Le Moniteur Universel

[Holy Frankish Empire]

FrankBank awaits Ostmark's court system. FrankBank expands OstBank services.

The lawsuit brought against Standard Chartered in @Ostmark is seemingly quiet. As the two massive banks duke it out over the OstBank branding and copyright, FrankBank has opened an additional 75 branches under the OstBank banner. With about 200 locations around the country and already serving thousands, the FrankBank subsidiary says it is ready for the legal fight. "We have established a clear brand. We have established a clear set of services. Simply put, we know we are not at fault. It is Standard Chartered which has decided, quite wrongly, that copyrights and branding mean nothing" said a FrankBank statement.

The lawsuit comes after Standard Chartered attempted to launch its own OstBank. After initial challenges, Standard Chartered reportedly offered to change their own subsidiary's name to OostBank; a move that FrankBank called blatant and dilutive. After negotiations failed, FrankBank announced that it would bring their competitor to court. FrankBank has noted the transitionary period that Ostmark is going through but says it remains confident that the courts will do a fair job.

Headlines
Imperial Assembly to review bill that would cut number of casino licenses in half
300 rifles missing from Army depot near @Bajorország border
Emperor Paul announces address to Imperial Assembly next week
Chagny airport to receive major 300 Billion Franc update

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Mystery of the disappearance of famous explorer, circumnavigator, Jacques Nicollet answered- almost 400 years later

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Frankish researchers in Pelasgia, researching medieval trade, stumbled upon a curious letter in the national archives. The letter, dated 1548, noted that the explorer's ship La Cerf put into a small coastal post near Edessa in October. Historically, he and his crew were believed lost during their voyage- Nicolette's second attempt at circumnavigation. The letter, intended for the Frankish ambassador to the Pelasgian court, appears to not have been delivered. It reads:

"Your excellence, please take heed that we will not be making landfall in Propontis as was planned. The circumstances of the voyage require us to refill with water here and to obtain cordage. Please excuse me for I have placed the debts for these stores in your name- no doubt the crown will cover. The debt is about 11 silver pieces and 1 gold piece. We will be making for the Meridian in the morning and immediately back to Lauchelle.

Your servant,
Nicolette"

Nicolette, who circumnavigated in 1537, was one of the first to accomplish the feat. He is noted for describing primarily peoples he encountered rather than geographic details- though his 1539 map was well regarded. His book- On the World's Peoples gained notoriety and was translated into at least 4 languages. Nicolette is now believed to have perished in the Meridian despite resupplying and taking on supplies. It remains unclear why the letter was never delivered. The Holy Frankish Empire largely had eschewed much of the exploration fervor but still partook in several ventures during the exploration age.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Emperor Paul reportedly considering recognition, support for Bourdignique
Chagny

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Emperor Paul is reportedly considering stating the Empire's formal recognition of Bourdignique. The act would follow several nations who have already recognized Bourdignie. Earlier this week, His Imperial Majesty noted that "a certain unity of the Frankish people needs to be maintained, I think. There are a lot of culture links beyond language. Bourdignie has many links to the Empire of old. In modern times, there are a lot of connections that are still there". The move would represent a clear shift in policy as the Emperor only recently offered to hold negotiations in Chagny.

"A shift like this would signal two things. First, the Empire will stand by its Frankish brothers and sisters. Second, the Empire is willing to make concessions in its own agenda" said a Moniteur analyst. Some are questioning the reports; noting that the Emperor has deep ties with Kispest and many exports head Eastward. Emperor Paul has been criticized lately for being weak on foreign policy and has been accused as being apathetic. Supporters have countered that His Imperial Majesty has been exceptionally successful in his foreign economic agenda.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Imperial Congress Called. Reasons Unknown

Since the merging of what are now known as the "Constituent States" of the Empire, an Imperial Congress has been called from time to time. A regular occurrence for nearly 600 years, the Imperial Congress was originally known as the "Conseil". As the Empire became increasingly centralized, the meetings became fewer and fewer in frequency. Imperial Law still requires a full meeting of members every 10 years.

