of the bill, Mr. Mac Suibhne said that it was a "major step" towards establishing Euclea's energy independence and maintain its collective security.

"This pipeline will help ensure that a stable and secure source of energy remains available to the [Euclean] Community during increasingly uncertain times".

He also described the pipeline as "critical" infrastructure.

Recent instability in Tsabara, one of the world's largest exporters of petroleum, has raised concerns throughout Euclean capitals about a steady supply. The taoiseach said Tuaisceart-Süd 2.0 would prepare Euclea for the future and establish energy independence in the long-term. However, he cautioned that it alone would not be enough and argued that the Euclean Commission needed to do more to support renewable sources of energy.

"So long as we are capable in terms of resources, Caldia is ready and willing to provide Euclea with a steady supply of petroleum. However, our reserves simply cannot last forever. We have to talk bold steps to support alternative sources that do not rely on imports from unstable regions".

Mr. Mac Suibhne also responded to criticism that his government had not done enough to fight climate change or protect the enviornment. Responding to green activists, the taoiseach said that his government's Climate Action Plan was both "comprehensive and progressive". He also reaffirmed his commitment to the plan being drafted by the Euclean Commission and said Caldia would be a leader within the Euclean Community in the fight against climate change. Mr. Mac Suibhne and his Social Democratic Party have been accused by climate activists of failing to sufficiently address the climate crisis. Critics have also voiced concerns over the PSD's its support for the petroleum industry and the government's failure to back taxes on major carbon emitters.

The bill won cross-party support in the Comhthionól, with few votes cast against it. All members of the Greens voted against the bill. Co-spokesperson Colm Ó Corráin condemned the vote, accusing the government of "risking both the environment and the future for corporate profits and lower taxes".

Protests are planned for the weekend, a continuation of demonstrations staged by activists for the past two weeks. However, as the bill heads to the Seanad it is unlikely to find opposition and is expected to pass without issue. Should the Seanad vote down the bill, the Comhthionól would have the opportunity to again vote on the bill. Given the cross-party support for the bill in today's vote, it is unlikely that a second Comhthionól vote would doom the government's plans. After the bill gains the Seanad's approval, it will be sent to His Majesty the King for royal assent.

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by **Azmara** » Fri May 08, 2020 2:49 pm

MINISTERS RESIGN AS PROTESTS RAGE ON
Three Workers' Party ministers have resigned from Cabinet as protestor numbers surge in the wake of the pipeline's passage through the Comhthionol.

Ana Jonsdohter (@anajdohter)
^{08 May 2020 | Aalmsted, Azmara}

Health Minister Mâþijas Jonssun (left) and Euclean Minister Karla Jonsdohter resigned in a joint statement this morning.

AALMSTED, AZMARA – After two weeks of continual protesting in central Aalmsted in response to what many perceive as an inadequate response by the Azmaran government to the proposed Tuaisceart-Süd II pipeline, and a surge in the number of protesters today as many have taken back to the streets to protest the proposal's passage through the Comhthionol, Caldia's lower house, three government ministers have announced their resignations.

The three casualties were Mâþijas Jonssun (Health and Social Care Secretary), Karla Jonsdohter (Euclean Affairs Secretary) and Jon Maarkssun (Employment and Workplace Relations Secretary), all three of whom were members of Prime Minister Jorśsun's Workers' Party. The three were all considered to be part of the party's "Aaldwinster", or Old Left, faction, discerned chiefly by its rejection of the centrist economics of the party's "professional socialism" phase between 1993 and 2007, its close ties to traditional labour unions such as the Steel and Millworkers' Union or the Union for Energy Workers and its embracing of conservative attitudes towards immigration, crime and religion. Notably, Maarkssun served as the latter union's General-Secretary while Jonssun entered politics through working as a regional official for the former, and their support of the pipeline had lent them the nickname of the "Lacagh cabal" by many environmentalists.

Jonssun and Jonsdohter made their statements in a joint open letter released at 11:30am, saying that they felt "ostracised" by proposed coalition-building concessions readily accepted by other Workers' Party ministers and that "continued protests" had made them feel unwanted by the general public - a change of pace from a week ago, when Jonsdohter dismissed the protesters as a "vocal minority" of Azmarans. This was followed a few hours later by Maarkssun, who said that "the departure of two reasonable colleagues" at the "dictating of a tyrannical mob" left him no choice but to resign.

These resignations have, amongst many other recent events, highlighted the precarious and uneasy alliance between members of the "Old Left" faction and the other factions that make up the party's left-wing and dominate its current cabinet presence. The socially conservative, trade unionist outlook of the party has certainly brought the three recently departed cabinet ministers into conflict with other members, such as former teacher and Education Secretary Jorśena Hanksdohter, whose public service-focused approach has been described as "left-wing professional socialism" or with Interior Secretary Sofija Anasdohter's more socially liberal outlook emphasising community activism and decentralisation or the dry, intellectual social democratic radicalism of Finance Secretary Helmut Mâþijassun.

Ultimately, these resignations mark the lack of homogeneity amongst the modern Workers' Party despite the heralding of the "triumph of the left" within the party over recent years, and not only has the pipeline affair brought to light the ideological divisions between the Workers' Party and the Greens, but the Workers' Party's own problems amongst a ruling clique tied together only by a rejection of neoliberalism and a strong focus on combatting Azmara's struggles with structural unemployment and the associated disenfranchisement.

