le Soleil- News from Bourgogne and the World

[Serenierre]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ambassador of Bourgogne has been summoned by the Minister of Foreign Affairs for an official explanation as to why the good name of the Republic is being dragged through the quagmire of Bourgogne's disintegrating colonial "empire". Rather than flinging mud on our national pride, the Government of Bourgogne would be best serving its people by running an effective administration.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ambassador of Bourgogne has been summoned by the Minister of Foreign Affairs for an official explanation as to why the good name of the Republic is being dragged through the quagmire of Bourgogne's disintegrating colonial "empire". Rather than flinging mud on our national pride, the Government of Bourgogne would be best serving its people by running an effective administration.

Office of the Consulate

At NO POINT has the Burgundian government accused the Belmontien government of wrongdoing. Frankly, we are more than worried about such a fierce reaction to something we have never done. This same knee-jerk reaction is why the Conférence Villesen ended so abruptly. We are working to find answers to our questions and would like to believe you would like to as well instead of hurling insults.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Insults and backlash worry leader as Burgundian troops push rebels

Chagny

Following the retaking of Bavouba, Burgundian soldiers found rebels to be in possession of many old Belmontien weapons. Despite efforts to investigate, international backlash has been exceptional. Included in the backlash was an official by Belmont which included the term "Bourgogne's disintegrating colonial "empire"". In a speech given by Belmont Premier Shahrazad Martinique, it was again alleged that the government of Bourgogne had directly accused Belmont of supplying the rebels, something the government has not done despite several press conferences. "The only thing to come out is that some of the weapons are quite old Belmontien weapons as well as weapons from elsewhere. At no point has anyone in my government accused the Belmontiens of anything. We are investigating" said First Consul Marchand in a small press conference this morning. Vitharis has dispatched investigators though any investigation will likely take months. Camden also seemed to believe that the Burgundian government made accusations, noting that Bougogne is trying "save its collapsing colonial enterprises"; completely ignoring the upcoming independence of the Green Peninsula in 1960. "If Camden's government would like us to leave the Green Peninsula to a communist junta that is on them. We will ensure a free, peaceful, and democratic transition of the country in 1960 as were agreed upon in the 1949 Accords" said Marchand in the same conference.

Meanwhile, Burgundian troops renewed the offensive despite stiff opposition. A Defence Ministry spokesman said that the air force will likely cease its missions to alleviate rising civilian casualties. The renewed offensive has largely been handed to Colonial Forces after regular army forces suffered heavy casualties retaking Bavouba.

 

[Serenierre]

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
REPUBLIQUE DE BELMONT

The République must state that the original statement issued by the Spokesman of the Burgundian military did not include key information on the discovery of the alleged Belmontien weaponry. Furthermore, it must be clearly understood by all that we have never courted the attention of communists - neither those in government nor in trenches. While communism is an ideology we deplore, we cannot say that we believe in using force to quash a movement that seems to have genuine support in the Burgundian colony. Further, it could be said that the movement is a damning piece of evidence against the continued existence of a Burgundian colonial enterprise.

It must be stated that I, along with my government, am unconvinced that these weapons are related in any form or way to Belmont. Firstly, we have never meddled in Himyar and secondly, we do not believe we have ever exported weapons to Bourgogne or its colonial projects.

If the Burgundian government is convinced that they are Belmontien designs, we must say that the source is the black market rather than a legitimate source in Belmont or anywhere else where our arms manufacturers sell their products. We have charged the Vittish inspectors in Belmont to be neutral investigators on this point as well. Additionally I would ask my counterparts in Chagny to also cooperate with the Vittish on the issue of the investigation.

Philippe Mazarin
FOREIGN MINISTER

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Office of the Consulate

While being accused of jumping to conclusions, it would appear that the government of Belmont are the one jumping to them. We are investigating this matter as we continue to fight the rebels. We have withheld judgement up to this point but must say that we do not appreciate being treated as a naive aggressor. If you are not willing to work together in this investigation, we only ask that your government state as much.

