Kalistan

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Chancellor Mobilizes Militia for Artanian Service
"Empress has approved deployment to Etxea" Said Koenig
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 2, 5636


Chancellor of the Empire, Sir Michael Koening announced Militia Mobilization

Chancellor of the Empire, Sir Michael Koenig has announced that the Institutional Party has issued a deployment order for the Institutional Militia of Kalistan to the Island of Etxea.  "We are mobilizing the Irregular Forces to support allied Hutorian, Luthorian, and Etxean operations in the Artanian Sea Theater," said the Chancellor of the Empire in the National Assembly yesterday.  "About 115,000 Militia will be deployed over the next six months to Etxea, along with Militia Artillery, munitions, small arms, and crew served weaponry to support the Union Government's Armed Forces.  This activity on the part of the Institutional Militia has been approved of by Her Imperial Majesty, though participation by Kalistani Regular Army or Navy has been forbidden."

The Chancellor said that troops will cross overland to Newport Lodamun where they will load onto cargo ships for a four day journey into the Artanian Sea.  The Sea, which is currently swarming with Etxean based Kalistani Privateers, as well as significant contingents of Luthorian and Hutorian Navy, is expected to remain clear to allow Kalistani cargo ships to offload at Juldrati City.  "Once Militia lands in Etxea, they will report to Etxean Commanders, who will organize them as needed," said the Chancellor.  "These men and women are committed to combatting fascism, and would have otherwise been opposed to any peace proposals coming from Her Imperial Majesty.  They are all volunteers, and whole units from across the Empire have already voted to join the effort en masse."

The full deployment should take between two and four months to complete between Newport and Etxea.  "Kalistani irregulars will be fit to serve as capacity of commandos, forward operating light infantry, mechanized infantry, recon units, demolitions units, patrol pickets, and light cavalry.  Additionally, several batteries of field artillery are joining the effort, and will suplement the Union Artillery forces."

In addition to the arrival of the militia, Kalistan will send logistical support for the allied coalition to include "Bombs, bullets and bread," that the militia has acquired on surplus from KALMILINCO.  "We are also sending field command and comm and will add KalSat assets to Kundrati Union's intelligence picture."

The mobilization is expected to last for about two years.  The deployment is being funded by Party funds.  A statement from the office of Her Imperial Majesty said 

"Her Imperial Majesty has worked closely with our allies in the Kingdom of Hutori and has been supporting the naval efforts of the Kundrati Union for some time now.  The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan has remained peripherally involved with Hutori, and though we have been on the sidelines since signing the end of the embargo, we have not received any verification of the destruction of chemical, biological or nuclear weapons from the Legion or any neutral, reliable third party.  Her Majesty therefore believes that despite Kalistan dropping the embargo, the Legion has not kept up their end of the bargain and therefore have absolutely violated the peace agreement.  Her Imperial Majesty has permitted the Chancellor of the Empire to deploy the Militia to offer support Hutori's and Kundrati Union's efforts to address the ongoing situation in Artania, but will not at this time authorize deployment of the Regular Forces.  The Militia has the support of the entire Empire."

The first Militia Forces have already departed for Newport.

@TheRepublic

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Her Imperial Majesty Confirms Involvement in Etxean Security
"Reinforced Militia deployed to Etxea" says Empress from Eveari
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
March 17, 5637


Empress calls for support and National rationing to support Militia

Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto appeared on all KRTVN Television and Radio Stations today to confirm a not so secret rumor concerning the deployment of the Militia to the Kundrati Union.  Many families have known about the deployment for months, because loved ones have gone abroad, but Her Imperial Majesty took to the airwaves to ask Kalistanis for one more sacrifice for the people of Etxea.  The speech was also carried on KalSat and Radio Kaliburg.

"Fellow Kalistanis.  We join you today, wherever you are to confirm the rumors which we have opted not to comment on until now:

Members of the Institutional Militia of Kalistan have deployed to the Kundrati Union to assist in security operations on the Island of Etxea.  The entire Militia has been designated as Light Infantry, with exception to 12 Artillery Batteries that form one regiment of Artillery.  The group has been placed under Etxean Command, and local commanders will coordinate with Kalistani Militia Commanders to ensure that Kalistanis will not be placed in unnecessary risk or harm's way.  We have also authorized men and women in the Regular Armed Forces of Kalistan to take extended leave of duty to serve with the Militia.  In total, 115,000 Kalistani Nationals are now serving as security forces on Etxea, and are coordinating their efforts with Kundrati, Hutorian, Luthorian, Mordusian, Davostager, and Dolgavan armed forces.

