Zardugal

National news threads that host the key national news outlets for each of the game’s countries.

Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Tue Aug 11, 2009 5:34 am

Zardic World Report
XX Edition

The Kostandian Government Marches Onward
11th, July 2799


By: Matt Reynolds,
Editor at Large for Z.W.R.


The Directorate has been in a flurry over a recent uptick on the domestic docket in the legislature as well as the increasing executive orders being issues from the Director-General and Director of State. Two major initiatives have been pushed forward this week that effects most all people in the Federation. The Realist Party and F.R.P. united to successfully rid all legal precedent for unions and strikes. As well, both have re-affirmed their commitment to a vast expansion of the Federations infrastructure which was recently rated at a B- average by the DoSH.

With the recent executive orders that have seen the Federation of Zardugal more than quadruple its size the Government has been bogged down with putting together the final pieces to the method in which the Federated Colonies of the Zardic Federation shall be administered. No senior-level official has been willing to discuss any details, always citing the sensitive nature of the matter for abstaining from comment. It is unknown at this time as to what impact the enormous gains made by Director-General Kostandian, Director of State Morgan and most significantly Foreign Minister Gordon Balfour will have on Zardugal proper.

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Foreign Minister Balfour Discussing the Gains in Namviet, Squibble and Dovani.

As always the Foreign Ministry has been as busy as ever. The official record of meetings published this past week is exhaustive. Deputy-Directors and Ministers we're all across Terra conducting state business. Deputy Director of the Finance Ministry Caleb Vanderbilt was in Vanuku involved in the ongoing initiatives to normalize economic, diplomatic and military aims with the Federations neighbor to the North. Deputy Director of Internal Affairs David Mencken was in Keymon inspecting the completed naval yards that per agreements reached with Director of State Morgan and the governments of Keymon and Zardugal shall be able to house one full combat fleet at all times; with full support staff. Black Leopard Security was also hired by the Keymon government for security needs as well as training exercises; it is unknown if Mr. Mencken was there on B.L.S. affairs.

Deputy Director of Foreign Affairs G. Wilburn Morgan was in Luthori per special request from the Luthorian government due to the uptick in domestic turbulence in the electorate. Given the close relations the Zardic Government and Luthori have this has been a vital piece of work given special attention this week by all Directors and Executives in the Federation. While giving an interview to reporters former Director-General Gould and current Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff and Field Marshall of the Axis made both the Axis and Zardugal's position clear in its unwavering support for the Union within Luthori. It is unconfirmed however, a senior-level official working for the Director-General has confirmed that plans are underway to host a formal state visit in Zardugal for the Luthorian government and the fellow allies of the Federation; no other comment or information was available.

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Directorate Observes a Moment of Silence in Honor of Emperor Franz IV

Despite what many here in the press expected out of the Federal-Republicans in response to various members of the Hulstrian government branding the very mutual enemies they share republicans in a contemptible tone. This came on the heels of Director-General Kostandian having met with the newest Generals in the Axis. Most pundits predicted the temperamental Kostandian would through some proxy vent his frustrations or at a minimum see them heard but, no such thing happened. Upon news of the tragedy of the passing of Emperor Franz IV the Director-General issued an Executive Order recognizing the day mark a 12 day period of recognition across the Federation; all flags were to be flown at half-mast as well as a moment of silence across Zardugal was observed. This is the first time the Federation has formally given such an honor to any monarch.

There have been rumors of increased activity at the Ministry of Defense and the Director-General's offices given the events in Luthori and now the Kalopia and Kafuristan situation. On the latter issue the Press Secretary for the D.G. went on the record, "…The Zardic government stands by the Aristocrat family. Our interests are vast and deep in Kafuristan and there can be no civil war in Kafuristan when the nation holds such a vital commodity that this nation and many others rely on. Stability must be maintained." In respect to military action in response to the electorate issues within Luthori, it was leaked to the Z.W.R. that the visit by Deputy Director of the Interior to Keymon was actually a precursor to dispatching the fleet at port to mobilize near Luthori. The government denies any knowledge of this report.
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby bucsfan47 » Fri Aug 21, 2009 4:17 am

Zardic World Report
XXI Edition

May 2805
Realist Party Officials Called to Belgae for Emergency Meeting

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The Board from Left to Right, Stone, Macleod, Cheviot



Today in Belgae, Top Realist Party officials met at Realist Party Headquarters in a closed meeting. Edward Morgan and Defense Minister Wayne Kent was there. They did not stop to give comment upon entering the building which was strange especially of Morgan. After 7 hours the meeting seemed to come to a close as many people left in what seemed to be a rage. Soon after a Realist Party staffer came out and spoke to us.

