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New high-speed train route delayed until 2022
Claumont

The high speed train route, planned to connect Claumont and Pillau, will be delayed until 2022 says the Imperial Train Bureau. "The majority of the route has been completed. However, geological setbacks have seriously hindered our completion" the Bureau said in a statement. Construction began in 2017 and has consistently run over budget and behind schedule. The Bureau came under close scrutiny of the Imperial Assembly and reportedly, the Emperor, in 2019. This scrutiny resulted in the dismissal of much of the Bureau's senior leadership- though circumstances remain unclear at this time. The Imperial Train Bureau is planning to bypass previous plans and go with an alternate route over a distance of 56 miles. This is expected to add a further 1 billion Francs to the cost.


Emperor Paul to visit region
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Chagny


The Emperor's media office has announced that His Imperial Majesty will be visiting the region to "better define shared goals with the Empire's regional partners". The Emperor's tour will be the first in nearly 3 years. With the Imperial Assembly demanding more oversight over the Foreign Ministry, the Emperor is likely using this tour to shore up his position as the head of the Empire's foreign policy and as head of the Imperial Government. After the Leroux Incident in 2019, the Emperor has left much of the diplomacy to the foreign office. Political experts say that His Majesty is likely moving to see that he retains personal control over external matters.
 

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Largest Frankish airline, Minerva Air, abruptly stops service. Leaves thousands stranded worldwide
Claumont

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The largest Frankish airline and 3rd largest airline in the world, Minerva, has abruptly stopped service the day after Christmas. The move has stunned thousands of would-be passengers and left many holding useless boarding passes. The announcement was made this morning at 8 o'clock. Minerva has failed to state reasons for the halt. Members of the Imperial Assembly have already launched an investigation. Sources tell Le Moniteur that the Emperor himself has appointed an inquiry team to determine the cause of the stoppage.

In addition to passengers, thousands of employees have been left in limbo as the airline has stated that only essential staff would be receiving pay and workers are to expect severance packages. The Transportation Ministry has called the event a "magnificent disaster".
 

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Trans Westernesse Airlines
Public Communique

It is a sad to see anyone become stranded on the day after Christmas when so many are looking to get home to their families and jobs after celebrating the birth of our lord savior Jesus Christ. That is why in the spirit of giving TWA will offer to transport those who a stranded home or to the nearest airport where they may find further transport at little or no cost to those who have found themselves with useless boarding passes. We will also offer transport through our subsidiary Balért in Bajorország. We ask that those of you who are stranded bear with us as we attempt to route you through our own network of routes and cities. If we cannot find you transport on one of our aircraft we shall work with our partner airlines to route your through their routes. We hope that the employees of Minerva airlines will find gainful employment with another company or perhaps with TWA itself or our subsidiary Balért. Merry Christmas and remember to treat others with compassion and respect in these stressful times.

John Hughes
CEO of Trans Westernesse Airlines
 
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Emperor warns of potential humanitarian crisis. Plans to offer to Tarusa to assume Ostmark's natural gas debt.
Chagny

The Emperor announced that he was watching the developments in Ostmark very carefully. His Imperial Majesty said in a press conference that he is fearful of a humanitarian crisis in Ostmark as energy concerns are gripping the country in the dead of winter. The Emperor went on to state that the Frankish Embassy would be open in the evenings for up to 300 elderly as a warming shelter. The embassy, opened only in 1992 after relations were normalized, is expected to provide a haven for the elderly for the next week until diesel for generators runs out. The Emperor warned that if Ostmark continued to be placed in such a state, thousands would potentially be at risk of death.

The Emperor noted that Ostmark was becoming a 'new nation' and that Tarusa was committing an act of extortion. "These nations should be partners. If we can bridge that gap to ensure Ostmark a new beginning, then I believe we should". The Emperor has offered to assume the debt by making the payment to Tarusa. In return, Ostmark would repay the Empire on a plan commensurate with their abilities.
 

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Emperor and Tsar reach temporary agreement. Natural gas supply to Ostmark will resume
Chagny

Through diplomatic channels, the two imperial governments forged an agreement to ensure that @Ostmark will not face a humanitarian crises. The Frankish Empire will assume the natural gas debt of Ostmark. Imperial sources say that @Tarusa will receive the full payment required. No further details have been made public from the Frankish end. Statements from both governments are reportedly forthcoming.

