Wieserreichische Welle: Germania: Augsburg in Transalpine talks with Christiansborg?

[Wieserreich]

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Reichsministerium des Auswärtigen
Imperial Ministry for Foreign Affairs
​

"Most esteemed heads of states and ministers,

"I would like to begin by saying that your words have not gone unnoticed, not even once. The attention the international community is paying to Wiese as of lately, and especially this form of attention which appears preventive in the event some sort of armed conflict takes place in the Germanian or Sarmatian regions.

"I must stress the fact that Wiese has not, under any circumstances, relocated or built up forces anywhere along its frontiers, as incorrectly expressed by the honourable Kyivan foreign affairs commander-in-chief. What changed is the alert level of the various units, which was on high levels since the Batavian crisis had began heating up.

"Under the most recent orders by the Imperial Ministry for War, the average mobilisation and readiness of the Reichswehr is, in fact, lower than it were prior to them being issued. What has been misunderstood is the fact that the readiness is retained at similar levels on the border with Sarmatian countries, an especially in the Duchy of Thuringia and the Duchy of Braunschweig. This move is in light of the recent militant diplomacy of various Sarmatian powers, some of which have openly questioned Wieser security.

"Despite recent tensions however, the Imperial Chancellor has instructed me to personally arrange various meetings between himself or myself and our foreign counterparts from Sarmatian countries, including the honourable Mr. Konavle himself, to whom I personally wrote to. Zivotinje, as an important neighbour and economic partner of Wiese, is not going unnoticed and my government desires that any differences are resolved before they taint our relations.

"My government has no intention of destabilising Germania, and the war games scheduled to be held in Braunschweig are of entirely defensive nature. The Imperial Army and the Imperial Air Force, which will be taking part in them, will not threaten the sovereignty either of Coronado, of Vittoria or of Zivotinje in any way, and in the highly unlikely event an accident that affects another side of the border occurs, my government is prepared to assume full responsibility and issue compensations if the blame is its own.

"As a neutral, unaligned and sovereign state which has pledged to protect itself, its citizens and the Council of Nations' headquarters, the Empire of Wiese cannot compromise its security in any form, and as such, its military needs to remain in sharp and top-notch condition with the best training and equipment available for the entirety of our troops. We avoid arguments of ideology or even theology, and simply pledge and position ourselves to the successful and relentless defence of our territory and whatever it holds.

"I hope I can meet with Mr. Konavle and other such counterparts of mine the soonest possible in an international tour, to promote understanding between our governments and defuse any form of tensions before they actually derail, as the honourable international community so clearly fears it might. If such a derailing takes place, it will most certainly not leave the Empire to blame."

Regards,
Heinrich Maximilian Graf von und zu Babelfisch
Imperial Minister for Foreign Affairs

 

[Beautancus]

Secretariat of State, Office of Administration and External Affairs

Despite constant assertions of neutrality and goodwill to the nations of Mother Sarmatia, the Wieser "Empire" continues to do naught but provide us with reason to be suspicious of Wiese's actions and motivations. The recently reported "increased awareness project" can be viewed as nothing but a provocation directed at the very heart of the Sarmatian community, in this most tense of times. Even with the secondary assertion of Wieser innocence taken into account, the timing, and apparent unwillingness of "the Empire" to rethink this course of action can only lead us to one conclusion: that Wiese will soon dispel and any all notions of neutrality by committing itself to an aggressive martial campaign against the daughters and sons of Mother Sarmatia.

Should such an irresponsible action be taken by Augsburg, it is likely that the general regional situation will plummet to levels that can see no possible reversals. It should also be noted that willful inaction in regards to the wishes of the Sarmatian community will be met with similar levels of disapproval. We implore you to take these points into account when assessing your situation in regards to the nations that, by and large, surround "the Empire."

Doctor Jozef Kościałkowsky

Secretary of State, Greater Sarmatia

 

[Wieserreich]

Šidajica to join Sarmatian missile shield
​

The nation of Šidajica, situated in the southern reaches of Germania between Wiese, Eiffelland and the Papal States, officially announced its plans to take part in the currently ongoing Sarmatian Ballistic Missile Shield organised by other Sarmatian countries, all of which have been ferociously critical and hostile to the Empire of Wiese in recent days.

This expansion of Sarmatian influence comes just days after the "pan-Sarmatian" ideology sprung up in Cassiopeia, which even resulted in the country's official termination of its League of Free States membership. Cassiopeia's withdrawal from the LFS weakened the League just after Austurland announced its withdrawal from the traditional rival of the LFS, the Alliance for Greater Europe.

With relations among Sarmatian countries improving, many in Augsburg fear that a Sarmatian bloc is rising, and that the geopolitics of Central Europe have been dramatically changed. Šidajica, shortly before its announcement of participation in the Sarmatian missile defence programme, also announced increased military presence on the Wieser-Šidajican border, which has prompted worries in Augsburg about the exact intentions of the Sarmatian bloc.

