Kalistan

[Doc]

Feature: Mary Ananto-DeLaurentis, Princess of the Empire
Princess of the Empire speaks candidly about War, Music and Education
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
January 3, 5682


Her Highness, Princess of the Empire Mary Ananto-DeLaurentis

La Moda finally got the opportunity to speak with Her Highness, Princess of the Empire Mary Ananto-DeLaurentis, from her home at Ananto Estate in Eveari. She gave our reporter Robert Amos free range to ask whatever questions he wanted, and she candidly answered them all. Except for some... Here's the transcript of the interview, which took place earlier this month in Eveari.

(La Moda's) R(obert) A(mos): Hello, Your Highness. It is a pleasure to finally get to sit down with you.

(Her Highness, Princess of the Empire) M(ary) A(nanto-DeLaurentis): It's nice to meet you Mr. Amos. And welcome to Ananto Estate.

RA: This is a beautiful home. I've never had the opportunity to visit.

MA: If my information is correct, its likely because you don't live in Eveari.

RA: No Madame, I do not.

MA: Lady Victoria and I do throw several major public celebrations each year here on the Estate. You would certainly be welcomed to come back and cover one of them, and you can see this place in all its lit and decorated glory. This is a very very old house, but it is surprisingly beautiful, and much of this house is precisely the same as it was in Empress Nicolette's time.

RA: This was the home of the original Anantos, is that correct?

MA: This was Fredrick Guerra's home, yes, before he became Emperor. It's been improved since then, of course. But that was nearly 500 years ago. Obviously its needed a new roof, and we've had to replaster a few times since then.

RA: That's expected.

MA: Certainly.

RA: Madame, our readers were hoping to get some of your thoughts on the state of the world.

MA: Of course, you didn't come all this way to talk about the house, I imagine. What specifically would you be interested in hearing the musings of an old woman on?

RA: Well: Kalistan finds itself in a war again. You were a wartime Empress at one point...

MA: As was my father. It seems we need a war once a monarchy. Luckily this one isn't too bloody for Kalistanis. Though I do hear its a slog further north.

RA: Excuse me, Madame?

MA: Trigunia is actually doing a lot more killing and destruction of civilian property than Kalistan has had to do. And they have lost a good number more casualties as well. It's much more like a war in the North than it is where Kalistanis are.

RA: Do you support the war?

MA: I support my Emperor and Empress.

RA: That's not exactly an endorsement of the war, if you will forgive me for pointing it out.

MA: Mr. Amos, surely you didn't come here to get me on the record saying I oppose my Empire's foreign policy, or the decisions of its monarchs. I know Their Imperial Majesties are doing what they believe to be the best, and all things considered, Kalistani administration of the two Southern Cities serves as a measure of peace in the southern most reaches of that nation. While the invasion of Trigunia promotes only chaos through what they call "democracy", though it is hardly anything like democracy, because the elections are designed to guarantee a pro-Trigunian regime in their occupied territory, whatever the people who live there want, in the Kalistani zone, we have order, where the people themselves have just successfully named their own city government, pushed out the junta supporters, and maintain Kizenian sovereignty. Kalistan is there to ensure peace and safety for both the Kizenians and the Kalistani Nationals who are in southern Kizenia, not to take the land over to satisfy our own greed. We aren't that kind of nation.

RA: So is that an endorsement of the War, and Kalistan's conduct of the war?

MA: I can endorse Kalistan's conduct of our part of the war. But Mr. Amos: I am a Brethrenist. I do not endorse war. I would rather the legitimate government of Kizenia not have been overthrown in the first place. I certainly will urge my son to refuse to acknowledge any government in that territory which is not governed by the legitimate monarch of that State, and until they are restored to the throne, our job is not over. But right now, Kizenia is just a land grab, and Trigunia is taking as much of it as it can get away with. For what reason? That's ultimately unclear. I can't say anyone in Kalistan understands anything that nation is doing. Which is probably why Their Imperial Majesties continue to deny that state diplomatic recognition.

RA: To clarify, for the readers, Madame, when you say Trigunia, you mean Nadiya, correct?

MA: I've heard that's what they call themselves.

RA: Would Your Highness support an invasion of Athosia?

MA: Yes.

RA: Even though you are a Brethrenist.

MA: Yes.

RA: You would support a Kalistani invasion, I should say a conquest of Athosia, but you oppose the Trigunian invasion of Kizenia?

MA: Yes. What's the issue?

RA: Isn't that the same thing? Kalistan invading Athosia to add it to its Empire or Trigunia invading Kizenia to grab as much of the land as it possibly can?

MA: No. It's not the same thing. First of all, Kalistan has title to Athosia. That territory is ours. It was stolen from Kalistan illegally. And we are merely going to get our property back. Trigunia is not entitled to any of Kizenia. There's no comparison whatsoever. Its not the same thing at all.

RA: Will you urge Their Imperial Majesties to oppose whatever annexation Trigunia has in mind for northern Kizenia.

MA: I think my son and daughter in law have their own minds on things. I won't encourage them to do anything one way or another, because the last thing I would want is a war between Kalistan and Trigunia. Trigunia is well outside of Kalistan's sphere of concern, as is almost the entirety of Kizenia for that matter. We are interested in Luncasi because it is adjacent to our Crown Lands in Karzon, and Deltabor because like Luncasi, there is a large Kalistani expatriate community in that town. But as long as we can protect our citizens there, we have no desire to annex anything in Kizenia. We do not have claims to that national territory, and adding it to the Empire, though we easily could, is still against our national laws. Unlike some nations, Kalistan has a limit to our national ambitions. Because unlike some others, we are not particularly greedy. Kalistan may have things about it that others do not like, but at least we are not driven by vicious immorality.

RA: Very good Madame, I want to change topics now. How is the Gem Vault doing?

MA: (laughs) That was abrupt. The Hulanevek Diamond is where it belongs, if that's what you mean.

RA: Well, that's part of it, I suppose.

MA: My son and I have had conversations. He believes it is cursed, you know, and I think the more he thinks on the matter, the more I think he would like to return it, either to Kundrati or Beiteynu.

RA: Oh, that would be a coup, wouldn't it?

MA: I of course advise him against doing that. That diamond belongs to us, no matter who has a claim on it. But I think if he could use it to gain some leverage on some item which is near and dear to his heart, he would certainly seriously consider it.

RA: What would he trade it for?

MA: I would love to say he would trade it for Athosia. But: We know there is no competent authority in Baltusia capable of making that trade. We had some hopes years ago that maybe there was at least a chance, but that hope was dashed when the dictator took over, and now the last King of Baltusia is dead and gone without an heir, and the government of that state is defunct. Athosia, or as they call it San Luis State remains strong, largely because of Baltusian and Kalistani cooperation in that state. But the rest of the nation is... well, it's not pleasant.

RA: Do you still own Playa de Paz estate?

MA: House Ananto owns it, I never owned it personally. I don't own anything personally, except the clothes I personally purchased.

RA: Madame, excuse me, but you are one of the wealthiest women on the planet. And you say you don't own anything?

MA: No, I don't have many personal possessions.

RA: Do you not receive a pension?

MA: Oh yes. My pension is worth about 65 million Imperial Rubles a year.

RA: And you don't own anything?

MA: No. I... how shall I put this. I don't want anything. I have no needs that are left unmet, at all. But I haven't collected my pension in decades. I don't have anything that I need which is not immediately provided to me. I live a life of ease that most of the people on this earth can not even fathom. What do I need possessions for? They just clutter up my life.

RA: What of all the books in this library? You don't own any of these?

MA: No, of course not. I can read any of them whenever I want, but owning them is kind of counterintuitive. They're just here, they are owned by House Ananto. This house, my home in Athosia, Cliff House in Kaliburg, those all belong to House Ananto. The Imperial Seat, that's owned by House Ananto. The Hulanevek Diamond is owned by House Ananto.

RA: This is strange for a monarchy, though, My Lady.

