Greater Middle EastBoard

Parliamentary Address From Prime Minister Viktor Orbán
30/04/24

Prime Minister Orbán rises to speak to his fellow members of parliament, friend and foe alike. A round of applause erupts in the National Assembly before he begins his parliamentary address.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues and citizens,"

"Today, we gather with heavy hearts to address the recent tragic events unfolding in the Middle East. The attack on innocent civilians attending a concert in Israel is a despicable act of terrorism, one that we condemn in the strongest possible terms. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the victims, whose lives have been irrevocably shattered by this senseless violence."

"Let me be unequivocal: Hungary stands firmly with Israel in the face of such heinous acts. The safety and security of the Israeli people are paramount, and we will not waver in our support for their right to defend themselves against terrorism and aggression. This attack is not just an assault on Israel; it is an affront to the entire world order, a stark reminder of the forces of extremism and hatred that threaten us all."

"But we must also recognize the broader implications of instability in the Middle East. As the region descends further into chaos, we will begin witnessing a sharp rise in illegal immigration, with individuals seeking refuge from conflict and turmoil crossing our borders in increasing numbers. This poses a direct threat to the security and stability of our nation, one that we cannot afford to ignore."

"Moreover, the rise of extremism within our own borders is a cause for grave concern. We have seen the emergence of radical ideologies that seek to undermine the fundamental values of democracy and freedom, posing a threat to the very fabric of our society. We must remain vigilant in the face of such threats, resolute in our commitment to defending our way of life against those who would seek to destroy it."

"In closing, let us reaffirm our solidarity with Israel and the values of peace, democracy, and tolerance that bind us together as nations. Let us honour the memory of the victims of this senseless violence by redoubling our efforts to combat terrorism in all its forms and uphold the principles of justice and humanity."

"Thank you."

Applause fills the chamber as Prime Minister Orbán concludes his address, his words resonating deeply with those in attendance.

Taking his place at the stand, opposition leader Ferenc Gyurcsány of the Demokratikus Koalíció is met with another round of applause, though much less notable than the Prime Minister's.

"Honourable Members of Parliament, esteemed colleagues, and fellow citizens,"

"I rise today to offer a rebuttal to the national address delivered by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, a speech marred by its anti-immigrant rhetoric and thinly veiled Islamophobia. As representatives of the Hungarian people, it is our solemn duty to uphold the principles of tolerance, compassion, and inclusivity, values that have been egregiously disregarded in the government's recent discourse."

"Prime Minister Orbán's portrayal of immigration as a threat to our nation's security is not only misguided but deeply troubling. It perpetuates a narrative of fear and division, pitting us against our fellow human beings who seek refuge from conflict and persecution. Instead of erecting walls and fostering mistrust, we should be extending a hand of solidarity and compassion to those in need, embodying the spirit of empathy that defines us as a nation."

"Furthermore, I categorically reject any form of Islamophobia that seeks to demonize and vilify Muslim communities. Islam is a religion of peace, and its followers deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, free from discrimination and prejudice. We must stand firm against the forces of hate and intolerance, affirming our commitment to religious freedom and cultural diversity."

"Turning to international affairs, I must express my profound dismay at the government's unwavering support for Israel in the ongoing Gaza conflict. The suffering of the Palestinian people cannot be ignored, nor can we condone the actions of the Israeli government, which perpetuate a cycle of violence and oppression. It is incumbent upon us to speak out against injustice wherever it occurs, regardless of political expediency or diplomatic considerations."

"In closing, let us remember that true leadership requires moral courage and a steadfast commitment to justice and human rights. We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of the oppressed, nor can we remain silent in the face of injustice. As representatives of the Hungarian people, let us strive to embody the values of tolerance, compassion, and solidarity in all our actions, both at home and on the world stage."

"Thank you."

Several boos from Fidesz MPs echo throughout the chamber, with an impassioned but weak round of applause from the opposition side. Prime Minister Orbán stands in place, and says to the entire parliament:

"And this, honourable members of parliament, is why it is I who sits on the throne of the great Hungarian nation."

The Prime Minister is met with cries of outrage at his arrogance from the opposition, but with a resounding cheer from the members of his own coalition. The cheers outshine the cries, such is a reflection of Hungary today.

// Clarín //
_{May 1st, 2024}

Santiago approves of Plan 22b, new housing units and urban renewal projects in place

After lengthy debates, intense lobbying in the city council and back-and-forth bills being shot down, Santiago voted 22-12 in favour of Plan 22b. Put forth by councilman Joaquin De Luna, the plan involved converting the former Cerrillos Airport into a large mixed-use complex, with particular focus for affordable housing.