To date, Šidajica is the fourth country openly hinting hostilities with Wiese might be coming up, after Vittoria and Greater Sarmatia appeared with wartime rhetoric and Oltremare announced a partial mobilisation of its military forces in response to the pending Reichswehr military exercises in the Mecklenburg-Braunschweig military district.

"I do not think the Sarmatian countries are planning to be aggressive" commented WW-Welt's military analyst, Col. (rt.) Hilda Schnipps. "The geopolitical situation might be uncertain and tense but neither side is capable or willing to commit itself to a long, painful conflict where gains will definitely be outweighed by the losses. The Sarmatians are simply known to be unreasonable diplomats, just like us Wiesers are known to be unreasonable politicians."

This certainly does appear to be the case with the Ministry for War, which publicly condemned the Šidajican participation in the Sarmatian missile defence shield, and stated that the Empire is due to seriously consider a "retaliatory response" to the "annihilation of the status quo in Southern Germania."

Other voices from the Imperial Cabinet were more reserved, including that of Foreign Minister Babelfisch, who announced that he was awaiting replies from the Zivotinje Herald and the Greater Sarmatian Prince concerning direct bilateral meetings between them and their Wieser counterparts.

"Šidajica's announcement greatly saddens the Imperial Cabinet, prompting us to seriously consider dramatic changes in our foreign policy, however my hope and trust is behind the Sarmatian and Zivotinje leaders, who we hope to meet in order to solve our differences before they become an irreversible pain" stated Count von und zu Babelfisch, Imperial Minister for Foreign Affairs.

"I hope to resolve this insult-mongering situation," added the Minister, "which will allow us to continue diplomatic relations with Sarmatia instead of further elevating tensions between our countries." His comments are expected to assure international investors and ease pressure on the Augsburg stock exchange.

War Games in Braunschweig "of defensive nature" says Ministry
​

Tensions have mounted dramatically since Vittoria first began threatening Wieser security in the very halls of the General Assembly of the Council of Nations, reaching a near-historical record when Oikawa and the Sarmatian countries made an outcry at the announcement of "secret war games" by the Imperial Ministry for War yesterday.

In light of pressure from the Imperial House itself, the War Ministry released today 'valuable' details about the true nature of the military exercises with hopes to reduce international tensions. Although details were released, the exercises will remain closed to public as well as any foreign observation, in perfect adherence to Wieser customs over its military exercises.

The war games in Braunschweig are expected to include two teams, the Imperial team and the 'aggressor' team, and a sum of 2500 military personnel according to the Ministry for War announcement. The aggressor team, which will adopt the 'fully offensive' role, will also 'dramatically outnumber' the Imperial team, which will occupy fixed fortifications found on the Southern and Eastern borders of the empire in the south of the Duchy of Braunschweig.

Although no other details have been released, analysts state it is 'clear' that the war games simulate a multi-pronged offensive in south Braunschweig, which holds strategic routes to some of Wiese's most crucial industrial territories. The announcement of the War Ministry seems to have confirmed popular belief that Augsburg is considering the possibility of a Sarmatian military offensive against Wiese 'highly likely' and is responding in kind.

The announcement was met with encouraging comments from Wieser citizens at home and abroad, with patriotic fervour building up. Several non-governmental organisations including the Imperial People's Party and the Christian Democrats have announced they will stage a rally next Wednesday outside the Sarmatian diplomatic quarters in Augsburg to protest against the developments.

The government has not announced whether it will allow the demonstrations to continue or ban them.

In the other news:
​

• Society: Demonstrations planned by KVP and CDU next Wednesday in Augsburg to protest against the Sarmatian offensive behaviour against the Wieser monarchy and state. "The insults on the Empire's face are inexcusable" announced a Reichsrat member, who wished to remain anonymous.
  
• Sports: Zenit male football team acquisitions mocked by ZSKH chief. Tensions between the two top teams of Wieser football.
  
• Culture: Talemantrine crown jewels to be displayed in Wiese. Security measures being prepared to ensure the absolute safety of the Talemantrine imperial relics, which will be displayed in palaces and museums in Swabia.
  
• Security: War Ministry announces 'maximum' alert for standing troops after Šidajica announced its participation in the Sarmatian ABM shield. Sources from the government suggest that tactical ballistic missiles might be moved closer to the border in response to the Šidajican movement.
  
• Business: Šidajican news outlet hints KEF and other Wieser companies might have a stake in recent business deals in Šidajica. The news remain unconfirmed, but KIW and KEF stocks rise due to speculation.
  
• World: Talks between Eiffelland and Wiese over "major arms contract" according to Thießen AG officials. The exact nature of the talks or the contract remains a complete mystery.
  