MA: Not for a Kalistani Monarch. Let's just say we're built a little different, a bit better. There is no need to own something that I can have whenever I want. The Emperor and Empress own the entire state. What difference does it make to them if they own this car or that book? They merely need to speak the word and the thing they want appears before them. It's not magic. It's absolutism. Their word is literally the law. Why would they, or any of us need to own anything? So they can show others that they posses it? It's a given that they do. The property title therefore remains with the House Ananto, for the use of the Royal Family.

RA: Moving on then, does Your Highness have any thoughts on the state of Kalistani Culture?

MA: The music is a little loud. But I do have an affinity for the Luthorian bands. They are doing their thing, and I kind of like it. I was more of a country kind of girl, personally, but I get the attraction. And you know you can definitely hear the cocaine in that music. I think if I had objection it would be to music that was fueled by drugs. I personally like music with a bit more realism in it, and a bit more romanticism in it. Fashion wise, we're still leading the pack and that's good. Kalistan is on the right foot: I like Lady Donahue, and feel she is perhaps a little more candid, especially about the dangers of Communism, than my son would prefer sometimes, but she is very effective. Her leadership is allowing the arts and culture in Kalistan to flourish: We do best when we have that strong sense of order and normalcy in the nation. She's doing a great job making it possible for Kalistanis to be their best selves. We will keep our Good Society for another generation.

RA: Do you have a favorite band in the New Wave?

MA: Haha, well, I am a little old to be listening to club music, but if I had to say anything, I really liked Moratorium. And I like that new band, the More Society. Their songs are pretty catchy, and I like the reggae they are using in their music. Its a nice touch, without being too sexual, you know. Some of the music these guys are making is a bit over the top, thematic wise, for my tastes anyway. But I'm old, so asking me what I like is going to probably give you a strange answer no matter what the questions is. (laughs)

RA: Well, My Lady, you have been more than generous with your time.

MA: Thank you, I am honored that you wish to speak to me.

RA: Do you have any parting words?

MA: I do, actually. The loss of my sister last year has inspired me to attempt college. I am Enrolling at Eveari Duchy College this Spring. Can you imagine this? A 71 year old grandmother starting school? It has been so long since I have been in a classroom setting and here I will be with a bunch of early 20 something kids. I hope they accept me as a fellow scholar.

RA: What does your Majesty hope to study?

MA: I would like to study dendrology. I have planted so many trees, and I have always wondered, you know, how do trees grow? I learned something about photosynthesis when I was a kid, and only actually understood it when I planted trees. But I don't feel like I have the actual science of it down and I've lived all these years without really having names for the things I was doing. So, Eveari College has a plant biology program, and I will be a freshman this spring. Hahaha that's a fun idea. My sister was always the brain of our family. But I think she would be proud of me, finally getting to go to school and learn things too.

RA: That sounds like a very good plan, Your Highness.

MA: I hope so.

RA: Thank you Your Highness, for the interview.

MA: It was my pleasure. I am glad I could answer your questions.

[Doc]

Chancellor takes Hardline on "expanding Communism" in the world
Calls ideology a "pernicious threat" and makes appeal for containment
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 20, 5682


Chancellor of the Empire, Lady Ericka Donahue, speaking about Communism in the National Assembly

The Chancellor of the Empire, speaking on behalf of Their Imperial Majesties' Government, moved and passed a new Military Spending bill that continues to fund Kalistan's limited War effort in Kizenia, along with several plenary spending packages to help continue assistance to Egelian efforts in the country. The mission, to oust the military junta and restore legitimate government to the northern Kingdom which suffered a military coup some years ago, easily passed the National Assembly, and will essentially grant a blank check to military planners, pending Institutional Oversight, for the next three years.

Following the passage of the spending bills, the Chancellor called on the National Assembly to take a public stand and denounce the advance of communism in Terra. "Speaking as a legislator myself, I want to stress that global and expanding communism is as great a pernicious threat as global fascism is in Terra, and I for one would like to see our Empire stand up and be counted in the camp of those nations who rejects both extremist totalitarian ideologies firmly and explicitly. Kalistan had fought and died to roll back fascism. Are we willing to do the same against creeping communism?"

Apparently, the thing which prompted the Chancellor's screed against communism was the revelation that the Kizenian territory under Trigunian domination was being administered by a governor that was committed to"the cause of the proletariat and the necessity of a Metzist model for the reconstruction." The Chancellor was explicit: "We are not working to liberate this nation so it can become some communist stooge for Trigunia," said Lady Donahue. "We are there to restore the legitimate monarchy to the nation, the one overthrown by the Military Dictatorship. That Trigunia has entered a war with a purpose of grabbing territory for the expansion of their abberant political system is both opportunistic and unconscionable, and should be loudly condemned and opposed."

Lady Donahue expressed that she would have "spoken out" before, had she been given clearance to do so by Their Imperial Majesties. "As the Head of Their Imperial Majesties' Government, I represent their chief policy maker in Kalistan. So any comments I may make will naturally appear to have come from them. But Their Imperial Majesties have approved me to finally take the gloves off with regard to communism, both in Keris and in Terra. Kalistan does not endorse Communism. Where we interact with Communists we do so out of greater principles, but we will never condone that abhorrent ideology which says society should be run along the exigencies of Metzist ideology. The notion that imposing Communistic imperatives in a country which is by rights a monarchy is vulgar and basic, and needs to be opposed."

Several Institutionalists loudly applauded the Chancellor's polemic from the floor and rose to speak to add their voices to the Chancellor's while at least two prominent Deputies who are known to be aligned with socialism rose to speak against the Chancellor's statement. John Franklin, representative from Sulari said "Madame Chancellor, with all due respect, without some measure you are putting before this Assembly, how is this speech in any way germane to the business of this body? We don't just launch into personal rants from the floor of the National Assembly. Kalistan has a number of friends in this world who would describe themselves as Communists. Aren't you concerned in the least about offending those people? Just because you happen to be dogmatically anti-communist doesn't mean that this entirely assembly is, and speaking for myself I would appreciate it if you stopped representing us as if we all agreed with you. Thank you." Six deputies shouted "Here Here" following Deputy Franklin's comments.

The Chancellor responded, "Since the Deputy was so kind to direct his comments to me specifically, rather than to the Chair, as is the Custom and Normal Order, I will respond. There is no room in this Empire for communism of any kind. Just as there is no room for Fascism. And I would remind the Deputy that both of those extremist ideologies are anti-monarchist at their core and as a result run afoul of the Single Party Act. I would advise the Deputy and those who share sympathy with his message to keep that in mind. While we are to do the business of this Nation, part of that business is to avoid violating the law." The Chancellor received applause for this statement.

The back and forth inspired by the Chancellor's statements became raucous enough for the Speaker of the Assembly to declare the body to be out of order, and require that the chamber be vacated. When it was reconvened, the Chancellor put the National Assembly in recess for the remainder of the week, with a promise to return with a resolution which would end association with the "Communists" in Trigunia, and imposition of sanctions on the Northern Occupied territories in Kizenia. The Speaker was then ordered to gavel the Assembly out of session and the Floor was cleared.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Indie Rockers Bootsy Push back against the New Wave
Playing Rock these days like "Holding Back Ocean" says Singer
Sulari, Duchy of Ananto
March 25, 5682


Bootsy, Sulari's Indie Answer to New Wave want to remind people of what Kalistani music is supposed to sound like

The Sulari Duo and Indie Rock/Underground rockers Bootsy, who recently signed a two album deal with Artists' Recording Collective in Sulari, have released their debut record The Weirdo and say they want to remind Kalistanis that we rock. "Kalistan is an Alternative Nation," said lead singer and lyricist Amber Derringer. "Much as we try, we can't fully get behind the whole dance scene that New Wave represents. We want to make sure there are loud guitars, huge drums, and plenty of snotty attitude on the radio."

The band has so far been rewarded for their return to a more familiar sound. The Weirdo debuted at Number 32 on the Album chart, and on the Radio 1 Singles poll, their lead single "Nada Surf" scored an impressive Number 21 debut. "Not bad for an underground rock band from Sulari," said guitarist, songwriter and producer Alexander Williams. "Sometimes it feels like what we're doing here is trying to hold back the ocean with all this electronic stuff. The record does have some keyboards, but we are primarily focused on guitars and huge drums. That big rock sound that we do so well in this country is what we're trying to bring back into the spotlight."