Furthermore, it places the Prime Minister in a precarious position: while being chosen back in the 2015 leadership election as a compromise candidate between the party's left-wing factions due to his anti-sectarianism and skill as a mediator, as one specific faction has come to dominate the party a mediatory figure is no longer needed at the head.

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by **Ranvali** » Sun May 10, 2020 6:55 am

VELZEMIA REPORTS FALL IN UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
Unemployment rate at lowest level since 2014

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Samppa Eskola (@SamEskolaNews)
^{10 May 2020 15:00 | Paltamo, Velzemia}

Unemployed citizens line up outside an unemployment office in Paltamo.
Photo courtesy of Aamuhleti Press.

PALTAMO, VELZEMIA - According to the most recent report by the government the unemployment rate in Velzemia has fallen from 10% at the start of April to 9.8% at the start of the month of May. This marks Velzemia's lowest level of unemployment since December 2014. Unemployment fell from 1,232,756 at the start of April to 1,207,074 at the start of May, a fall of 25,682.

The rise has largely been attributed to recent economic policies of the government including investments in industrial sites in & around the Paltamo area as well as the start of construction for the new V-13 motorway linking up the north & south of the country including the countries largest port, Koskunen. Furthermore, consumer confidence has hit a new high. However, there have been some criticism to the falling unemployment with some pinning it mainly on the government's relaxation of labour laws & not their other economic policies.

When asked to comment on the recent economic developments the Minister of the Economy, Mikko Peltonen, said that "the government has been working very hard on improving the economy and bringing Velzemia on a par with it's Euclean neighbours. There has been severe neglect of infrastructure for many years and we are starting to the see the benefits of the funding we are putting into this. However, much is still left for us to do."

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by **Inhorto** » Thu May 14, 2020 11:25 am

PRIME MINISTER TO MEET WITH ASTERIAN LEADERS, HOPES OF CREATING AN AURATIAN FORUM
Prime Minister Germán del Caserío will be hosting a meeting of leaders from Asteria Superior in Cienflores on 24 May.

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FELIX LASCARA
(@FlxLascara12)
^{14 May 2020 2:00| Cienflores, Auratia}

Del Caserío in the Auratian Senate 11 May 2020.

CIENFLORES — In a speech to the Assembly of the People today, Germán del Caserío, prime minister of Auratia, unveiled his plans to host a summit with Nuxican, Belmontean, and Zaralajan leaders on 24 May. The leaders will meet at Casa Isla Nobla, the prime minister's residence.

In his speech, del Caserío, who praised his counterparts for taking the initiative to meet, said that he believed the summit would herald a new age in Auratian-Asterian relations. "In this unprecedented time in history, we Auratians have a God-given mandate to expand beyond our little peninsula in the Gulf of Assonaire. This government will take the initiative to ensure this country's prosperity for centuries to come."

Although the agenda of the meeting has not been released in full, reports indicate that the world leaders will discuss loosening travel restrictions, promoting economic integration, fostering cultural and linguistic exchange, and establishing an Auratian-Iustian forum of states.

The Cienflores Summit, as it is being called, is the culmination of the prime minister's "pivot to Asteria". Del Caserío, building on the legacy of his predecessor Walter García, has sought to shift Auratia's political and economic focus away from Euclea and towards the wider world, particularly to Asteria Superior. Del Caserío has had spats with Euclean Community leadership, particularly with incumbent President Alexis Walker of Caldia, on issues of trade and civil rights. Auratia, which is often lambasted among other members as being overly religious and backward, is the poorest state in the Euclean Community. The economy, which boomed after Auratia's ascension into the supranational union, has seen lackluster growth. Leaders in Cienflores have criticized the EC's humdrum politics, and the growing consensus in the prime minister's own party, the Sotirian Federation, holds that the EC is not acting in the country's interests.

Del Caserío, who has served as prime minister for nearly seven years, looks to define a legacy, to harbinger a new age of Auratian foreign relations for the better. Many, however, are sceptical of the summit's ability to produce success. Tensions remain between Auratia and her erstwhile colonies. The country's government has not yet formally apologized for oppressive colonial policies. As with their Euclean counterparts, many Asterian leaders have criticized del Caserío's record on LGBT+ rights.

More information as this story develops.

Felix Lascara is a writer for La Manco

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by **Ordennya** » Thu May 14, 2020 3:00 pm

Polls close in Presidential race with Olsson on course for landslide win.
Johan Olsson commands a 40 point lead over Valdemar Söderberg on final day of relatively uncontroversial campaign.

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Olaf Mikaelson(@olafmdn)
^{14th May 2020|Vastdal}

Johan Olsson (left) and Valdemar Söderberg (right) vying for last minute votes yesterday.

Vastdal - Voting has closed in Ordennya's presidential election, with the first results expected in just over an hour, and full result expected tomorrow afternoon. Exit polls from the OBC and Ordennya 24 have independent candidate and acting President, Johan Olsson winning by landslide, garnering 70% of the popular vote, compared to 30% for former KKF leader Valdemar Söderberg.

Olsson's expected win comes largely from his broad support from centrist and left wing voters. The popular independent, who served as Head of Government from 2000 until 2005, was endorsed by the Green Party, the Labour Party, and the Center Party, as well as several senior Conservative politicians, despite the KP's endorsement of KKF candidate Valdemar Söderberg.