 

[Tyvia]

OFFICIAL DECLARATION BY THE COMMONWEALTH
DECLARACIJA VIRTALNINIJA ZIJEDNIČIJ
All statements enclosed herein adhere to declaration 12S2/10; High Commissariat of State Affairs

The High Commissariat, the sub-legislative authority within the most serene Commonwealth of Šidajica and Zaponje, in co-operation with the Presidium of the Commonwealth tabulate the following findings following extensive deliberation within the inner legislative branch. All findings correspond accordingly with the will of the unified Šidajici people and their eternal republic.

The Presidium finds the claims made by the Wieser Ministry of War and associated to be unbased and ludicrous in their declarations. They represent a manifest aggression and lack of comprehension for the national requirement of defense; the policy of deterrence and anti-ballistic defense serving as a fragment of such. It is a lack of understanding that pervades at the moment, with both parties claiming and genuinely believing of one another's apparently obvious belligerence.

The High Commissariat maintains that the movement of paramilitary and local forces towards the Wieser border regions was a standard practice, as is recognized by average military history students. It is a standard retaliatory measure against the like-wise deployment of forces by the collective Wiese Imperial security forces in preparation for the war games.

The High Commissariat would welcome talks with Augsburg to settle the issue or to simply ease prevailing tensions.

All statements herein validated by the Committee of State Security; Sub-Captaincy of the High Commissariat,
In accordance with the wills of the people and the eternal Republic,
Sincerely yours, Avgustin I.S. Chernič, Presidator of the High Commissariat of the most serene Commonwealth of Šidajica and Zaponje.

Any complaints may be cordially forwarded to the State Office of International Affairs located in Arkadov.

 

[Wieserreich]

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Reichsministerium des Auswärtigen
Imperial Ministry for Foreign Affairs
​

"Most esteemed Mr. Chernič,

"My government most soundly welcomes your expedient and kind reply. We wish to clarify that statements by officials from the Imperial Ministry for War have largely been made without any consultation from the Imperial Ministry for Foreign Affairs or from the Imperial Chancellor, and are, as such, to a certain degree unsound and provocative even to ourselves.

"That does not mean, however, that we are not alarmed by the sudden military decisions of your government, which, in combination with recent most unfortunate tensions between our Empire and several Sarmatian countries, has unfortunately served to worry my government and the Wieser people most greatly.

"I do presume this all has been a misunderstanding on both sides' parts, and do welcome your invitation to hold talks in order to reconcile our governments before tensions might arise between our two regimes."

Regards,
Heinrich Maximilian Graf von und zu Babelfisch
Imperial Minister for Foreign Affairs

 

[Wieserreich]

Greater Sarmatia expels Belmontien and EDF journalists
​

Following its notorious walkout from the Council of Nations and the Nymphenburg Palace a few days ago, the government authorities in Greater Sarmatia stunned the international community following an announcement that the journalists of the Associated Press, Reuters, and any EDF media outlets were to be expelled by the country until tomorrow, Friday 9 April.

The move, which included journalists from all EDF member-states, sparked criticism from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Franken, with the Franconians 'reserving the right to respond accordingly' as per the official announcement. At this time, WW-Welt or other Wieser journalists in Greater Sarmatia have not received notification to vacate the country, but the Secretariat of State of Greater Sarmatia has not been available for comments.

The Sarmatian government explicitly named the Vittoria-based news agency ADV as an example of 'what a "free press" should be', prompting the Franconian government to respond by stating that 'Greater Sarmatia's notion of freedom of press is truly a curious one.' The EDF-based agencies, Associated Press and Reuters were described as tools to advance 'Dominican Catholic, globalist and ultra-liberal agendas.'

Analysts suggest this is the culmination and continuation of a serial clash between the ideologies of democratic and Catholic or Protestant EDF and the more hardline and Orthodox countries of the broader Sarmatia region, that include Oltremare, Vittoria, Zivotinje, and Greater Sarmatia. The escalation of tensions from diplomacy and politics to a media outlet war is worrisome indeed, though the EDF or other Sarmatian countries have yet to take similar punitive measures.

Agreements secured between Wiese and Šidajica
​

Several important commercial agreements have been allegedly concluded between Šidajica and Wiese despite recent tensions along their common border. The two neighbouring Germanian countries, which share past history as components of the old Holy Germanic Empire which collapsed in the 1644 [wiki]War of the Roses[/wiki], share a very long mountainous border with the Wieser Alps separating the two countries.

Plans for the creation of a natural gas refinery in Šidajica by KEF and plans for investment in the Wieser industry are added to the existing commercial agreement which allows Wieser and Eiffellandic merchant ships to circumnavigate the Rhine in Šidajica and access each other's markets. The sources also stated that Šidajica would refine much of its oil in Wieser facilities, and import Wieser natural gas.