 

[Rheinbund]

Aussenministerium
Trier, Eiffelland

We want to stress that the Government of Bourgogne is doing everything it can to facilitate a smooth transition into an independent, free and democratic state of its colony. That also means that it has to fight any movement with dictatorial ambitions, like the communist rebels. Democracy can only thrive in a stable country. The Burgundian Government cannot just retreat from the Green Peninsula from one day to another and say "OK, guys, you can do it on your own". The accords of 1949 foresaw in a smooth transition to independence, and that is what Bourgogne will do. Unfortunately, the fight against antidemocratic factions has become part of the work to be done by Bourgogne. We cannot blame the Burgundians for that, especially not because they send their own sons to the Green Peninsula to fight the antidemocratic factions.

Regarding the discovery of weapons possibly assembled in Belmont, we are talking about old weapons that were sold by the Belmontien arms industries ages ago, to someone who seemed to be reliable at that moment. Nobody is saying that it was the Belmontien government itself who approved the sale of these weapons to the rebels in the Green Peninsula. Only God knows how often those weapons were sold before they landed in the hands of the rebels. And this is exactly what the Burgundian Government is saying, so there is no need for the Belmontien government to feel accused. Let's wait for the results of the investigations, and then we'll see what to do.

Rudolph Kögler, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Vice-Chancellor

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Bomb rocks First Consul's motorcade. Consul Marchand injured

Chagny

A blast in central Chagny occurred at approximately 2 o'clock this afternoon, targeting the Fist Consul's motorcade. While details are scant, a police spokesman said that the First Consul suffered minor injuries and two guardsmen and a police officer were killed. Though there has been no official word, many are already blaming the blast on Republican elements rather than the socialist rebels fighting in the Green Peninsula. Police have initiated a closure of central Chagny and are ordering extra security at all government facilities. Radical members of the Republican political parties have been very vocal in the past months, demanding elections to return to the Republic. Some members of the Republic Coalition walked out of the National Assembly last week after being censored for making threats against the Second Counsul and Orange Party leadership.

 

[Serenierre]

Government of Belmont

The attack on the First Consul is condemnable and we urge the Government in Chagny to bring the perpetrators of this horrific crime to justice. The Republic stands with the Grand Duchy in this most troubling hour. We must additionally request the Government of Bourgogne to provide assurances that the diplomatic missions of Belmont are safe and that adequate security is being provided to them, as per the duty of Chagny under international law.

We would also like to state that the posturing of the republican movement in Bourgogne is deeply alarming and concerning to us, here in Villesen, as the making of threats to sitting government officials is not the manner in which opposition to government policy is registered. But, we urge the media of Bourgogne to not jump to conclusions prior to the results of the official investigation.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Marchand's condition worse than initially reported, police crack down on Republican elements

Chagny


Following numerous reassurances in private to various foreign governments, government officials issued a statement which informed the Burgundian people that First Consul Marchand's injuries are "severe in nature to the point of worry from medical staff. Though they have stated that the First Consul's life is no longer in danger, they have stated that the rehabilitation process may be long and arduous". Much of downtown Chagny has remained under intensive police supervision and the embassy district is restricted to only residents and embassy employees until further notice. Police are also maintaining a large presence at all government buildings. Nationwide, police have arrested over 40. 11 have been released. Police state that they are unable to discuss the arrests in depth due to national security concerns. The Duke is expected to issue a statement but has been visiting troops in the Green Peninsula for the last 2 days.

 

[Rheinbund]

Kanzleramt
Trier, Eiffelland

We strongly condemn the terrorist assault against Consul Marchand, and hope that the culprits will be arrested soon. We pray for a speedy recovery of the Consul. Regarding the arrestments, we will continue to monitor the situation.

Rudolph Kögler, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Vice-Chancellor

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

First Consul Marchand continues to recover as Burgundian troops begin withdrawal from Green Peninsula

Chagny

As the First Consul continues a lengthy recovery and the perpetrators are reportedly arrested, Consul Marchand has issued the orders for Burgundian troops to withdraw from Green Peninsula as resistance has begun to dissipate. About 250 are expected to remain to bolster colonial forces. Burgundian forces have been fighting communist rebels who have been armed from unknown sources. Investigators maintain that they have identified potential leads, the verdict remains unclear.

More on page 2..