Meanwhile, Söderberg's candidacy was considered to be a long shot throughout the entire campaign. The former KKF leader, who also won the endorsement of the Conservatives, spent most of the campaign at least 20 points behind Olsson. He managed to narrow the gap to 18 points in several polls last week, with his support estimated to have been around 41% at one point, but his ratings took a nosedive after the release of several recordings of KKF leader Ari Mönkkönen making racist remarks. Söderberg, who Mönkkönen criticised in the recordings for not being strong enough on immigration, was forced to disavow his Party from his campaign.

The campaign for the newly created office of President of the Federation was largely uncontroversial and uncontentious, with the most controversy coming from the leaked recordings of the KKF leader. Turnout was lower than normal, with some commentators expecting the final turnout to be around 60%, compared to 85% at last year's federal election, which most commentators believe is due to voter fatigue.

by **Navack** » Thu May 14, 2020 9:25 pm

Lulzime Brozi - 14 May 2020

Home · Galenia · Euclea · International · Politics · Business · Technology and Science · Arts · Education · Health · Sports · Weather

EX MINISTER OF THE ECONOMY CALLS THE PRESIDENT “A COWARD.”

Beqir Fazliu criticized the president's approach to entering the EC

Kartha -In an exclusive interview for the ZN News, the now dismissed Minister of the Economy, Beqir Fazliu (LDT), heavily criticized President Nertilian Bushaj alongside the government coalition and its relationship with the Euclean Community (EC): “They are just too scared to face the outer world.”

Following the Minister's dismissal as the Minister of the Economy, Fazliu denounced several internal talks between the president and his Ministers in relation to Galenia’s attempt of joining the EC. He alleged that Bushaj has been intentionally delaying the voting in the National Assembly due to partisan pressure. “Not only him, but many other Republicans would find ways to keep their Assembly members from passing an approval for a formal membership request. I will be honest, you know? They even got to bribe us; offered public money and public positions to buy the opposition.”

The ex-minister wonders if the current government is scared of facing stronger nations such as Etruria. To him, Galenia should go out and set the example as a successful socialist democracy and attract other allies such as Piraea and Slirinia into the cause. He said “Nations like that should unite, because together we could outstand Etruria and all the other barriers in our way.”

The minister was one of the leaders of the “International Galenia!” movement and had plans to deepen Galenia’s economy to the EC. Lower taxes EC products and more governmental participation in private business were one of the biggest points in the minister’s plan.

The minister's dismissal, however, put a sudden stop to the oppositions’ attempt of getting Galenia into the EC. Following the impeachment of ex-President Endri Toskaj (UKP), the current elected Republican coalition started what was called as the “corruption purge,” dismissing all center-left and left politicians with corruption accusations. The minister was accused of bribery, money-wash, and frauding contracts with construction companies. Fazliu is a suspect in the bigger Operation Cement, which is responsible for the investigation and imprisonment of multiple politicians affiliated with the Socialist coalition.

Neither the president nor the Republican coalition have responded to the corruption accusations coming from the ex-minister.

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by **The Kingdom of Glitter** » Sat May 16, 2020 5:54 pm

Jan de Haan - 17 May 2020

Home · Kesselbourg · The Continent · The World · Policy · Opinion · Features · Newsletters · Continental Pro

PREVIOUSLY GIVEN THE COLD SHOULDER, PIRAEA LOOKS TO KESSELBOURG ONCE MORE

EC President Walker met with Piraean Premier Maria Theopeftatou earlier this week to discuss ties.

Alikianos, Piraea - Signalling a potential pathway for Piraea to once again try to find its way into the Euclean Community, EC President Walker held a series of meetings with senior Piraean officials this weekend. Shifting relations with Etruria have preceded this meetings, as the Euclean Commission has worked to patch up ties with Povelia. Etruria has consistently presented challenges for the Piraean government, which has tried to continue the ascension process since 2016.

Maria Theopeftatou, who came to power after the 2016 referendum in Etruria that scuttled plans for EC enlargement, has frequently re-stated her intentions to pursue membership in the bloc. However, appetite for enlargement among the EC's twelve member-states has been scarce. Apprehension to expand the organization's membership has characterized the position of several national governments, most notably Estmere and Werania. As ties have warmed again with Etruria, these stances appear to be shifting.

Since the year began, Walker has worked to bring Etruria closer to the Euclean-fold. The EC and Etruria have shared concerns over growing Zorasani influence and Povelia has been proactive in its support for action against the Zorasani government. Back in February, she said that territorial disputes with Piraea remained an "obstacle we must overcome" and offered to help facilitate dialogue between the Etrurian and Piraean governments.

Territorial disputes between Etruria and Piraean go back decades. The disputed region of Tarpeia has strained relations since the peace of the Great War. The region was awarded to Etruria in 1935 and underwent a process of Etrurianization under Etruria's legionary government. Following the Solarian War, most of Tarpeia was returned to Etruria. However, the Etrurian military government seized the region in 1961 along with the Apokoronas Islands, a small island chain off the coast of Tarpeia that remained Piraean territory after the Great War. Piraea still claims the territory, claiming it is the sole legal administer under the 1946 Treaty of Ashcombe. However, support for Piraea's claims has declined and most Euclean governments acknowledge that the territory is de facto a part of Etruria.

Euclean capitals hoped that Etrurian and Piraean, alongside Slirnian, ascension in 2016 would help solve the dispute. Residents in both countries could freely travel and conduct business without restrictions, rectifying many of the lingering issues. The victory of the no-campaign in Etruria derailed this plan. With the prospects of Etrurian membership in the bloc effectively off-the-table for the long-term, the EC has looked to find alternative solutions.