All these men and women serving are volunteers.  Most of them volunteered to serve in Artania for a common purpose.  They said that the world must stand against Fascism.  The entire world.  And now it is important for the entire world to stand with the brave men and women in Etxea. 

It was our decision to attempt to break Kalistan away from the endless war and violence in Artania, and to do so we concluded a deal with the fascists which we believed would promote peace and security in the region by trading basic necessities for full disclosure on all of the Fascist Legion's atrocities, a good faith effort toward peace, and a full and verifiable dismantling of the Legion's stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction.  All of these things the leader of the Legion agreed to.

And we were wrong, because we believed them.  I was wrong because I believed a liar.  And we bought them a couple more years.  Would the embargo have done any more damage to remain in place for a few more years?  Likely not.  It wasn't doing anything when we lifted it.  But to take a liar at his word was indeed an error, because it damaged our diplomatic standing and our reputation abroad.  In fact, as much as it pains us to say it, in this case, Luthori was right.  We will learn from this misjudgment, but the net result is that we become more cynical, more closed off, and more untrusting.

So now, we have permitted the Institutional Party to deploy their militia.  Perhaps nothing will come of their deployment, perhaps some of them will pay with blood for our misjudgment.  And for that we apologize to the families of Kalistan, on a very personal level.  I am very sorry I failed in that moment and I ask you for your forgiveness for my failure, which was borne of a sincere desire to encourage peace and security, if not for the whole world, then at least for Kalistan, but in fact was simple naivete and inexperience. 

But now your family members will redeem the reputation of this Empire with their honor, their valor, and their courage.  And when they return home, they will be given Heroes' welcomes.  We have just this day authorized a new campaign ribbon:  'The Artanian Service Ribbon,' to honor the service of all those who have served this empire in this conflict.  It shall be authorized for all those who are currently deployed to Etxea, as well as all Active Duty Regular Navy and Regular Armed Forces Members who have volunteered for service, as well as all veterans retroactively of the Likatonian War and the Artanian Sea Campaign in 5612-5614.  We shall create a co-equal civilian acknowledgement for those who have enlisted with the Union Government as auxiliary navy.

As we have asked Kalistani families to contribute to the fighting force in the Kundrati Union, so too do we ask the citizens of Ananto and Kalistan to make an additional contribution of their time, and of their materials.  We have asked House Ananto to make available to the Institutional Party a line of credit totaling ₭1 Billion Imperial Rubles to continue the purchase of surplus arms and ammunition to ship to the Militia, and to ensure that those who serve are adequately compensated for their service according to the normal scale, while their families do not suffer by the absence of their loved ones.  We have also ordered our Government to ensure that there are price supports in place, should this war threaten our economic stability.  Chancellor of the Empire Koenig has been given access to the strategic surplus to ensure that there is no disruption in our markets or in our supply lines.

The only piece left here is supply of food.  We are asking you, the people of Kalistan to stand with your brothers and sisters in Etxea and contribute.  The Militia doesn't need any more money.  What they need is food, medicine, and basic commodities that will ensure that they are well armed, well fed, and well cared for if they are injured.  This is a nation wide effort:  Doing your part is the patriotic duty.

Instead of having food drives, medicine drives, or whatever as they may have in days past, we are asking Kalistani consumers to drop consumption for the duration of the deployment by about 10 percent.  Don't worry about what that will do to our economy.  As mentioned, the Chancellor is enacting price supports, so that corporations do not take a hit and jobs remain stable.  But the cut in consumption by Kalistani consumers, especially of essentials, but also of things that require strategic materials for a war effort, will allow the Nation to acquire those goods and either use them here to support the war effort, or ship them to the troops in Artania. 

Cutting consumption merely means:  If you go to the store and buy ten items, simply buy nine and leave the other one sitting on the shelf.  Especially if those items are needed on the frontline.  We have instructed the Chancellor to distribute a list of what those items could be across all social medias, and to create PSAs announcing the items.  We are also sending a mailer out reminding you which items are needed to support the effort via Public Information.  Cutting ten percent is easy to do, it will save you money in the long run, and you will be giving our Militia, fighting fascists so you don't have to the gift of a hot meal, or front line combat aid medicine, or any other number of things that they need to fight and win.