Plan 22b would involve the conversion of a 1.33km² area of the former airfield to a mixed-use complex, consisting of shops, offices and housing units. Preliminary renders for the plan proposes a dense, mostly walkable neighborhood, with direct access to the Santiago Metro. Within the former airfield complex, approximately 160 units can be accomldated. Early renderings for the complex would suggest a focus on constructing high-rise apartments, minimizing land use but increasing density.

Councilman De Luna, a member of the Santiago Liberals, emphasized his focus on creating sustainable density and committment to combat homelessness. Plan 22b would also focus on enacting the city's first rent control scheme and the distribution of housing vouchers. As well, rent control and stabilization would be implemented, capping how much landlords can charge and stabilizing annual rent increase to a fixed percentage.

As mentioned, the Cerrillos complex would include shops and offices in a mixed-use setting. Sports facilities will be accommodated as necessary. De Luna stressed the need for a sustainable housing development, and claimed that the construction of the complex would be made from environmentally-friendly materials and energy generated from wind and solar.

Address to the National Congress - May 1st, 2024

"ORDER! ORDER! The Triple President will be starting soon!"

The assembly was silenced by the shrills of the Speaker, Evika Silina. Krumins thanked her for doing her job; and started walking his way up towards the podium. The assembly could hear nothing but the click-clacks of the Latvian's Loafers - not a noisy one, at that, but it still dominated every other noise in the hall. He stopped, just infront of the microphone. Looking around, the Liberals and Greens were situated to his left, the Union was sitting in the middle, the Conservatives and Socialists were sitting on the right. He prepared himself for the absolute chaos that his words would bring.

"Brothers and sisters of the Baltics! Today, I have convened you all in this grand hall in regards to international affairs. For it endangers the stability and peace that our nation has not experienced since the 1990s!"

"As you may have all heard, it was very recent when the organization that named itself Hamas rose up and attacked Israel in the West Bank. Now, I stand up here to tell the nation, the world, and especially every single one of you here, that we will never support fighting, even if it was in the name of revenge. The Baltics has thrived on diplomacy since our very formation in 1992; why should we choose to break the traditions of yesteryear to spill blood and destroy the lives of everyone around us? In this point, I encourage the Israeli and the Palestinians to pursue peace, not war, as it will bring nothing but the useless eradication of their very own citizens."

"Now, I would not be surprised if you asked: "What will you do to help?". In fact, I will be glad. Because, together, we can plan support for the citizens who suffer under the relentless fighting that both sides in the West Bank engage themselves in. I will not encourage division and discord in the nation; in fact, I will encourage unity, and cooperation, for that is the ideals that built our country, and the values that make us what we are today. For every single party represented in the Congress today; from the majorities to the front, to the minorities in the back, my ears and eyes will be open to every suggestion that your bravery allows you to speak upon. Because that is democracy, and this country will always give a voice to the helpless and the silenced."

Rudolfs started making his way down to his seat as applause surrounded him from all sides.

"And now, I would like to invite Edgars Rinkevics of the Liberals to the stage."

The Liberals clapped and applauded as their leader went up to the stage - the current incumbent of the President of Latvia. With his hands in his pockets, he stepped up rather calmly, bringing no indication of a violent reaction to the Triple President.

"Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congress, it brings me great pleasure to have a voice in the Assembly today. I would like to begin by thanking President Krumins for his steadfast approach towards diplomacy; I believe that is a value that all of us here can get behind."

"However, I would differ towards his statement of Hamas attacking Israel - I find that it is much rather the opposite. Since the end of World War 2, the Israelis have been oppressing and endangering the lives of the Palestinians in Gaza. These people have not known peace for more than 70 years; which, as a result, gave way to the formation of Hamas, a beacon of hope that the Palestinians believed would stop all fighting."

"However, not only did they fail the wishes of the Palestinian People, they endangered them even more; by using Guerrilla Tactics, the IDF now could not tell friend from foe. And so, they bombed more, and more, and killed more Palestinians in the process. And now, after decades and decades of the same thing happening over and over and over, we have ended up in this big, international mess, which the international community is looking to take sides upon to further their own interests. But we are not like that. Israel may be in the wrong; that is a fact that most of us will agree with; but instead of instigating the conflict further, I would much rather see the citizens who have suffered feel peace and prosperity for the first time, which is, ultimately, the main goal of the Triple President. Again, I would like to thank him for that."

"So, I implore the National Congress to put aside their beliefs - their goals, their hopes, their dreams - and work together to find a solution that ultimately benefits all sides involves. Because, the world cannot afford to keep going on like this. No matter how small we may be, no matter how insignificant we will be seen as, in the future, we will be heralded as the spark that allowed for peace in the world - the spark that kickstarted a new prosperous era of humanity, where everyone will be free. These, are my hopes for the future. Thank you."