Although neither government has officially confirmed the deal, it is expected to happen very soon together with the formal signing of the deals. The multi-billion agreements are expected to increase bilateral commerce and mutually benefit the economies of Wiese and Šidajica in the short and long terms alike.

In the meanwhile, there are not few those in Augsburg, who call for Wiese to conclude similar agreements with other Sarmatian countries such as Greater Sarmatia and Victoria, despite the recent diplomatic tensions among these countries.

In the other news:
​

• Society: Demonstrations in down-town Augsburg stall traffic between 10 am and 2 pm as 8.000 Wiesers took the roads yesterday to protest in favour of peace between Wiese and the Sarmatian countries.
  
• Sports: Zenit coach responds to ZSKH manager's provocations over football transfers in the men's league.
  
• Culture: Official announcement of opening times for the Talemantrine Imperial crown jwewls exhibition in Augsburg pending today by the Ministry for Interior Affairs, amidst high security.
  
• Security: Grenzenburg fortifications to be inspected by Imperial Army officials the coming weekend, to evaluate their condition.
  
• Business: Marquette and Wiese close to concluding multi-billion aircraft contract for up to 150 more Typhoon fighters for the Marquen air force.
  
• World: Andre Wiezcor, who notably assaulted the Marqne monarch's motorcade with a flaming log in 2009, was officially pardoned by King Napoleon. He is expected to be transferred to medical facilities soon.
  

 

[Wieserreich]

Braunschweig war games 'total success' for Reichswehr
​

The controversial secret military war games took place between 2500 combat and support Heer and Luftstreitkräfte personnel in Braunschweig during late last week, concluding this Saturday. It is reminded that the action had been widely condemned as provocative, and many nations feared an invasion might be coming their way despite the small scale of the games.

As previously announced by the Ministry for War, the war games in Braunschweig were expected to include two teams, the Imperial team and the 'aggressor' team, and a sum of 2500 military personnel according to the Ministry for War announcement. The aggressor team, which will adopt the 'fully offensive' role, will also 'dramatically outnumber' the Imperial team, which will occupy fixed fortifications found on the Southern and Eastern borders of the empire in the south of the Duchy of Braunschweig.

Although no other details have been released, analysts state it is 'clear' that the war games simulate a multi-pronged offensive in south Braunschweig, which holds strategic routes to some of Wiese's most crucial industrial territories.

With tensions between Wiese and Sarmatia effectively concluded, however, it is uncertain whether the value of the manoeuvres will give more to the military but valuable experience. Military officers want to repeat the manoeuvres along the eastern line of fortifications in Thuringia and Schaumburg, which have a different geographical layout than Braunschweig.

"The military manoeuvres were a total success" commented General von Kobeck, who was overseeing the movements on behalf of the General Chiefs of Staff of the Reichswehr. "It has ensured us that the border forts and guardians on the eastern and south-eastern tips of the empire are ever-vigilant and fully prepared to face a sudden crisis." No further comments were made.

Wiese's military figures remain a closely guarded state secret, but independent estimates want at least 500.000 troops with some 1.500.000 reservists in the hands of Augsburg. These figures reflect just Reichswehr and Landwehr personnel, and none of Landsturm's paramilitary forces or membership.

Volkswehr RADAR network transferred to Luftstreitkräfte control
​

As previously announced by the Ministry for War, the Volkshwehr's over-the-horizon early-warning and long-range RADAR network was fully transferred under the control of the Luftstreitkräfte, eliminating Civil Defence control over what the War Ministry called 'one of the Empire's most valuable military assets.' The move had been announced several months ago, and the switch was underway ever since.

Wiese has traditionally maintained a large bunker and long-range RADAR network for the purposes of civil defence, since the proliferation of nuclear weapons in the 1950's. Argued that these large, expensive systems are a more peaceful, less provocative, and more multi-purpose response to the much more expensive and, arguably, effectively less useful nuclear weapons, the programmes have persisted for the past six decades.

The RADAR network in question provided the civilian Volkswehr (Civil Defence) with long-range reconnaissance capabilities, though, following year-long calls for a more effective and efficient civil defence system, the control of the network was finally transferred to the Luftstreitkräfte (Air Force) this year. It has remained fully operational without compromises to the nation's security, the government has stated.

In the other news:
​

• Society: Police killers from Mecklenburg condemned to death penalty by local court. Although the sentence has yet to be officially validated by the Emperor or King, the anarchist provocateurs have pledged to appeal.
  
• Sports: Zenit coach expelled from football match following heated argument and exchange of insults with the referee.
  
• Culture: The musical Les Miserables re-opens in Augsburg, with promises for a Wiese-wide tour.
  
• Security: Životinje 'in process of mobilisation' according to anonymous Intelligence sources. War ministry refuses to comment on accuracy of sources, hints limited mobilisation of Thuringian and Mecklenburg-Braunschweig military regions is taking place.
  