The agreement comes as @Ostmark is in turmoil with potential criminals escaping justice, mountains of economic questions, and severe energy challenges. The Imperial Government has pledged its basic assistance to the elderly. Meanwhile, Tarusa has remained highly critical of the power transition within Ostmark. The Tsar's government has decried the destruction of millions of documents- many covering internal security measures taken by the former regime.

The Emperor has noted that he is "extremely concerned with the methodology being applied" and says that he is "praying for a true reconciliation with truth, love, and forgiveness at its heart".
 

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Imperial Navy will retire only aircraft carrier in February. Forces reorganization continues.
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The backbone of the Imperial Navy since the 1960's, the carrier FSI Mercure, will be retired in February as the Imperial Government continues to downsize the fleet. Mercure is now over 60 years old and has continued to serve despite the rising costs for upkeep. The navy will reportedly also be scrapping the helicopter cruiser FSI Gloire and two destroyers. "We will be consolidating the surface fleet into two distinct squadrons instead of three. It is both financially and strategically more efficient" said a statement from the admiralty. The reduction in power projection and size of the fleet is in line with Imperial directives and transformation of the greater vision of a future force. A new aircraft aircraft carrier will be commissioned later this year but will have a far more narrow scope of operations.



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New carrier FSI Audacieuse in sea trials


The Army is also facing immense changes as the long-term plan is to transition from a mixed professional-conscript force into a smaller standing professional army. While the size of reserves will increase, the expenditures will be drastically reduced by 2025. As the Imperial Air Force continues to grow, the Imperial Assembly has also asked the Emperor for a concrete review of defense spending. About 100,000 personnel are planned to be trimmed from the Imperial Forces by 2024 and 175,000 by 2026. "There are many reasons to modernize. Cost. Strategic deployment. Geography. We must view all of these reasons with serious consideration" said the Emperor last week.
 

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First Minister Aucoin to step down
Chagny
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First Minister Marcel Aucoin has announced that he plans to step down. Since taking the office 3 years ago, Aucoin has had a reportedly contentious relationship with the Emperor. Aucoin has stated that he plans to return to Arches for retirement. The choice to step down as First Minister has come as a shock to many. Aucoin's leadership in the Imperial Assembly has been universally celebrated by its members. In the press conference today, Aucoin stated that "I have reached a point where I feel I have done all I can do. I have spent 26 years in service to my country and the Empire. When a servant reaches a point where he can no longer make progress or to pursue their agenda; they must ask themselves the question if they can be effective in their role".

Aucoin is largely credited with the Universal Medical Code and the Agricultural Support Law. The Agricultural Support Law was universally passed as an Imperial Mandate in 2019 and provided farmers a direct path to compensation for agricultural aid. After the 2006 drought, several attempts to pass an Imperial bill failed. The bill ensures that all constituent states and kingdoms follow the same steps to protect farm and farmers. In 2019, Aucoin became the center of an alleged disagreement with the Crown over an Imperial wage law which the Emperor vetoed twice. Sources say that the event soured relations between the Emperor and Aucoin. "I am proud of my actions as First Minister and have always fought for the people and the Empire. I feel I have left the Empire in a better place and that is all that one who holds office can hope for" said Aucoin.

Many expect Orange Party leader Louis Dusset to take the vacant post. Sources close to the palace say that Dusset and former Energy Minister Edmond Bernard are the two being considered. Dusset, a long-time Assembly member, is considered to be bipartisan and well experienced. Former Minister Bernard is known for his commitment to the Conservative Party. Many expect the Emperor to announce his pick Tuesday or Wednesday.
 

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60 years on, the memory of Emperor Baldwin II looms large


EDITORIAL

By Wilhelm Brandt

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Emperor Baldwin greets a crowd of Franks sometime in the 1940s.


Wednesday marks 60 years since the passing of Emperor Baldwin. Though his passing was over a half-century ago, Baldwin's shadow is large. Considered to be the key Frank of the 20th century, Baldwin is also considered to be one of the most influential emperors in modern history. Social, economic, and cultural changes dominated his 40 year reign along with war and personal tragedy. Baldwin remained popular among peers, the people, and internationally.

Born the third son of Emperor Hugh, Baldwin was never expected to be King. At age 19, Baldwin entered into the Military University. Eschewing privilege, he took the position of Captain in an infantry regiment. His accession to the throne was a close run thing following the assassination of his two brothers. The House of Cuvier nearly lost the throne to the von Lippe's- the Landgraviate family of Pillau. His early years were full of internal turmoil as war and nationalist politics coursed through the Empire. By the mid 1930's, the ancient union of kingdoms and electorates seemed poised to collapse. Through charisma and persistence, Baldwin managed to not only preserve the union- but invigorate it. "His personality was a force that was unmatched" said First Minister Mortier in 1974.