A deafening cheer swept across the hall, mostly coming from the Greens and the Liberals.

"And I would like to announce our last speaker of the day before the Congress is dismissed - Welcome Gitanas Nauseda of the Socialist Party to the stage."

Jeers could be heard coming from the Liberals, but they were forced out by the cheers of the Socialists - maybe this reaction was a result of his recent twitter post? He stepped up towards the podium, stared into the eyes of President Krumins, and began speaking.

"People of the Nation! It is my honor to be able to bring my concerns to the table in this troubling matter. But I would like to start by saying that as with all others, I support a peaceful end to the conflict, as it is the only good end for the people."

"As a Lithuanian, I cannot show in words how beneficial Israel has been to the development of our country. They have funded our infrastructure and economy; they have worked with us for prosperity; and they have shown nothing but kindness towards us in the name of peace. Which is why I made my post yesterday, whether the majority here likes it or not."

"This is why I believe Israel is being attacked, rather than the other way round; as with us, they have shown internationally a desire and a hunger for peace, but it is in my view that the organization known as Hamas has been nothing but hostile towards the Israeli Government throughout my years of living. Not once have I seen them trying to foster peace, but rather the opposite; sewing discord and distrust among the Israelis and Palestinians for their own benefit. As with many others, I find myself looking for nothing but peace between the two; but how can it be achieved with the mischevious actions of this association?"

"This is why that my heart and soul lies with the Israelis. Because even if they have been chastised by the whole world, even if the forces of evil abolish them as devils, I will not stop in my support, because of the kindness that they have shown my nation all those years ago. Because these are their true intentions. Thank you."

A single tear was shed by the Lithuanian President. The Congress broke into applause - even the Liberals dare not jeer. And with three bangs of the gavel...

"ATTENTION! This Congress is dismissed."

The Hall broke into many noises as the senators made their way for lunch.

Union of Israel wrote:

Jerusalem Post
ג'רוזלם פוסט

BREAKING NEWS: ISRAEL UNDER ATTACK, ATLEAST 300 ISRAELIS DEAD, DOZENS HELD HOSTAGE
_{April 30, 2024}

Ashkelon | BREAKING: Israeli is under attack, since 6 A.M this morning thousands of rockets have been fired from Gaza towards cities, towns, and kibbutz across central and southern Israel, extending as far as Jerusalem. At the same time, Palestinian terrorists have infiltrated communities in the southern regions of Israel through various means including land, sea, and air.

Throughout the day, at least 300 Israelis lost their lives, with over 1,700 injured or in critical condition. An IDF spokesperson reports that the IDF is working to regain control of the region, and that they expect to have the situation in hand by this evening. Additionally the military has confirmed that as of this afternoon a "significant" number of Israeli civilians and soldiers are being held captive by Hamas terrorists.

According to reports from the cities of Be'eri and Ofakim, Israeli civilians are being held captive by terrorists in their homes.

According to a statement from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir a state of emergency has been declared across the nation and a call up of all police volunteers across the country has been made.

According to reports from the Ministry of Defense, the IDF has responded to the wave of attacks by striking Hamas positions in the Gaza Strip and areas still overrun by Hamas terrorists in the South.

The Prime Ministers Office has stated that the Prime Minister has assembled the Security Cabinet to work on an official Israeli response to the attacks, and that the Prime Minister will be speaking in a televised address to the nation later this evening.

As of the writing of this report, there can be no mistake: Hamas has launched a war against Israel and Israel is at War.

Address by His Holiness, Pope Julius IV
[Location: Vatican City]
[Date: 05/01/2024]

My Brothers and Sisters,

Today, our hearts are heavy with sorrow as we witness the devastating events unfolding in Israel. Yesterday, a grave assault was launched against the Israeli people, resulting in significant loss of life and numerous injuries. Many families are mourning, many are in fear, and many are suffering grievously as I speak to you now.

In these dark times, it is our Christian duty to extend our hands in peace and to offer our prayers for all those affected. We pray for the souls of the over 300 Israelis who have tragically lost their lives. We pray for the quick recovery of the more than 1,700 injured. And we pray for the safe return of those held captive.

This senseless violence has brought profound pain and hardship to many, and in response to this crisis, I am announcing the Vatican's plan to assist those impacted:

1. Humanitarian Aid Deployment:

The Vatican will coordinate with international agencies to send medical aid, including doctors, nurses, and medical supplies, to assist hospitals that are currently overwhelmed.
We will also send emergency relief supplies such as food, water, and shelter materials to support those displaced by this tragedy.