• Business: Talks between Marquette and Wiese over a new and large Kürassier contract, also known as the 'Lion' in Marquen service. Rumours want the contract to consist between 500 and 1000 units, provided over a decade.
  
• World: EDF peacekeepers begin deployment in Batavia. "Wiese will not send any troops" announced Chancellor von Baden, putting an end to 'foreign-induced gossip' about 'almost-EDF Wiese sending contributions.'
  

 

[Thaumantica]

Grade Four Dispatch, Security Paramount
Herald for the Union

A sincere congratulations to Heer and Luftstreitkräfte personnel for their execution of military exercises in the Duchy of Braunschweig. We understand that beneath this exterior of Wieser paranoia is the true intention of keeping our centrally located region at tactically assured peace. It is often Wieser brawn that keeps Živ & Kasj rhetoric honest and mindful of ramifications.

With every action we can a expect reaction, the back and forth instigations stemming from intelligence reports are no different. Životinje has mobilized the Union Army to defend the Southeastern Captaincy of Komenoge, or specifically the region of Preria. Wiese maintains a top notch intelligence service, there is no way around that, and Životinje would rather be frank with its Western neighbor then deceitful.

Tensions seem to have long simmered from this border, and we are not about to place a lid over this border to conduct further heat. Where this Republic declined negotiation earlier in the year, we are settled enough to rekindle ties if the Wieserreichische will have us in their land or might accept an invitation to meet again in Sangemuntenia.

Freedom First,
Bojnik Konavle,
Herald for the Union

 

[Batavië]

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While we do not expect peacekeeping contributions by the government of Wiese, we wish to note that any donations or types of development aid will be warmly welcomed and not be forgotten or overlooked by the Batavian people.

 

[Havenshire]

The Makai Archipelago Congress wishes to remind the Wiesan Government at this time that personal invitations made discreetly by our government to theirs are still open, and we look forward to ongoing warm relations with the Monarchy of Wiese.

Alice Ele'Ele,
-Ministry of Foreign Affairs

 

[Serenierre]

Foreign Office

We congratulate the Empire of Wiese on successfully completing the war games.

 

[Anglyn]

Office of the Chief of the General Staff

I would like to send my personal congatulations to the men and women, both officers and enlisted, of the Imperial Armed Forces that participated in the Braunschweig War Games, for a job well-done.

General Sir John Baker, CSG, KG, MC
Chief of the General Staff
Kingdom of Mayaland

 

[Großlausitz]

Office of the General Inspector of the Royal Armed Forces

I would like to congratulate the service members of the Imperial Forces of Wiese upon the successful conclusion of their manoeuvre. Thereby they have shown the Imperial Forces are perfectly capable to maintain stability in and around Wiese.

T. Angerer
Feldmarschall Ritter Tobias Angerer (OSS)
Generalinspekteur der Königlichen Streitkräfte
Königreich Franken

 

[Rheinbund]

Verteidigungsministerium
Trier, Eiffelland

Also our congratulations to the Wieser Reichswehr for the successful manoeuvres.

Fregattenkapitän a.D. Daniel Wolzow, Minister for Defence

 

[Wieserreich]

Opel and Sachs compete with hybrid cars
​

The renowned Wieser automobile brands Opel and Sachs, belonging to WAIn, the former state automobile industries now owned chiefly by [wiki]KIW[/wiki], have officially entered competition with one another over the providing of hybrid cars in the Wieser and international market.

The Opel Ampera model, a hybrid vehicle that can run on up to 500 km using its gasoline electricity generator, or a good 65 km on a single charge without running hybrid. The vehicle, which will start being marketed starting this November and is planned to reach full production status by 2012, has a price tag of €28.000, targeting higher-income consumers.

Opel's domestic competitor and sister firm Sachs, renowned for its utilitarian, retro and efficient car designs at the expense of luxuries, has unveiled the new Sachs Volt, which is hoped to reach the market by early 2011 and enter full production by 2012. The Volt is aimed as a hybrid design, which is aimed to have a 30 km battery range. It is targeted, like other Sachs models, for the lower income consumers who aim for cheap but efficient utility cars with few luxuries. The Volt's price is expected to be at the range of €12.000 to €18.000 euros, unusually high for Sachs' €5.000 to €15.000 standard.

Competition between Wieser car manufacturers continues in the hybrid scene, following parliamentary debates to formally pass a 'Zero Emissions Car Act' and oblige all domestic and foreign manufacturers to go for a certain percentage of hybrid or electric cars as per their total sales in the country.

The act, which has been promoted by military lobbyists, is expected to further reduce the country's commercial reliance on fossil fuels including diesel from coal, gas, or imported petroleum sources, and thus increase the availability of natural resources for the military without necessarily affecting the public greatly in the event of warfare.