Derringer made it clear that the band has nothing against the New Wave of RF. "I listen to it, of course. But we want the punk aesthetic represented in music. This is where we come from, this is who we are. This is the community who buys tickets to our shows and who buys our t shirts. It's that snotty attitude, that scrappy demeanor. The coke music is fine, but we want to make sure our side is heard from too." This attitude is pretty prevalent in their new release "All Bark, No Bite", which features guest vocals from Indie singer and guitarist Britt Linda.

"That song kicks ass," said Williams. "It's really quite loud, but in a very kind of controlled way. It's very unapologetically alternative and punk. Yeah, it sounds way different than anything you will likely hear in the clubs, that's for sure." Both Derringer and Williams said that there is a significant underground that is still playing punk rock and post-punk, and its just waiting to be discovered. "We may be the tip of the iceberg," said Williams. "My band isn't probably going to lead to a resurgence of loud music. But you take what we're doing in Sulari, and what the Art Rock movement is doing in Kaliburg, and you can see there is still a lot of rock out there, even with all the synthesizers. We're still making loud music, which is, in my opinion, the true sound of Northern Seleyan Music, and Kalistani music in particular."

"I think our one tribute to the New Wave Sound," said Derringer, "we put that as the B-Side of 'All Bark, No Bite'. That song ['End of Everything We Know'] doesn't have any keyboards on it, but the way Alexander produced it, it's really what he calls wet. Full Gated Drums, really wet, cavernous guitars, echoey bass, its almost sounds synthesized. But I assure you, its all analog and the trick is in the production. We were almost going to leave it off the record, but I think it is a real neat addition to the record: It was our attempt at modern music and Art Rock--I'd say its probably closer to Art Rock than New Wave, because its definitely not dance music. I guess listeners can judge for themselves whether we did well."

In all, Bootsy is one of the few rock bands on the charts right now. Synthpop is still going strong on the airwaves, in the RF clubs, and in the record stores. "We realize we're kind of the weird group out right now," said Derringer. "Hence the name of our record. We didn't anticipate that this album would do much in sales, but I think we've sold enough records now that we don't have to work for a couple years at least: it will give us enough time and money to make our second record, for sure. And in this country, where everyone is making syntho-dance tracks, that's pretty impressive, I think. I'm definitely impressed."

You can check out both tunes, from Bootsy's debut album The Weirdo, out on ARC right now:

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cn0mTkETKbU]
"All Bark, No Bite", featuring Britt Linda, the second single from Bootsy's debut The Weirdo

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkCAmdcqVoQ]
"End of Everything We Know", the B-Side for their Second Single "All Bark, No Bite"

@KalistaniRawkMonthly

[Doc]

Emperor addresses National Assembly on International Tensions
Calls Istalian Criticism "wild and unforced"
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 18, 5682


His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Fredrick IV Ananto, speaking in National Assembly

"We happen to find the regime endorsed comments of Equilibri Globali to be entirely out of left field," said His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Fredrick IV Ananto, as he stood before the National Assembly to address the recent article published by the journal which harshly criticized the Chancellor of the Empire, Lady Ericka Donahue following her recent comments condemning international communism. "We cannot assume that the journal is, as it claims to be, independent of the foreign policy establishment in Istalia, nor have we heard any sort of retraction or disavowal from the Regime in Istalia. We therefore must conclude that this wild and entirely unforced commentary is the official position of the Istalian regime, a regime we have, until just recently, been entirely friendly with. Such a policy shift seems incomprehensible to us here in Kalistan, and we are not sure why they decided to hit our Chancellor in this fashion."

The Emperor was referring to the EG article which called Kalistan "myopic" and compared the Empire unfavorably to the "mature" states of Egelion and Istalia. "We are not sure about the level of maturity it takes to snipe at the Government of the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan from a foreign opinion rag, but if this is how Istalia conducts its foreign policy, it seems that the course that Wrnuke took in expelling the Istalians may be a course we should also consider following." The Emperor equated the Istalian comments to "trolling" which he said is the entire summary of the foreign policy of states like Trigunia. "Trigunia may be a more apt comparison for Istalia than a decent nation like Egelion. Trigunia's foreign policy seems to be most easily described as 'If Kalistan is upset by what we are doing, we are doing the right thing.' While we should consider it an honor to live rent free in the head of the multi-faceted opacity that passes for government in Trigunia, it certainly is not the treatment one would expect from a nation that calls itself Kalistan's friend."

The Emperor went on to ask, rhetorically, whether this change in attitude toward Kaliburg is really the result of Chancellor of the Empire, Lady Ericka Donahue's recent comments concerning communism, or something deeper. "We can't see how, for a nation that has an Emperor, one of whom, by the way, that we have had numerous cordial encounters on a personal basis, Lady Donahue's comments would have provoked this sort of response. The journal posited Egelion and Istalia as mature. And were held as contrary to Kalistan, who they refered to as myopic. But, we understand that Vrassan is not Istalia's first language, so if you will indulge us a moment, we will switch to Istalian: La miopia non è l'opposto della maturità. L'immaturità è l'opposto della maturità. Quindi il loro scopo era quello di definirci infantili? Perché il nostro Cancelliere ha un problema con il comunismo? Tengono alla nostra amicizia o vogliono difendere il comunismo? Questo è incomprensibile per noi.

"It would seem that perhaps the author misspoke when they really meant to hit the Chancellor harder," continued the Emperor. "But it was an unnecessary strike. Any questions the Istalian regime had about our position could be cleared up through normal diplomatic channels, which we still have available, either through our Ambassador in Romula, or theirs here. Like adults would. Like Mature Nations who have been friends for a long time would. They chose to attack us in the press however. Like Trigunia would."

The Emperor wrapped his remarks by stating, "We won't let this slight change our policies with regard to Istalia. It seems to be the fashionable thing to punch up when you are yourself attempting to climb. We should be honored that this is the course Istalia chose to take. They attempt to put themselves into a club they themselves do not feel that they are members of. This is understandable, and we should instead take it as a compliment. But our Chancellor spoke our mind. Communism is a deeply problematic ideology, specifically because it sets itself as opposed to monarchism.

"And as a word of warning to the Istalian Emperor, allowing that ideology to persist within Istalia exposes the Emperor to a threat every bit as real as allowing fascism to fester within the nation. Whatever communism is: whether it be a purely good liberationist ideology, which occasionally goes bad, or a pernicious evil that plagues the world wherever it exists, we do not care to opine upon at the moment. The fact remains that, dear Emperor, Communists are not, and never will be your friends. Because their MO is to erase the existence of monarchs and tyrants alike and level the playing field so that literally anyone can set themselves up in your place. We know this in Kaliburg. Our objection to communism is based on our commitment to monarchism as a governing practice, not any sort of imagined opposition to human liberation. You are known by the company you keep and we do not care to court the friendship of those who would sooner see our heads roll than fit into the society as it is now. We do not support revolutionaries, and we certainly encourage other imperial monarchies to tread cautiously around them as well. This is what a friend would tell a friend. We certainly would criticize our friends in our press."

The Emperor then stepped from the podium to a silently standing National Assembly who bowed their heads as a body in respect for the Emperor, and as soon as he departed the chamber raised an ovation for both the Emperor and Empress and the Chancellor. Clearly, this message struck a chord with the Deputies in attendance. It is unclear how it will be received abroad, but if surly attitude of Istalian journalists is any indication, a positive reception is unlikely.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Chancellor of the Empire announces Shift in Policy
"Internationalism has failed," declares Chancellor
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
June 15, 5682


Chancellor of the Empire, Lady Ericka Donahue, at home in downtown Kaliburg

As the world forges new alliances and new tensions flare in Keris and Majatra, Kalistan is set to declare an end to its attempts to reach out to the world that was begun at the beginning of the reigns of Their Imperial Majesties, Emperor Fredrick IV Ananto and Empress Jennifer I Ananto, exactly 10 years ago. "Their Imperial Majesties have determined, after careful consideration and consultation with our foreign policy apparatus, various stakeholders in the Kalistani economy and military establishment, and members of the Peerage, including Her Highness, Princess of the Empire Mary Ananto-DeLaurentis, that the experiment with Internationalism has failed and will be ended. Kalistan is set to return to Nationalism and regionalism, and has become content to let the rest of the world burn itself to the ground."