2. Support for Refugees and Hostages:

In collaboration with global partners, we will offer support to initiatives working to secure the release of hostages.
We are setting up support networks for refugees who may seek safety from the affected regions, providing them with necessary resources and counseling.

3. Peace Advocacy Efforts:

I will personally reach out to leaders on both sides, as well as influential global figures, to advocate for peace and to call for an immediate ceasefire. We must work collectively to restore calm and prevent further loss of life.
The Vatican will host a prayer vigil this coming week, inviting all people, regardless of faith, to join us in praying for peace in the region.

4. Financial Support for Rebuilding Efforts:

The Church and The Kingdom will allocate funds to assist in the rebuilding of destroyed homes, schools, and places of worship as a gesture of our commitment to peace and reconciliation.
My dear brothers and sisters, as we face this calamity, let us remember the teachings of Christ who said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God." Let us be those children, those peacemakers, who amidst the turmoil sow seeds of peace and hope.

I urge all of you to join me in this prayer and to hold the people of Israel in your hearts. Let us pray fervently for an end to this violence and for the dawn of a peaceful tomorrow.

May God bless all those affected, and may He guide our efforts towards peace.

Thank you.

The Controversial Nationalisation of a National Disaster
_{Qantas misbehaved so they got their toys taken off them}
^{May 2}

Qantas used to be the pride of Australia. It used to be something Australians would look at fondly, it was the greatest airline in the country and one of the best in the world. That was until the tyranny of former boss Alan Joyce, who did to Qantas what the McDonnell Douglas merger did to Boeing - absolutely destroyed it for the sake of the riches of a few.

Alan Joyce was already a pretty controversial figure, turning Australia's airline into a vessel for his own political beliefs, particularly around gender and sexuality. In 2015, Joyce painted Qantas pink in a move that really only upset conservative Australians who weren't too happy to see taxpayer money go towards a company that mandates staff attendance to mardi gras and partook in a number of protests and other controversies. But all that can be forgiven, and was very quickly forgotten, when the Coronavirus pandemic came around.

Far too concerned about his own wealth and prosperity, Joyce gave himself and his board members a payrise during the pandemic while firing 2000 ground staff and outsourcing. Qantas went from having a spotless record to forcing dozens of planes to return to their airport due to technical problems, as well as spikes in numbers of lost luggage and cancelled flights. Joyce has also used some of Qantas' profits to fund the current Labor Party's political campaigns, as well as donations to the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum (Yes Vote) and a number of other political causes as 'personal donations.'

It would later be revealed that ground staff throughout Joyce's leadership were abused, being overworked and forced to sleep on cold concrete floors or work unreasonable hours. The Qantas App would be revealed to have had a significant data breach that allowed users to see other people's information. Frequent Flyer Points were deemed ineligable in a false marketing scandal. The airline was also slammed for the mistreatment of a disabled woman when they refused to accomodate for her needs.

Even a replacement of leadership was not good enough, with new CEO Andrew David unable to fix any of the airline's issues after over a year in the job. David has called on the Federal Government to provide additional assistance to restructure the organisation and restore it to its former glory.

The Australian Government holds a 40% stake in Qantas as part of a partial privatisation of the airline throughout the 1990s. Today, Transport Minister Catherine King and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that there will be a temporary nationalisation of Qantas to get the company under control, with Albanese stating that Qantas has "been blindly led astray by a prioritisation of profits at any cost."

King stated that the Government has a 5 year plan to address working conditions, reliability, and ticket prices across the airline. This has become controversial, however, with stockholders crying because they might have to get off their bums and actually contribute to society. Also, there's airlines outside of Qantas who fear that the nationalisation of one will lead to the death of the others.

"It's no secret that Qantas is the government's favourite airline, because that's the one they get money from," Air New Zealand CEO Greg Foran stated. "Qantas gets first dibs on international air routes, they get priority at every airport on the mainland, they get everything spoon-fed to them by the Government and then people are confused when Qantas bugger up. A nationalised Qantas means lower airfares, because they don't have to worry about running a business. That means that airlines like us, Virgin, and Rex, can't survive. This country is the most hostile country to run an airline from."

The Government has stated that Qantas is Australia's flagship airline, which means they will get priority on international routes but that has nothing to do with the airlines nationalisation. King also stated that the nationalisation of Qantas is an attempt to get the airline under control and back on track as a functioning airline, not as a money-making or industry killing endeavour. Foran would later continue his criticism of the government response, saying the government is going "above and beyond to ensure Qantas is Australia's best airline" and that "every other airline in Australia could only dream of what the Government does for Qantas."