“Hello Ladies and Gentlemen, today is a momentous day for the Federation. The Realist Party well be undergoing some changes. From this point on we will be known as the United Alliance. We will be lead by a board of 3 officials known as Administrators. They will decide on key issues. The first 3 council members will be Ragnar Cheviot… Magnus Macleod.. and Griffin Stone. The Board’s first act is to release these three statement.
First, External Relations will not change. This means that we will continue immense cooperation with The Federal Republicans, we are happy to see that there are once again Kostandians and Rawlins’ back in the cabinet. No Families have been more of an asset to the Federation than these two great dynasties. We will also continue cooperation and work with The Axis. The Board looks forward to meeting with officials from the Constitutional Imperial League, The Liberal Democratic Party, Republican Elitist Party and the Fascist Authority Party . In these trying times the Board wishes that there were more organizations out there like these who would provide stability and direction as well as they do.
Secondly, concerning former Director of State Morgan, he has decided to step aside peacefully and will be retiring away to a home in Dovani, that is all that the Board can say at this moment about him.
Third, We invite you all to United Alliance Convention which will be held later in the year. Thank you for your time Ladies and Gentleman, The United Alliance wishes you the best of luck.

Belgae has been in total shock for much of the week. Why the sudden change? The Realist Party seemed to be one of the most stable Parties ever seen in Zardugal. There seems to be a public outcry for more information, though all questions that have been sent in to United Alliance headquarters have yet to be answered.
Utinam barbari spatium proprium tuum invadant!
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby bucsfan47 » Sat Aug 22, 2009 7:48 pm

Zardic World Report
XXII Edition

United Alliance Convention Spectacular

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March 2806-- Unkassa,Zardugal-- The first United Alliance Convention was a stunning success. United Alliance voters and high ranking party officials gathered in Wentworth, Unkassa--a UA Voter stronghold-- and devoted an entire week to glorification of the party and to laying out plans for the future. There were speeches by nearly every senior official in the United Alliance from Magnus Macleod who spoke about the Internal needs of the Federation to Goren James who spoke about United Alliance plans for education reform. DIrector of State Ragnar Cheviot also called for a summit of top United Alliance Officials and Top ranking members of The Federal Republican Party in the spirit of cooperation and continued prosperity. It is rumored that 100 year old Bruce Kent the First Director of State would make an appearance if such a summit was to take place.

The 2nd to last day was devoted entirely to United Alliance work with The Axis. Congratulations were given out to new Axis Member nations and parties, and a reaffirmed commitment to the Axis was laid out. Also announced was that alleged Realist Party paramilitary wing Black Leopard Security would come under the direct control of Senior Board Member Griffin Stone. Stone released a statement saying that BLS and its opearations would remain as they are, and he promised to be a hands-off investor.

If the year gone by and this convention is any indication of things to come then we should expect to see a stable United Alliance around for a decades and centuries more.
Utinam barbari spatium proprium tuum invadant!
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Sun Aug 30, 2009 2:35 am

Zardic National News
I Edition
March, 2805


Breaking News: D.G. Gould Passes Away; A Nation Mourns
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Former Director Vernon T. Gould passed away this morning at 11:24AM ZST at his home in Red Creek, Saqueya. Official reports indicate that the former Director-General and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff died of natural causes and experienced no pain. Director-General Gould was survived by his wife Michelle of 57 years who passed away six-months to the day. Mr. and Mrs. Gould had two children, Bethany Rothchild and Vernon Gould Jr. Mr. Gould's only living brother is currently suffering from late-term Alzheimer's disease.

The Federation of Zardugal has lost one of its most influential and respected citizens. Upon the news Director-General Kostandian issued an executive order that all flags on all public buildings to be flown at half-mass until further notice and the legislative session was dismissed for the remainder of the week. Memorial services have been pre-arranged and General Gould will receive a full state and military funeral next Tuesday.

Director-General Kostandian IV spoke briefly to members of the press shortly after the announcement was made. "What can I really say? There isn't a citizen of the Federation who doesn't know Vernon, what he stood for. . .his generosity, kindness and steely vision upon the future. Vernon was a career military man, his entire life was dedicated to protecting our nation. He could have walked away from the public life, and lord know he was more than tempted to do so. Though a true patriot, as he was, heard the calls of the people of Zardugal and served a commendable twenty-three years as Director-General, my successor, mentor and friend."