The Chancellor gave these statements from her home during an interview with The Republic last week. "I think I would characterize the feeling at Cliff House and in the National Assembly as one of resignation," said Lady Donahue. "I think Kalistan tried to play the game, to reset our foreign policy with the rest of the world. We tried to reach out, to be part of solutions to global problems, to make alliances and friendships with new nations and etc. And I think over time, especially His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor discovered that there was a very good reason why Kalistan has had such difficulty with this over the years. Most other nations of the world simply cannot overcome their deep seated dislike for our nation. It doesn't matter how many events in foreign nations our monarchs attend: We simply are not going to improve Kalistan's image abroad as long as we hold an opinion on any matter and have the nerve to express it in public. So, they came to a decision: Why even bother?"

The Chancellor noted that in the past few years, Kalistan has been treated with incredible disrespect and disregard by most of the vocal nations of the world. This includes recent disrespect from nations like Istalia, who were happy to associate with Kalistan when Kalistan could give them a foot hold in Northern Seleya, or Xsampa's complete disregard of Kalistan's objections to their alliance with Amudim, after Kalistan was first and most important in not only coming to Xsampa's aid following the nuclear destruction of their capital, but then a major trading partner with Xsampa for the vast majority of this century. "That Xsampa could so easily turn their backs on a nation that has been there for them without asking for anything in return, it really stings, but also, it is an opportunity to learn, because there are no friends in international politics, only interests, and Xsampa followed their interests, even if it meant throwing their friends under the bus. Others have done that too."

She added that Kalistan is probably not going to bother attempting to repair any recent damage to Kalistan's foreign relations, as nothing anyone has said in Kalistan is inaccurate, and its time to shed some dead weight. "Its not worth it," she said. "Those nations bring nothing to the table, and expect Kalistan to bring everything, and so, its really really not worth it." She added if nations want to court Kalistan, they can come to Kaliburg for once, rather than expecting Kalistan to go to them. "And if we don't see anyone in Kaliburg, we will know that nobody is serious about courting Kalistan. The Emperor and Empress are just fine with that."

Other disappointments have also contributed to the shift in policy: "Well, to be honest, Luthori has been a fairly large disappointment for Their Imperial Majesties. Kalistan is like the guy who tries to kick the football, only to have it pulled away repeatedly. Over and over again, Kalistan is talked into attempting to improve relations with Luthori, and each time it does the things it needs to do, appoints an ambassador, reopens the embassy, and etc., Luthori will accept the credentials of the Ambassador sometimes five years later, and never dispatch an ambassador itself to Kalistan. Kalistan has not had a credentialed Ambassador from Luthori in more than 140 years, though Luthori is quick to sign alliances with nations like the Triad. I really think that Their Imperial Majesties are just giving up on Luthori and that whole project at this point."

The Chancellor herself was sanguine about the shift in foreign policy. "I think my experience as Chancellor has definitely left me with a really bad taste for internationalism in my own mouth. I very much understand the feelings of Their Imperial Majesties, and their reaction to the failures of the world community to even make a half hearted attempt to meet Kalistan even half way in its attempts to accommodate the existence of nations that are not us. Kalistan has been disappointed and frustrated with even our friends for a very long time. So much to the point that Kalistan has determined that putting any investment to work with others when there is no effort on their part to work with us, is no longer worth it. The costs to our national stature always outweigh any benefits Kalistan has ever received. So we are no longer going to make those kinds of investments. It is what it is. Kalistan is, and always will be exactly what it is. It will never change. As we have discovered over this past decade, there is no reason to attempt to be different than what we are: A Fortress in North Eastern Seleya and the home of an ageless, immortal dragon known as the Eternal Anantonese State, which possesses an institutional memory longer than the political existence of several nations combined who so freely snub us and take our good will for granted." So much for myopia.

The shift in policy will be formalized over the next month and will enter Kalistani Code as a new Strategic plan which will focus on regionalism, and protecting what Kalistan has. "Kalistan has relatively unlimited power within our own region. We do not need outposts all over the globe: Maintaining those is extremely expensive, it exposes Kalistan to threats of real enemies, and criticism of imaginary ones, and adds literally nothing to our National wealth or prestige." Part of this renewed national focus includes removing several nations that Kalistan has been attempting to court friendship with, including Xsampa and most of Dovani, Artania, and Majatra from list of places Kalistan is concerned with. "We will keep our Embassies opened in most places where they exist, but will no longer attempt to expand our number of Embassies outside of their current locations, nor court those nations for economic, political or security interests."

Meanwhile, a shift to nationalism will recommit the Empire to both Anantonese Empire interests, including affairs with nations that contain our Crown Lands and continued interest in Southern Keris. "We are committed to seeing the Kizenian war through and it is our hope that at its conclusion, the legitimate monarchy can be restored," said the Chancellor. "I know at least one nation in the region will completely oppose this, but their opinions are also not our concern. The fact is that the legitimate government of Kizenia was overthrown by a military coup, and it should be restored long before we are having discussions about whether these so called liberated zones should get anything claiming to be liberalism or republicanism in name, but opportunism in practice."

The Chancellor also said that Kalistan will recommit to Northern Seleya, though she herself will not be part of any discussions around Valruzia. "My feelings on communism are well known and widely reported. That's all I really need to say about that. I am a Conservative and an Institutionalist. Those two things are antithetical to communism. But I cannot be anything other than opposed to Communism. In an effort to not further alienate the Communists in Valruzia, Their Imperial Majesties have determined that Mr. Greene, their Foreign Minister, will be the point person for Valruzia going forward. His objections to the existence of communism are not as, strident, as my own."

The KalSiE responded to the Chancellor's comments with a downward turn. Major export based stocks lost on average 6.4% on the month, while import stocks and tech stocks trended downward by more than 3 points. The only securities that did well were in the Nationalized industries, including KALMILINCO which is still riding a post Invasion bump. Analysts say that the drop is likely temporary unless protective trade measures are enacted as part of the nationalist reorientation, but without them, this is more likely a correction based on the the new unlikeliness of an increase in foreign trade volume over regional trade volume, which investors had been anticipating at least into early 5781 before foreign tensions began increasing.

Absent new trade partners, analysts are now signaling that the market will likely enter recession territory before the end of 5782, but the recession is likely to be very moderate, with a contraction of less than 2% expected until the market rights itself. National employment guarantees and guaranteed Thriving Wage policies in Kalistan are expected to go to work to contain the recession primarily to the investing class while sparing the working class and the poor. When asked, the Chancellor said that the market was likely due for a correction, and has been drifting outside of ZPG targets for more than a year.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Hulanevek Diamond becomes publicly viewable in Eveari
Diamond part of new Crown Jewels Exhibit at Ananto Estate Museum
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
July 3, 5682


Hulanevek Diamond's Display secured by AYIC Director Jacob Maxwell

"We are very happy to be able to see, for the first time, this critical artifact of Yeudi History and culture, the Hulanevek Diamond, also known as the White Gem, one of the original 8 Gems of Elior," said AYIC Director Jacob Maxwell during the celebration inaugurating the Crown Jewels Exhibit in the Museum of the Empire at Ananto Estate in Eveari. "This stone has been in the possession of the Anantos since it was received from the Kundrati Hulaneveks in 5573 in an effort to protect it from the incoming fascist regime in Kundrati. The Hulaneveks themselves held the stone for 300 years prior to that and before that, it had been in the hands of a member of the Benowitz family subline. But this is the first time it has been publicly displayed, and we are happy to announce that the House Ananto has agreed to make it available for all to see and admire."

