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Holy Frankish Empire invited to Pressburg Pact. Emperor turns to Imperial Assembly in morning address.

An initially private invitation to the Pressburg Pact has been made to the Empire. Sources say that this was a personal invitation by the Tsar. The Emperor addressed the Imperial Assembly this morning, asking the Assembly to formally weigh in on the decision. "Though I am responsible for foreign policy matters and representing Imperial interests, this issue is too large for any one man. It is this issue that I bring to the elected members of the Imperial body. Though I, alone, can make a choice regarding this matter; it is important that full discussion and discourse take place. This decision will greatly impact our global position, relationships, and our future. I ask that you, the Imperial Assembly, give this important choice your greatest attention and efforts" said the Emperor to the Assembly.

It has been no secret that Tarusa and the Empire have found much cooperation over the last year. With Tarusan and Frankish diplomats frantically working together on numerous issues, many were surprised to see the Emperor bring the questions of Pressburg membership to the Imperial Assembly. The Emperor has reportedly called for the national leaders of the Imperial Council (comprised of the leaders of the constituent nations of the Empire) to gather to also discuss the possibility of joining the pact. An initial Le Moniteur poll found that 42% of Franks were against the idea of joining while only 32% supported joining.
 

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Debate on Pressburg Pact membership begins today

In what is expected to be an incredibly heated session, the Imperial Assembly will begin debate on potential Pressburg Pact membership. The elected representative body has reportedly had over 60 members ask to be on the speaker list. Indications from members are few as most are declining public comment. However, the Assembly sessions will remain public until voting commences. The Emperor has also declined to comment outside of stating that "the Imperial Assembly will have their input before I comment". While the Imperial Assembly will vote, their decision is non-binding. It is, rather, a statement to the Imperial Government on the feelings of the people. Though many were undecided, only about 1/3 of Franks polled wished to see the Empire join the pact. Debate is expected to continue through to next week with a vote expected by Thursday at the latest.


Nature preserve. Niche Agriculture. Fortress. The coming transformation of the Queen Emma Isles.
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Imperial reservists leaving for training in the Queen Emma Isles, 2017


For nearly a century, the sparsely populated Queen Emma Isles has seen peace. About 80% of the islands remain protected lands, largely jungle, and are officially deemed to be the Emma Isles Natural Preserve. Most other land is dedicated to mainly tobacco and some exotic fruits for export. The main town of St. Denis has fewer than 10,000 residents. The only other town, Ishlowa, has only about 1500 residents and the small naval base and the naval infantry barracks. This quiet set of islands has gotten much attention lately from other nations who seek to "liberate" or otherwise occupy the islands despite the referendums affirming imperial membership and political representation in Chagny. This outside attention has also drawn the attention of both the Imperial Assembly and Emperor. Over the last weeks, more and more cargo ships have arrived and have revealed a stark new reality for the islands- that of a fortress. Sources say that the islands will soon be home to a total of as many as 12000 soldiers-8,500 more than at present. The sources have told Le Moniteur that new airfields, missile defense systems, and anti-aircraft systems are in the works. The source also stated that there was no planned increase in naval forces.
 

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Pressburg Pact debates heat up

Debate over membership in the Pressburg Pact has hit a new crescendo as parties themselves seem divided. Already, protests and counter-protests have emerged near the Imperial Assembly. The debate has left many in the public debating the issue even in their own households. During a session this morning, Orange Party member Anton Chaise drew applause when he said that "joining the Tsar is the surest way to ensure the Empire's alienation from the world community. We cannot shackle ourselves to those that threaten democracy. Even nations that are not living in an ideologic and rhetorical dream world like Rheinbund would turn against us". In response, conservative party member Jean Sores spoke passionately. "Already, the Empire is taken as some kind of absolutist menace. We are already a villain. Because, in their world, as the Emperor said- they need a villain. Their fragile egos need villains. No matter what good we do. No matter how many treaties we sign. No matter how many democracies we support. We will always be a target. It is only a matter of time before those shallow and grotesque egos block sense. It is only a matter of time before they hop from their ivory towers and circle among us. Where will we be then?" he said.