We are all doing our part in Kalistan because we are all in this together.  And together, we will win.  We thank you for your time and your effort and contribution.  And we hope you have a wonderful evening."

As the cameras switched off and the feed cut to M1's news room, several members of the commentary class dissected the Empress' words.  They said the speech was graceful, they were generally happy that she took responsibility for the failure of her peace initiative, and they said the "Cut 10%" campaign was an excellent way to give average Kalistani Nationals a way to buy into the war to have a stake in its success.

"The Empress is giving a billion dollars of her own money to the effort," said M1 Commentator Colleen Meisner.  "I mean, I can certainly buy fewer cans of beans until the end of this...  well, I mean, is it a war?  I don't know, but whatever it is, I can do that..."

Others praised her tone:  "The Empress has really come into her own with this speech, I think," said Commentator Jack Samuelson.  "This is really the first time in her four years almost where she was calming, reassuring, and yes, even apologetic.  Even Empresses can make mistakes, but we will remember the ones who own up to them and take steps to fix things."

A few members of the Orthodox faction, which have been the Empress' staunchest supporters during the pull back, gave the speech a mixed review.  "As a deputy from Sulari," said Deputy Ron Ontiveros, "I will say that she should not have apologized for anything she did.  The Empress did what she thought was in the best interest of the nation and that was, is, and will forever be staying the hell away from that forever war.  I mean, was it inspiring?  Sure:  She's Empress Mary Ananto.  But strangely, it was also a little disappointing, hearing her say, in first person singular no less 'I'm sorry I let you down.'  I want someone who doesn't apologize for anything.  It makes you look weak."

Given that the speech was made at 5:15pm Kaliburg time, the markets were closed and did not have an opportunity react, but overnight futures dropped sharply, before rallying in the KalSiE soon after the opening bell.  The volatility was around items on the list referenced by the Empress, but all major stocks ended up for the week after a lot of ups and downs during the trading day.  The KalSiE ended up 0.64% at the closing bell.

@TheRepublic

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Kalistan deploys Election Monitors to Tukarali
Passes on large investment in Infrastructure
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 15, 5637


Election Monitors from Kaliburg International University head to Tukarali

Several election monitors from Kaliburg Imperial's think tank Center for Seleyan Government were dispatched to the Tukurali city of Sangon to assist the Tukarali government in its upcoming elections.  The liberal central Seleyan nation is moving beyond a history of military rule and has asked for election monitors.  Previously, Kalistani Monitors assisted in Valruzia's elections and were able to lend credibility to the fairness and transparency of the process that has since consolidated in a fully democratic system.

"Kalistan is perhaps the best nation to serve as election monitors," said team leader Phil Calderone, who teaches Comparative Government at Kaliburg Imperial.  "We do have some democratic institutions at the Free City level, but we really don't have a lot of stake one way or another in the outcome of Tukarali's elections.  We instead care more about our nation's reputation as monitors of elections which we established in Valruzia and so will do all we can to ensure that the elections are conducted transparently and fairly."

The monitors will lead a team of individuals who will randomly monitor stations across the country, ensuring that there are no structural barriers to people freely casting their ballots.  They will also conduct a series of exit polls to determine whether the announced results match what they hear from voters right after casting their vote.  If there are any significant discrepancies, the monitors will report those discrepancies, and if not, the monitors will certify the transparency and fairness of the election result.

Nations who are working to transition to democracy often seek election monitors to ensure that their elections are seen as fair and that the results adequately represent the will of the population.  "It helps the people have faith that their government is taking the steps necessary to establish trust in the election process and the democratic institutions of the nation," said Calderone.  "When people learn to trust their institutions, they tend to begin to expect the government to conduct clean and legitimate elections.  It becomes a virtuous cycle as people move past their legacy of dictatorship, fraud, and formal democracy and gives the people a stake in their elections process."

At the same time as Kalistan took the opportunity to the Seleyan Republic in its quest for democratic transition, it more or less passed on an opportunity for modest investment economic investment.  "The Tukarese Goverment put out a call for major infrastructural investment in both ports and railways, but selected Egelion to lead that effort," said Bradley Talmadge of Miramar.  "The Egelian investment community have already committed 25 billion Egelian Crowns to the project, though what the return on their investment will be is not clear. We were offered an airport expansion project, which would have required an investment of more than 350 million imperial Rubles, which was tiny in comparison, and was likely to not provide much return on investment at all."