At the April meeting of the Euclean Convention, national leaders discussed the possibility of Piraean and Slirnian membership since 2016. Shortly after the meeting, Walker said that she was "optimistic" about the prospect.

There is a sense of renewed urgency about Piraea's geopolitical loyalties. Since coming to power in 2016, Theopeftatou has promised extensive infrastructure projects in order to combat unemployment and boost the economy. Euclean investment and aid dried up after 2016, forcing her to look elsewhere. The Piraean premier found financial investment elsewhere, but this had serious political implications. After accepting a series of loans and investment packages from the Xiaodongese government, Piraea has quietly limited its support for the EC within international organizations. It has also upped ties with Polianiam whose government has worked to keep Piraea and Slirnia in the Association of South Euclean States.

Piraea is not alone in feeling scorned by Kesselbourg. Lemovica has recently ended its status as an observer in ASES and has signaled its intent to join the Narozalic-led Samorspi. As prospective EC members indicate they may not be willing to wait much longer, Walker has received limited support from her bloc to restart talks with Piraea and Slirnia.

Theopeftatou described her meetings with Walker as "productive" and signaled that she would be willing to continue meeting with the EC President and other officials from Kesselbourg. "Our place is in Euclea, and we will always engage in meaningful discussion with our friends and partners about this".

Walker is expected to head to Dražovice in the coming weeks to discuss Slirnia's relationship with the EC with the newly elected government. While talks with both governments are still in the early stages, Walker indicated that investment in both countries "was a possibility" being discussed by the Commission and member-states. With more talks on the horizon, Theopeftatou hopes to accomplish a Piraean goal since the 1950s. If she is able to secure her country's place in the EC is yet to be seen.

by **Navack** » Sat May 16, 2020 11:16 pm

Lulzime Brozi - 18 May 2020

Home · Galenia · Euclea · International · Politics · Business · Technology and Science · Arts · Education · Health · Sports · Weather

THE PRESIDENT RESPONDS: “SOME PEOPLE ARE JUST MAD."

President Nertilian Bushaj during his statement on the official government television channel

Kartha - President Nertilian Bushaj will ask the National Assembly to accelerate the process of voting on a formal Euclean Community membership request. Joining the EC has been a matter of political debate for years, but Galenia’s troubled relation with Etruria has been the main factor keeping the nation away from Kesselbourg. The president’ statement came through an official government television channel today after ex-minister Beqir Fazliu, dismissed due corruption charges, accused his cabinet and the Republican coalition of being “cowards” and “scared to face the outer world.”

After hearing the accusations of the ex-minister, Bushaj said: “Some people are just mad and want to see a house on fire, even when they were the ones who started it. My mandate has done nothing but serving this country the best it could after a whole in our economy was opened by the left. We have no fear, especially when it comes to the best of this nation and of our people. Each move, nationally and internationally is minunscously calculated, so we are sure we took the best decisions for Galenia.”

Furthermore, the president stated how the government has been studying the possibility of requesting a formal membership status in the EC, but Galenia’s international relations with Etruria have been a big obstacle. He said that the government is closely watching other similar cases like Piraea and Slirnia in order to measure the temperature of the international political scenario. He stated: “It is not a matter of fear, but being cautious while dealing with nations that have already oppressed and hurt our dear citizens in the past.”

Following that, Bushaj finally formally asked the National Assembly to treat the matter of joining the EC as top priority, as the bloc relations with Piraea and Slirnia have been warming up. During his statement, the president revealed a call with the Assembly President, Kthjellor Nexhipi (PR), and he expects an extraordinary session to take place on Tuesday, May 17.

In regards to the corruption accusation, the president said: “It is outrageous for a person to accusate such an honest mandate for actions that himself and his peers were caught practicing. We have preached the truth and honesty to our people; we actively support the Cement Operation and we raise funds to auxiliate the police with their tough, though honorable task. My government is surely clean and protected from any lunatic accusation made by the now shattered opposition.”

The Cement Operations has so far investigated all cities across Galenia, and those under the government of the Socialist coalition were the ones with the highest number of overpriced constructions. On the other hand, Admir Balliu (PR), mayor of Sorrë, Anisa Mishaxhi (PA!), mayor of Vraçëri, and Lutvije Collaku (PR), National Assembly representative from the Valqëndrush County were the only Republicans proven guilty of corruption, bribery, money-washing and tax evasion.

For more information on the Galenia-EC saga, as well as the Cement Operation, stay tuned to ZN News online!

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by **Oostfalea** » Sun May 17, 2020 3:21 am

MAHAKA JUNCTION - Yesterday, Premier Noël Abbas visited the BT diamond mine, one of the largest diamond mines in the region. He was invited by the BT company to officiate the reopening of the mine, following the conclusion of a government inquiry into corruption among the administrators of BT. Premier Abbas was met with crowds of men and women whose livelihoods depended on the continued operation of the mine, holding placards and chanting the slogan of the Popular Front of the Adesine, We Believe. Four administrators of the BT mine were found guilty of embezzlement and ethnic discrimination, and face up to 30 years in prison. One man, Francis Balabayo, age 62, is still at large. The BT mine, jointly owned by the Adesine Government and private investors, is one of the largest producers of gem diamonds in the country and employs 1,900 people.