Voting is expected to take place Thursday. However, the vote may be pushed to the first agenda item on Friday- if further debate is called for. The Emperor was invited to speak to the Assembly by both parties. He has reportedly declined and told the leadership of parties that he wishes this to be a decision made without his direct influence.


Other Headlines
:arrow: Archaeology Institute will receive "Royal" title after King Michel of Guienne grants Royal support.

:arrow: Police say that several thousand Patois are without adequate law enforcement coverage. The Emperor is set to speak with the Patois President tomorrow to get a full briefing. The Imperial Assembly is to allocate funds for the 23 towns and villages that lack sufficient support.

:arrow: Queen Emma Isles will receive "several hundred" anti-air systems according to sources in the FDF. The Emperor has decreed an increased number of conscripts for this year. Sources say that the number will be "significantly higher" than in past years.


:arrow: Emperor will host the one and only El Presidente this week. The talks are to be private and the Palace has stated that no news conferences were planned.
 

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Emperor's address to the Imperial Assembly

A surprise move has placed The Frankish Empire in an unlikely position. Friday, the Emperor addressed the Imperial Assembly- noting the new partnership and future plans for prosperity. His appearance was a a genuine surplrise to most in the chamber as the speech was not announced- only party leadership being made aware. Below is a full transcript of his speech.

"Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for hosting me in this sacred chamber, where you- the elected representatives of the people, ensure that the freedoms of our citizens and the rights of our constituent nations are protected. This past year has been a difficult year. We as a nation have continued to achieve and grow both domestically and internationally. We have seen many changes around our Empire and the globe. We continue to seek peace and partnerships with those who truly aim for world peace and who do not hide behind the curtain of false rhetoric. Many have accused the Empire of aggressive and systematic aims to destroy peace- without evidence. Today, the Patois flourish with their own republic and elected representatives and have become an essential part of our empire. Our Patois brothers and sisters are critical to the future of Frankish generations. We must ask ourselves, if liberation and freedom is worth the cost of the slanderous accusations brought against us. Ultimately, we must ask what the price of peace and freedom is? Over this past year, we have built relationships and offered our hand to any who wish to truly work together. Sadly, some have put rhetoric and principal before practicality and honesty. Some have downright deceitful.

Despite these successes and challenges, we look to a new dawn. A world in which we will work with others to achieve a common peace and common prosperity. We were recently offered membership in the Pressburg Pact. This was an issue hotly debated and thoroughly measured through discourse and consideration. While this offer was still being weighed, we have accepted an invitation to the Gothic Sea Pact. This is a partnership to guard common interests, build international relationships, defend freedoms, and to put the interests of Frankish citizens first. At present, an operation is underway to help secure peace. This operation will be conducted on a limited scale. We will bring prosperity and peace to where the EF has failed. I wish God to bless you all and to bless the Empire"
 

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Emperor: Alexandrette operation aimed to restore order, preserve international security.

The Emperor fielded a number of questions today from reporters at a palace press conference. Key among subjects seemed to be the current operation in Hajr. The Emperor noted that the international community would disapprove. "We of course will be labeled as imperialist scum by those nations that cling to a false hood of ideological infallibility. The fact is that the EF Mandates in the region were nothing less than imperialism. We on the other hand will help out Scanlaw allies restore order in the region. We will protect the vital and universal shipping lanes. Additionally, we will move to preserve international security. As always, we act with a greater interest to peace and prosperity. Some will scoff and call us liars, authoritarians, and monsters" he said. The Emperor was asked several questions about the international response. "I think it is clear that we will be painted as the bad guys no matter the situation. We have already been accused, without any evidence of systematic violence. We have also been accused of being enemies of democracy. Did the Patois not have an open and fair referendum? Do they now not act as a democracy with their own constitution? Did the Empire not support Ostmark through debt adoption and investment? These baseless claims are dangerous. We, as a democratic state, have a moral obligation to actually stand by ideals- not simply spout them" he said. The Emperor is expected to visit the Patois Republic next week to celebrate highway system integration.
 

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Operation "under way to restore order and stabilize the region". Establishment of self-governing Alexandrette Governate forthcoming.