Baldwin's reign was tinged with tragedy. He escaped an assassination attempt in 1942 and saw his own daughter, Princess Marie, die in 1949 during childbirth. Baldwin watch as Empress Zsofia slowly lose her health until her death in 1946.

His personality often translated to humility. He rarely wore expensive suits or ceremonial attire- choosing a simple military uniform or gray suits from common tailors. He is known to only have worn the Imperial Crown twice. Once at his coronation and the other time at his wedding. "I am a simple soldier. A uniform suits me fine" he would say. Baldwin was known to disappear into crowds of common people to hear their concerns and their plight; much to the frustration of his security team. He would walk in Chagny's parks on Saturdays, speaking with up to a hundred people in a day.

Baldwin's popularity, both domestically and internationally, created a precedent of humility and outreach. Some are questioning if Emperor Paul possesses enough of the ability to reach out to the common people. His quiet approach to foreign policy seems at odds with his grandfather's eagerness. Though few question Emperor Paul's abilities, we simply have not had the time to gauge them. It is perhaps unfair to compare Paul's reign with that of his Grandfather. After all, Baldwin was a man of a different age- literally. born into the 19th century. Comparing monarchs of the modern age is perhaps inevitable. But we must do so with context. We must understand that the benchmark is not always the goal. The Empire needs stability, safety, and prosperity. Reflecting on the past provides context for the future. If this is taken to heart, Emperor Baldwin's shadow will not only serve to teach future monarchs, but future citizens as well.

[Page 2, 3]
 
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Louis du Pont selected as new First Minister

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The Emperor has appointed Louis du Pont as First Minister, replacing Marcel Aucoin. The Emperor made the announcement late Friday following a lengthy press conference. du Pont, a former deputy minister of the interior, comes a surprise pick. Known as a bi-partisan member of the center-left Orange Party, du Pont is reportedly held in high esteem by party leadership. The Burgundian is most known for his investigations into corruption in the Health Ministry in 2013. As a member of the Imperial Assembly from 1998-2009, du Pont has sponsored a number of petitions and chaired both the Veterans Committee and the Education Committee. Prior to joining the Assembly, du Pont served as Professor of Ethics at the Imperial University of Monterfil.

du Pont was sworn in Saturday morning during a special session of the Assembly and met with the Emperor. According to sources, His Imperial Majesty shared his concerns over the current domestic budget and business tax rates. du Pont allegedly has an agenda to overhaul the education system and to implement a new infrastructure package.
 

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Minerva Air saved. Government takes 1/3 ownership
Chagny


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160 million passengers is how many flew worldwide on Minerve Air in 2019. Yet 2020 saw a complete stoppage of services during one of the busiest times of the year- leaving thousands stranded and thousands in employment-limbo. A government investigation determined that the airlines management was "grossly incompetent" and "completely mismanaged its finances". The report states that the board essentially spent like "a drunken Vistaran". Former First Minister Aucoin and the Emperor both took a personal interest in discovering the mismanagement as well as interest in developing a solution. Trans Westernesse Airlines graciously saved many passengers from limbo. Yet many Minerva employees had already begun a job search by the time First Minister du Pont announced a compromise to save the airline today.

The Imperial Government will take a 1/3 ownership stake in the company. In return, the airline is reportedly receiving 30 Billion Francs. Additionally, the entire board and CEO will be replaced by February 1st. The government will have two special administrators who will sit on the board with complete veto power. A monthly report to the Imperial Assembly will be tendered. Additionally, Minerva will be responsible for being profit generating in 2021. Under the agreement, the airline must be profitable in 2021. If it is not, the government maintains the right to sell its shares to another airline. First Minister du Pont remained positive today- saying that "Minerva is a staple of international travel. Despite the recent complication, we feel that the airline will remain in high regard".
 

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Editorial: Ostmark, CSEAC highlight strengths and weaknesses of an old system
by Hans Grossman, Assistant Editor

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Emperor Paul visits Eiffelland, 2018

For nearly 150 years, the federal imperial system has ensured a balance and a shared identity across the nations that make one. For 900 years, an Emperor has sat on the throne. These two features play an intricate dance to ensure a stable Empire. There have always been strengths and weaknesses. Wars, economic depressions, and vast cultural changes have brought their challenges to the Frankish people. Yet, the Empire persists.