"40 years ago, our civil war robbed us of our brotherhood and prosperity. I remember when I was young, growing up in this small town, a pit where fathers and their sons would dig using shovels and their bare hands for a shiny stone that they could sell for a week of food. Under the guidance of the PFA and through the council of experts, that pit has turned into a source of wealth for the country. Be proud, for you are witnessing a new, brighter future for our nation. Brothers and sisters, there are many people who wish to line their pockets with the money of the common man. Their selfishness will not go unpunished. Let it be known that anyone who is involved in corruption will face the consequences,"

"Progress will arrive in the rest of the country soon. Have faith in the government, brothers and sisters [...] let me say this, a robust and modern economy is my goal! We care about the education and wellbeing of our citizens. The PFA will make the Adesine a country you should be proud of. We believe!

-Part of Premier Abbas' televised speech during his visit to the BT mine

The BT mine has brought many enterprising people from around the region to open businesses in the nearby town of Mahaka Junction. Hotels, clinics, leisure centres and hardware shops have popped up in Mahaka Junction since the mine first commenced operations in 1999. Following the election of Premier Abbas, the mine has grown to occupy almost half a million square metres, and foreign investment has risen 200%. The mine closed from November 2018 to 2020, following allegations of corruption by the CEO, CFO, foreman and several other staff of BT. Several estimates for production of diamonds for the rest of 2020 put the mine producing roughly 1,100 tons of diamonds.

"It was a difficult time for both us business owners and miners. The mine was closed and we didn't have any other sources of income. I was thinking of closing shop and moving away. I am thankful that the investigations have concluded and the mine is reopened, and I'm glad Premier Abbas has made attempts to stamp out corruption. We believe!"

-Joséphine AmaZangwa, who runs a liquor shop in the town of Mahaka

Abdel Hamid is a senior writer for the Voice of the Adesine. Born and raised in the Barindi Valley, he graduated from the National University of the Adesine in 2017.
© société nationale d'édition. 2020

by **Eskaeba** » Mon May 18, 2020 8:25 am

by **Liecthenbourg** » Wed May 20, 2020 2:23 pm

Vallette and Lambert to travel to Garambura.
Euclean Commissioner for Foreign and Global Affairs will be joining Foreign Minister Sylvaine Lambert on a trip to discuss matters with Garambura's new civilian government.

Antoinette Giroud
May 20thth, 2020|Mutimukuru, Garambura

Lambert, arriving in Mutimukuru
Photo courtesy of the Gaullican Government.

Mutimukuru, Garambura

After almost two months since General Gatamba took power away from a newly elected government, civilian rule has returned to the nation following presidential elections on the 18th of May. Gatamba, who claimed to be acting in the name of the country's judiciary, oversaw a military response to their -- at the time -- constitutional dismissal.

The newly elected Garamburan president, Sylvain Sikali, achieved over 61% of the vote. Running as an independent, he best exemplifies the new idealised form of politics: non-partisan. Many onlookers are concerned with the possibility of a renege on these promises: especially as Sikali himself is a former member of the PNG. To many, his policies are essentially identical.

Some circles in the global north are also concerned with the role that General Gatamba himself will be playing in this new government, and speculation has arisen to the possibility of a falling out between the General and his former right hand man: Soga.

Yet, following his election Le Monde was informed that a call between Verlois and Mutimukuru had taken place. Today both Gaullica's Foreign MInister, Sylvaine Lambert and the Euclean Commissioner for Foreign and Global Affairs, Vivien Vallette, will represent both Gaullica and the Euclean Community as they discuss the normalisation of relations between them.

Top on the agenda for the Garamburan government we can presume to be the continuation of necessary development funding. Garambura has historically received a large share of development aid to the Bahian nations coming from Gaullica. When asked about their hopes for their diplomatic summit, Lambert told Le Monde:

"We, of course, want to continue a productive relationship with Garambura and the Garamburans. Our partnership and friendship has been a key model of development for the region as Garambura enjoys a higher comparative standard of living to its neighbours. I can speak for both myself and the rest of the delegation when I tell you that the restoration of civilian democracy to Garambura is a wonderful turn of events; and we are more than pleased that the General kept his word."

"These talks, are, of course, going to be fruitful. Garambura and Gaullica and the Euclean Community have had a longstanding relationship and I can assure you that the relationship is one of mutual understanding and respect. Our concerns over the General's moves, were, ultimately based on what we perceived to be threats on the institutions of Garamburan democracy. Thankfully this has not been the case; I look forward to meeting President Sikali and whomever he does indeed name to be his Premier."

When asked about the notion of returning the cut development aid, the Euclean Commissioner replied that that was "one of the key intentions" of this meeting. Alongside this, he described the "necessity to ensure investor and consumer confidence in the Garamburan economy and the restoration of a healthy working relationship between Mutimukuru and Kesselbourg."

One of the key concerns on the Garamburan side also stems from the comments made by the Rwizikuran Premier Mawere. The Premier invited investors, businesses and industries to orient themselves around his nation following the coup d'etat. The restoration of civilian democracy, alongside this meeting, are expected to reinforce investors confidence in the nation as a place to base their capital, goods and services.