However, it seems that His Imperial Majesty has requested a meeting out of the blue. Many speculations are abound from a broad imperial policy change to even more wild claims that the Emperor will step down. The Imperial Palace has remained silent on the issue and has reportedly asked leaders of Constituent States to do the same. Members of the Empire's legislature, the Imperial Assembly, have officially requested a statement from the Emperor regarding the call for a Congress. "We simply need to be informed. Not only as elected representatives of the Empire, but simply as concerned public servants" said Assembly member Andre Tolmet. The requests have all been denied by the Imperial Palace which has led to anger among Assembly members and some members of the public.

Headlines

OstBank, FrankBank subsidiary, opens further 300 branches in @Ostmark despite lawsuit. Bringing total of branches to nearly 600
Imperial Health Board says that it will "crack down" on potentially harmful weight loss drugs that are "unproven and untested"
Imperial Air Force, Moineau Aviation say that they are "courting partners" for creation of next generation fighter aircraft. Potential partners rumored to include @Great Engellex or @Eiffelland

 

[Rheinbund]

Streng geheim — Strictement confidentiel — Top secret

Raimer & Rathenau Flugzeugwerke
Rathenau Militärausrüstung
Trier, Eiffelland

We are working on an integrated air defence system in which a 6th generation fighter will take an important role. We currently call this system

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. We are working on this system in cooperation with the Eiffellandian air force. It is obvious that such a project is easier to conduct when more partners are involved, so we would indeed like to discuss with the Imperial Air Forced and Moineau Aviation whether we can cooperate.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Emperor Paul says that the Imperial system was "Reaffirmed" in Imperial Congress meeting
Chagny

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Despite the criticisms, it seems that the Imperial system currently in place will continue into the future. The meeting was reportedly called as a "health check" on the condition of the system. With multiple nations, the Holy Frankish Empire has struggled to find a democratic and fair balance. The Congress was reportedly called by the Emperor himself. Sources claim that the integrity of the system was discussed a well as several Imperial initiatives to give the constituent nations of the Empire a greater voice. "We have reaffirmed that we are part of a greater system" said the Emperor. "We recognize that there is more than an empire at play. We see that we are part of a living organism. All the parts are working together to drive this organism forward. There is no road forward without this level of unity. It is a unity of the Frankish peoples for our future. It is not a question of now, it is a question of what world we shall leave for future generations" the Emperor concluded.


Headlines
Police in Arches make 23 arrests in human trafficking sting
Schools in Lanfeldt dismissed over grading scandal investigation
Bridge collapse in Lambey kills 3 as military exercises put stress on road infrastructure
Alfred Neuzen to be recognized with life noble title for work with poetry
low attendance threatens Frankish hockey league

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

"Bourdignique is and always will be Frankish" says the Emperor as he announces Operation Le Coq. Military ordered to occupy historically Frankish lands to "safeguard" from "International puppetry". No-Fly Zone ordered over Bourdignie. "Will not fire first" says Emperor.

Promises of "Domestic Autonomy as a Constituent Nation"

Warning to other nations "Do not allow this to become a war".

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This morning at 0500, the Emperor announced that the Empire's military has been ordered to occupy historically Frankish lands in Bourdignie. Several thousand troops headed to the border to cross into Bourdignie from their positions just west of the border. "The Empire is moving to stop Bourdignie from being used as a puppet. We are the safeguard for the Franks there and are only acting against international puppetry". The Emperor continued to state that Imperial Forces "Will not, under any circumstance except to preserve life, fire first. War will only occur if we are fired upon. There is no need for violent action against what is a just and righteous action" he said. "Bourdinique is and always will be Frankish. It is time that the people enjoy true stability and freedom. Bourdinique will not only act as its own nation within the system of Imperial nations, but will receive the full benefits and freedoms accorded to member nations" he said. "Domestic autonomy as a constituent nation is the only answer against this puppetry".