Opel, Sachs, or foreign brands popular in Wiese such as Eiffelland's Volkswagen, have yet to comment, though WAIn, the company behind Wiese's major commercial automobile brands, is expected to react negatively in conjunction with KEF and other firms.

Augsburg to host high-profile Wiese-Zivotinje talks
​

Although expected for some time now, it has finally been officially announced that high-profile talks will be held between Wiese and Zivotinje government officials in the Imperial palace grounds in Augsburg. The details of the arrangements remain secret, though the Zivotinje official is expected to first be summoned by His Imperial Majesty to be inquired over the conflict currently raging in Barazi, before proceeding to hold talks with major government officials.

Arrangements for the summit remain secret, however it is expected that the two governments will discuss issues of major interest to both sides. Zivotinje and Wiese maintain strong business relationships and this year, for the first time did Wieser commercial guns outsell their local counterparts in Zivotinje. Matters including business, trade and security are expected to be discussed.

Zivotinje and Wiese have maintained cordial relations through history, dramatically improving since the 1950's and the construction of the Mürzbruck bridge, the only direct passage between Wiese and Zivotinje for around three-fourths of the shared border on eastern Thuringia and Braunschweig. The Mürzbruck remains, today, a bold symbol of Wiese-Zivotinje friendship and warm relations, and sees around 60% of the countries' cross-border traffic conducted through that avenue.

In the other news:
​

• Society: King Karl and Archduchess Eleonore attend Eiffelland prince's wedding ceremony.
  
• Sports: Kohl injured at end of season, to miss finals.
  
• Culture: New museum opens in the old residence of Johann Strauss II. in Erfurt, Thuringia.
  
• Security: Marquette and Wiese in new mountain tank partnership, dubbed "Lion II" or "Kürassier II" respectively.
  
• Business: KMW signs contracts with Reichswehr for the procurement of several Taurus heavy carriers.
  
• World: Imperial cabinet considering to dispatch aid to Batavia.
  

 

[Wieserreich]

Jizhou-Oikawa military conflict continues
​

The military conflict in the Far East continues, as Oikawan and Jizhou military forces clash following the Jizhou invasion of Tenzig and the, according to Jizhouan media, "almost bloodless" conflict, Oikawa has responded in full force with a large-scale military invasion of Jizhou.

Jizhou and Tenzing, neighbouring states, have traditionally been self-proclaimed independent states with Oikawa's support, however a lot of countries view them merely as Nonakawa's sock-puppets and a mere extension of the Oikawan Empire in mainland Cathay.

At present, Jizhouan media have been constantly publicising images of alleged Oikawan war crimes, including attacks on unarmed civilian populations ever since the invasion began. Such violations of the rules of war have not been confirmed by independent observers, with Oikawa blockading Jizhou and enforcing a media blackout.

At the same time, Oikawan media have been hailing the blockade of Jizhou, and publicised that the League of Free States is in the process of mobilisation against Jizhou. Nearby Shinryeo has raised alert levels to Defcon 2, while Sinhai has been protesting against Oikawa's blockade, claiming it a thorn in the foot of its economic recovery.

With the largest mobilisation in Cathay since the outbreak of the Great War, it seems that dark clouds are upon us in what might be a massive military conflict, and an accompanying humanitarian disaster of untold proportions around the corner for Jizhou. WW-Welt will attempt to dispatch volunteering correspondents to go to Jizhou and Oikawa, and report from there.

Reichsrat approves RM24,5 billion aid package to Batavia
​

The Reichsrat, in a historical move, has successfully passed a motion approving a RM24,5 billion (€7 billion) aid package to be offered to the government of Batavia, in the form of low-interest bilateral loans at a low interest rate. This is the first time for either of the two chambers of the Imperial parliament to approve a foreign aid package of such proportion.

The IPP-backed proposal, changed at the last moment to include a low interest rate at the insistence of CSU, passed with overwhelming support through the Reichsrat, receiving 387 votes for and 129 votes against. The governing coalition between the Imperial People's Party and the Christian Social Union supported the package together with almost all independent members, while the opposition, in the face of the German National Front and the Communists, vote overwhelmingly against.

The 25 billion Reichsmark package comes with a stable 3,5% interest rate, to be paid off in 5 years. The ambitious package, which will effectively double the Imperial aid donations going abroad this year, now has to face the Reichstag, where the financial and political elite of the country will get to vote upon it and approve or reject it, or send it back to the Reichsrat for amendments.

In the other news:
​

• Society: The Order of the Silverless Saints is to open three new clinics in rural Thuringia, according to the Order's press office.
  
• Sports: Friendly hockey game between Wendmark and Wiese? RUmours remain unconfirmed at present.
  