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by **Slirnija** » Wed May 20, 2020 8:07 pm

My Last.fm · by **West Kirkon** » Wed May 20, 2020 9:51 pm

Mariya Nazarivna - 20 May 2020

Home · Vinalia · Asteria · International · Politics · Finance · Sports · Entertainment · Health · Travel · Weather · Opinion

"All Done" says Prime Minister

Prime Minister Omelyan Pavlov earlier today announced Vinalinsk completed

Vinalinsk -
“All done” announced Prime Minister Omelyan Pavlov, in conjunction with Capital City Commissioner Iryna Yavkina, in a press conference yesterday. Vinalinsk is to become the new capital of Vinalia on July 25, 2020 after 15 years of delays and nearly 3 decades after it was signed into law. Vinalia has had its government split between Orlavo (Legislative), and Velkarichka (Executive, and Judicial) since reunification, the capitals of the former People’s Republic of Vinalia (North Vinalia), and Republic of Vinalia (South Vinalia) respectively. Established in the Treaty of Vinalian Reunification of 1993, that a central location be found or made for a unified Vinalian capital to house all 3 branches.

Although the task began in 1994, it focused on finding pre established cities to become the capital but by 1998, no city had reached the requirements and the decision was made to build a new capital. Planning had finished in 2001 and a plan was submitted to the government, envisioned at first a city of 500 thousand people, with vast green spaces, public transportation, and massive government complexes. The cost of the project caused worry, and the plans were delayed and ultimately cancelled in 2002 following a vote. By 2003 another proposal was submitted but was also again shut down by the legislature. In 2004 the 3rd plan was proposed and ultimately approved in January 2005, which called for housing for 350 thousand people, a new national stadium, a vast public transportation system, green space, and more rail connections with the rest of the country.

Little progress was made from 2005 to 2008 as global economic downturn made the government weary to invest so much into the project, by 2009 the first phase of the project was 2 years behind schedule. The Conservative Party of Ulyana Hryhorivna would in 2008 win a majority and take control of parliament from the Unionist party, Ulyana quickly ramped up construction of the city, but questions regarding the economic viability of the project and high costs had by 2011 pushed the opening of the city from 2012 at the earliest to 2015, but government priorities elsewhere furthered delayed the project. Following Ulyana’s resignation and ascension of the Unionist Turden Najic, in 2015. There was renewed interest in the project, which had been seen as controversial by most Vinalians due to its high cost. Najic contracted the Panswetanian Institute for Social and Urban Development, notable for its work on planning and building of Swetapolis – the capital city of Swetania – in the late 50s, to improve on the previous plans.

The revised plan opened up large amounts of land to private construction companies, and reduced the role of the national government on the building of the city, reducing it’s construction of housing from 350 thousand to just 100 thousand of which 95% was already finished, alongside government buildings which were 75% completed, and the public transportation system (40%) which was overhauled to improve it’s efficiency. Construction began in 2016 and despite minor delays the project was expected to finish in 2019. Omelyan Pavlov took power in 2019 after Najic was forced to resign due to health issues, and oversaw the final preparations of the city. Today the city houses 200,000 people in a vibrant city, and government ministries and institutions had begun their move to the new capital in January. Only the Ministry of Defence, the Parliament, Judiciary, and Executive remain legally in their respective cities, but with most staff prepositioned in Vinalinsk for an easy change of power upon the 25th.

Pavlov stated the final provision of the treaty of reunification to be finally completed after nearly 30 years following it’s signature, he invited the international community to the event praising international allies for aiding and helping a once failing and poor divided country into one of the fastest growing economies in the world. He also praised the Vinalian people for their resilience and strength in the face of adversity. July 25 (Reunification Day), shall see a military parade of the Vinalian Armed Forces, along with a veterans march, before midnight a ceremony shall see legally the move of the government from Orlavo and Velkarichka to Vinalinsk.

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by **Eskaeba** » Thu May 21, 2020 5:30 am

by **Lemovicia** » Thu May 21, 2020 8:57 am

by **Union of Akoren** » Thu May 21, 2020 2:56 pm

Jan de Haan - 21 May 2020

Home · Kesselbourg · The Continent · The World · Policy · Opinion · Features · Newsletters · Continental Pro

AEC: "WE CANNOT SAY WITH CERTAINTY ZORASANI NUCLEAR PROGRAMME IS PEACEFUL"

The AEC Reporting Session where it revealed its findings on Zorasan.

Spálgleann, Caldia- The Atomic Energy Commission has released its report into the suspected Zorasani nuclear weapons program after visiting the country in January and again in February. The AEC’s investigation did not find any credible direct evidence of Zorasani activities relating to nuclear weaponization. However, the report did say, “there are concerning levels of enrichment that exceed peaceful parameters and activity at certain military sites that are indicative of research.” Director-General of the AEC Eduard Zayika has said “further investigation and total Zorasani cooperation is required.”

The report follows two five-day investigations at three sites in Zorasan between January and February. The investigation was delayed initially in January after the Zorasani parliament passed a motion prohibiting the investigators entering the country. The motion was based on the claim that the investigation was part of a “systematic propaganda plot led by Estmere.” The motion was repealed by Zorasan’s military dominated upper house after reportedly bitter meetings between First Minister Akbari and leading generals.

On January 10th, the investigators visited the Saranchand Technological Institute which appears to be dedicated to technical research and operates a small and limited enrichment facility. It was at Saranchand that Zorasan independently achieved the nuclear fuel cycle in 1989. Over the next four days, the team visited and investigated the Jozdar Military Research and Development Facility a large enrichment facility. The “JMRDF” operates over 1,500 centrifuges necessary for the enrichment of uranium – which can be for peaceful purposes, for example, uranium enriched by 4% is used for nuclear reactors, while material enriched to 90% or above is necessary for use in nuclear weapons.