"If nations whom claim to have these peoples at their guard wish to avoid war, they should consider that we are not afraid of negotiation. We are not afraid of the weight of peace. We are only acting in the interest of our own people and for the security of Freedom. Do not allow this to become a war against liberty. If this is the path they choose, it is the path they have chosen. We choose the path of peace and liberty"

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Web version

Mobilization orders sent out as other nations consider aggressive response, warns of devastation

As multiple nations mobilize and consider an all out war, the Emperor announced today that the Imperial Forces would undergo full mobilization. The inactive reserve has also been mobilized with a conscription possible for next week. The Emperor railed against "foreign intervention" in what he called "a regional dispute over the identity of a population". The Emperor urged nations to "consider the implications of an all-out an likely global war" over the concept of Frankish unity and "protecting a cultural identity". Today, the Imperial Dragoon regiment paraded for the traditional mobilization call through the streets of Chagny.

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Additionally, multiple vintage propaganda posters have spontaneously appeared throughout the Empire. The Emperor has cautioned against too strong of rhetoric noting that "we will not be the first to fire a shot in anger. Simply put, what happens next is not up to me nor the Empire. It is up to those who would treat Bourdignique as a play thing".

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A poster appearing at the Imperial University


Around 1,000 showed up for an anti-war rally in Arches last night and more are planned across the Empire this week.

 

[Rheinbund]

Auswärtiges Amt — Bureau étranger
Trier, Königreich Eiffelland — Trèves, Royaume d' Eiffellande

We have full understanding for the Emperor's concerns regarding the well-being of Francophone people living in other countries than the Holy Frankish Empire; however, we do not think that first annexing Bourdignie and then making it free again is the correct way to help Bourdignie. We are open to negotiations on the future of Bourdignie.

Dr. Norbert Schmelzer, Minister of Foreign Affairs

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Imperial Foreign Ministry
To: Dr. Schmelzer, Foreign Minister

I have been instructed by His Imperial Majesty to extend to you an invitation to talks in Chagny immediately. Representatives from @San Jose and @Guienny will also be invited. This will be a closed door meeting among leaders and/or their representatives. It is of the most urgent nature that these matters are discussed quickly and decisively. We have no desire to see a conflict which will bury the continent in ashes and misery for the next decade.

Regards,
Andre Bodin
Foreign Minister

 

[Rheinbund]

Auswärtiges Amt — Bureau étranger
Trier, Königreich Eiffelland — Trèves, Royaume d' Eiffellande

Cher Ministre Bodin,

Thank you for the invitation. I will fly to Chagny immediately.

Dr. Norbert Schmelzer, Minister of Foreign Affairs

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Peace arrives as pro and anti-Imperial voices begin to find their audiences ahead of referendum.

A peace deal was reached among representatives of the various governments including the Holy Frankish Empire and Eiffelland. Reportedly, Presidente Costanza and the Tsar contributed greatly to the final deal being reaching; with El Presidente being one of the key authors. The text of the peace deal has not yet been made public but an Imperial Press Release has stated that territories in Western Bourdignie would participate in "a free and open referendum to decide on the future of the Patois regions". The referendum has been set for November 15th and will be facilitated by Frankish and Patois authorities. Observers will be given limited access and Imperial authorities have reportedly stated that they will be on high alert to dissuade violence at voting centers.