• Culture: Summer concert schedule released by top-selling Wieser artists. "Church and military are major sponsors" say analysts.
  
• Security: Sarmatia enters Barazi conflict, [wiki]Landwehr[/wiki] and [wiki]Reichswehr[/wiki] in heightened alert status in [wiki[Schaumburg[/wiki].
  
• Business: Arms manufacturer stocks increase in value amidst increasing international tensions. KMW leads the spike following its contracting of the Taurus heavy APC for the Reichswehr.
  
• World: Belmont-Marquette row continues over Red Clay, with Belmont closing borders shut and hurting bilateral diplomatic and economic ties.
  

 

[Batavië]

'This offer of aid at very friendly and reasonable terms is historic, kind-hearted and will change Batavië's progress forwards. If passed by the second Wieser chamber it will gladly be accepted. We must thank the generous Wieser government and its caring people.'

Minister van Buitenlandse Zaken, Arjan van Vliet at his daily press conference.

 

[Wieserreich]

RM25 bn Batavian loan approved by Reichstag
​

The Imperial Diet in Augsburg has officially passed the Imperial Council-recommended bill about a 25 billion Reichsmark loan to Batavië, following three days of hardcore under-the-table negotiations and lobbying by pro- and anti-loan groups.

With both houses of the Imperial legislature now approving of the bill, the government is now able to take the proposal to the Emperor for signing and final approval. The RM25 billion (€7,5 billion) loan includes mutually favourable terms and a stable, low interest rate that is expected to give a breath of fresh air to Batavië's government.

The public announcement of the Batavian finance minister Arjan van Vliet on Friday is thought to have greatly contributed towards the approval of the Reichsrat proposal by the Reichstag, which was largely seen with suspicion and reluctance at first.

The Imperial People's Party issued an announcement expressing its satisfaction at the assistance offered to Batavië, and called for the IPP-CSU coalition government to take measures and increase aid to the Dutch country. The government responded by suggesting it was already considering a form of military assistance by utilising surplus Reichswehr and Landwehr military equipment, and promotion of investments in Batavië's infrastructure.

Wiese, Wendmark close to bilateral agreements
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The governments of Wiese and Wendmark are, allegedly, close to signing a series of important bilateral agreements according to sources from inside the Imperial Ministry for Foreign Affairs in Augsburg. The agreements, thought to be of economic and security nature, have been previously hinted by Count Babelfisch during press conferences.

Wendmark, which seceded from the Archduchy of Saxony in 1858, has historically maintained close relations with the Empire and the two countries already have a history of good cooperation in economic, border and military matters. Non-intervention in each other's interior affairs has contributed to the peaceful and cooperative situation.

Earlier this week, Count Babelfisch stated that 'the Empire's foreign policy is traditionally geared towards cooperation with our neighbours, and especially other German countries.' Wiese presently maintains especially warm relations with Wendmark, Franken and Greater Sarmatia, its three principal neighbours.

If indeed signed, more agreements are expected to improve the relations between Augsburg and Einsiedeln, and pave the ground towards the resolution of some historical disputes that have occasionally proven troublesome for both countries' foreign ministries, such as the delicate status of the divided town of Elbebrück.

The signing site of the treaty that allowed for the eventual independence of Wendmark from Saxony in 1848, the Protestant half of the city voted to join the Free State of Wendmark in a 1853 referendum, while the Catholic part opted to remain in the Archduchy of Saxony.

In the other news:
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• Society: Thuringian Duke approves opening of new clinics and hospitals by the Sovereign Order of the Silverless Saints.
  
• Sports: HC Zenit Oldenburg to face SC Bern in two ice hockey matches.
  
• Culture: Upcoming Straßburg International Film Festival signups are open, local directors flock to participate.
  
• Security: Rumours of bilateral agreements with Wendmark thought to include new border control and patrol regimes for both countries, sources suggest.
  
• Business: Wendmark's military considers the Puma for its permanent readiness units. The Puma is already entering service with the Reichswehr and the military forces of Eiffelland and Franken.
  
• World: EDF successfully tests new submarine-launched nuclear missile.
  

 

[Wieserreich]

Landwehr retires Leopard tank from active service
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It is the end of an era for the Leopard 1A5 main battle tank, once the backbone of the Imperial Army's armoured formations, as the last Imperial military units fielding the tank from the 1960s are finally retiring it from active military service.

The [wiki]Landwehr[/wiki] 18. Panzerdivision stationed in [wiki]Schaumburg[/wiki], until now the last military unit to still operate the Leopard 1A5 in active military in Wiese, is set to formally replace the last of its ageing tanks with Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks received from the [wiki]Reichswehr[/wiki].

The original Leopard tank, later referred to as the Leopard 1 after its successor design entered production in 1979, was first produced in 1965 by Krauss-Maffei. The Leopard 1 has seen numerous modifications, still remaining in service with both Imperial and foreign military forces, while the basic design was broadly fielded by numerous countries including Franken and Eiffelland.