According to Talmadge, Miramar has instead agreed to send a consulting firm to suggest an expansion plan to greatly improve the International Airport in Tukarali.  "Preliminary surveys show that the airport could certainly use a better routing pattern, along with more international gates and a new domestic terminal.  Some improvements could include movign the general aviation hangers and adding a new general aviation run way and taxi way, to ensure that non-commercial passenger and cargo don't have to wait for smaller planes to take off and land, improving passenger wait times and plane turn around times."

While Kalistan does have plenty of experience operating international airports (in both Kaliburg and Sulari) and turning around airports, such as the one in Cuernatecas Gaduridos, Miramar passed on this expansion.  "We will turn our findings over to the Tukarali Government once the survey is completed, and they can pass it on to Egelion to build if Egelion will do it," said Talmadge.  "The project itself seems like a very low return investment, and it could likely be more efficiently done as part of the larger investment package from Egelion.  It's not that Kalistan doesn't have the technical expertise to do it:  Miramar doesn't see much upside for our stockholders from such a small project.  So we've decided to pass on the investment, but will provide consulting."

The report will be available to the Tukarali government by October.  And the Elections Monitors will remain in country until about one month after the elections.

@TheRepublic

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Foreign Minister pummeled at Presser on Kundrati War
Press Conference starts well, but ends in terse exchange with FM
Kalibrug, Grand Duchy of Ananto
September 24, 5637


Lady Anya Waltrip speaking with Reporters at Foreign Ministry

Her Imperial Majesty's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lady Anya Waltrip answered questions today concerning the prosecution of the latest episode in the ongoing Kundrati War.  She stated that the post war environment would look very different from the pre-war world, if the Coalition is successful in its war aims.  By the end of the press briefing, however, tensions began flaring in the Press Room as several reporters decided to take oblique swings at Imperial Policy. 

Below is a partial transcript of Lady Waltrip's remarks.

Waltrip:  Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press, before I begin, I would like to read an official statement from Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto.  She writes, 

"Our fellow Kalistanis.  As we begin to receive reports from our men and women fighting at the front lines on the Kundrati Mainland, we find grounds for some cautious optimism that the war will be successfully concluded and that at a date in the near future, our forces will return home to us victorious.  We celebrate and acknowledge the ongoing sacrifices born by the courageous nations of the world, by which we mean those who have committed to this fight, and have sworn to see it through or die in the attempt.  

"Men and women are now under arms and deployed in combat zones from more than a half a dozen countries, to include the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan, The Kundrati Union, the Kingdom of Hutori, the Republic of Davostag, the Luthorian Empire, the Kingdom of Mordusia, and the Empire of Dolgava.  We recognize and appreciate those who have chosen to stand on the correct side of history.  Whatever your position on the matter was before this day, on this day, those men and women are counted in the forces who stand opposed to the fascist threat, while others sit on the sidelines and will nonetheless also reap the benefits that our men and women fight and die for.

"Whether the choice to keep our head buried in the sand would have been convenient for Ananto and Kalistan, nonetheless, this is the choice we have never taken--Kalistan has already lost more than 40,000 in this conflict and are prepared to lose twice as many more before it is done.  But standing by is the choice of far too many other nations who claim to support freedom from tyranny, and democracy in the world.  So be it.  As our father, the Late Emperor Fredrick I Ananto would have said if he were here today, they will have to live with their choices to not stand up and be counted when it came down to brass tax.  Our fighting men and women will clothe themselves in the impeccable armor of justice and honor on the fields of glory in Artania.  

"Someday, when our grandchildren come to ask us where we were when Kundrati was finally liberated, we won't have to look at them in the eye and tell them, 'well, I stayed home where it is safe, and shoveled manure in Odufaray.'  This is a fight the Coalition can win, and this is a fight the Coalition will win, and then our veterans will add their names to the pantheons of heroes in their native countries, while those who sat by and did nothing will have to watch others accomplish what they could not.

"We recognize the sacrifices that our Militia will make.  We recognize the sacrifices of their families here on the home front.  And we recognize the bravery and contribution of each and every Kalistani National in helping our nation contribute to the war effort.  It is only through our collective contributions that this war will be successfully concluded, and then the people of Kundrati, united once more, will see the light of a new day in Kundrati, where Artania is once more at peace.  That will be our Coalition doing it, and we will jealously guard our laurels from those other nations who may seek to falsely claim title to them, but did nothing to earn them.  May the God of Justice and Righteousness bless our Fighting Men and Women, and may that same God Bless our Empire."