"General Gould wasn't only my mentor and friend, there is scarcely a member of the executive or legislative branch of this government who hasn't come to know Vernon; not to mention all the foreign leaders and members of the Axis. Truly, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Director-General of this Federation and Field Marshall of the Axis Alliance. He was brought up politically under the wings of the legendary statesman Edward Rawlins, he was Chief Advisor to Director-General Rothchild. A dear and close friend with Director of States Kent and Edward Morgan. . ."

"You will forgive me for I am at a loss of words. I would in closing like to extend my wishes to Bethany and Vernon Jr. your father was one of a kind and he loved you two so very much. No doubt at the memorial services the world and this nation will show without question his debt of respect and gratitude for having such a larger than life man in the service of our nation."
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Mon Sep 07, 2009 2:57 am

Zardic World Report
XXIII Edition

Federation and Z.E.G. Announce Major New Oil Reserve Discoveries
14th, December, 2804


By: Kelly Johnson,
Staff Journalist for Z.W.R.


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Some of ZEG's Offshore Platforms off the coast of Ieffreon

Velvastre Energy Group (V.E.G.) announced a major new oil find off the south-west coasts of Federated Vascania south of the Manion Military District, the latest in a string of discoveries there that cements the offshore waters of southern Federated Vascania as one of the oil world's most promising exploration regions.

VEG said its Faradise prospect, about 200 miles due south of Port Morgan, M.M.D., is a "giant." The field is estimated to contain six billion barrels of oil, although only a fraction of that may ever be extracted, spokesman Daren Chaplin said.

VEG is already the biggest producer in the South Ocean off the coasts of Majatra and the south of Vascania proper, pumping the oil and natural gas equivalent of 1,200,000 barrels in the region a day.

This discovery comes from the direct calls from the Ministry of Trade and Finance to explore all the newly acquired Federated Domains of Zardugal. Several oil companies within Zardugal and from across Terra have expressed an interest in the rights to explore the area and to buy off swaths of lands or to invest. Minister E.W. Rawlins Jr. of the Trade and Industry department said all such questions should be forward to his offices or the Foreign Ministry for the time being.

As new technologies have enabled exploration in the deepest recesses of the waters off the coasts of Majatra, Squibble, Vascania and Dovani, nearly a dozen discoveries, including V.E.G's Faradise, have been made beneath nearly two miles of water. Indeed, a Velvastre spokesman said of Faradise: "We believe it's the deepest well ever drilled by the oil and gas industry."

The deep-water successes have spurred new enthusiasm that oil production in the Federation will rise. The Z.F. Minerals Management Service, which oversees offshore oil leases, predicts 3.88 million barrels of oil a day will be produced in 2815, up from a storm-battered 1.14 million barrels a day last year.
The technological wizardry required to suck oil from the ancient rocks, underscores how extraordinarily expensive it is to develop these prospects. To drill each well costs about $200 million, industry executives said. And a prospect often requires several wells, plus expensive pipelines and floating facilities.
Still, the newly identified oil fields has emerged as a major area of interest for the Terran oil companies that have been locked out of many of the Terra's largest known untapped resources.

"If you are looking for another opportunity of that scale that is oil and that is open to many nations, right now it seems only Kafuristan is a big player and it is understandable why some nations would be hesitate to deal with the Kafuri regimes," said Robert Latham, Deputy Director of Foreign Affairs department of Federated Domains.

Making the site even more attractive, oil companies have to pay the Zardic Federation less in taxes, royalties, oil payments and other levies for the privilege of drilling than they would have to pay many other governments.

This combination of financial and geologic advantages has drawn the attention of many of the world's largest oil companies. Even Apex-Grunman Syndicate, which hadn't embraced lower tertiary exploration with the same vigor as its competitors, is increasing its activity in the petrol field. Last year, the Zardic behemoth leased 142 offshore exploration sites, compared with 12 in the two previous years.

But it has been A.G.S's peers that have led the way into the Gulf's lower tertiary. Vector National Oil and Zardic Corp. are expected to begin producing oil from Faradine IV -- a floating cork-shaped platform the tallest oil-platform on Terra -- in the next few months. That is expected to be the first oil produced from a lower tertiary discovery.

"If anyone was under the impression that the discovery of new and vast oil reserves was done, they should change that impression," said Marvin Seibles, Project Manager for the Faradise Project.