Gradually relegated to secondary roles since 1990, the Leopard 1 main battle tank was phased out in the Imperial Army in 2003, though many remained in Landwehr service until today. From 1 July, all Leopard 1A5 tanks previously in service with the Imperial Army or Landwehr will have entered secondary reserve, with the aim of converting or exporting the designs.

Produced from 1965 to 1979, the Leopard 1 saw around 7000 tanks produced, with many converted for other roles, and additional vehicles derived from the tank chassis produced for other roles. It was replaced in the production lines by the Leopard 2, which constitutes today the main battle tank of the Imperial Army and the Landwehr alike.

KIW, KEF announce Free Union investment plans
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The Imperial holdings giant [wiki]KIW[/wiki] and its subsidiary KEF, WIese's petroleum and gas monopoly, have announced a package of investments is being prepared for the market of the Free Union in southern Scania.

KEF is already active in the country, extracting petroleum for the local and international market through cooperation with the local conglomerate RGO Petroleum and their joint subsidiary KEF-RGO, though, according to KIW's announcement, there will be plans for KEF to proceed independently with the construction of new wells for petroleum and natural gas extraction. KEF is also active in Wiese, Talemantros and Greater Sarmatia.

This is expected to be the first from a series of investments for the Free Union market by KIW's subsidiary companies, rumoured to have been holding talks with Imperial and Free Union authorities in the past few weeks. If they proceed, the investments are expected to be of great mutual benefit for both the Imperial and Free Union markets.

In the other news:
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• Society: Communist Party to hold anti-income inequality rally in down-town Augsburg the coming Monday.
  
• Sports: Zenit hockey match with Bern given last "go-ahead" by local authorities in Oldenburg.
  
• Culture: Folk music festival to be held in [wiki]Thuringia[/wiki]'s capital Erfurt on 2 to 4 July.
  
• Security: Landwehr to receive "urban Leopard" upgrades for its Leo 2A4 tank fleet, possibly to be designated Leo 2A7.
  
• Business: Finance ministry reports 1,3% GDP growth in second trimester of 2010, up from 1% on the first.
  
• World: Sarmatian-Zivotinje military force Barazi capitulation. Rehber missing.
  

 

[Wieserreich]

Emperor to celebrate 100th birthday
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With the Emperor's one hundredth birthday anniversary approaching the coming Sunday, 8th of August, the nation is preparing amidst its summer holidays to celebrate one of the most historical monarchical festivities ever held in the Empire.

His Imperial Majesty Friedrich Wilhelm the Second, turning 100 this Sunday, is to celebrate his birthday with the presence of Wieser and European royals at the privacy of the Hofburg Palace in Preßburg, including the presence of the entire Imperial Family.

Security in Preßburg will exceed this winter's all-time high as royalty from Franken, Sarmatia, Eiffelland, Arendaal, Belmont, and many other European countries have been invited to attend the celebrations. Heads of state of republics have also reportedly been invited at the three-day event. It is reported that at least 5500 Police and 2000 Reichswehr personnel will be providing for security.

The whole Empire, from edge to edge, is thus preparing to celebrate our beloved monarch's birthday anniversary, and wish him the best for an even longer and healthier life than he has already lived.

Military to renew military munitions stock
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The Imperial military forces have announced their plans to replenish and renew their small arms munitions stock, providing a new cache of ammo for the Landsturm and Volkswehr personnel both in active service as well as in non-active duties. The renewing, which will take place during August and September, will enable new stockpiles of personal firearm munitions to come at the lands of all Landsturm and Volkswehr.

Existing ammunition is scheduled to be expended in firing ranges prior to their expiry dates wherever applicable, meaning that voluntary turnout for shooting practice is required, at various intervals, for all Landsturm and Volkswehr that possess firearms with state-provided ammunition. Citizens can be informed and have their questions answered over the details at their local Citizen Support Offices.

In the other news:
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• Society: Saxon protesters in Elbebruck clash with police after heated up demonstrations against Wendmarkish "Free Saxon" claims.
  
• Sports: Gymnastics coach Ernst Heidelberg is jailed after being found to beat his athletes for not performing well over summer competitions.
  
• Culture: Famous Braunschweig band Bonaparte wins platinum disk over its latest album, 1812.
  
• Security: Protestant reverend Hans Schwarz is arrested for molesting an altar boy in Duisburg.
  
• Business: Wieser arms manufacturer stocks increase in value as rumours of ammo contracts with military and EDF forces circulate in Augsburg Stock Exchange.
  
• World: Military conflict rages on in Freiheit, with Wiese state and NGOs to provide humanitarian relief in Aquitania. WW-Welt war correspondents will provide you with the latest news from the front.