I will now take questions.

Q:  Will Kalistani Militia see combat in the Kundrati Mainlaind?

Waltrip:  Yes, they already are.  Next?

Q:  Will regulars be deployed?

Waltrip:  Her Imperial Majesty has opted to not send regulars.  She needs the Kalistanis to be highly mobile, not like a regular army.  This is aimed at leveraging their size and mobility to greatest effect.

Q:  Is it true that the reason Her Imperial Majesty doesn't want to use regulars is because they could be charged with war crimes?

Waltrip:  We obviously would not want Kalistanis to commit atrocities.  Her Imperial Majesty was emphatic about that.  Next....

Q:  Is there any comment about the Egelion King referring to Her Imperial Majesty as inexperienced, and taking a veiled swipe at her for changing her position on the embargo?

Waltrip:  Her Imperial Majesty has not read that.

Q:  Follow up:  are Her and the Egelion King still close partners in the security of the Anantonese Ocean?

Waltrip:  Her Imperial Majesty has not seen or spoken with the King of Egelion since before the coronation, which he missed because he was reportedly in Dovani on other business.  While Her Majesty, the Queen of Egelion has visited Kalistan within the past few years following a horrific terrorist explosion that wounded her and the Crown Prince, she has also returned home.  The Empire of Ananto and Kalistan still remains on cordial terms with the northern Monarch, and if there has been a shift in relations, Egelion is keeping that information close to them and like most other foreign policy and security related matters, don't share that information with Kalistan.

Q:  How does Her Imperial Majesty see the World following the war?

Waltrip:  I am certain that the post-war world will look very different from the pre-war world.  Her Imperial Majesty remains a nationalist, and wishes only for peace and prosperity for Kalistan.  But she would like to stress closer ties to our partners in this conflict, primarily Hutori and Dolgava.  These Nations, along with our Artanian coalition partners, are standing bravely for peace and security, and have shown themselves to be reliable when the chips are down.  Others have been more fair weather.  So I have no doubt that Her Imperial Majesty will be reviewing our partnerships and ending those which do not serve Kalistan's national interests above all else, while committing to the reliable partnerships that we have.

Q:  Some will say that Her Imperial Majesty's shifts in foreign policy represent a lack of solid advice from her immediate advisors.  Would you care to comment, Lady Waltrip?

Waltrip:  Who says that?

Q:  People say that, confidential sources say that.  Public figures are on the record saying that.

Waltrip:  If you mean me then, I will say this:  I have had the opportunity to advise Her Imperial Majesty, as I advised her father.  And I have only ever advised her to select, in the moment, the best option to serve Kalistani interests.  Some people don't like when she takes one policy and publicly blast her for taking that policy, and then when she adopts a different policy, others come out of the wood work to complain.  But I will say that she has followed the advice of those around her, and has done so in good faith, believing at the time that it was the best policy for her to adopt.  And if it turned out to be wrong, she was mature enough and brave enough to admit her mistake and take steps to correct it.

Q:  Do you think she should ask for your resignation, Lady Waltrip?

Waltrip:  For what, Madame?

Q:  For the ending of the Embargo?

Waltrip:  If Her Imperial Majesty wants my resignation, she will have already asked me for it.  The fact that I am still standing here today is testimony that she does not seek it.  Her Imperial Majesty is clothed in absolute power  and her will is beyond contest or question.  I serve explicitly and exclusively at her pleasure.  You can say what you like about the end of the embargo:  But it did catalyze the important players of the world to finally take decisive action to address the fascists.  Whether this was intentional or not, Kalistan will have the peace we sought.  And we will have it on our terms.  It is not Her Imperial Majesty's fault that the Legion is composed entirely of fascist liars.  Nor will I permit you people to blame her for that fact:  The accusation is absolutely unsupportable, and it is a mark of a complete lack of imagination on your part to suggest anything of the sort.  

Q:  But, Lady Waltrip, you advised her, so either you or she is at fault for the bad policy that played right into the hands of the fascists.  In fact, that agreement could have been written by the fascists themselves:  it gave them everything they wanted and cost them absolutely nothing.

Waltrip:  Have you no shame, Aaron?  Are you really that crass and cynical?  That you call it "bad policy", Mr. Johnson, or attribute it to anything other than a genuine desire on Her Imperial Majesty's part, for peace for Kalistan, for the Anantonese Empire, and for the Legion's neighbors, is surely beneath you, Sir.  And may I remind you that lese-Majestie is still the law of this nation, so be sure to mind your words concerning the Empress, at least.  