An Imperial spokesman announced to media today that the operation in the Alexandrette region was well underway. Approximately 25,000 troops will be allocated to the operation in the coming weeks he said. "Hajr has fractured. Our Scanlaw allies have been working to stabilize Hajr over the past months. We will aid them in their goal" said the spokesman. "The Alexandrette Governate will eventually be formed. This will be, eventually, a fully self-governing region. We anticipate this transition in the coming months. It is clear that the European Forum failed to do anything but exploit the resources of the region. The Alexandrette area will receive the proper support it should have received" he concluded. Questions were limited but the spokesman took several. In response to a question as to if the operation amounted to a crusade, the spokesman fervently denied the claim. "We've seen this claim and term thrown around social media. It is inflammatory and counter-productive. There is absolutely no religious motivation. This a geo-political solution to an ignored problem" he said. "Our aim is not to conquer, colonize, and convert. We will respect local customs and ensure it is the local people who are in control. We simply are going to lay down the framework needed for them to accomplish this". When he was asked if the motivation revolved around oil, the spokesman again denied the accusation. "The Frankish Imperial State aims to set up this governate where little oil production takes place. The issue is that there are pundits, trolls, and armchair politicians that cannot see the bigger picture. A de-stabilized Hajr is a threat to global tranquility and trade" he said.
 

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"Nothing is off the table" says Emperor over aid to Ostmark

The fire at one of Ostmark's nuclear plant appears to be relatively under control says some sources. A major fire broke out and was quickly addressed by first plant personnel, then members of the fire service. Immediately, the Frankish government began to monitor the situation closely- opting to send one of its nuclear experts to the site. "Nothing is really off the table" said the Emperor. "We will help Ostmark with whatever they need to ensure the situation remains contained. We will also help them with necessary measures in the future to safeguard their nuclear power infrastructure. We have, since their transition to democracy, stood by Ostmark. We have invested in factories, banking, and even energy debts in Ostmark. We will continue to stand by them and help them achieve their free and prosperous future" concluded the Emperor.

Report: Landing ship damaged in accident. Airborne troops take Alexandrette port after forced march

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Frankish move to stabilize the northern region of Hajr has not started off with success. According to reports, a Frankish amphibious landing ship sustained "serious and critical damage after running aground in a narrow channel. This has held up sea-borne reinforcements. Frankish paratroopers have also reportedly left the airport and secured the main regional port after a long march. Reports indicate that local police are attempting to re-establish control of the airport.
 

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Firefighters and experts begin to arrive in Ostmark

After driving through the night, firefighting teams have begun to arrive in @Ostmark and nuclear experts have begun to arrive in Wien. Dr. Ampere of the Imperial Energy Bureau was quoted as saying that the situation was "not great, not terrible". Around 200 firefighters will begin operations in concert with Ostmark's firefighters tomorrow at the Autostadt Plant. The Imperial Assembly has begun assembling a plan for the "worst case scenario" in which potentially hundreds of thousands refugees would be welcomed in the Duchy of Pillau. The Emperor also stated that the Imperial Energy Bureau would work with Ostmark to develop a "modern and safe energy network" with the potential of no-interest loans for the transition.

Queen Emma Isles infrastructure project approved by Assembly.

The Imperial Assembly approved a 3.1 Billion Franc plan to revitalize roads, the airport, and water systems on the islands. The funding would come over the span of 6 years and will focus first on the limited but dilapidated road system. The airport is in desperate need of expansion but many in the Assembly have resisted funding due to the small population on the islands. However, few modern jets can land on the short runway which was constructed nearly 60 years ago. The funding will also provide for the construction of new desalination plants to provide a more sustainable system for water on the islands.
 

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Emperor injured in car accident. "Minor injury" officially reported

The Emperor was reportedly driving an antique Rheinian car on Sunday when a drunk driver drove through a red light, striking the vehicle carrying the Emperor. It is reported that the Emperor was initially seriously injured. However, the Palace issued a statement noting that the Emperor suffered a "Minor injury". Sources claim that the Emperor underwent treatment and may have broken his hand. Palace officials say that the Emperor's condition will not hinder any official functions. The driver, whose name is being withheld, was promptly arrested by the Emperor's escorting security detail and will face charges of impaired driving and reckless vehicular operation. Several witnesses say that the Emperor's antique vehicle is "beyond repair".