In mid-2810, a second lower tertiary discovery -- the northern Peratic Ocean-- is expected to begin producing. Rather than build a 165-mile pipeline from the discoveries to the Zardic coast, The Ministry of Trade and Industry alongside V.E.G. is building a floating production, storage and offloading facility, called an FPSO. While FPSOs, which resemble giant oil tankers, have become commonplace elsewhere, it is the first one in the Peratic Ocean.


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Image of an FPSO in Action

Despite the uncertainty, Faradise and other lower tertiary finds are substantial enough to excite investors. VEG's American depositary shares rose 9.38% today on the news. If one-third of the estimated reserves of oil can be successfully retrieved, an optimistic figure according to analysts, it could fetch $930 billion at market prices over time.
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Mon Sep 07, 2009 5:03 am

Zardic World Report
XXIV Edition

The Last Best Chance
09, February, 2807

By: Matt Reynolds,
Editor at Large for Z.W.R.

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Director-General Kostandian IV

Z.W.R. has confirmed that Director-General H. L. Kostandian IV shall not stand for re-election for the Federations highest political office. This comes as a surprise to many pundits and commentators given the Kostandian's family history in Zardic public life and that there is no heir apparent in the Kostandian family. Indeed, some have speculated that the emergence of Director-General Kostandian's youngest brother the current Minister of Justice Antony Kostandian would be a likely pick for the Director-General position.

Director-General of Zardugal H. L. Kostandian gave a press briefing earlier this afternoon after the news had broke of his decision to not seek another term. Some of the major questions raised was clearly why Mr. Kostandian is stepping aside, who he will endorse, will he remain as the party leader of the Federal-Republicans, what of his role in the Axis and the recent death of former Director-General Gould's replacement. The Director-General never one to leave a question unanswered or at least dodged tried to address each point.

Director-General Kostandian shall be endorsing the current Foreign Minister and his close personal friend Gordon Balfour to run as the F.R.P's candidate for the Director-General position and he expects with a high level of confidence the newly formed U.A. and Z.L.P. shall support the decision. Mr. Kostandian said of Mr. Balfour, "..is an incredibly intelligent, methodical, pragmatic and patriotic man. His knowledge of Foreign Affairs is on the level of the late Edward Rawlins, his first hand experience in the expansion of the Federation into Dovani, Squibble and Namviet-Vascania puts him in a unique personal situation to be best equipped to face the new challenges facing our Federation."

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F.M. Balfour, Our Next Director-General?

Mr. Kostandian on the issues involving the F.R.P. and Axis was quick to point out that he has had and continues to conduct on-going meetings with both his political party and the Axis leadership council about his future role with both. Within the F.R.P. it is expected that Director-General and Chairman of the F.R.P. will resign from the Chair; no comment or hints were given as to any potential successor.

Concerning the Axis Mr. Kostandian said, "I've no intentions of resigning at the present or within the immediate future. My role with the Axis Alliance is one of an advisory position. As well with the loss of our dear friend Vernon Gould I'm needed more than ever within the organization." On the issue of the later Director-General Gould and Commander, F.M. of the Axis Mr. Kostandian said the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff would also be the next Commander, F.M. of the Axis in accordance with the precedent set down within the Federation. "The Joint Chiefs, my advisors, Minister Stone and others are still considering our options for the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. Sadly, it is down to a short list. Though the list being short contains so much talent, experience and sound judgment it's going to be someone of a quality even Vernon would approve of, we owe it to our Federation and the Axis to see to this."

In the end Director-General Kostandian stated while his retirement may seem premature he is doing this for reasons that, in his words, would allow him to do more for the Federation than in his current capacity. Mr. Kostandian mentioned specifically working abroad with Zardugal's allies to expand both economic, political and diplomatic ties across Terra.

Whatever the future holds for Director-General Kostandian his legacy shall not soon be forgotten within the Zardic Federation. During his tenure the size of the Federation more than expanded by ten-fold; unemployment and GDP continued to rise, economic growth continued at a steady clip, a ruthless take-no-prisoner approach to pushing domestic and international initiatives in the interests of the Federation. His first term meant much to many to see the Kostandian name back in the center of the political light, now that H. L. K. IV is stepping aside as his grandfathers did we're all forced to reflect upon the continuing role of the Kostandian family in the history and future of Zardugal.
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Fri Sep 25, 2009 11:07 am

Zardic World Report
XXV Edition

Balfour and Government Take a Stand
07th, August, 2820

By: Matt Reynolds,
Editor at Large for Z.W.R.