She may have been misled by a professional con man, but I assure you, at least she tried, which is more than we can say for 90% of the governments in this world who haven't done anything about the Legion.  And which is more than you and your liberal cronies would have had her do.  And I will defend her policies until my last breath, but at least I will politely ask you to keep your ill-informed opinion to yourself.  

Next question.  No further Questions?  Alright.  Good luck to you all.  We will brief you further as we get more updates.

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IBSI reminds Kalistanis to do their Part
"Kalistan wants you to Donate your 10%"
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
October 1, 5637


New Propaganda Campaign calls on Kalistanis to Do their Part

The IBSI, Public Information Section has released a new series of propaganda posters in support of the Militia who are serving in Kundrati.  The series features images of Her Imperial Majesty calling on the people of Kalistan to contribute to the war effort in numerous ways.  One poster calls upon people to donate time working at KalMilInCo to produce ammunition and other implements of combat.  Another called on men and women of fighting age to join the Militia.

"The Empire is asking everyone to take part in the war effort," said Captain Olivia Van Buren, spokeswoman for Public Information Section.  "Her Imperial Majesty has donated a significant sum of her House's funds.  Others are serving in country.  And so to share the burden, we have been charged to remind people in several ways to continue to make their donations to the war effort.  Not everyone can pick up a rifle and fight, but everyone can buy less, donate more, and do their part."

Her Imperial Majesty has officially endorsed the campaign.  "The Empress herself proposed the campaign," said Van Buren, "and modeled for the photographs.  She worked with Kaliburg based photographer Angela Zimmerman, who has won dozens of awards for her fashion photography to capture inspiring images meant to encourage Kalistanis to greater contribution.  The photos were taken in Kaliburg over the second week of September, and then were handed to Acrylic painter Dianne Canales.  Once the photographs were retouched with acrylics, the images were laid out in house with slogans attached and then printed to post in all government buildings across the Empire."

The IBSI also sent a ream of posters to the Militia serving in Kundrati.  "Its our hope that our militia pastes these posters up every where they go in Mainland Kundrati," said Captain Van Buren.  "Not only will this serve as the Militia's calling card, but it will also pass the Kalistan is sacrificing for the people of Mainland Kundrati, in a way that the Legion never did.  The posters we have sent have self adhesive backing, and are meant to be placed on walls, poles, postboxes, windows, and so forth.  Hopefully Her Imperial Majesty's image also provides inspiration for the troops to fight harder for liberation from the Legion."

The IBSI posters are already statrting to go up across the Empire to support the campaign.

@TheRepubilic

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Lady Dana Ananto-Alvarez Passes Away in Gaduridos
Former Imperialist and Viceroy remembered by Royal Family and Neighbors
Vespiano, Marlingantos
November 8, 5637


Lady Dana Ananto-Alvarez, talks with local Cafeterros in Gaduridos (left) and sits for a portrait in Kaliburg last summer

Lady Dana Magdelena Ananto-Alvarez, cousin to Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Mary I Ananto, has passed away in her home.  The Princess, who is of the original Gaduri Line of Anantos, is Her Imperial Majesty's third cousin, twice removed, grew up with Empress Carolina, and was the long serving Director of House Ananto and Miramar Holdings.  She is also the mother of Queen Nicole Montilivet of Egelion.  She is also closely related to the Grand Duchess of Kalistan, Duchess Emily (Alvarez) Suldanor.  Her passing was peaceful:  it was believed her heart stopped as she slept, and her husband, Sir Christopher Bjorksdattir discovered her when he woke in the morning.  Lady Dana was 83, is survived by husband Sir Christopher Bjorksdattir, Sir Karl Ananto, Sir Jesus Ananto, Queen Nicole Montelivet, and eight grandchildren.

Lady Dana's influence and legacy will stretch long into the future of Anantonese Affairs:  She is considered the author of the recent era of Anantonese Imperialism, and her investments in several Anantonese Nations form major parts of multiple economies, including Gaduridos, (coffee, cocoa, auto manufacturing, steel, and shipbuilding sectors); Egelion (finance and tourism), Kalistan (consumer electronics, rail infrastructure, road infrastructure, electricity generation, ship building and aircraft manufacture,) and a hand full of other nations.  She also greatly aggrandized House Ananto wealth both through Miramar and her careful stewardship of House Ananto.