Domestically, the Empire is relatively modern in political terms. An elected legislature. A prime minister in the form of the First Minister. Yet the Emperor still maintains a level of control with a nearly all-powerful veto. His ability to make decisions and appoint the entire cabinet is in many ways unchecked. Despite this, the Assembly still represents the people. Internationally things are so very different. The foreign policy of the Empire rests in a single man- the Emperor. Though he does not control an international budget, the Emperor remains free to set policies. We have seen as of recent, Emperor Paul's intervention into Ostmark's move to democracy. Threatened with the loss of natural gas during the harshest months of the winter, Ostmark was in peril. Swift negotiations by the Emperor helped curb damage by temporarily seeing gas service resume. On the other hand, Emperor Paul has reportedly been on the fence regarding the CSEAC. Invited to join, the Emperor has been in conference with many of his advisors. Though pledging to attend the first meeting, no representative was sent. However, on Friday, His Imperial Majesty pledged to join the organization.


Therein lies the question. Is the Empire's foreign infrastructure manageable without legislative oversight? Nobody is questioning the monarchy or its place in government. But rather, why the Assembly does not have a more expansive say in foreign matters aside from budgeting? His Imperial Majesty is neither incompetent nor incapable. Quite the opposite. The question boils down to this- why has the Imperial Constitution not been more thoroughly revised over the decades? Without question, His Imperial Majesty has had great successes- resolving Ostmark's potential disaster, the establishment of an international committee to protect cultural treasures during conflict, and trade deals. However, the Emperor has failed to ensure the Empire's voice is heard within CSEAC. Furthermore, His Imperial Majesty has left the ambassadorship to Eiffelland vacant for nearly a year. These are seemingly easy enough to resolve. True. But why does the Imperial Assembly not get its voice?

It is clear that the federal-imperial system remains strong. The monarchy remains a pillar for stability. In truth, these questions are not questions of circumstance nor of politics- but of time. With the world ever growing closer, we owe it to ourselves as proud citizens of the Empire to have our voices heard internationally.
 

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Frankish businesses flock to take advantage of Ostmark's opportunities

As Ostmark's new transition is becoming more clear, Frankish businesses have seen the opportunity. Over the last few weeks, businesses have gone into overdrive to take advantage of a relatively educated but inexpensive workforce. FrankBank announced on Friday that it was opening 130 locations in @Ostmark to provide personal banking services to the population. The CEO announced that the intention was to create a subsidiary company- OstBank, within the next 5 years. FrankBank released a statement saying that "Ostmark is a big potential market and it is clear that there is much in the way of mutual benefits".

Other businesses have also seen the light of opportunity. GR Auto Group has pledged to build two factories in Ostmark and employ at least 27,000 between the two facilities. The company announced that the investment would include a temporary discount on cars throughout the county for the next year. The investment represents a huge commitment as the two factories will be the largest outside of the Empire. "Not only do we have an industrially experienced workforce; but it is a workforce eager to get to work" said the GR spokesman.
 

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First Minister du Pont: "No Imperial Law on abortion"
Chagny

First Minister du Pont said on Friday that no Imperial Law would be passed by the assembly and that the Empire's constituent nations would be responsible for their own laws. While abortion remains restrictive in the Imperial Kingdoms, the electorates have been more lenient with abortion. In the wake of a regional pro-life movement, many have called on the Imperial Assembly to pass a law addressing the issue. However, du Pont has remained adamant that such legislation would not only be rushed but would also violate the Imperial Constitution.

An abortion ban was attempted in 1995 but was rejected by the Imperial Court after it was challenged and the case referred to the Court by the Emperor. The rejection was met with heavy condemnation among the conservatives and many protests continued for the next year. du Pont has pledged to ensure that the constituent nations of the Empire examine their laws but insisted that he had no control over their internal laws on the matter. Several groups are continuing to lobby the Imperial Assembly to take action- despite the First Minister's statement.
 

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First Minister du Pont will launch corruption investigation of Transportation Ministry

After years of accusations and the recent Minerva Air collapse, First Minister du Pont says he will launch a full investigation into the deals of the Transportation Ministry. Accusations of corruption first were mounted in 2014, with many others following. A preliminary investigation in 2017 at the order of the Emperor found nothing. However, du Pont has noted that this was a cursory examination and did not have the "scope or resources" which he plans to use. du Pont has created a special committee in the Assembly to investigate the Ministry. Le Moniteur's sources say that the most recent accusations have already been verified to the committee by internal members of the Ministry. du Pont's move has come as a surprise to many as he was seen as somebody who would not "rock the boat". However, the First Minister has pledged to "cleanse" the Imperial Government of wrongdoing and to offer a more transparent system of governance. The Emperor has reportedly approved of the investigation and has asked to be kept in close contact with investigators.