Already, some Patois have begun protests by closing shops and not showing up to work. Meanwhile, anti-Imperial press are greatly exaggerating the level of protests and are attempting to show a breakdown of general services. "This is simply not the case" said Pierre Bachelu, a Patois representative. "Though there are numbers who are protesting in various manners, it seems most Patois continue to go about their everyday lives" he said. A pro-Frankish demonstration is expected throughout Patois regions tomorrow and is expecting to draws 10s of thousands. Early estimates show that around 40% of Patois support integration into the Empire while a further 20% remain undecided. "It is deeply troubling that fellow Patois still want to be puppets and would threaten essential services by these protests" said Bachelu. The Imperial military is attempting to pick up much of the slack by opening military field hospitals and even collecting garbage in some regions. In Eiffelland, many are boycotting Frankish goods and services. "There are many Frankish owned businesses that will suffer. That is true. But what is worse is that the Frankish owned factories employ Eiffellanders. They are the ones to suffer" said Maurice Perec, a Foreign Trade Association spokesman.

A full proposal for integration is expected later today from the Imperial Council and the Emperor is expected to visit several cities.

Bureaucratic chaos ahead of demobilization

As the Empire has started to demobilize in small numbers, it has become clear that the system is deeply flawed. Despite orders to the contrary, many soldiers are continuing to report to muster stations or regimental headquarters, only to be sent home. "We are facing a problem. Many reservists are still deployed and the active military is still in the process of reshuffling their dispersion. In fact, there are several thousand reservists still in Patois territories" said an anonymous source.

The mobilization seemed to go comparatively smoothly with the system for mobilization working well. However, the Imperial Defense Forces lack a plan for de-mobilization. "They thought of everything on the front end but did not consider the back end" said the source. "We are watching reservists in limbo. Entire units without a system to demobilize. It is annoying to say the least" concluded the source

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

10's of thousands of pro-Imperial demonstrators take to the streets in Patois cities. Crown offers integration plan for the "Patois Republic"
Versoix

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Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets of major Patois cities to show support for integration. In Versoix alone, an estimated 50,000 took over Place de Beauchamp. In other cities, the view was similar as pro-Imperial demonstrators seem to double the independence turnout. This seems to be in-line with initial polling speculations. Police have cracked down hard on violence but fortunately, there seems to have been little. Imperial troops have mostly stayed away from the demonstrations, instead allowing local police to maintain order. The narrative of mass strikes and service closures continues to be overstated as shops and services appear to be mostly uninterrupted.

This morning, the Imperial Assembly released part of its proposed integration plan.

1. The region would be added to the Imperial System as the Patois Republic; as a constituent state.
2. The Republic would maintain domestic control and will receive special status within the bounds of Imperial laws.
3. An Imperial tax exemption would be imposed pursuant to Article 78 of the Tax Code.
4. Citizens of the region would receive full Imperial Citizenship
5. The Imperial Government would, under this plan:
A. Triple the region's education budget
B. Make funding available to fully modernize hospitals
C. Creation of a rural development fund of 92 Billion Francs
D. Reorganization of low-income assistance and access to Imperial Service Funds
6. Domestic elections to take place every 5 years for the Republic senate.

The integration plan has been hailed by demonstrators who point out that the previous governments had totally failed to deliver on promises and funding. Further pointing out that education was terribly underfunded. Some have called the integration plan "a cheap ploy" and have accused it as being an attempt to buy off the people. Others have pointed out that these are the steps that previous governments should have taken anyway. Another day of National Demonstration has been scheduled for Friday as the Emperor is reportedly set to visit the region this weekend.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

More details reveal peace conference conclusion

More details have been provided to Le Moniteur regarding the Chagny peace conference. According to sources, Dr. Schmelzer of @Eiffelland proposed a referendum which was thoroughly rejected by the Emperor. Sources reveal that despite the open invitation to all parties, only one representative of the Patois was in attendance. One source revealed that the representative (whose identity is not known) was coldly received by others. It seems that there was no acceptance of the Patois voice within the meeting. Additionally, the Emperor received much support from the Tsar who helped back the Frankish case. Sources further indicate that Presidente Costanza acted as a primary driver and author of the peace agreement. The Imperial spokesman declined to confirm or deny any of the aforementioned events but went on to say that the conference was "most gentlemanly in nature and was done with sincerity among most parties".