DUIR workers threaten strike amid pay concerns

The Frankish defense conglomerate, DUIR, is facing a strike on Wednesday among all of its manufacturing centers unless the board agrees to a pay rise. The conglomerate announced in 2019 that it would offer workers a 4% raise across the board for general labor in mid-2022. However, despite numerous foreign and domestic orders, DUIR rescinded the agreement and stated it would instead of only offer a 2.5% pay rise. The workers delegates have stated that "the maneuver by DUIR leadership is nothing more than a betrayal of trust and a betrayal of good faith". DUIR stated that the announcement of the pay rise in 2019 froze workers who may have been planning to retire. DUIR says that "workers whom would have statistically retired instead are holding on. The implications for pensions would be utterly devastating". DUIR board members will meet with delegates on Tuesday to try to avoid a walk-out. DUIR and Worker delegates stated that the strike will have no impact on current maintenance contracts and needs.
 

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Soigig Dynamics to make largest overseas investment ever....with government subsidies

Monterfil

One of the largest tech firms in the Empire has announced plans a new, massive multi-billion Franc manufacturing facility in @Ostmark. The facility will produce semi-conductors, microchips, and other products which are currently facing a level of scarcity due to political and economic restrictions. "The investment will employ thousands of Ostmarkian and will continue to mark Soigig as one of the world's leaders in technology" said a Soigig release. The Foreign Ministry also issued a statement, noting their commitment to Ostmark's transition to a democratic nation. "Transitions take time and hard work. The Holy Frankish Empire remains committed to investing in Ostmark. The people are educated and very skilled. It is a very fertile place for any nation to do business. We are supporting Soigig with a tax package to help in their investment. We are fully behind both Frankish companies and the free people of Ostmark" continued the statement. The Imperial Assembly still needs to approve the tax deal and as a result, many are questioning the wisdom of such an announcement.
 

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With elections looming, Foreign Ministry announces plans for Alexandrette Commonwealth

Following the relatively muddled invasion of Hajr by combined forces, elections are set for mid September in what has been named the Alexandrette Commonwealth. The elections are set to fill both a senate and presidency and will be in line with a recently released roadmap for the semi-autonomous region. According to Foreign Ministry plans, the Alexandrette Commonwealth will achieve full independence in 2030 with the Empire acting in an oversight capacity until then. The plan will require the elected government to meet certain benchmarks every 2 years. Failing to meet the benchmarks may extend the oversight mandate until 2032. Included in the plan are economic and infrastructure plans to ensure a stable and progressing economic environment due to the small area of the Commonwealth and the distinct lack of oil assets found in the rest of Al-Hajr and Al-Magrab.
 

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Alexandrette Commonwealth to exercise Patois-style sovereignty
Chagny

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Acting Governor Badawi

Community leaders from Alexandrette communities met with Foreign Ministry officials ahead of elections in the newly formed Alexandrette Commonwealth. The plan for the self-governing region will still include a benchmarked move to full independence in 2030. "The Commonwealth will be a fully functioning and soon independent state" said Gamal Badawi, acting Governor of the Commonwealth. "Despite not having the natural wealth of our neighbors, we are confident in a brighter future than before "Badawi said. The comparatively small area of the Commonwealth is only about 3,000 square miles. According to Badawi, the plan will place Imperial Law upon the Commonwealth but allow all major laws to be locally drafted. Imperial Law is largely a framework for national laws and implements few laws directly. Badawi says that the Commonwealth will even have a functioning military, court system, and government by January of 2023.

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Flag of the Alexandrette Commonwealth

Despite protests, things have remained peaceful in the newly established Commonwealth as Frankish troops begin to leave most areas. A small garrison is reportedly set to remain. Local police forces are already working to maintain order. Many are questioning how long the peace will last as some security experts say that dissidents are biding time and planning until just before the election when taking action is likely to be more effective. Many are speculating that local leaders are merely collaborating to buy time alongside the general populace. Imperial Forces lost 38 soldiers and sailors in the operation.
 

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Emperor and Empress attend student rights conference in Monterfil
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The Emperor and Empress surprised students at the annual Student Affairs Conference in Monterfil. The conference, composed of campus student-leaders from around the Empire, takes place once a year to discuss student rights and how university students can have a better voice. The Emperor and Empress spoke with students and attended a luncheon. "We are keenly aware of the concerns that students, particularly university students, have in regard to their voice and their rights. Students are tomorrow's leaders and we must safeguard their freedoms" said the Empress. The Emperor and Empress spent about 4 hours engaging and speaking with students regarding their concerns and work. The Emperor has promised to forward many of their concerns onto the Fist Minister and stated that he hoped the Imperial Assembly would continue to protect student rights.