Qantas, even excluding subsidary Jetstar, is the largest airline by fleet size, international flights, and international destinations on the continent.

★| 𝚂𝙾𝙲𝙸𝙰𝙻𝙸𝚂𝚃 𝚁𝙴𝙿𝚄𝙱𝙻𝙸𝙲 𝙾𝙵 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙸𝙰 | ☭

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

România liberă
_{MAY 2024}

ᴛʜᴇ ʟᴇɢᴀᴄʏ ᴏꜰ ɴɪᴄᴏʟᴀᴇ ᴄᴇᴀᴜꜱᴇꜱᴄᴜ: ᴇxᴘʟᴀɪɴɪɴɢ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴɪᴀ'ꜱ ʀᴇᴛᴜʀɴ ᴛᴏ ᴅɪᴄᴛᴀᴛᴏʀɪᴀʟ ᴇxᴄᴇꜱꜱ
_{Being one of the last remaining Socialist states, the Socialist Republic of Romania has long sought a way to remain legitimate in the eyes of its masses. To this end, the question of one of its most important supreme leaders, one that evokes national pride and disgusted feelings in equal measure, has long been an important aspect of the state's own quest to legitimize itself. This is of course not something that only Romania has had to grapple with. In today's China, the question of Mao's legacy has been a consistent aspect of the CPC's theoretical department. In both cases, the general direction has now been moving towards reviving the former leaders as symbols of national rejuvenation, whereas Mao recalls a time where China was advancing leaps and bounds, Nicolae Ceaușescu evokes Romania's self-reliance and developing of its unique national character.}

_{Nicolae Ceaușescu's ousting was quite a spectacular event to say the least, coming off the heels of an economic crisis caused by the Soviet Union's collapse and popular discontent, the rank and file of the Communist Party banded around a number of the now called 'Reformist Clique' who weilded their power and the popular discontent against the supreme leader to oust him completely in a two-hour Central Committee meeting. Naturally, the image of Nicolae Ceaușescu was not positive to say the least in the intervening years, but as the years passed and legends overtook fact, there has been a growing movement to rehabilitate the former President, led by the nationalist hardline wing of the Socialist Party who came to prominence as social tensions and the neighbouring wars in Ukraine damaged a weak reformist government.}

_{In context it makes sense, the Nationalist-Hardliners have built their appeal on populism and calls for Romanian national rejuvenation, something many yearn for as Romania has found itself increasingly isolated and marginalized in a world where its policies has left it in opposition to many of the states neighboring, not least of which are Yugoslavia and Hungary. Add in a healthy dose of economic stagnation and social conflict over progressive values that many view as 'foreign', and you get a combustible mix that has allowed a formerly unknown party nomenklatura with hardline nationalist views like Marcel Ciolacu to find a mass support to catapult himself to the top of the party cadres.}

_{Again to use China as an example, Ciolacu would find his closest equivalent in China's Bo Xilai. A populist who calls for nationalist supremacy and evokes the legacy of a former great leader, but where's Bo found himself at odds with a political establishment that values efficiency and technocracy over false populism and perhaps corruption, Ciolacu took advantage of a much weaker system that allowed men like him to proliferate within the Party in the last few years.}

_{While the reformist wing of the Socialist Party was no democratic institution by any means, the hardline wing has restored the unchallenged powers of the feared Securitate, while engaging in increased posturing abroad and throwing its weight fully behind Russia's invasion of Ukraine, not to mention high amounts of social conservatism and repression of freedoms have certainly seen a return to what many have called Ceaușescu-style governance.}

|| The Patagonian ||
_{May 3, 2024}

Macri committs to supporting and enhancing nation's salmon industry

Argentina is the second-largest producer of salmon in the world after Norway. Argentina has contributed 38.5% to global salmon sales, and it has contributed to the livelihood and welfare of hundreds of thousands in the Southwest alone. Salmon sourced from the Southwest coast are frequently purchased by large companies and restaurants worldwide. Argentine products can be found as far away as Thailand and India.

The industry is not without problems. The primary salmon race used for aquaculture is the Atlantic salmon, a species introduced from the other ocean. Every year, escapee fish would make their way to native ecosystems, eclipsing native species in the competition for food and resources. The industry has suffered a severe recession since the sudden appearance and outbreak of infectious salmon anemia in 2007 coupled with the Late-2000s financial crisis. Studies have linked the salmon industry to the outbreak of highly toxic red tides to surrounding regions. This was evident in May 2016, when the Chiloé archipelago was struck by a prolonged red tide outbreak.