The revelations bring light to what many considered, initially, to be a forlorn mission of peace. There has been much silence from the Palace since the conclusion of talks. However, it appears that there will be a peace. The referendum could potentially result in an independent arena or a new integration to the Empire. With only around 20% of Patois in clear opposition to integration, the question remains as to what the undecided 25% will do come voting. Other questions include the fate of the Germanic people within the region who will also be voting in the referendum.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Massive spending bill introduced in Imperial Assembly
100s of billions of Francs earmarked for a potential integration of the Patois regions. Education. Military.

This morning, a massive spending bill was introduced by key members of the Orange Party. The spending bill would raise the funds through a combination of a special 1-time tax, government bonds, and budgetary surplus. The plan calls for huge investments in both the military and education as well as funds for a potentially integrated Patois Republic. The push by Orange Party leadership represents a distinct shift as the Orange Party's relationship has been anything but war.

The education spending would upgrade school infrastructure, invest in computer technology classes, and pay for new teachers. According to the bill's text, the education spending would be tightly controlled by the assembly to ensure that Imperial funds do not get redirected by constituent nations. The education funding is set to coincide with new Imperial education standards- which actually place more responsibility on constituent nations in terms of oversight. Among the programs to be supported is the Future Sciences and Technology Program, to teach Frankish children about the relationship between computers and science.

The military spending is meant to "further modernize and develop the Imperial forces into the world's most efficient military tool". The spending also included mention of the new Project F4X7 aircraft- the indigenous Frankish fighter program for a 6th gen fighter.

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As a stop gap, the funds also authorize the lease and purchase of aircraft from Tarusa. Most of the military funding appears to be for non-combat military needs but much information was redacted from the bill's public text. Orange Party members criticized their leadership as they have repeatedly stated being against the funding of any major projects or overhauls.

Among the funds which would, potentially, go to an integrated Patois Republic are funds for both education and healthcare in the region. "We recognize that about 1/4 of people in the region are against integration. Yet, we also realize only a 1/4 of schools have sufficient funding or staffing. We know that just over 1/4 of hospitals have stated they lack necessities. We aim to fix that and other things" said a party spokesperson.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Eiffelland's Dangerous Game
OP ED by Francois Le Tuc

Eiffelland has set about a dangerous precedent. While many can, and perhaps should, point fingers at the Frankish handling of things; nobody seems overtly concerned with the environment and tone being set by others. Namely, the self appointed 'voice of democracy'. Yet, Eifelland has done nothing but pursue anti-democratic measures and brought the world to the brink- only to hold its hands up and shrug so they may play the innocent. Is this the true way that we were taught by the Padres and Sisters in schools? Not here, at least. However, this seems to be the modus operandi of our neighbor.

Eiffelland's methods are pure and simple- pretend to be a democracy that is the protector of freedom. Yet, the track record remains dubious at best. Eiffelland acted as some manner of imperial puppet in Bourdignie. Carving out its interests and foisting themselves on Bourdignie as some sort of savior. Despite it being clear to all that they simply were there out of interest rather than the ideals they proclaim. Troops. Intentions to build a new fleet. The game of imperialism is a dangerous one. One that Eiffelland has played oh so poorly for a nation attempting to sit by on an ivory tower; acting as the deliverer of peace and good will.

Look no further than Al-Magrab. What is Eiffelland doing? Nation building? If you consider bare colonial measures as nation building, then yes. The referendum is a joke. If Eiffelland were truly concerned with a love of democracy; what manner of democracy is it when Eiffelland offers those in Al Magrab a chance to remain a colony? Is that an action of a nation out for democracy? It is far more sinister. Simply put, Eiffelland has wooed and tricked the EF into buying into the ivory image. We see this as a hallow image and yet, so few call out the nation.