Empire "all in" on newest fighter

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Re-designated as the I21 Grièche, the newest fighter in development will replace the current fighter inventory entirely by 2030, says the Defense Ministry. According to a statement, the Empire is "all-in to develop and procure Moineau Aviation's newest and most advanced fighter". The aircraft will be produced in 3 blocks with the Empire buying A and C models. A models will not have stealth capabilities but C models will have full stealth ability according to Moineau. The firm also plans to build an export B model sometime in the 2030s. The purchase order is part of a larger effort to procure modern equipment for Imperial Forces following decades of semi-neglect. The Empire is still slated to use 40 year-old rifles in front-line service for another decade. Many are questioning the Empire's lack of military spending on procurement and the Imperial Navy is under extreme pressure to retire its old and outdated vessels.
 

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Imperial Assembly to debate both Imperial requests and major national issues in coming weeks
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The Imperial Assembly has begun to debate several Imperial requests on a wide range of issues. This comes at the beginning of a whirlwind effort by the elected body to tackle many lingering issues before the official Assembly summer break begins. The Assembly is expected to tackle several very large national issues as well. According to the public itinerary, the Assembly will begin what is expected to be a lengthy debate on the foreign budget. This will cover the majority of foreign policy spending and thus falls under the direction of the Emperor and Imperial offices. The budget is set to cover several new endeavors from supporting the Alexandrette Commonwealth to investments in foreign wildlife preserves. Many expect the majority Orange Party to deny many of the newer spending requests. The Assembly is also tasked next week with an Imperial request for the transfer of an Imperial estate to the national museum trust, approving several appointments, and setting the Imperial budget for the Emperor's personal expenses (which decreased by 11% last year). The Assembly is expected to debate internet privacy laws. A new bill would make internet privacy laws in the Empire some of the toughest in the world.

Another issue the Assembly is set to debate is the Imperial Healthcare Profession Act- a proposed law that would force the Empire's constituent nations to maintain a shared minimum licensing threshold for healthcare professionals. After it was publicized that the Electorate of Arches had "the lowest requirements of any nation anywhere" to become a licensed nurse, many in the Assembly demanded action. Detractors say that the law would clearly violate the conventions of the relationship between Imperial and National laws. Another bit of spending set to be examined is a request for a large increase in military spending. The Imperial Defense Forces are looking to have a manpower number of 1,000,000 by 2029 if reserves are included. Perhaps the biggest domestic issue to be discussed is the Education and Profession Service Act which would, in theory, provide assistance to secondary school graduates in transitioning to careers if they do not pursue university.
 

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Governor Badawi confirms pro-business agenda.


Once Acting-Governor, Badawi has fully taken the reigns of the Alexandrette Commonwealth. Elected by a wide margin, Badawi has continued to state that he believes that the "future independence of our new nation is essential". While it remains unseen if Alexandrette will remain somewhat attached, Badawi was elected with a 61% of the vote in a place where 58% oppose any kind of formal integration into the Empire. Recent polls indicate short-term support for the current status. Badawi has seemed to navigate the waters carefully and has avoided going in-depth on controversial topics. Badawi has remained steadfast and vocal over his opinions that the Empire is having a positive effect for the region. "Our position was never a concrete one. We were victims of corruption internally. Externally, the mandates did nothing for us directly. We have a chance to transform ourselves. I think that is what we focus on. We invite businesses and we invest in our future" said Badawi. Badawi plans to push his pro-business agenda hard. His proposals have been met with skepticism but most seem supportive.