National hockey team completes 7 game exhibition tour

Auxerre

After a 12 day road tour, the national hockey team finished with a record of 5-1-1, losing only to Eiffelland on Sunday 4-1. The team tied a feisty Ostveg on Friday in a game that saw 3 ejections for fighting after several brawls erupted. Ostveg, the reigning champions of the Auxerre Invitational Tournament, are again heavily favored to win the 4 day tournament in February. Other nations expected to be invited include Eiffelland, Wendziema, Ivernia, and two other nations. While some leagues release players for the tournament, some nations may remain at a disadvantage. This year the tournament will take place at three different arenas to ensure fresh ice.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Police raid drug dens

Chagny

Across Bourgogne, police raided some 168 drug dens in a 72 hour period, making 277 arrest. National police, in conjuncture with local police, acted on intelligence gathered over a years period according the the police press release. "As Bourgogne possesses a major port, we have to combat the trade being brought through Auxerre that is illegal in nature" said the release. Police have seized marijuana, opium, illegal pharmaceuticals, and 9 illegal firearms. The raids are the first in the new policies aimed to combat both drug usage and organized crime.

Duke to visit Green Peninsula, speak to new Peninsular Senate

Chagny

With the Green Peninsula's independence now scheduled to be secure on February 1, 1960, Duke Maximilien will travel to the colony to meet with native representatives who are to be given the task of transition and forming an early government. Burgundian leaders are aiming for January 1959 election so as to give the transitional senate time to set in motion the transition in a smooth manner. The Duke is expected to push for a democratic government and a peaceful transition. Among the concerns is security due to the recently defeated communist rebels. The Duke is also expected to ask the Peninsular Senate to ensure that Burgundian colonists who wish to remain in the Green Peninsula receive citizenship should they choose. The Duke is expected to speak sometime at the end of the month.

Bourgogne considers and eventually approves financial aid to Caria

Chagny

Debates continued for approximately 4 hours as the party representatives fiercely opposed each other over giving financial aid to Caria. The final vote resulted in the approval of 25 Million Livres to be given to Caria to rebuild infrastructure and invest in education. The money would be contingent on agreement of the terms by the Assembly of the Carian City States. The money would be dispersed in 5 million Livre allotments over a year long period and can only be used for non-military purposes such as schools, roads, hospitals, power stations, and similar ventures.

[MENTION=1774]Caria[/MENTION]

 

[Pelasgia]

Καρικές Πόλεις Κράτη - Δευτέρα, 5 Ιανουαρίου 1955
Εκ της εν Αντίκυρα Εκτελεστικής Συνελεύσεως

The Executive Assembly would like to extend our most sincere thanks to the people of the Duchy of Bourgogne for their offer of financial aid to our struggling nation. Before accepting such an offer, however, if not only for the sake of formality, we must request further information about the terms of the offer. We eagerly await your response.

«Ἰσχύς ἐν τῇ ἑνώσει!»

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​

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Office of the First Consul

The terms are that Caria will receive 25 Million Livre over 5 years. The money may be used for any development such as schools, roads, hospitals etc. Should the money be diverted to building government offices, military outlets, or similar points, the money will be discontinued. It is to have a direct spending point to aid in the people such as with schools or hospitals.

 

[Pelasgia]

Καρικές Πόλεις Κράτη - Τρίτη, 6 Ιανουαρίου 1955
Εκ της εν Αντίκυρα Εκτελεστικής Συνελεύσεως

In that case we would like to thank you again and state that we gladly accept the offer of aid.

«Ἰσχύς ἐν τῇ ἑνώσει!»

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​

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Bourgogne and Eiffelland agree to defense deal as Burgundian military leaders aim for change

Chagny

As Eiffelland and Bourgogne look to the future, the two nations have agreed to continue collaborating on several projects; chiefly the development and production of two new jet aircraft. Most production will likely take place in Eiffelland as Bourgogne has taken the back seat on one of the aircraft, instead placing main focus into the other. It is unknown how many aircraft Bourgogne will secure once production begins but sources point to both aircraft being part of long-term Burgundian defense goals. Bourgogne's aging air fleet is set to see many aircraft retire by 1960 or be transferred to an independent Green Peninsula. The trend of retirement will continue into the Burgundian navy as it will retire its only battleship probably next year. Burgundian officials have repeatedly urged the scaling down of naval forces in support of developing a military of defensive capabilities and modernization of all military forces. Continuing another trend of modernization, Eiffelland and Bourgogne's Fusil National have agreed to a deal for about 50,000 new battle rifles with the option of licensing for production after the purchase of an additional 20,000 rifles. "The Burgundian colonial circuit is at its end. It is time for Bourgogne to look towards the modern world" said one military official.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Government to invest 500,000 Livre in expansion of ports