Readers in Eiffelland will counter with the age-old "what about" strategy. Sure. Valid. Sometimes. The Patois have an option of being integrated into the Empire. Not as a colony. But as a free nation. We are looking at situations as different as a horse and a cow. Sure. They both have 4 legs. They both are animals. But they are integrally different.

Sure. Eiffelland is giving the people a democratic referendum. But what manner of nation, that proclaims its commitment to democracy, even considers having a colonial puppet? Sure, the people of Al Magrab may become independent if they so choose. But Eiffelland's troops will occupy the nation until 2023. OR. Independence in 2022 AND be a client state- forced into an alliance with Eiffelland. Some real democracy right there! Its not really suprising to those who have paid attention. Eiffelland's moves have become less and less subtle. The nation has rapidly become the most colonial of colonizers. Yes, the people of Al Magrab may vote for an "Other" option in which they achieve full independence without occupation. BUT. Why? Why is this not a primary option? Here it is ladies and gentlemen. The clearest evidence that democracy takes a backseat to Eiffellander interests. Standing with one hand raised holding a beacon of democracy and the other clawing for colonial glory, Eiffelland's game leads us all into dangerous waters.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Referendum "essential" for future of Western Bourdignie says Emperor

As referendum preparations continue, the Emperor has been on a lengthy tour of the region and has been meeting with local leaders to understand their concerns and the challenges they are facing. The Empress, meanwhile, has been visiting schools and farms to understand the daily challenges felt by the populace.

In a brief press conference, the Emperor reiterated the need for dialogue and discussion. "The referendum is essential. The Patois have a clear choice. Most of them are clearly in favor of integration" he said. Critics have pointed out that over a quarter of the population of the region are undecided; something the Emperor noted. "We know some people are unsure. We hope they vote with their conscious" the Emperor said. Several questions were directed at the Emperor, including funding. "If they choose integration, we want to put them on their best footing. Unfortunately, many services have been woefully underfunded. We hope to correct that if given the opportunity" he said. The Emperor was asked about relations with Eiffelland. "At the end of the day we need to recognize two things. First, Eiffelland is our neighbor. The economic and cultural ties cannot be ignored. Second, we must recognize the agenda. Eiffelland's actions are like the colonial powers of old. They operate under the guise of spreading and defending democracy. And yet, we see the opposite with their own referendum they have offered. It has confirmed what we have known. EF Mandates were colonies. Under a "democratic" cloak".



Ostbank continues expansion of services

OstBank, a FrankBank subsidiary, has continued to grow in Ostmark; opening another 75 branches. "Nearly all of our employees are from Ostmark" said a spokeswoman. The number of branches have continued to grow as Ostmark has strengthened its new national foundations. Despite a lawsuit languishing in Ostmark's courts over the OstBank trademark, FrankBank has continued to invest in its subsidiary. "OstBank will be operating at near complete independence in the coming years. While FrankBank is our parent bank, OstBank will maintain its distinct character" concluded the spokeswoman.

OstBank will begin hosting private client services to the general public next month and will additionally begin issuance of credit cards alongside the already available debit cards. OstBank says that it is vying to expand partnerships with the government and is even considering bigger operations outside of Ostmark.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

An interview with Emperor Paul

Le Moniteur TV was fortunate enough to snag His Imperial Majesty for an in-depth interview regarding democracy, the situation in Bourdignie, and the future of the Empire. Dominique Durand sat down with Emperor Paul to discuss the ever developing swirl of politics and challenge His Majesty with some difficult questions. Le Moniteur online has provided the transcript below in its full form.

Dominique: Thank you, your Majesty, for this opportunity.

HIM: My pleasure, thank you.

Dominique: So, your Majesty, let me begin by posing a tough question. The narrative that some are painting of the Frankish nation is that it is a threat to democracy. It is acting with an imperialist will. Indeed, you yourself have been accused of opposing democracy. How would you respond to those accusations?