* 4.8% Corporate income tax rate for Alexandrette based companies.
* Tax incentives for factories
* 5 year tax break for technology companies who employ over 700 employees in Alexandrette at a rate of .5% for 3 years, 2% for the following 2 years
* Reduced and/or eliminated licensing fees for small businesses

Badawi will likely face an uphill battle but he is already working to entice investors who are already looking at places like Ostmark. "We too have an educated, capable, and affordable workforce". His plan to directly chase potential investors into the Ostmarkian transformation may run afoul of the Empire's official pro-Ostmark policies. Badawi remains committed "we want what is best for us AND what is best for business. No more, no less"
 

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Emperor: We don't want war, we want partners

In a podcast, the Emperor laid out his views for the future of the Empire and the world. On the Monterfil Samedi podcast, the Emperor gave a lengthy interview that covered everything from his affinity for dogs to how he met the Empress to the ongoing nation building in both the Patois Republic and Alexandrette Commonwealth. In the unprecedented interview, in terms of intimacy, the Emperor revealed that he neither likes white wines nor cares for most Tarusan foods. The podcast covered some mundane subjects but also covered very serious and pressing matters. "I think the thing to remember is that the Alexandrette Commonwealth is going to choose its own fate. The only thing we can say for certain is that it is a nation and will remain one. Even though it may still seem artificial, there is a lot of support for the direction it is heading" said the Emperor. "Obviously there are challenges that are both physical and philosophical. But pragmatically, we have ensured a lot of continued regional freedom and are actually seeing regional immigration to the Commonwealth. If they choose independence, full independence, we will support them" said the Emperor when asked about the decision to seize the region by force. The Emperor was asked about plans for the Patois Republic. " I have, as you know, not much influence over domestic Imperial policies and virtually no legal powers either Imperially speaking or within the Republic. I can say that I will continue to support their elected government and I am confident that they will continue to build their national and imperial identities. The Imperial Assembly has continued to financially support their transition into the Empire and I feel they likely will continue to do so".

The Emperor was asked about the rise of CETO and the current state of affairs with the Empire and global relationships. "I think on a whole, the relationships we have cross a wide range in terms of warmth. Most nations recognize that we can be a partner in most matters and I think that despite the challenges- we can rebuild that trust. Though, the ball is as much in their court as it is in ours. I think the bottom line is that we don't want war. We want partners. We want to build a more stable future. That requires pragmaticism, consultation, and action. The formation of CETO does not really impact us. In fact, I encourage nations to seek cooperation. It does not impact us as we do not have any intentions against them or any nation. The key is that there must be a baseline of mutual respect. From there, it is easy to move forward despite any challenge. We can still focus on our goals, I believe without compromising relationships"



Imperial Army pulls out of Patois Republic


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After months and months of a military presence on the streets of cities within the Patois Republic, the Imperial Army will be ending its mission to provide security assistance. Since the Integration, the Imperial Army has had a far scaled down left behind force to aid police and the military forces of the Patois Republic. About 4,000 troops have remained throughout the Patois landscape. In recent months, the mission became limited to the protection of government offices, police stations, train stations, and hospitals. Now, the Imperial Army will still have a force in the Patois Republic similar to the garrisoning system used in other constituent nations of the Empire. About 500 troops will remain in the capital for another week until they are reassigned according to the Imperial Army. Despite the move to withdraw troops and the referendum, peaceful protests against integration continue on a monthly basis. The protests have remained peaceful and few have been arrested. The Imperial Army has stated that it will open recruitment offices in the Patois Republic sometime next year.
 

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Emperor and Empress to create United Noble Charity

The United Noble Charity, a brainchild of the Emperor and Empress, will launch next month from its headquarters in Pilau. The charity will come from the private funds of monarchs and nobility worldwide. At least, in theory. "Even if we don't get other monarchs or nobility on board, we will push forward. We must continue to show that we are here to serve the people and help those who are in need" said the Empress. The charity will fund literacy programs, abuse survivor groups, and will also go to medical research. The charity already has 12 Frankish backers and will be open to nobles and royalty worldwide. "This is our chance to build a true global legacy in the 21st century" said the Empress.



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I21 Grièche program faces major hurdles

Already, the Imperial Assembly is threatening to pull funding from the next generation fighter being developed by Moineau Aviation. The I21 Grièche is running far over budget and many Assembly members have reportedly warned Moineau that further overspends will be closely monitored by the Imperial legislature. Moineau warned the Assembly that cancellation of the aircraft would lead to few options for the Imperial forces. With many nations refusing sales to the Empire and the military apparently reluctant to purchase further aircraft from Tarusa, Moineau warned that the Empire would "fall significantly behind the rest of the world". With a tentative order of 300 aircraft, Moineau remains vocal that seeing the I21 program through is necessary. "We can only rely on our aging imported airframes for so long and pilots have mixed opinions on our newest aircraft" said Moineau. "Only by pushing forward, can we achieve parity and therefore security" they said.
 