Lady Dana identified not as a Kalistani but as a Gaduri.  Despite spending much of her childhood floating between Marlingantos where she was born, and Sulari, where her father, one time Duke of Suldanor was required by Empress Pavlina Ananto to maintain a residence and live for part of the year.  Lady Dana spoke Egelian as a first language, and spoke Vrassan with a heavy accent.  As an adult, she lived almost exclusively in Gaduridos, commuting to Kaliburg only for business with House Ananto.  When she was appointed Viceroy of Gaduridos, she relocated permanently to Marlingantos, where she would stay for the rest of her life.  She was the obvious choice for the title, having personally assisted the Gaduri Government with much of the economic development in country following its accession to the Empire.

The funeral was organized by her two sons, who lived in Marlingantos.  Her Imperial Majesty, Mary I Ananto, Princess Margaret Ananto-DeLaurentis, Princesses Michelle Ananto and Monica Ananto-DeLaurentis and their families, Prince James, the Hutorian Ambassador and King Romulo and Queen Nicole of Egelion were invited, as well as more than a hundred and fifty of the Lady Dana's friends and associates were welcomed.  In addition, thousands of Gaduris turned out to say goodbye to the late Dame, who was beloved and admired in the country for her commitment to the improvement of the lives and living standards of the Gaduri People, and for helping return Gaduri prestige and reputation after decades of neglect and negligence.

The Mayor of Vespiano, Marco Ignacio Guttierez, was invited to give a brief Eulogy for the late stateswoman.

"Dama Ananto era nuestra. Siempre fue la primera en la fila para ayudar a los pobres, animar a los trabajadores, felicitar a la clase media y, sí, llamar a la clase alta a comprometerse y contribuir a su sociedad. Fue una mujer muy querida por la gente de nuestro pueblo, de nuestra isla y de todo nuestro reino. Sea lo que fuere en la vida, ante todo fue una Gaduri, y los intereses, la prosperidad y la felicidad de los Gaduridos nunca estuvieron lejos de su mente. Pero también, estaba en una posición única para respaldar con recursos todo lo que prometía.

"Personalmente, nunca he visto a Dama Dana Ananto mentir; esto era una consecuencia de su fe en la Hermanoistos. Dama Dana siempre cumplió su palabra. Era nuestra vecina, era nuestra hermana. Gracias a su familia, nos enalteció a todos. La extrañaremos profundamente y la honraremos por siempre en Vesipano y Marlingantos. Y siempre recordaremos su bondad, amabilidad, sentido del humor y profundo sentimiento por la humanidad de todos nosotros."

Lady Dana Ananto will be buried in Marlingantos.  Her family's home will be passed to her son Karl, as Sir Christopher Bjorksdattir is expected to return to Kaliburg to live out his remaining years.  Each of Lady Dana's three children are expected to receive an inheritance of an estimated ₭100 million Imperial in property, securities, commodities and cash.

Thus ends the storied life of one of modern Kalistan's most important figures.  May Lady Dana Ananto-Alvarez rest in peace.

[Doc]

Kalistani Chancellor reports that Kalistan is "Baffled" by Beiteynese comments
Called Kalistan a "weird target" for "enablers of Kundrati Fascism"
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
November 8th, 5637


Chancellor of the Empire, Sir Michael Koenig speaks about rising hostility toward Ananto

Chancellor of the Empire Sir Michael Koenig, speaking in the National Assembly, leveled a salvo aimed at responding to recent Beiteynese comments concerning the Non-Aligned Movement and realignment "away" from the Anantonese Empire.

"Honestly, folks, their comments kind of came out of left field, and are kind of baffling," said the Chancellor.  "We went over it a number of times, Lady Waltrip, the Trade Minister, my office, and the only possible cause we could come up with was that pre-war, Beiteynu enabled the fascists in the Kundrati legion by arming that criminal syndicate with intercontinental missile technology, and lying about the existence of concentration camps in the Mainland, a fact that the Legion itself confirmed in other news reports and in documents surrendered to Her Imperial Majesty a couple years ago--I want to add, these are claims that the government of Beiteynu itself later voluntarily disavowed and called a lie.  And now Kalistan is engaged in a war against those same murderers that the fascist-coddling Beiteynese helped arm, protect and run interference for."