Auxerre

On Monday, the national assembly voted almost unanimously to help fund an expansion of Auxerre and two smaller ports. The project will help keep Auxerre and smaller ports competitive. Auxerre leads the region with nearly 225,000 tons per year of cargo and remains the second busiest port in the world. However, the government and private firms are aiming to keep it second or even first for many years to come. "We have to look at the future and keep in mind we are competing with nations like Belmont and [MENTION=1209]Auraria[/MENTION] which have perhaps better geographical locations. Our main strength relies on our distribution of road and rail networks going East" says Jacques Duchane CEO of Keple International; which manages the port for the Burgundian government. "There are many reasons why other ports are suitable but there are better reasons for Auxerre: Its well managed, safe, and it is engineered for the modern era. Not to mention the efficiency of the Burgundian rail system" concludes Duchane.

The project is scheduled to begin as early as late March and will likely take several years and is likely to last several years.

 

[Telora]

United Chambers of Commerce (Telora)

The United Chambers of Commerce welcomes this news of major investment in the port facilities of Bourgogne. As trading relations between our two countries form a key part of our joint prosperity, such expansion can only herald a new era of wealth for both our peoples. The Chambers look forwards to sharing in the fruits of the labour of the people and government and Bourgogne.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Duke calls for reexamination of potential Francophone union

Chagny

Speaking with a group of student journalists, Duke Maximilien stated that he hoped that the issue of a Francophone union would be re-examined. "I think it is time we look again at the issue of bringing our nations perhaps closer together. While a union may be too far too soon, we share a bond of language and culture. There is common ground to be had" said the Duke on Monday. Last year, Belmont led efforts to bring together Francophone nations though some reports indicate the conference resulted in nations being bullied by Belmont's representative in meetings. "If Belmont wishes to be part of a Francophone community rather than just in it, they are going to have to accept the fact that the French speaking world is not headquartered in Belmont. They cannot bully their way to leadership of the French speaking peoples" said the Duke after negotiations had collapsed.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

First Consul Marchand expected to enact veto on rail bill

Chagny

A bipartisan bill put forward which would increase safety regulations for freight railways is expected to be met with resistance by First Consul Marchand. The nearly 400 page bill includes safety reports from 3 nations and reports from the Burgundain railway administration. It is calling for some of the region's strictest railway regulations including speed and would require neighboring nations to upgrade freight cars carrying 'any material which in the event of accident or malfunction could contaminate the environment'. Marchand commented this morning saying that "the bill puts strain on not only neighboring nations but ourselves. Bourgogne's ports which are supported by the freight rail system are intrinsic to the Burgundian economy. Forcing nations to meet these exceedingly high standards will result in much shipping being rerouted to Belmontien ports or elsewhere. To keep Burgundian ports dominant and competitive, we should rather increase enforcement of existing measures which govern railway safety". Marchand went on to say that the passenger train provisions in the bill are encouraging and should be represented in a further and independent bill. The bill is set for further address in the legislature on Tuesday.


Military modernization program continues

Defense deals with Eiffelland and new policies are ramping up efforts to modernize the Burgundian military. A policy of quality over quantity is being pursued as well as the addition of new doctrine for Ducal forces. The doctrine focuses on making the Ducal navy a smaller and more focused force and for the overall doctrine of armed forces to be aimed at territorial integrity, protection of Burgundian lives, and efficient reserve mobilization. Last year, the Ducal Army disbanded 3 reserve infantry regiments and 2 support regiments in an effort to streamline military operations and offset costs. New policies are specifically aimed at both modernizing the military and instituting cost control. Reports for public release from the military indicate a long-term policy of reformation and building on semi-professional reserve leadership.


100 aircraft grounded by poor weather

Auxerre

102 commercial flights were cancelled today due to a storm front moving in over western Bourgogne. Airport officials at Auxerre's airport cite both visibility and snow conditions which forced them to cease all airport operations with the exception of an emergency runway being kept open for remaining incoming flights.