In the typical style of the Federal-Republicans regime in Zardugal, it's been all but impossible to penetrate the corridors of power inside the Federation the last several years. Since Director-General Kostandian sought office, it is clear by means of various classified executive orders that the government would do quite the opposite of what Mr. Kostandian promised the press; a transparent and responsive central government. Though what has changed is near daily dossiers have been published since former Foreign Minister and now Director-General Balfour has taken the reigns of the Federation.

With the looming elections set to take place in September 2821 it is unknown if Director-General Balfour will remain as Director-General. After being nominated and supported by all political factions in the twilight of Kostandian's departure, Mr. Balfour won a resounding victory and mandate. This wouldn't last however, with one year left in the term snap-elections were called to fill vacant seats in the National Directorate. The snap election revealed some serious vulnerabilities for the Federal Republicans and since the party has taken a full on assault on the campaign trail; unlike anything we've seen in decades.

Director-General Balfour In an unprecedented event managed to covertly work with the Jakanian government to arrange an invitation to speak at Lalaka University in the border town of Lalaka that faces the Deltarian province of Darali. This wouldn't be much of an issue but, given the arrival of the Deltarian fanatics to power in Deltaria; a coalition that seen fit to dismantle internationally regarded treaties, alliances, diplomatic and economic ties as well as a regression to barbaric and inhumane practices by the judiciary.

"The radicals within Deltaria at the moment will be seen to, I assure the free peoples of Majatra this much. The arrival of these mentally and morally bankrupt ideologues inside of Deltaria has set back Deltarian foreign and domestic relations by centuries; the international community should view their actions for what they are-barbaric, inhumane, cruel, distracting and harming not only their own nation but, the stability of the great central Majatra region-the Zardic Federation is prepared to defend our claims, rights and freedoms no matter the cost."

"The Zardic Federation and the Axis Alliance of Terra has long held wonderful relations with Deltaria under the steadfast leadership of the Vorder Organization as well as the Imperial Deltarian Front (V.D.S). Through private communications with Mr. Vorder of the V.O. the Zardic Federation has pledged our full support both financially and militarily to the next elections within Deltaria set to be held this upcoming December to ensure a return to normalcy is seen to within our neighbors borders. "

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Director-General Balfour Speaking in Lalaka

Director-General Balfour's speech cut much deeper than the above selections. He specifically cited the various tactics the newly formed 'ideologues' of Deltaria had undertaken. It is without doubt the political parties Balfour was singling out was the Sedliacke Povstanie and Patriotická Družina. Both parties have recently seemed to join an informal alliance to turn Deltaria into something it was not.

From the demands of the Foreign Minister of Sedliacke Povstanie to attend an 'emergency' conference discussing the Zardic Federations domains on Squibble, Vascania and other places across Terra to the withdrawal of the various economic and diplomatic treaties with Zardugal and other nations allied with Deltaria. Upon this rather undiplomatic and poorly conducted invitation Z.W.R. contacted the offices of the Foreign Ministry which is currently held by Director-General Balfour for a comment. The director of Majatran Affairs in the Foreign Ministry Mrs. Emily Rosenthal went on the record.

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Mrs. Rosenthal at the Recent F.R.P. Conference

"First and foremost the Federations stance on the current cabinet of Deltaria is in line with the current head of state of Deltaria, an ally of ours, Mr. Roman Boleslav of the Imperial Deltarian Party. He has made it very clear that he does not and will not recognize the authority of the current Foreign Minister to demand such outrageous items from the Zardic Federation. Any issues relating to Deltaria will go directly to Mr. Boleslav for consideration; and we have a wonderful working relationship.

Any issues relating to the future of our colonial holdings are safe and secure, I assure the people of the Federation this much. I have a personal assurance from both the Minister of Defense and the Director-General that if Deltaria makes any attempts whatsoever to seize lands that simply do not belong to them any longer will constitute a declaration of war.

It should also be considered that we're receiving mixed signals from the Deltarians about this supposed Luthorian liberation. I've not spoken to our friends in Luthori to substantiate these claims. However, if this were true it would clearly show Deltaria is in no capacity at all to stand up against the Zardic Federation let alone our formal allies."