President Macri, on his week-long excursion to Patagonia, visited the Southwestern fjords in a showcase of support for the industry. Visiting the town of Caleta Andreda on the island of Las Huicas, Macri spoke on the importance of both profits and sustainable industry practices. The president toured numerous salmon farms in the waterways of the Southwest, concluding his trip on the village of Tortel.

In Tortel, Macri presented his 10-point plan for the salmon industry and aquaculture at large.

1. Sustainable practices; introducing recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS), improved feed conversion ratios, and disease prevention measures.

2. Regulatory changes; strengthening and updating current regulatory frameworks. Transparency and stakeholder engagement

3. Market diversification; diversifying and promoting products on new costumers. Leveraging Argentine quality in competitive global markets

4. Developing infrastructure; upgrading port facilities, processing plants and road network access

5. Adopting new technologies; integrating innovative tools and systems into salmon farming and implementing a real-time monitoring system

6. Risk management and insurance; establishing emergency response protocols and contingency plans. Collaborating with insurance providers, industry stakeholders to design appropriate coverage options

7. Training and education; investing in educational programs to teach new farmers, technicians and manager to develop necessary skills

8. Support for small-scale producers (SSPs); providing access to credit, technical assistance, and market information

9. Sustainable feed sourcing; introducing new feed, such as algae, insect and plant-based proteins.

10. Community engagement; open communication, transparency, and a commitment to mutual respect and collaboration. Identify and address concerns, build trust, and foster partnerships that promote the long-term sustainability and success of the salmon industry.

★| 𝚂𝙾𝙲𝙸𝙰𝙻𝙸𝚂𝚃 𝚁𝙴𝙿𝚄𝙱𝙻𝙸𝙲 𝙾𝙵 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙸𝙰 | ☭

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

România liberă
_{MAY 2024}

ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴍᴘᴇᴛʀᴏʟ ᴅᴇᴀʟ ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴏᴡ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴏᴄɪᴀʟɪꜱᴛ ᴘᴀʀᴛʏ ɪꜱ ʀᴇꜱᴛᴏʀɪɴɢ ᴘʀᴇ-ʀᴇꜰᴏʀᴍ ᴇʀᴀ ᴇᴄᴏɴᴏᴍɪᴄꜱ
_{Following in the footsteps of many Socialist countries of the era, Romania underwent extensive economic reform under the guise of 'developing productive forces' in the mid 90s and early 2000s. Partially motivated by a debt crisis and partially by the need to integrate the Romanian economy into the world economy even if temporary, this economic reform saw the privatization of many important ventures as well as the emergence of a strong private sector in the Romanian economy, at the expense of many protests by party hardliners and those that have claimed Romania abandoned 'Socialism'.}

_{As party hardliners took over in the late 2010s however, much of this seems to be nearing change. The state has played a far more active role in investments and driving economic development, many private enterprises have seen nationalizations or increased state shares, and the Socialist Party has vowed to ensure that Romania 'transitions into the Socialist mode of production by at most 2050'. Indeed, it seems that if the current policy continues its hold, the economic system of Romania will be quite different come that period.}

_{One example that has highlighted this shift has been that of the case of Rompetrol. Initially established in 1974 to handle the marketing and refining of Romania's oil resourcecs, the company was privatized in a heavily contentious decision in the late 90s, eventually making its way to ownership by KazMunayGas who acquired over a 75% share in the company. Initially heralded as a sign of the 'eternal bond between the Romanian and Russian peoples', there was heavy internal discontent over the deal, especially as Petrom avoided such a fate with a decree calling for its privatization and sale to the Austrian OMV shut down last minute by the party hardliners.}

_{Bringing Rompetrol back into the state fold then, has been one of the Ciolacu's government main goals. Thus it was not a surprise when it was officially announced that the Romanian government (through Petrom) will renegotiate the shares of the oil company, meeting with various delegation of KMG to sort out the future of a company that owns the two largest refineries in Romania with some of the largest capabilities in Europe.}

_{After months of negotiations, it was finally announced that Petrom would now own 50% of the company shares, putting it on an equal footing with KMG International who owns the other 50%. In a moment where history has repeated itself, the deal once again was heralded as a sign of Russo-Romanian bonds, though this time the reformist wing of the party critizing the purchase, claiming that it will put undue strain on the Romanian state, especially considering that Rompetrol has been making losses for two years straight.}

_{This deal is just one of many that in the last few months has formed the basis for what the Socialist Party of Romania has called 'Economic Patriotism', a policy focused on increasing state intervention in Romania's Social Market Economy, while re-asserting a grip that is reminiscent of Communist Romania in the days before the economic reform.}