Maxwell said that the deal was long in the works with the Royal House. "It was important that Kalistani Yeudis stepped up and talked with House Ananto to explain how important that stone was for Yeudis around the world. We believe that other nations have made an effort to at least partially display the gems they possess, but for the most part, Kalistan has refused to display the White Gem, for various geopolitical reasons of course. Concerns of theft were among other reasons for not displaying, but the Yeudi diaspora here in Kalistan has I am proud to say impressed upon the Royal Family just how important it is for us to be able to access this little piece of our own national history and heritage, even if its just to know that the stone is there, and that we can go see it."

Maxwell also put a plug in for the Museum of the Empire. "As the Hulanevek Diamond represents a shared history between the Yeudi Diaspora and the Kalistani Monarchy, we should not forget too that we are Kalistani citizens. Not only is the Hulanevek Diamond part of a much larger crown jewels exhibit which the public can look at for the first time, but the rest of the Museum of the Empire is similarly fascinating. There are exhibits to Kalistan's tragic losses during the Kundrati War, many of our successes in technology, infrastructure, culture, and philosophy, as well as a wing which talks about where are the people who constitute what we call 'Kalistani' come from around the world. The migrant populations, the refugees, and yes, Yeudi populations fleeing from persecution globally, all came to this country, mixed in with one another, and called it home. Foreigners have always been welcomed in Kalistan, and as a member of the Yeudi diaspora, I will say that includes Yeudis from all foreign lands. We may have suffered persecution in lands we once thought of as home, but there has never been persecution of Yeudis in this nation."

Maxwell would not address whether there was any truth to the rumors that House Ananto is considering returning the diamond to either Kundrati or Beiteynu. "As far as I know, the Anantos would say it was given to Pavlina Ananto-Hulanevek as a gift for her daughter Carolina Ananto-Hulanevek. Our current Emperor, His Imperial Majesty Emperor Fredrick IV Ananto is the Great Grandson by the most direct line of Empress Carolina, so by rights of inheritance, it is his stone. It would be nice if House Ananto would possibly consider returning the diamond, but I don't really know what circumstances could possibly entice him to do so. We Yeudis are happy to leave it on display right here in Kalsitan, which, for the Diaspora in Kalistan is much more of a home than Amudim ever will be. As long as House Ananto continues to own the Diamond, we can now see it when we want. If they give it up, it will probably be hidden from us once more."

The Museum of the Empire is on the ground of the Ananto Estate in Eveari, so those who wish to see the diamond will want to book a stay in the town. The Museum usually gets about 7500 visitors annually, but that number is expected to increase 10 fold now that the diamond is on display, and the Museum Director, Sir Robert Caldwell, said that security will dictate how many people may be in the crown Jewels exhibit at one time. "It is possible that we will have to sell tickets to the exhibit, as a measure of ensuring proper crowd control around these gems," said Sir Caldwell. "The ticket price, in any event would be nominal: the entire museum is free, but tickets would be a way to pay for additional security and access onto the grounds." He also said a new system has been worked out to return the displays to the vault each evening to deter theft. "I wont go into details regarding security," said Sir Caldwell.

Maxwell said Kalistani Yeudis ought to be proud. "This has been the main effort of my career so far," he said. "Our Constituents asked for it, and the Anantos listened. We should congratulate ourselves for getting this done, for being able to explain how important having access to this stone is for Kalistani Yeudis, and for putting into place measures to actually accomplish this as a goal for Yeudis in Kalistan and around the world. All are invited to Eveari to come see the White Gem, one of the original 8 Gems of Elior."

@LaModa

[Doc]

Amid International Spats, Kalistani FM calls for peace
"Kalistan is what Kalistan is," said FM Greene
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
September 5, 5682


Their Imperial Majesties' Foreign Minister, Mr. Henry Greene, at home in Kaliburg

"Well, as you can see here, I read quite a bit," said Their Imperial Majesties' Foreign Minister, Mr. Henry Greene, at his home in downtown Kaliburg. "I read a lot of workers history, about the early struggles of organized labor, the efforts of the Socialist Party of Kalistan, and the work this nation and the Socialist Party did to ensure that in all disputes between organized labor and management, the workers maintained the upper hand. It happened so often that it sort of became the default in Kalistan: the Socialist Party was in charge for the majority of 3000 years of Kalistan's history, often as the only Party.

"That leaves a legacy of hard leftism in our economy," he continued, "where even in a nation which outlaws other parties, worker unions remain completely independent of Government Control, and nearly always have a major role to play in Kalistan's economic policies, both at home and abroad. It is amazing what people will trade political liberty to protect: in Kalistan's working Class' case, they traded the right to form a political party to theoretically 'represent them' at the national level, but over which they had next to no actual power, for direct representation and the most important seat at every economic policy table in the Empire. It was a trade they were willing to make: a sham liberal representative façade for real political power, where the demands of workers are translated directly into national policy."

The Foreign Minister invited The Republic to speak with him on Kalistan's recent difficulties with nations around the world and their subsequent withdrawal from a more internationalist perspective.

"We expected the backlash, especially from more liberal democracies like Istalia," said the Foreign Minister. "I will reference the authors of the articles from Istalia. Members of my own government spoke their minds on the matter, which, if you think about it, is exactly the same thing that the authors of those articles in the Istalian press did. Lady Donahue expressed her opinion. And it was only when a Kalistani expresses her opinion does this get portrayed as something that is inappropriate. I don't need to remind anyone that the first shot in that, as Egelion correctly describes, 'petty' spat was lobbed by an Istalian, who described Kalistani policy as myopic, and by implication, immature when compared to the far more mature Istalia, a nation which has had multiple revolutions in the past century. And they doubled down in their more recent article on the very deep, and rather personal, criticism."

The Foreign Minister shrugged as he continues.

"Whether Kalistan is open to the world or not really makes no difference one way or another. Kalistan is, and always has been, obsessed with our own national interest--Kalistan is, what Kalistan is, and can be no different. To Kalistan, our national interest is far more important to us, than the whole rest of the world combined. This should not be a surprise to anyone. It has never been any other way. To the degree that a relationship serves this Empire, it is one this Empire will pursue. The Istalian author even lambasted their own government for not focusing on its own national interests. So Kalistan's Chancellor herself is 'myopic', as the Istalian author named as a person, for preferring Kalistan's national interests over all others-- unlike 'mature' nations like Egelion or Istalia--while Istalia is merely missing an opportunity for not looking to its own national interests, but otherwise, everything they are doing is fine. This is the accurate summary narrative of this supposedly independent journal. But I personally fail to see how its a bad thing for Kalistan to do something that the author then turns around and advocates from their own government. If this is scholarly analysis, it lacks what is known as internal coherence."

He then followed up with the comment,

"Kalistan is a Nationalist nation. Whether it engages with the world or not, this doesn't ever touch the long standing Kalistani policy position of nationalism. I think you could more correctly call Kalistan ultranationalist. I offer a long standing example: Kalistan would trade just about anything for concessions in Athosia. There is probably no cost too high for this monarchy in obtaining that coast. This is a nationalist aspiration which could possibly always remain just an aspiration, but it is one that remains the most important goal in what some would call a revanchist foreign policy establishment.

"Furthermore, Kalistan is not a liberal nation. We explicitly and completely reject liberalism as our guiding ideology. Whether that means economically, or politically, or socially. So it is incredibly inappropriate, and represents a major logical fallacy, to judge Kalistan for not acting like liberals, when we are not liberals. We maintain a strong commitment to social and civil liberties, because they are instrumental in maintaining social order within Kalistan. But we do not believe in what Istalia calls 'press freedom', just because its a principle. Kalistan wouldn't care if Istalia crushed its free press. We maintain a free press in Kalistan because people rebel if we crush it here. All that said: it is inappropriate for Kalistan to be judged by Istalia's liberal standards, and their doing so is the height of neoliberal dogmatic thinking. Because Istalian standards, or the standards of any liberal nation for that matter, are not universal standards. If we were to judge Istalia by our standards, the government of that nation would come out very unfavorably, and Istalia would complain about the effort from us."