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Frankish troops "will not be used" in support of any further ongoing operations
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Frankish Naval Infantry in Alexandrette Commonwealth

According the the Defense Ministry, Frankish troops "will not be used in any way" against Magrabian government forces unless Frankish or Alexandrette interests are threatened. "We are at this juncture, only concerned with the territory under the control of the elected Alexandrette government. While we will offer support to our Gothic allies, we are ceasing primary combat operations in the region" the statement read. Many are questioning if this still means that combat operations will continue at a smaller scale. The Empire's somewhat disastrous invasion of the Alexandrette region left many questioning Frankish military abilities. However, few losses of Frankish lives in the operation has quelled many protests from the Imperial Assembly. Additionally, the Frankish Army is set to make major reductions in troop numbers in the region over the next year. Critics continue to point to the unnecessary nature of the intervention in Al-Magrab. Yet, the Emperor remains steadfast in his support of intervention to bring stability to the region and to ensure maritime security. The Emperor has downplayed many criticisms and continued to note that he would stand behind move to secure the Commonwealth. "Unfortunately, the mandate was a failure. Corruption and decay are everywhere. We need to build a better environment that encourages regional stability" said the Emperor.
 

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Empire will recognize Jydsken-Østveg as part of the Gothic Sea Pact as a successor state. Big questions remain.

The Emperor Paul addressed the Imperial Assembly today, notifying the members that he would support Jydsken-Østveg as a member under the successor state provisions of the treaty. The provisions require Jydsken-Østveg's government to formally declare intent to rejoin the Gothic Sea Pact as a successor state and have it approved by their legislature or head of state. Furthermore, all other Gothic Pact members must agree to recognize Jydsken-Østveg's position as a successor state member. Despite broad Frankish support for membership, the Tsar's government has remained oddly quiet over the issue. Many are wonder if Tarusa will back successor membership, require Jydsken-Østveg to re-apply as a new member, or cut them out from the alliance entirely. Given the historic and economic relationship between the HFE and Jydsken-Østveg, it is no surprise the Emperor is backing their membership. While Tarusa and the Empire share a solid professional relationship, the other two Gothic states have enjoyed centuries of cooperation. Despite brush ups like the 1905 Degras Plot, the two have seen each other as partners more often than not. The Emperor plans to discuss the membership question with the Tsar via a phone call later this week.
 

Záhorie

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Duchy of Pilau to receive Grand Duchy status says Imperial Court
Chagny


With over 25% of the Empire speaking Germanic, the Empire is still not quite bilingual despite the official status of Germanic. However, things in one of the more prosperous constituent states are changing. The German speaking nation was added to the Empire in the 1750's in a whirlwind of protest, conflict, and ultimately- concessions. The addition of Pilau was a supreme coup for Frankish influence, power, and politics. Since its addition, Pilau has been a central cog in the Empire's economic wheelhouse. Despite cultural differences, the Pilaise have largely grown into there role as the "different Franks of the East". Though not actually Frankish in many ways, the Pilaise have embraced their commonalities, differences, and characteristics into a unique Imperial identity.


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Gerhard II, Duke of Pilau


With the Hatzfeld Family controlling the Duchy since the 1650's, the Duchy of Pilau has shifted positions many times. From being an independent nation, a confederation of city-states, and finally being a constituent nation of the Empire; the Duchy has seen a whirlwind of history. Keeping its pride and unique identity, the Pilaise have been important members of community and government in the Imperial system. Even after conquest and absorption into the Empire, the Hatzfelds have remained in power. Their position within the Duchy has largely remained popular- though in the 1970's the Duchy nearly became a republic due to the Evertstein Bill. Yesterday, the Emperor noted his intention to elevate the Duchy to Grand Duchy status. While this will have few practical or even legal implications, it is a clear sign that there is a shift in the views on the composition of the Empire. The change will still need approval by the Pilaise Parliament and likely will not be approved until next year.
 
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