Imperial Crowns will visit museum in Kispest

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The Holy Frankish Imperial Crown (L) and the Imperial Burgundian Crown (R)

For the first time in history, both crowns will leave the country at the same time. A deal reached between the Bajoran museum system and the Imperial Treasury will see the two imperial crowns visit Kispest for a week. The Holy Imperial Crown was first used in 1135 to crown the first Holy Frankish Emperor. The crown was a gift from the Papacy and nobles of Bourgogne and Guienne. Used only for coronations, the Holy Imperial Crown rarely leaves its display case at the Imperial Treasury Museum. "It is a symbol of both holy trust and duty. It serves as a reminder that our Empire is founded both on Christianity and the idea that a people may be united in the cause of peace and stability" said the Imperial Treasury. The Burgundian Imperial Crown was first adopted in 1739 and has been a symbol of the unity of the 3 kingdoms and electorates of the Empire. "Lost briefly between 1808-1811, the Burgundian crown was adopted much later and as a symbol of Bourgogne's role as the central state of the Empire- though, this is no longer the view of the Imperial government."
 

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Imperial Education Code proving at odds with Arches' national agenda

In the Electoral City of Arches, there are many quiet streets and picturesque neighborhoods. Thousands throughout the Electorate commute to work. However, a small crisis is brewing. The Imperial Education Code prevents national funding from being diverted to parochial schools- instead funding these schools through Imperial coffers. However, up to 20% of the national budget within the Electorate is being spend there. "They are double dipping and the Electorate is ignoring protocol" said an Education Ministry spokesman. "The Imperial Education Code is, in part, meant to ensure that national funds are diverted to the public system. This allows the Imperial Government to help fund the extensive network of parochial schools within the Empire. The Electorate simply must comply with Imperial Code or face legal repercussions" said Armand de Musiac, the Education Minister. The Electorate of Arches is home to just over 3 million people.

Editorial: Ending our archaic conscription

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Every year, around 30,000 newly-graduated secondary students receive the Order of Conscription after their name has been drawn via lottery. While the majority of Imperial Forces are volunteers, the military has continued to conscript thousands every year. But is this really necessary? Surely, this practice has to be outdated. These roles could easily be filled by volunteers. What sense does it make to randomly pull these young men and women away from their homes?

I will answer that. It makes none. In the event of war, sure. We all understand such things. Is this 1950? We no longer need the Grande Armee of the 1950s. These days are long gone. The Imperial Laws must change. There is no room for such violations of human rights. Every year we see these thousands of students being forced to pivot into becoming soldiers and sailors- putting their lives on hold for 2 years against their will. Conscription was once a time honored tradition. As many as 80,000 a year would be drafted into the ranks of the swelling Imperial Army. You did your service and then you started your life. Yet, in an age of freedom and progress- this is no longer a right of passage. This is a hinderance. Ending the drafting of these youths into the services can only benefit the economy and the university system. We must look forward with the book, not the bullet.
 

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FrankBank opens its first 100 branches in Ostmark

Following up quickly with its promise to bring banking options to the people of @Ostmark, Frank Bank opened 100 branches around the country, primarily in cities. FrankBank will open a further 30 locations in the coming months, CEO Francois Lachese said. "Nearly all of the employees are from Ostmark. We mean to offer not only opportunities in banking but in employment as well. Our long-term goal is to transition these locations into a full subsidiary in the next 5 years- OstBank. FrankBank hopes to open a full investment hub completely staffed by citizens of Ostmark in 2022. This is a truly exciting period for the bank and hopefully for its new employees" said a statement from FrankBank.

The move to open banks at a fast rate has not been without risk. It represents a significant investment in the country and its people. Much of the strategy hinges on beating competitors to the market and building a client network. "We are very confident that we have built a solid foundation from which we can position ourselves to bring about OstBank in the near future. The opportunity for both us and Ostmark is immense" said Lachese. The strategy appears to be working but many other sectors are seeing fierce competition in terms of putting their foot in the door. So far, thousands of manufacturing jobs are being created as companies jostle to take advantage of a low-pay, high-quality workforce that is starving for opportunity. GR Auto Group has already committed to employing nearly 30,000 in Ostmark and began construction on two factories this week.
 