Between February 5 and February 10, the investigators returned to the two sites for follow-up studies of equipment and activity. However, when the team attempted to gain access to the Mount Saghand Facility, referred to the AEC by the Estmerish government, they were blocked. The Zorasani government claimed that Mount Saghand is not related to nuclear activities but is a secure research and testing facility for conventional weaponry, as such they could not permit investigators entry for fear of security breaches.

The AEC Investigative Board has since its second visit compiled its findings which it revealed in a lengthy report today.

Addressing a press conference, the lead investigator, Jan Schouten said, “our investigation into the alleged nuclear activities of Zorasan was not as easy as it could have been. Our investigation was delayed due to political legislation produced in Zorasan, which delayed our team for over a week. During that time, heightened activity at Saranchand and Jozdar was reported. It is only through political intervention by the Zorasani executive that we were finally permitted entry into the country.”

“Our investigation into the Saranchand facility near Soltanabad did not reveal anything of direct concern or violation of established treaty. We did and now note significant past activity in several areas of the facility, notably the scraping and relaying of fresh soil and what appeared to be a sealed tunnel entrance” he explained.

“While we cannot speak to the nature of the disturbed soil or the nature of the sealed tunnel, the report does note the failure by the Zorasani authorities to provide explanation is another source for concern and suspicion” he noted.

“Our studies at Saranchand revealed a significant trove of technical knowledge into nuclear research, though we could not find anything related to the weaponization of nuclear energy, nor could we find any technical knowledge on the design and delivery of a nuclear weapon” Dr. Schouten said, “on the matter of the enrichment capabilities of Saranchand, the centrifuges number less than 500 and appear to be enriching uranium for scientific and technical research and purposes. This does not violate AEC guidelines or regulations.”

Dr. Schouten then moved onto the team’s visit to the Jozdar Military Research and Development Facility. The JMRD Facility operates 1,200 centrifuges, significantly more than found at Saranchand.
“Our visit to the Jozdar Military Research and Development Facility was not impeded and we were granted access to all areas. There, we conducted environmental tests and studied the equipment present, in both cases we could not find any evidence of regulation breaches. We failed to detect any signs of radiological contamination that would indicate heightened activity or highly enriched uranium” he said.

The investigative team did however raise concerns over the number of centrifuges operating at the site, especially for a military facility with no logistical connection to either the country’s nuclear industry, or healthcare or agriculture. The Zorasani authorities reportedly claimed that the site was used for security reasons, as well as research.

“The Zorasani response to our questions regarding the large number of centrifuges at Jozdar was not sufficient as far as we are concerned. Such numbers of centrifuges are usually found at facilities enriching uranium for nuclear fuel. However, the report stresses that the enriched material we accessed was at a level within peaceful parameters. The material enriched at Jozdar was between 3.5% and 4%, which does not violate current AEC guidelines” Dr. Schouten said.

The most controversial point of the visit to Zorasan came with the team’s attempt to gain access to the facility at Mount Saghand. The mountainous location is officially the country’s largest uranium mine and has secondary facilities that enrich material for use in Zorasan’s nuclear power plants. After some delay, the team were permitted access to the mine and enrichment facilities.

“The site known as Mount Saghand Number 1, including the uranium mine and the secondary structures, housing enrichment facilities fell within AEC guidelines and regulations. The number of centrifuges present was limited to only 500 latest generation equipment, enriching material to 4%. We found that Mount Saghand 1 had direct logistical ties to the regional nuclear power facility” Dr Schouten said.

“However, our attempts to access Mount Saghand Number 2 were blocked consistently by the Zorasani government” he explained to reporters.

Mount Saghand Number 2 is believed to be a sprawling subterranean facility dedicated to conventional weapons testing. Intelligence provided to AEC from Estmere alleged that the second facility was also used for missile research and development. The same intelligence claimed that the facility was housing “extensive enrichment capabilities.”

“Our efforts to access Site 2 were blocked on grounds that our presence would endanger the conventional military research taking place at the facility. We strongly urge the Zorasani government to grant the AEC access to Site 2 and Mount Saghand as soon as possible. Not only would the granting of access be vital in confidence building, it will put aside any suspicions and claims of nefarious activity if there is nothing to hide in relation to nuclear weaponization” Dr Schouten urged.

Director-General of the AEC, Eduard Zayika took centre-stage to conclude the presentation. In his remarks, Director General Zayika said, “there are several aspects to the investigation that were determined through the delivery of significant technical documents sent by Zorasan. The initial report that Zorasan operates 25,000 centrifuges is factually incorrect. According to the documents Zorasan delivered, they operate a total of 36,000 centrifuges.”

“On a negative note, follow up communications between the AEC mission team and the Zorasani government failed to determine all locations where these centrifuges are currently being operated. Until further communication or in-country investigations take place, we cannot say what quality these centrifuges are. This is an area of major concern, without documentation and verification, we are not able to determine to what percentage, these centrifuges are enriching uranium material, or if they are at all” he said.

“I will also stress that the activities we encountered in Zorasan at all sites were not referred to the AEC six months prior to the introduction of radioactive material to a facility. This is in breach of the AEC standard procedure. While this is concerning, it is not our view indicative of weaponization” he asserted.