HIM: Well, its nonsense really. First, I love democracy. I cherish the institutions we have. I believe in the system that we have established. Like any system ehrm, there are flaws. Yet, it is a wonderful thing to see it working as it should. We have prided ourselves in extending a hand to democracies. Look no further than Ostmark. We were among the first to come to their aid. We provided mass investment. We assumed their natural gas debt. We have done all we can to ensure that Ostmark is successful. Hardly the actions of an anti-democratic nation.

Dominique: Yet, you and the government have been accused of imperialist actions against a democracy.

HIM: Bourdignie's institutions were bridled from the beginning. Facts are facts. Eiffelland's actions are far more imperialist than most. Look no further than Al Magrab. They proclaim they love democracy and champion it. Yet, the referendum options are frankly......a joke. Most options force them into some kind of client status. Where is the love of democracy in that? Our own referendum gives people the option to join the Empire as equals or to seek independence. Something most seem to support. About a quarter are openly against joining. And another quarter undecided. Yet, in Al Magrab we see a play against democracy. It is rather sad.

Dominique: Is it not problematic that Eiffelland rejects this narrative?

HIM: Not at all. They may publicly reject the truth. But it is hard to deny facts. Their actions are fact. Bourdignie was being used. It was a mere launchpad for Eiffelland's ambitions. They act with impunity; sending troops to this place or that place. Most people see through the veil. Eiffelland wishes to act one way and be viewed another. At least, we are honest to ourselves. The narrative Eiffelland has weaved just doesnt make sense. Even in places like the AP of Versoix is picking up one such part of their narrative. Every competent polling shows about half of Patois wishing to join the Empire. About a quarter, as mentioned, undecided. Yet, they report massive strikes. Massive disruptions in services. Go there. See for yourself. Surely, there have been some disruptions. But the narrative doesn't make sense. Go to Versoix. See the reality. People are out and about. People are reporting for work. The narrative Eiffelland is pushing is, frankly, sad. It is almost undemocratic. They even are forcing a narrative that our proposed education investments are propaganda. The education system is not without flaws. It has staffing issues. Students need access to technology. It is yet another attempt by Eiffelland to save face.

Dominique: So the referendum is set for November 15th. Can we expect fair and open voting?

HIM: Of course. It is important to me that the Patois voice their true opinions. We have worked very hard with local authorities to make sure that polling places will be free of violence and intimidation. It is important the the region has true freedom to exercise their voice. It is important people realize that this will be open and completely fair- no matter what spin some are trying to put on things.

Dominique: Some have accused you of wanting to reunite the Frankish peoples. All of them. What is your response?

HIM: We are already united. Through culture and values. The narrative that we wish to annex every Frank inhabited land is nonsense. It is fear mongering at its best. It simply is not of interest to the Empire. We as a nation of many nations are not out to simply collect new members. The idea is lunacy.

Dominique: Where is the line then? In terms of imperial expansion?

HIM: Ask the imperialist leaders. Like in Eiffelland. We have no colonies. The Queen Emma Isles voted in 1998 to remain a constituent state. The Patois have their choice. We only hope for peace and prosperity. Not some new imperial era.

Dominique: What would you say the Empire's role is in the world, currently?

HIM: I would say that would depend on if you look at facts or not. The Empire has supported numerous democracies. It has protected its own democratic institutions. Are we the most democratic nation? No. But we are hardly the boogeyman that some would have you believe. The Empire's role is to extend our hand. Build upon hard-won partnerships. Bridge gaps. And be a beacon of truth and justice. That is our mission.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Police crackdown on vices

Across the Empire, Imperial and national police forces have begun an operation this week to curb illicit drug usage, prostitution, and illegal gambling. Police launched the operation in secret on Monday. Thus far, over 700 arrests have been made. "We have made numerous large drug seizures over the last 48 hours" said a spokeswoman of the Arches Police Service. The operation is to continue through the week and will specifically target human trafficking and organized crime.