The Foreign Minister explicitly critiqued liberal internationalism in light of Kalistan's return to an explicitly nationalist point of view.

"Liberals always paint the rejection of an 'everyone else first' foreign policy preferred by liberal internationalists as 'isolationism'--of course they would, because demanding that Kalistan put Istalian interests first in the name of some sort of sanctimonious commitment to internationalism, benefits Istalia. Its no surprise that the Istalian opinion piece followed suit. It's intellectually lazy to do so and first of all misses the nuances of a foreign policy that prioritizes national interests over sacrificing national interests so we can have friends and trade things with people. Istalia could just be angry that a nation they had taken for granted as being in their pocket is no longer reliably in their pocket. I don't know--If Kalistan somehow lost a reliable base that it had grown accustomed to exploiting freely in another part of the world, that would make us angry too. It's difficult to figure out, even for a foreign policy expert such as myself.

"But secondly, its not realistic to think a country will sacrifice its national interests for the sake of empty alliances. An alliance with Istalia doesn't serve Kalistan. It simply does not. We do not gain anything from associating with them, and certainly not anything that we cannot gain from a deeper and more meaningful relationship with our neighbors, Valruzia, Gaduridos, Lodamun, and Egelion included. The Istalians talk about concentrism: that in and of itself is just another restatement of Kalistani regionalism. If this is truly the policy of the Istalian government, as their opinion writers claim, the neoliberals in that magazine critique the Istalians for just that policy too, and yet somehow, Istalia is the mature one. But how is it different? Does Kalistan not worry about Ananto, then Kalistan, then the AE, then the Anantonese Basin, then Northern Seleya? How does this equate isolationism in Kalistan when it doesn't equate isolationism in Istalia? Unless its wrong to call it isolationism in Istalia AND Kalistan equally."

The Foreign Minister said that the Empire will not apologize for its foreign policy choices.

"Kalistan is criticized when it takes a forward leaning posture toward world affairs. We are criticized if we pull back from that forward leaning posture. At the end of the day, it really doesn't matter what Kalistan does. If other nations don't like it, they have one of two choices: they can find a way to live in a world with Kalistan, as it is, in it too, or they can choose to pretend that they live in a world without Kalistan in it. The second option is not difficult to do--Many nations do it currently, acting as if nothing they do can or should draw a response from Kalistan and then taking offense when it does.

"The first option is also surprisingly easy. Kalistan doesn't need respect or adulation. We insist on equality due to all sovereign nations, which we are due by virtue of our existence as a sovereign nation. Kalistan is not a colony. We are not something for any nation to get the benefit of, to get over on, or to take for granted. The only time our nation was ever approached for trade was when there was a distinct advantage that our participation would provide the sending nation. Otherwise, there is no interest in trade with Kalistan. Kalistan is approached when the goal is to increase market penetration in our region of the world. The assumption is that Kalistan is equally compensated by just getting the opportunity to 'trade' generically, because in liberal theory, trade is always just 'good.' But Kalistan wants something tangible from it equal to what other nations gain from the increase of their market penetration into our region. Or its not an equal deal. To a liberal, who is obsessed with normative foreign policy, and who think 'trade' and 'alliances' are good just because they are trade and alliances, without any consideration of the terms of that trade or that alliance, this demand for equality is what is anathema, as are all forms of interest-based foreign policy.

"When other nations treat Kalistan as an equal, exactly as they insist others treat them, they will find Kalistan far more amenable to their requests. If they continue to see the Anantonese Ocean as something for them to exploit, without putting something tangible back into it, Kalistan will oppose that. We don't require the 'respect' from some liberal state in southern Majatra. We don't require anything at all from Istalia. We can be perfectly happy with or without them in our backyard. So if their opinion writers feel the need to lecture Kalistan on respect, we ask them to save it--Sovereign nations do not need to 'earn' anything from another sovereign nation, an equal in all ways on the international scene, and to suggest otherwise betrays what at least the political writers in Istalia think of Kalistan. There's nothing we can, or will do about that. And we're not going to apologize for that."

The Foreign Minister also noted increased tensions with Valruzia, though he took a far more conciliatory tone here.

"Our Chancellor said what she said. It is legitimately how she feels about the ideology of Communism. The Emperor and Empress understand that the Valruzians are irritated by the criticism, and that Valruzia is growing tired of Kalistan's attempts to apologize. The Chancellor is the chief policy maker for Their Imperial Majesties, in her role as Head of Their Imperial Majesties' Government. I can't honestly be expected to throw my boss under the bus. I will say this though: Whatever Lady Donahue feels about communism, she has reliably maintained Their Imperial Majesties' attitude of comity toward Valruzia, and has done all they have required her to do with faith and fidelity. Her initial expression of irritation with communism itself came as a result of Valruzia's Legislator who expressed attitudes about Yeudis that they should all be expelled. These comments, I will add were roundly condemned by both many other nations in the world AND, by the way, by Valruzia's own legislature, who censured that legislator by kicking him completely out of the Legislature."

The Foreign Minister then went personal.

"I'm not sure if its well known, but I myself am of the Yeudi faith and my heritage is Yeudi-- Our Family is from Valruzian Yeudi stock: My great great grandfather and grandmother escaped the dictatorship and their name was Zielony. I personally found that Valruzian legislator's attitude not only repulsive, but also dangerous to Yeudis in Valruzia, a community I, and three million of my fellow Kalistanis, have a special connection to. I happen to be fortunate enough to live in a nation where I don't have to worry about my Government even hinting at a pogrom. And its because people like my boss, the Lady Chancellor of the Empire, are committed to using her position to go to bat for people like me. She is not a Yeudi. But I assure you, her initial statements were said out of frustration at finding out that one of our closest friends in Seleya had national legislators who felt comfortable enough to express that sort of sentiment in public.

"But," the Foreign Minister clarified, "Anti-yeudi statements were not the source of her anti-communism: She is a conservative and she is an uncompromising monarchist, she cannot be expected to enjoy having to embrace communists because communists are, as a core of their ideology, radical and anti-monarchists. There aren't any monarchist communists. For a very good reason. She's not going to like communists, even if she is faithfully carrying out Their Imperial Majesties' fiats in regard to our neighbors, and so, when she mentioned that I was to be the point person on Valruzia going forward, it was Their Imperial Majesties' attempt to ensure that someone who isn't hostile to a significant portion of their government is the one representing Kalistan to that said Government. It is regrettable that Valruzia took it as a slight, but I look forward to moving past that and working with whoever Valruzia puts in front of me to continue our relationship and to work constructively."

In closing, FM Greene's offered an olive branch to Valruzia:

"Kalistan's interest in Valruzia, and our desire to continue to work with them comes by virtue of our proximity and shared interests, in spite of our differences, which, I recall, have always been there. Kalistan genuinely wants to continue good relations with Valruzia, to cooperate on regional security and economics, to find a way to coordinate policies where appropriate and work together on things of mutual interest to both of our nations. Kalistanis, especially the conservative ones, like Lady Donahue, will disagree with communism where it exists, not because its Valruzian, but because its an ideology she happens to find repulsive. Her word, not mine.

"But as the Valruzians noted, Kalistan is not in control of Valruzia. The Chancellor's opinion being what it is, continued association with Valruzia will not be constructive if she is asked to work with Valruzia, and so they asked me, a socialist, who also still supports our Emperor and Empress explicitly, and who is a Yeudi, to make an effort to reconcile, leaving the Chancellor's antipathy and the Valruzian's support for communism, to the side, so that we can have constructive conversations of mutual interest. I welcome the opportunity to speak with my Valruzian counterpart. Its a start.