Dinasty Quebian wrote:

Hello, I am the puppet of Mirosusthat is to Byzantion I want to rp but I don't know what to choose among my ideas

my ideas :
●Eastern Mongolia (Eastern Mongolia)
●Italy Communist (Northern Italy)
●The Empire of Peru (Peru, Ecuador, West-North Comlombian)
●Pakistani Empire (Pakistan, North-West India )

Please don't delete the message I want to know everyone's answers to see which nation would suit me best knowing that in rp I am a novice

RMB is for RP only, so I'll have to supress your message I'm afraid. I highly recommend going over to our discord, the link to which is on the main world factbook entry page, or feel free to send a TG to any of the moderators and we'll be happy to help. This is where we can communicate outside of roleplaying. Currently India and Italy are unavaliable.

2024 05 06

Tokyo

国民への高市早苗内閣総理大臣の演説

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's address to the nation

皆様、
本日は、日本の首相として貴方方の前に立ち、謙虚で光栄に思います。共に、我々は歴史的な勝利を収めました。これは選挙における勝利だけでなく、より強く、より繁栄し、より安全な日本を目指す共同の追求でもあります。将来への展望に対する信頼と自信をお寄せいただいた皆様に、心からの感謝を表します。

まず、最も緊急かつ重要な課題は、日本の経済を再活性化し、人口構造の危機に立ち向かうことです。高齢化と出生率の低下という現実を無視することはできません。これに対処するため、家族を支援し、労働力の参加を奨励し、技術革新を促進する大胆かつ革新的な政策を実施します。教育と医療への投資は最優先事項であり、すべての日本国民が質の高いサービスにアクセスし、個人的な成長の機会を得ることができるようにします。また、起業家精神と中小企業を奨励し、経済成長を促進し、若者に新しい仕事の機会を創出するイノベーションの文化を育成します。

日本の経済を再活性化するためには、大胆で断固たる行動が必要です。我々は包括的な経済改革の取り組みに着手し、重要なインフラへの投資、デジタル化、持続可能な開発に焦点を当てます。イノベーションとテクノロジーの力を活用することで、社会のあらゆる層に利益をもたらす、強靱で競争力のある経済を築き上げます。経済の再活性化は包括的であり、誰一人取り残されることはありません。産業界と学界の連携を促進し、環境に配慮した取り組みを推進し、再生可能エネルギーや医療技術、先端製造業などの新興分野で新しい機会を創出します。共に、21世紀の世界経済の牽引役として、日本の全ての潜在力を解放し、我が国を世界的な経済大国として位置づけます。

日本は長らく自由主義的国際秩序の堅実な擁護者として、民主主義、人権、法の支配の原則に基づく秩序を築いてきました。本日、我々はこの秩序への献身を再確認し、世界中の同盟国やパートナーと肩を並べて立ちます。日本は大国として、グローバルな問題の形成に先鞭をつけ、平和と安定の促進、気候変動やパンデミック、地域紛争といった喫緊の課題への対処に先駆的役割を果たします。外交関係を強化し、国際機関との連携を拡大し、共通の利益を推進し、普遍的な価値観を守ります。

複雑で不確実な安全保障環境の中で、日本は主権を守り、地域の平和と安定を確保するために防衛能力を強化する必要があります。我々は軍事力の近代化に投資し、先端技術を取得し、米国との同盟を強化します。同時に、紛争の平和的解決を求め、対話と協力を促進する積極的外交を貫きます。我々の目標は攻撃ではなく抑止力であり、日本の安全保障を確保し、より安全で安定した世界に貢献することです。

最後に、希望と決意を持って共にこの旅に乗り出しましょう。前進する道は困難かもしれませんが、日本人の強靭さ、独創性、そして精神を活用すれば、どんな障害も乗り越えて偉大なる未来を実現できると確信しています。共に、日本が経済的に繁栄し、民主主義と人権の擁護者として高くそびえ立ち、世界的リーダーとしての責任を果たす未来を築いていきましょう。この尊い使命に皆様一人一人が参加してくださることを心から呼びかけます。勇気と団結、揺るぎない決意を持って、日本の歴史の次章を共に描いていきましょう。

最後に、平和と繁栄の祝福が我が愛する国に訪れることを心より願っています。

誠にありがとうございます。

Ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you humbled and honoured to address the people of Japan as your Prime Minister. Together, we have achieved a historic victory, not just in an election, but in our shared pursuit of a stronger, more prosperous, and more secure Japan. I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who placed your trust and confidence in our vision for the future.