Director-General Balfour spoke for nearly 40 minutes at Lalaka University and then stayed for formal talks with the Jakanian government officials.
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Fri Sep 25, 2009 11:21 am

Zardic World Report
XXVI Edition

F.R.P. Continues Onward; One on One with Minister Rawlins II
12th, January, 2821


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Minister of Trade and Industry, E. William Rawlins II

The Federal-Republicans keep pounding away both domestically and internationally on their previously reported blitz on the campaign trail and it seems as if the party is slightly re-positioning the image of the party domestically. Political analysts have speculated this is an attempt to shore up more seats within the Directorate which is dominated by the Zardugal Liberty Party and United Alliance. Both parties are uniformly supportive of the F.R.P's leadership as is most of the Federation however, in nearly every election for 30 years the F.R.P. has consistently underperformed in the Directorate.

It is thought the incumbent Chairman, former Director-General Kostandian was more concerned about loyalty from the other political blocs within the Federation though, this view has clearly changed even if the senior members of the F.R.P. refuse to acknowledge as much.

In a leaked memo from a senior official within the Federal Republican Party, released on conditions of anonymity, shows that the nominal control of the party is now in the hands of H. L. Kostandian's younger brother Antony Kostandian, currently an elected Director from Battle Creek as well as the Minister of Justice. Mr. Antony Kostandian in the aforementioned memo lays down a rather firm dictate to all Ministers of the F.R.P. and all Directors within the Directorate to seize every chance to engage with the public, the press and community outreach events until election day.

Accordingly, such a mandate would explain the incredible activities all across the Federation this past week. Many local papers have followed the events more closely then we as a national paper will be able to do. However, it should be noted that just within the week over 290 members of the Federal Republican Party have taken to town-hall meetings, visiting local business and colleges and fiercely pounding out what appears to be a new more progressive bent to the institution that is the F.R.P.

Minister of Trade and Industry, E. William Rawlins II, the son of famed Zardic diplomat Edward Rawlins, widely considered to be among the parties top brass and well regarded among the citizens of Zardugal. Z.W.R's political editor Alvin Wallace was able to contact Mr. Rawlins and he agreed for a one on one with us; with no pre-set conditions. The full unedited nearly three-hour long interview will be available on our website.

Wallace: Minister Rawlins, it's a pleasure to meet you and thank you for your time today-it's very, very hard to get anyone out of your party to do a one on one.

Rawlins: (laughs) Well, I suppose I can see both sides of the coin when it comes to the press. I will say it doesn't seem to do us any good being as silent as we tend to be with the more reputable sources of information such as yourself. As well, it's my honor-what's on your mind?

Wallace: The honesty is appreciated but, with all due respect it isn't so much what is on my mind as it is what is on seemingly everyone's mind. Why has the F.R.P. taken to such extremes to ensure a larger stake in the Directorate?

Rawlins: (laughs) What sort of question is that, really? We're a political party before we are anything else. Indeed, the F.R.P. is an institution in Zardugal and has been for centuries. This doesn't mean however as an organization on the principals of liberty, justice and democratic values it is our obligation to ensure we are in touch with the citizens of the Federation. Honestly, we can't win for losing in the world of spin. If we don't campaign, you just brand the F.R.P. as this near monarch-like item that exists off the loyalty and good graces of other parties and the citizens sound enough to cast their ballots for us in the head of state elections-

Wallace: That's all swell and understandable, Sir. Though with the documented obtained by our paper it's clear that the Chairman and his brother Antony Kostandian of your party are clearly at odds with one another of their visions of the parties future.

Rawlins: I'm not commenting on any possible leeks. I've not seen what document or documents you may be referring to. Though I'm going to take you up on the assertion that there is some sort of rift between Hadrian and Antony Kostandian and the party; this is just flatly and unquestionably wrong.

Wallace: It is reported that former D.G. Kostandian will be stepping down as Chair of the F.R.P. and as his position within the Sel'Rakrya hierarchy. Given your fathers past as the real driving force behind our nations foreign and domestic intelligence organization, any chance you will be taking over?

Rawlins: If I were asked to serve my party, of course I would-in whatever capacity that might entail.

Wallace: Back to the campaign drive and an apparent re-branding of the F.R.P's policies domestically-do you have any comment on all of this?

Rawlins: Well, I suppose it might help if you were a bit more specific. Though I can take an informed guess as to what your driving at. It is true that in the last several years actually-this is not a curveball at all, we've shifted our perspectives on some key issues domestically. Given the incredible talent we've had in the Ministry of Finance and the success of our various budget initiatives undertaken tripled with the very healthy economy right now it has allowed us re-evaluate some, certainly not all, of some very core principals.