The interview, which centered on Istalia and Valruzia, was meant to provide Kalistan's final statements on the various disagreements that Kalistan finds itself in. But the FM was also interested in noting, if only in passing, that it continues to maintain a friendly and cooperative attitude toward its war partner Egelion, it continues to have a favorable view of Lodamun, and it is currently working to improve relations with the Yeudi diaspora across Terra. "And believe it or not, we also still maintain very close relations with Hutori, and hope to reestablish contact with southern Seleyan nations like Mordusia and Rildanor, now that their war is over. And we even look forward to talking once more to Kundrati of all places." He reiterated that if some Majatran political analyst wants to label Kalistan as an Isolationist nation, "... that word does not mean what they think it means."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Kalistan to give Internationalism Conference in Egelion a Miss
"Kalistan is a little too honest for all that" says foreign policy analyst
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
February 6, 5683


To restate its orientation toward Regionalism, Kalistan avoids Concordia Conference in Egelion

At any time during the previous 10 years, if Egelion had called an internationalist Conference, Kalistan would have been the first nation to sign up. But following last year's dramatic reorientation in Kalistan's foreign policy and all around abandonment of internationalist principles, Kalistan has given the one called this year in Egelion "a miss.".

"The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan will not be attending the Internationalist conference in Egelion this year," said Their Imperial Majesties' Foreign Minister, The Honorable Mr. Henry Greene. "This is not a comment on Egelion's desire to be seen as a nation that welcomes the world, or anything particular in content of any of the draft accords or proposals that are floating around. It has more to do with the fact that Kalistan already maintains most, if not all of these relationships bilaterally with Egelion and doesn't feel a new Treaty is necessary to secure any of them. We wish the Conference well, and we wish more of its anticipated attendees well, but we will use this time to do something that is more in the interest of Kalistan here at home during that conference."

The statements of the Foreign Minister aside, the foreign policy community was divided over whether Kalistan is missing an opportunity to finally accomplish what it initially set out to do, though it has publicly abandoned the goal. "We held internationalism as a policy for 10 years, and very few nations took us up on our more open policy," said Dr. Henry Amelia, of Kaliburg Polytechnic and a member of the Council on International Affairs, a think tank that advises the Foreign Ministry. "Now, when Egelion calls an international conference, nations flock to their call. We could be part of that. This would be the opportunity to actually accomplish the thing we wanted to do for 10 years which is make contact and be friendly toward the other nations of the world. Why wouldn't the Emperor and Empress want to go and do that? I think this is a real missed opportunity."

But others in Kalistan attributed Kalistan's absence to a number of things. "Well, I think Kalistan is a little too honest for all that," said Gina Ferrerra, a policy analyst in Sulari. "There will likely be a number of nations at that conference that Kalistan can honestly not say it will promise to view as its equal. I think Trigunia is probably one of them. I'm not sure whether Trigunia is going to attend, but it is clear that whether Kalistan is oriented internationally or regionally, our Government just finds Trigunia to be a complete basket case, and it still is very upset with how Trigunia treated the Tsarina by incarcerating her on ultimately unfounded charges--The Crown remains deeply concerned with how Trigunia views its royals whether Trigunia wants to claim that submission to the law is voluntary or not, as it sets a very dangerous example that encourages republicans elsewhere. So I don't think that, even if Kalistan still wanted to promote an internationalist foreign policy, it would not ever find sitting at the same table with a country like that to be anything but risible." Ferrerra also noted several outstanding disagreements with others who would attend.

"Its certain that some nations who have old conflicts with Kalistan will be there," said Ferrerra. "I would think Kalistan would want to resolve those conflicts before going to a conference where everyone is celebrated as being on equal footing. I know there have been very halting steps toward coming to some resolution with Kundrati as it restores its civilian regime, but that conflict remains unresolved. And it is certain that, though there are some steps for at least Tel Bira to begin improving relations with Kalistan through their recent accession to NAM, there are still a lot of outstanding issues which the two nations still have to settle before Kalistan will say the attendees there are its equal, and that there should be free and unhindered movement and trade between them."

What analysts do agree on is that Kalistan would prefer to build bilateral relations with other nations. "I think bilateralism allows Kalistan maximum freedom to set terms which it prefers in regard to each nation, rather than having to accept just any old country that chooses to attach itself to a global treaty regime, without any regard whatsoever, or enforcement mechanism whatsoever to ensure that that other state doesn't take advantage of the normative commitment to the generic concept of 'internationalism' or 'globalism'," said Amelia. "I think there is still some support for reaching out to the world in the National Foreign Policy apparatus, but it will definitely come in the form of a bi-lateral or regional agreement, which looks different when it is with Valruzia than it does when it is with, say, Luthori. This way, Kalistan retains the ability to pick and choose who it works with, and doesn't have to work with both good and bad actors without the ability to select in its own interest. Whether we endorse that or not at my group, this is the default preference of the Kalistani crown: They want to be free to not like some nations."

Everyone, from the think tank members all the way up through the Foreign Minister made it clear that any nation is welcome to Kaliburg to attempt to work out a bilateral agreement with Kalistan if they wish to work with Kalistan. "The FM said this, and it does seem to be the genuine policy," said Amelia. "Kalistan stands ready to entertain all offers from nations around the world. It will be a bit more insistent on the answer to the question, 'What do you get out of this and what do we get out of it?' and if there is no tangible upside for Kalistan, Kalistan would be more likely to reject the offer at that point that it would have in the past. But it is clear that our Government does want to be approached-- it will not do the approaching anymore."

Ferrerra agreed: "The hat in hand image of Kalistan asking for friends of the last 10 years did not work and it in many ways demoralized our foreign policy apparatus. Kalistan would rather have no friends than have 'friends' who only want to associate when they get something from Kalistan while not returning anything to Kalistan but a promise. Kalistan is by and large regionally sufficient. So that's a much smaller group of people that Kalistan really needs to pay attention to. Whether Kalistan wants to pay attention to other nations in other parts of the world, this is now Kalistan's option, because for better or worse, Kalistan has untethered itself from the notion that it must pay attention to the rest of the world, as the liberals would have us all believe. So it will focus on making its own region secure and prosperous, and let the rest of the world figure out how to do that for themselves, and consider all other relationships outside of the Anantonese basin to be optional."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief: Kalistan in Recession;
Talks with Kundrati and Tel Bira; The Strangers to represent Empire in FOMAT
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 22, 5683


The Strangers, from Sulari, will represent Kalistan at international Contest

Kalistan in Recession
As predicted last year, as a result of a shift in Kalistan's foreign policy to nationalism, Kalistan entered a recessionary period in mid December 5682, economists now say. The announcement of the recession was made earlier this month in Kaliburg by the Finance Ministry, who tracks Kalistan's economic performance, and was confirmed by the Board of Governors of the Imperial Bank, which is Kalistan's central bank.

"We have seen a moderate contraction in economic activity across all sectors," said announced Their Imperial Majesties' Minister of Finance Ms. Louisa Argon. "Hardest hit are those which are most dependent upon international trade, which have restricted as Kalistan has actively ended its search for additional trade partners. This has a depressive effect on other sectors which receive secondary benefits from international trade, including supplying inputs and outputs that then utilize foreign trade to add value and or to supply others Kalistani made products. Hence, we have seen about a 2.8% contraction per quarter since mid 2nd Quarter of this fiscal year, putting us officially into a recession." The Finance Minister noted that this number is well outside of the +/- .05%, controlling for population changes, targets of ZPG policies, and have prompted Government response.

The Finance Minister stated that the National Government is taking active steps to protect jobs, wages, and prices in the market from affecting consumers and workers. "Much of the workforce in Kalistan is already essentially nationalized: The salaries of more then 82% of the workforce are paid directly by the National Government from Workforce taxes. But for those businesses which are being hit by this recession, which is the response to Kalistan's shift in foreign policy, we are taking steps to offer temporary rebates for those workforce taxes, and for other employers, we are crafting policy right now which will help keep you afloat while we weather this correction." The Finance Minister also announced price caps in the market to help prevent price gouging, "More importantly, we are also fighting shortages through either investment to create substitution here in Kalistan, or to limit consumption, so people don't end up hording out of panic." He said Kalistan is also working to address shortages in some sectors in the long term by finding new sources from new partners.