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FrankBank warns Standard Chartered on brand infringement. Accuses Standard Chartered of "corporate hijacking".

FrankBank has announced that it has warned Standard Chartered of legal action for use of the Ostbank name. According to FrankBank, the name OstBank was already registered as a business entity within Ostmark and was trademarked within the Holy Frankish Empire. FrankBank also asserts that "the move by Standard Chartered is clearly a predatory move against a brand that is actively being built. Our registered brand is being taken. This is simply a corporate hijacking". FrankBank has already become deeply intimate with the new @Ostmark, opening a slew of branches following a public announcement on January 26th- in which it also announced its intention to create the OstBank subisdiary. FrankBank additionally has been the lead element within the Holy Frankish Empire to help assume Ostmark's energy debt.

FrankBank has stated that Standard Chartered was both privately and publicly notified via a cease and desist order from its legal department. "We are hopeful that Standard Chartered will do the right thing and accept their mistake. These things happen in business" said a source within FrankBank.



Emperor initiates tougher scrutiny of parochial education

The Emperor has announced that it has ordered the Assembly review how teachers are hired within the parochial schools in the Empire. Allegedly, his Imperial Majesty was deeply troubled by the lack of qualifications that many teachers had in parochial schools. With about 30% of the national student population attending parochial primary schools and 20% attending parochial high schools, the Ministry of Education issued an inquiry last year. While results of the inquiry were not made public; a second inquiry was made in February. The second inquiry, which was made public, noted that 'many teachers are unlicensed or do not have the necessary education to teach the subjects to which they are assigned".
 

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Standard Chartered position is "ridiculous" and "wholly deficient" says FrankBank chairman

The world's largest and 5th largest banks continue their scrap over the name OstBank as Frankish interests continue to grow in @Ostmark. Following the announcement of the creation of OstBank earlier this year, Standard Chartered recently created its own Ostbank. Immediately, FrankBank protested. Sources say that negotiations are ongoing via legal representatives for both banks. However, FrankBank Chairman Bertrand Laurent chimed in during an interview Monday morning. "Standard Chartered has pulled a completely ridiculous move. Simply put, they have attempted brand hijacking. This is the kind of behavior we would expect from low-tier independent banks- not somebody as reputable as Standard Chartered. If this was indeed a mistake and unintentional....what message does that send to their clients?" he said in response to a question about Standard Chartered's intentions. "Standard Chartered is a world-class financial institution. Yet, this move is wholly deficient. If we were to create a bank called Standards Charters or Standards Chartered; we would be facing similar claims of trademark and brand infringement. It is just something we would not do and expected Standard Chartered not to do. We value competition. That is one thing. This is completely different" he concluded.

Preliminary moves to challenge Standard Chartered's infringement have already been undertaken in several locations and many are expecting these to immediately proceed if negotiations between the two behemoths fail.
 

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FrankBank to take on Standard Chartered in court

Bertrand Laurent, CEO of FrankBank, has announced that legal action against Standard Chartered will commence in @Ostmark . The CEO stated that Standard Chartered's methods were "blatant" and were "something typically seen out of smaller, less prestigious banks". The lawsuit stems from Standard Chartered's attempts to first use the OstBank name, then change the name slightly when challenged. FrankBank argues that the name OostBank is a direct attempt to devalue the brand, confuse consumers, and infringe on a registered and publicly recorded trademark.

"We are really quite dumbfounded" began Laurent. "We never expected such an institution as Standard Chartered to attempt an action and put their own reputation on the line" he said. Laurent continued to argue that the actions were 'corporate hijacking' and that Standard Chartered would never accept a similar situation if the roles were reversed. FrankBank was quick to move into the newly opened economy, launching numerous bank branches under the OstBank brand- though commonly noted as a FrankBank subsidiary. FrankBank has additionally been handling the energy debt on behalf of the Imperial Government- which was acquired from Ostmark as aid.

Many have noted that this will be a crucial decision and move for Ostmark's court system; which will be delving into corporate law for the first time since the government transition. "If we lose this case, brand trademarks will be weaker internationally. To simply put it, Standard Chartered is challenging the very core of trademark and branding law" said Laurent.


Other News
:arrow: Imperial Assembly to vote on new environmental clause to force national governments in Empire to work together
:arrow: Imperial Air Force to continue expansion with 3 reserve squadrons
:arrow: 36 arrested trying to illegally enter @Bajorország
 
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