Wallace: I certainly couldn't expect you to detail all the various nuances but, is there anything directly within your Ministry or interests that you can expand upon?

Rawlins: You could expect it frankly but, I appreciate the break. As it is, indeed some of the issues we've examined and advocated within the legislature have come to my desk. We're lobbying our counterparts in the Directorate to support zero percent tax rate for all business across the board for a start. Given the economic growth and continued creation of jobs-it would be silly not to further facilitate in this economic expansion.

With the recently discovered oil fields by Velvastre Energy Group, well frankly that's a very exciting item. V.E.G. and I have been in talks, the enormity of this find simply surpasses the current capabilities of V.E.G. I'm unable to fully elaborate on all the details as they've yet to be formalized. Though, one item of our potential arrangements would be the establishment of a permanent oil reserve strictly for national security purposes; this would go beyond our very modest reserves-a vital issue. This also will affect the mood in the Directorate on the nuclear energy laws. As it is we foolishly mandate most power be generated by nuclear energy. We should not be in the business of regulating the markets and industries to these sorts of excessive levels.

There are really so many new items, Alvin that it's a bit hard for me to keep up frankly. I know off the top we've got committee's looking into social reform for the entire nation, specifically healthcare. I also know that we're heavily pushing for and hopefully it will soon pass; the Majatra Free Trade Treaty. One major thing I expect to see vast reforms in very soon is our educational institutions, from young children to higher-learning facilities. We're still sorting out issues with the merger of B.L.S. and D.M.F. and I've seen no less than 20 bids to complete the construction projects scheduled for bases of operations which launch this year across Federated Vascania, Squibble and Dovani.


Z.W.R. would like to thank the Minister for his abundant time spent with our political editor Alvin Wallace. If nothing else was made clear today there is no denying Minister Rawlins is firmly in the loop. Overall his answers to most questions were what we've come to expect from the staggeringly well managed F.R.P. Also demonstrated to us was that Minister Rawlins is cut right from the stock of his father and amazingly well read on any number of topics. Is Rawlins a possible outlier to take over the Kostandian wing of the Federal-Republics? Or this just another attempt by the F.R.P. to get us to think exactly that.
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Fri Oct 09, 2009 1:03 am

Zardic World Report
XXVII Edition

Federal Republicans Dominate Electorate
19th November 2821

The Z.W.R. has covered the full out assault of campaigning undertaken by the Federal Republicans in past editions. The staff at Z.W.R. has wondered and received no formal answer to as why the politically secure F.R.P. was pounding the pavement for more members in the Directorate. It will be impossible to tell how the efforts of the domestic drive for clout in the Directorate will be measured though given the 11th hour surprise of the election; The United Alliance of Zardugal collapsed entirely from the scene of the political radar. It seemed as if the entire U.A. had decided to concede the entire Directorate to the Federal-Republicans whom indeed did sweep the entire legislative and executive branches of government in the absence of the F.R.P's steadfast ally.

Z.W.R. contacted the U.A. about this for comment, Ms. Richardson of the U.A. and active Spokesman for the U.A.P. cleared up the mystery, "In the Previous elections the UA was in the middle of a broad restructuring in order to better serve our citizenry. While some in the party wanted to go ahead with campaigns, the party as a whole felt it would be better for us to take a step back and ensure that we were at an optimal level off efficiency and readiness."

As things stand, the Directorate of the Federation and the entire cabinet is composed of members of the Federal Republican Party. The F.R.P. has held control of the executive branch of the Federation for nearly 120 years in a row, but never has the party held total dominance of every branch of the government. Most analysts and political commentators from across the divide have had uniformly restrained opinions on the outcome of the election-the consensus seemed to be this was merely business as usual.

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Balfour's New Cabinet

Among the new cabinet appointments there is both new and some unexpected faces have emerged. In particular Director-General Balfour's choice as the Zardic Head of State Mr. Antony Kostandian and Sophia Kostandian, Minister of Internal Affairs, the younger brother and eldest daughter of former Director-General Kostandian IV. The grandson of Director-General Rossman, Harrison Rossman, has opted to come serve in D.G. Balfour's cabinet as Minister of Trade and Infrastructure and Transport.

In the commotion of the election frenzy and turmoil within the United Alliance many things have slipped unnoted by mainstream media outlets within the Federation. While most of the canvassing for the election victory was conducted by the Directors and their staffers the ever isolated upper echelons of power within the F.R.P. have been continuing to pursue foreign and domestic policy items with a renewed vigor.