"We expect the recession to slowly work its way out throughout the remainder of this year," said the Finance Minister. "Forecasters predict that likely within the fourth quarter of next fiscal year we should be moving back toward our targets. It will require sacrifice from us all, and it will require us all to keep our heads, but we have a solid foundation in our nation and we believe Kalistan can weather this storm and come out leaner and more efficient on the other side. There is hope on the horizon. But for now, we ask Kalistanis to sit tight, and let the structure adjust. We are taking steps for you, and we would like to ask you to also do your part."

Talks with Kundrati and Tel Bira
As Kalistan enters its first recession in a very long time, it is also entering very limited talks with both Kundrati and the Amudim City State of Tel Bira. The openings came around recent accession of both polities to the Non Aligned Movement treaty. Their Imperial Majesties' Foreign Minister Mr. Henry Greene hailed those moves as successes, and said they provide a foundation for both improved relations from Kaliburg, and grounds to talk about other issues.

"Both Kundrati and Tel Bira's adoption of NAM provides us, at last some common ground to build upon," said Minister Greene. "To this point, we had none. As everyone knows, there are long standing disagreements between Kalistan and both of these two governments, and they are very serious. But the primary issue has always been that there has been no mutual agreement on anything, from Kaliburg's perspective, and so there has been no basis to even talk with either of these two nations. That does not appear to be the case anymore."

Minister Greene said that mutual participation in NAM by both Kundrati and Tel Bira helps Kalistan to legitimize that position in the world. "We know that great power blocs are dangerous to security in the world: They drag nations which have no interests in war unnecessarily into conflict. When a great power says jump, the smaller powers of the world are almost forced to ask How High, because they rely on those Great Powers for security and trade to such a huge degree. Smaller powers do not have the ability to both resist a Great Power and hope to survive at the same time. So NAM lets the rising and developing states know that they are not alone, they can count on others to resist as well, and they can, and should be setting their own course independently of the demands of the world's most powerful nations."

Greene said that both Kundrati and Tel Bira joining the treaty opens a lot of doors for them in Kaliburg. "Yeah, this makes it possible to talk about a whole host of diplomatic, security related, and economic matters. Not specifically the NAM treaty: I'd say if they joined ODEN, it would have the same effect, but now we have something to talk about, a way to bring our grievances to the table and a measure of trust to know that the other side is willing, for larger reasons, to work on those with us. It's a very positive development in Kaliburg, and one which gives us some hope that as we move from a more internationalist perspective to a more bilateral emphasis in our foreign relations, we can still find partners which are not captured wholly by liberal attitudes about how the world should work." Minister Green said he looks forward to meeting with representatives from both Tel Bira and Kundrati in the near future to begin talking about potentially normalizing relations.

The Strangers to represent Empire in FOMAT
Sulari Alt-Folk musicians The Strangers have been selected to represent Kalistan at the upcoming FOMAT contest in Valruzia. The Strangers formed last year as a super group of sorts: Both Lead Singer and guitarist Maria Jones and multi-instrumentalist Alistair Carruthers, both from Sulari, had their own moderately successful careers as solo artists in the Sulari Independent rock scene, over the last several years, but a chance encounter put them together on the same bill and Carruthers asked Jones to sit in with him for an accoustic set when a technical malfunction rendered his electric set impossible.

"The result was alchemy," said Carruthers. "We had a lot of synergy, and decided to start working together after that. We each keep our main careers, but we decided to officially make The Strangers as a side project, so we could kind of play with the gender dynamic and try to experiment with different styles than we are used to. Its really a lot of fun and it was just a blast to record [The new Album At Home] with Maria at ARC. People from both of our bands get to play on this record too, which is pretty neat, its like a really cool syncretism that just works."

Jones herself was thrilled that their song was selected to be performed that FOMAT. "We of course were pretty surprised that KRTVN listeners selected our tune," said the singer. "It's not what you usually hear at FOMAT, but then again, Kalistan rarely sends songs you would normally hear. I was sort of expecting them to send a kind of New Wave dance song, and we do have some keyboards on this record, but not on this song, so its just an... an unexpected surprise for our little band to have won the poll to go. I hope we do well: I know some of the songs we were up against were a lot louder or heavier or faster, while this one is more atmospheric, much more poppy, closer to alt-folk than any of those. We'll see."

You can listen to the song here. Kalistan will of course broadcast the entire contest live from Valruzia, including the performance by The Strangers.

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfQFc6KKcCE]
The Strangers' single "On the Double" from their new album At Home out now on ARC

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Empress stresses Voluntary Labor
Personal Commitment impresses entire political world
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
June 30, 5683


Empress at Eveari Community Gardens, spending time, helping tend 35 acre plot

Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Jennifer I Ananto applauded a recently launched campaign to encourage both voluntary labor and civil agriculture in response to the continuing recession. "We have decided to put our own efforts into this initiative, to set the example," said Her Imperial Majesty. "It is our intention to promote the work of civilian agriculture and farmers markets across the Empire to ensure that fresh food continues to make it to Kalistani homes throughout the growing season, so that the recession does not affect the nutritional requirements of Kalistani families." Her remarks were made during a policy speech in Eveari Community Gardens.

The Empress said that the initiative was to make up for a decrease in foodstuff imports from other nations. "The Empire receives a majority of our food imports directly from Gaduridos and Baltusia," said the Empress. "These imports remain on schedule and at pre-recession levels, but we also have seen decreases of food imports from our old trading partners in Dovani and other parts of Seleya. So it is incumbent on us to adjust our own food output to make up for the deficit."

Kalistan has the potential to be food self-sufficient, but the recession hit after fields were prepped and planted in the year, and tens of thousands of square acres in Suldanor and Odufaray had been planted with crops used in fuel and polymers production this year already. "By our estimates, the community farms we organized in every town over 2,000, as well as personal kitchen farms that people put in this spring, will make up for the deficit in food acquisition that we will face as a result of this recession. Meanwhile, we will be able to ask the growers syndicates in each Duchy to save about 10% more food for seed for next spring, and convert a lot of the lands that farmers keep back for fuel production."

The Empress said that she and His Imperial Majesty, Emperor Fredrick IV Ananto had conferred with the Kalistani Ducal Council earlier in the spring to set these efforts in motion, including temporary moratoria on new building starts in cities so that green spaces in cities can be converted to community gardens. Growers' Syndicates assisted by renting land preparation implements and technical know how regarding which crops to plant, how to prepare the soil, and how to take care of the crops. Thousands of people across the Empire were mobilized to farm this summer through volunteer labor initiatives, including both the Emperor and Empress, who have donated three days a week to the Kaliburg and Eveari community projects.

"This initiative is a short term answer for a much longer term displacement," said the Empress. "We will require the Duchies to plant again next year if this measure does what it is intended to, but as we convert arable land in Kalistan back to agricultural land, we will likely begin noticing biodiesel shortages. This will be a trade off and even after Kalistan gets to recession under control, Kalistan will feel its effects for likely years after while we convert back to a pre-recession production."

The Empress talked about the all-hands-on-deck response that the Empire will be taking. "We are taking the impact of this recession very seriously, especially for lower income and working families and individuals," said Her Imperial Majesty. "The wealthy will be able to ride this squall out if we can contain it to within a year or two, but lower income families will be directly impacted and most quickly. So it is imperative that we take steps now to work to mitigate those effects. Ensuring our food and fuel supply is imperative." The Empress also indicated that food shipments to the warzone in Kizenia will begin slowing. "The Military has food supplies for more than a year, but we are unlikely to continue shipping additional food to the Kizenian front lines. That food will become needed here in Kalistan." The Empress noted that fuel shipments to Kizenia will also end."

The National Government and the Ducal Governments received high marks from Kalistan's political community for taking such decisive action to ensure that Kalistan continues to be able to meet necessity. "We are very pleased to see Their Imperial Majesties and the respective Dukes of Kalistan taking this matter so seriously," said Lord Mayor Calvin Flores of Sulari. "Without a doubt, having the support of the top political leaders also allows us to put resources into it, and get buy in from our population. This is what real leadership looks like: Its the kind of leadership that the people of our Nation expect, and appreciate."

Food from the Civil Agriculture Initiative is to be freely available at all food banks and farmers markets across the Empire through the end of the Harvest Season.

@TheRepublic