Concluding, Mr. Zayika said, “while the report will confirm our position of not finding any credible or direct evidence that Zorasan is currently pursuing nuclear weaponization or conducting the necessary measures to achieve nuclear breakout capability. I can confirm however, that in wake of this report, the Board of Governors of the AEC voted unanimously on the issue that we cannot say for certain, that Zorasan’s nuclear program is for civilian use only.”

Analysis

While the first AEC report on Zorasan’s controversial nuclear program fails to deliver the knockout blow of certified breaches of AEC regulations and the Treaty of Shanbally, the body’s refusal to certify the program as entirely peaceful may just deliver the same consequences. One former AEC official told the Continental, “the Cannot Certify position is probably the worst of both worlds, as it fails to deliver fundamental proof Zorasan is pursuing a bomb, but grants enough conjecture for some to claim it anyway.”

A source close to the CN’s Anti-Proliferation Agency said, “this statement is going to set diplomatic circles ablaze. Ashcombe and its allies can take it as enough to say Zorasan is pursing weapons of mass destruction, while Zorasan can claim that its been vindicated because it wasn’t overt in its accusation.”

Whatever the immediate response will be, the AEC is expected to request greater transparency from Zorasan and access to further sites, especially if it is operating over 35,000 centrifuges. This situation is only going to escalate.

by **Union of Akoren** » Thu May 21, 2020 4:44 pm

by **Estmere** » Fri May 22, 2020 2:01 pm

Roger Sherman - 22 May 2020

Home · Estmere · Euclea · International · Politics · Business · Technology and Science · Arts · Education · Health · Sports · Weather

ESTMERISH GOVERNMENT SAYS AEC REPORT SHOWS IS ZORASAN WORKING TOWARDS NUCLEAR BOMB

Foreign Secretary Stephen Mendenhall said the AEC's findings were "highly alarming".

ASHCOMBE - Senior officials in the Estmerish government have backed up the Atomic Energy Commission's findings in Zorasan while also expressing concerns. The AEC has concluded that it could not definitively find whether or not the Zorasani nuclear program was peaceful, resulting in conflicting claims from world capitals. Prime Minister Reginald Wilton-Smyth has said it was "evident now more than ever" that Zorasan was working towards a nuclear capacity, while State President Vahid Isfandiar claimed Zorasan was vindicated by the AEC's report.

In its report published yesterday, the AEC said that it did not find any credible direct evidence of Zorasani activities relating to nuclear weaponization. However, the AEC did find that “there are concerning levels of enrichment that exceed peaceful parameters and activity at certain military sites that are indicative of research.” The nuclear watchdog's Director-General, Eduard Zayika, concluded that “further investigation and total Zorasani cooperation is required.”

While the AEC did not find any direct evidence of weaponization, Wilton-Smyth and other senior government officials have claimed the AEC's report is indicative of Zorasan's growing desire to secure a nuclear capacity. "After [the AEC's] report, it is evident now more than ever before that the Zorasani military regime is working to develop nuclear warheads. This would have devastating effects on global stability, as Zorasan continues to destabilize its neighbors through its militant attack dogs" the prime minister told reporters this morning. Wilton-Smyth said that Zorasani obstruction was "direct evidence of their violation of the Treaty of Shanbally", going on to say that "if they did nothing wrong, they would not block the work of AEC inspectors".

Foreign Secretary Stephen Mendenhall said that the AEC report was "highly alarming" but took a softer stance than Wilton-Smyth, saying that more conclusive evidence was still needed.

"While this is all highly alarming, we must ensure that we act with the proper knowledge when making these decisions. The AEC's work thus far is the pinnacle of what we have asked for. However, attempts to hinder their work made by the Zorasani military continue to cloud the issue".

Mendenhall also said that "while there is no indication that Zorasan is on the verge of deploying a nuclear bomb, evidence indicates the government is highly motivated to develop a nuclear capacity". International cooperation, he claimed, would be the "best deterrence".

"The Treaty of Shanbally has been an incredible success story, we must work together to ensure it remains that success story. De-nuclearization has been at the forefront of global politics for the past sixty years, the world must not falter in our commitment to this lofty goal".

The prime minister called for further Zorasani cooperation with the AEC, and hinted that Estmere and its allies would be "willing to look at any and all options" available to curb Zorasan's attempt to develop nuclear weapons.

"Zorasan must do nothing short of offer its total cooperation to the AEC going forward, or it risks provoking severe consequences from the international community. The jewel in the crown adorned atop of the head of Zorasan's military dictatorship is nuclear. The closer they get to a nuclear weapon, the more credible their threats to destabilize the region become. Nuclear weapons will do nothing but embolden them, waiting to act only complicates the situation. The close Zorasan gets to a nuclear weapon, the harder they will be to deal with" Wilton-Smyth said this morning.

However, Zorasan seems uninterested in further cooperation with the AEC. Isfandiar, who serves as the civilian leader of the world's largest oil producing nation, claimed that the AEC report "confirms [Zorasan's] denial as truthful. It confirms the truth about Zorasan's peaceful intentions". The AEC found that it could not say with confidence that Zorasani nuclear activity was peaceful. Warnings and threats made by Isfandiar and other government officials have further indicated that Zorasan intends to resist additional cooperation with the AEC, which AEC scientists say was already limited during their February fact-finding mission.

by **The Southern Mountains** » Fri May 22, 2020 3:40 pm

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