Our first and most urgent task is to revitalise Japan's economy and confront the challenges posed by our demographic crisis. We cannot ignore the reality of an ageing population and declining birth rates. To address this, we will implement bold and innovative policies to support families, encourage workforce participation, and promote technological innovation. Investing in education and healthcare will be paramount, ensuring that every Japanese citizen has access to quality services and opportunities for personal growth. We will also incentivise entrepreneurship and small businesses, fostering a culture of innovation that will drive economic growth and create new job opportunities for our youth.

Revitalising Japan's economy requires bold and decisive action. We will embark on a comprehensive economic reform agenda, focusing on investment in critical infrastructure, digital transformation, and sustainable development. By harnessing the power of innovation and technology, we will build a resilient and competitive economy that benefits all segments of society. Our economic revival will be inclusive, leaving no one behind. We will foster collaboration between industry and academia, promote green initiatives, and create new opportunities in emerging sectors such as renewable energy, healthcare technology, and advanced manufacturing. Together, we will unleash Japan's full potential and position our nation as a global economic powerhouse in the 21st century.

Japan has long been a stalwart defender of the liberal international order, built on principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to this order, standing shoulder to shoulder with our allies and partners around the world. As a great power, Japan will play a leading role in shaping global affairs, promoting peace and stability, and addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and regional conflicts. We will strengthen our diplomatic ties and expand our engagement with international organisations to advance common interests and uphold universal values.

In an increasingly complex and uncertain security environment, Japan must enhance its defence capabilities to protect our sovereignty and ensure peace and stability in the region. We will invest in modernising our military forces, acquiring advanced technology, and strengthening our alliance with the United States. At the same time, we remain committed to a proactive diplomacy that seeks peaceful resolutions to conflicts and promotes dialogue and cooperation among nations. Our goal is not aggression but deterrence – to safeguard our nation and contribute to a safer and more secure world.

In closing, let us embark on this journey together with hope and determination. The road ahead may be challenging, but I am confident that by harnessing the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of the Japanese people, we will overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness. Together, let us build a future where Japan thrives economically, stands tall as a champion of democracy and human rights, and upholds its responsibilities as a global leader. I invite each of you to join me in this noble endeavour, as we write the next chapter of Japan's history with courage, unity, and unwavering resolve.

Thank you, and may the blessings of peace and prosperity be upon our beloved nation.

Homily on the Feast of the Ascension of the Lord by Pope Julius IV at The Pantheon

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Today, we gather to celebrate the solemn feast of the Ascension of the Lord, a cornerstone of our faith and a beacon of hope for all Christians. On this day, we commemorate our Lord Jesus Christ’s triumphant ascent into heaven, marking the completion of His earthly ministry and the beginning of a new era for the Church.

1. The Historical and Scriptural Context

The Ascension is not merely an event of historical significance but a profound mystery that speaks to the depths of our faith. As recounted in the Acts of the Apostles, forty days after the Resurrection, Christ gathered His disciples on the Mount of Olives. Here, He offered them final instructions, promising the Holy Spirit, and then ascended into heaven before their very eyes (Acts 1:9-11).

This moment, vividly described in Scripture, is not just an ending but a powerful beginning. It marks the moment when Jesus passed the torch of His ministry to His disciples, entrusting them to continue His work through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

2. The Theological Significance

Theologically, the Ascension is pivotal. It signifies the glorification of Jesus, affirming His divine nature and His rightful place at the right hand of the Father. This event also symbolizes Jesus’s role as the eternal priest, interceding on behalf of humanity, a bridge between God and man.

Furthermore, the Ascension reassures us of our own hopeful destiny. In his humanity, Jesus ascends to heaven, paving the way for all who are united to Him through grace to follow. It is a promise of what is to come for us all, an affirmation that our ultimate home is not of this earth but with God in heaven.

3. The Spiritual Implications

Spiritually, the Ascension challenges us to lift our hearts and minds to what is above. As St. Paul writes to the Colossians, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" (Colossians 3:2). This is not an invitation to disdain the world but to transform it by living out the values of the Gospel, guided by the Holy Spirit whom Jesus promised to send from the Father.

The Ascension thus calls us to be a people of hope, energized by the joy of the Resurrection and the assurance of Jesus’s ongoing presence in our lives through the Church and the sacraments, most especially the Eucharist.

4. Conclusion

As we move forward from today’s celebration, let us hold fast to the joy and hope of the Ascension. Let us strive to be ambassadors of Christ, spreading the good news of His love and salvation to all corners of the earth. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, let us transform our communities, inspired by the ascended Christ who reigns forever in glory.

May the grace of the Ascension fill your hearts, and may the peace of Christ, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds. Amen.