Most notably on the domestic agenda was the creation of the Unkassan Accords Treaty which the F.R.P. quickly seen to ratifying. The Unkassan Accords by most analysts was a major victory for the F.R.P. on an issue that the U.A. and the F.R.P. were often at odds at; the right of workers to form unions and strike. Flipping dynamically the F.R.P. seems to have changed many of their views in regards to the government's involvement in social programs; something largely deregulated under the tenure of the F.R.P. and U.A. informal alliance.

It was reported by Terra Independent News that Director-General Balfour and his friend Edward Rawlins II, son of the famed Zardic diplomat and mentor of H. L. Kostandian, personally flew to Keymon to speak with delegates of the reformed Grand Duchy of Keymon. Zardugal has put a tremendous amount of money and time into relations with Keymon that have large gone unreported as well.

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Director-General Balfour Discussing Keymon and Zardic Relations

During the recent domestic strife in Keymon the Zardic treaties and business arrangements with Keymon were essentially frozen. It is known that Keymon has re-signed the Zardic-Keymon Naval Agreement which houses a fully equipped base of operations for the N.S. Battle Fleet. Contracts with B.L.S. have also been restored and it has been claimed by various officials that Zardugal is seeking closer ties with Keymon and the current ruling coalition of the Grand Duchy has been more than welcoming in ongoing discussions.

The week prior to the unannounced visit to Keymon Mr. Rawlins and Foreign Minister Madrick Keegan lead a delegation to Hanzen to meet with fellow leaders of the Dovani nations, and colonial holding nations. Other than what the The Greater Hulstrian Chronicle reported there has been no official release as to what the cause for the meeting was, it's goals or what was discussed. The Unkassan Tribune has reported that H. L. Kostandian is lobbying for Director-General Balfourto place Mr. Rawlins in the cabinet as the first administrator of the Federated Domains of Zardugal. With all the recent trips undertaken by Mr. Rawlins with many of the senior most officials of the Federation it seems highly unlikely Mr. Rawlins is doing as much for leisure.
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Re: Zardic World Report

Postby Darvian » Fri Oct 09, 2009 1:53 am

Zardic World Report
XXVIII Edition

In Mourning with Luthori
18th August 2826

If the citizens of Zardugal reading this wondered why they may have seen all flags at half mast; not a common sight in the Federation you wouldn't be alone. As well at noon today there will be a national moment of silence coupled with a media blackout for the duration. Why you ask?

The reports filed yesterday by the Williamsbrough Herald reporting the passing of Emperor Edward III of Luthori & I of Alduria and Mordusia. While H.M. Edward III never personally came to Zardugal or has had the perceived public impact as many other leaders have. His influence was more subtle, stronger and has been a constant confidant, friend and staunch ally of the Zardic people even if we didn't realize it.

When the reports were confirmed locally at 11:20PM last night, Director-General Balfour seen to the proper Executive Orders were filed with the Directorate and joined former Director-General Kostandian for a conference. Director-General Balfour deferred speaking to his friend and colleague D.G. Kostandian out of both respect and a common understanding of the close relationship D.G. Kostandian has had with the now late Emperor Edward III of Luthori & I of Alduria and Mordusia.

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Former Director-General Kostandian

"Thank you all for coming on such short notice and at this late hour as well thank you, Gordon. Ladies and Gentlemen, Terra has lost a great man today. Zardugal has lost a friend, The Axis has lost a wise and astute leader, the Imperial Alliance has lost an anchor and I lost a friend today. . .Though, above all Luthori, Alduria and Mordusia lost their Emperor and perhaps even more importantly, a loving family lost their keystone.

Historians will do my friend better justice than I can, his life has literally changed the lives, for the better, for millions of people. He was a leader who loved his lot in life, nation and its people. His convictions were as tough as steel and his passion to see his people and people beyond his own domain have the opportunity to live a better life, no matter of one's station.

In full disclosure, I've long been Chief Advisor to the Axis Leadership Committee and in that capacity I've been very fortunate to have gotten to know Edward in a different way than most. He wasn't my Emperor, he wasn't a head of a state he was my colleague.

What on the surface seems the most odd of pairings given our respective political backgrounds, when the formalities of meetings and events were over-it was just he and I without pomp or circumstance. This should be a lesson for us all. . .Once more my utmost condolences as well as many other people across the Federation and Terra go out to Edward's family and friends."
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