"It has been made very clear by Imperial law enforcement that this operation is a national one; aimed at combatting vices and organized crime throughout the Empire" said the spokeswoman. Last month, police made headlines as they arrest key members of the Frankish mafia following an 8-year long investigation.

Imperial Patriotic Bonds to be available Monday

In an effort to raise funds to improve the state of Imperial military forces, the Imperial Government will begin issuing bonds to the public on Monday. The scheme will include 3 levels of bonds and a youth bond. The youth bond will be available to groups of school children who wish to buy into a high yield-low cost bond. A 100 Franc youth bond will be available at a 40% return after 3 years. The program will be trotted out among numerous spending bills as an alternative payment method for some already expensive programs. The Imperial Government notes that it is holding no expectations on the program but says it has the potential to raise billions to help with the proposed military expansion.

Frankish companies based in Eiffelland begin planning exodus

Since the recent move to semi-boycott Frankish products, Frankish companies and factories in Eiffelland look to move elsewhere. Many have already begun to file paperwork as the raw discrimination sets in. Thousands of jobs are poised to potentially leave Eiffelland in wake of the new buying habits. Many factories are reportedly planning to relocate to Ostmark, where the educated and skill workforce offers many advantages. Some companies are planning to return to the Empire. Many other companies and factories are awaiting the results of the referendum in Bourdignie; eager to take advantage of proposed tax incentives for relocating to the region. "We simply cannot continue to produce here" says factory owner Clement Pinault. "We face the boycotted products. Demand at the auto factories is down. Which means our product is simply in less demand" he said, sourly. "At the end of the day, Eiffellander sensitivity is simply going to cost Eiffellander jobs" he concluded.

 

[Rheinbund]

Auswärtiges Amt — Bureau étranger
Trier, Königreich Eiffelland — Trèves, Royaume d' Eiffellande

Public statement

We cannot overlook the notion that Le Moniteur Universel has lost a lot of its brilliance, given the uncritical show-off of an interview with the emperor that it recently published.

We have to conclude that His Imperial Majesty is voicing lie after lie when it comes to Bourdignie. Again: We went to Boudignie upon request, after Bourdignie freed itself from Kovács. In contrast, the Imperial Army took everybody by negative surprise by just marching in. Without consulting anybody in Bourdignie. The Imperial Army marched into a country that was recovering from a war situation, and put that country under the strain of yet another war situation. Those are the facts. Nothing else.
And for the education system in Bourdignie, again, the situation was not as bad as initially suggested by His Imperial Majesty when he promised a triplication of the educational budget. Indeed, the system was not flawless, but His Imperial Majesty’s initial suggestion that education was a disaster in Bourdignie is preposterous and a lie.
Apart from that, we were also preparing an economic aid package for Bourdignie. The difference is, that in a real democracy like Eiffelland the experts first look at where the money is needed, and then looks at where the money comes from. We are not the people of great gestures that in the end only look great. We want to make sure that our actions have the desired effect, instead of making great promises that either we cannot hold or lead to serious consequences elsewhere. Like for instance: Where is His Imperial Majesty going to get the money he wants to give to the Bourdigniens from? Is he going to economise on the Empire’s health care system or educational budget? Or on social security in the Empire? Or is he going to borrow 100 billion Euromarks, increasing the Empire’s national budget?
His Imperial Majesty clearly enjoys the benefits granted to him by the Empire’s pseudodemocracy filled with yes-men. That pseudodemocracy gives him the power to buy his popularity with great gestures in front of the cameras while covering up the consequences of his great gestures on locations where the press does not come. And the real problem for the Imperials is, that they cannot vote their Emperor out of office. In a real democracy, the people simply vote for a new government when the current government does a bad job. The people in the HFE don’t have the possibility to vote the emperor out of office when he appears to be a good-looking but hollow hull.

Dr. Norbert Schmelzer, Minister of Foreign Affairs