The Chancellor more than once referred to the government at Tel Bira as "fascist enablers" and said "To not actively fight fascism is to endorse fascism, and that is as true on that side of the Ocean as it is on this side of the ocean.  That is why Kalistan is taking a stand now, when Victory is finally within our grasp, and why nations like Luthori were so legitimately alarmed when it appeared that Her Imperial Majesty was giving up that fight.  It's a fight that the Beiteynese have never participated in, except to stand proudly on the wrong side of History again and again and again, and their names will be marked down among the nations that helped the murderous, sociopathic Legion remain in power for so long.  That's all they have ever done, and we have no reason to believe they will ever do anything different.  And Kalistan is just a convenient target for them, because all we have ever tried to do in Kalistan is to work with Beiteynu, only to get kicked in the face each and every time."

Keeping on the topic of Beiteynu, the Chancellor addressed the "halting" of Beiteynu's efforts to join the Non-Aligned Pact.  "First, there were no efforts by Beiteynu to join the NAM.  I am absolutely unaware of what Tel Bira is even talking about.  Beiteynu was never asked, formally or informally to consider membership, it never formally applied for membership, and it wouldn't be eligible for membership anyway, because membership is only open to sovereign nations, and I am not aware that an individual city would meet that even relatively low bar.

"But," continued the chancellor, "The NAM was built to balance against states like Beiteynu, not embrace them.  Beiteynu has long been seen as part of a much larger security pact, the Majatran Union, and are now actively, as far as we can tell, active members of the so-called '3 Point Federation' led by Selucia.  As such they would not be permitted to join the NAM even if they HAD attempted to do so.  We invite the people who are speaking to the Beiteynese Press to read the terms of the treaty before claiming that they were reconsidering joining something they never tried to join in the first place."

The Chancellor reported that nothing the Tel Bira people said made much sense.  "Kalistan is a weird target for fascist enablers," said the Chancellor, while noting that the same people have opted not to criticize other nations who have a much larger stake in the war in Kundrati.  "Of all the contingents participating in the conflict, Kalistan has among the smallest commitment, right along side Mordusia and Dolgava.  This is almost completely an Artanian/Makon war, and Kalistan is there to support the anti fascist coalition.  If you are opposed to that work you must be pro-fascist.  It's the only possible way to appreciate that comment, because otherwise it makes zero sense."

Chancellor Koenig noted that in a completely unrelated move, Kalistan is beginning to unravel itself from the military index of the Equifund.  "To be completely honest, Equifund is for the most part a defunct organization, but it was only ever run for the benefit of Beiteynu and the Neset anyway.  Beiteynu is currently proliferating nuclear capable weapon systems unilaterally, and given their performance with the Legion, this is not surprising, but they didn't seem to need Equifund to do that.  It might just be time to cut ties with that nation, whose only raison d'etre appears to be irritating nations on the other side of the world.  Continued association with Equifund, or anything Beiteynu related, feels like more and more of a liability for Kalistan."  The Chancellor also noted that Miramar will likely be considering its funds and investments and will scrutinize specifically Beiteynese-related holdings and target them for divestment.

"It's a relationship that has run its course, I guess," said the Chancellor.  "Beiteynu is a nation that enabled fascism, nukes Dovani nations without provocation, and proliferates nuclear weaponry.  They are dishonest actors, and investment in their industries often costs far more than it yields.  Its a shame that it had to end like this, but really these comments by their money people are the final straw in a long series of provocations that this Empire can no longer afford to overlook."

Following the speech, one Deputy asked the Chancellor if the Empress has any intention of returning the Kundrati Diamond.  The Chancellor's brow furrowed, and his eyes narrowed as if he had heard something in a foreign language that he didn't quite understand.  "Why would she do that?  That diamond is hers.  It is never going back to Majatra."  As the Deputy began a follow up about conditions that it might, the Chancellor shook his head and waved his hand to quiet the Deputy.  "Look, it will never go back there.  Her Imperial Majesty said she would rather smash it into a hundred million pieces and sprinkle them in the Ananto Strait, than ever give that back.  So let me repeat:  Beiteynu will never see that diamond again, unless it is around the neck of a Kalistani Sovereign in a picture published in our Newspapers.  Let them cry and whine about hostages all they like.  That diamond belongs to the Empress now, and it will never return to that nation."

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Empress makes surprise visit to Institutional Forces in Etxea
First Kalistani Monarch to set foot on Etxea since Empress Pavlina
Jildrati City, Etxea
March 18. 5737 (backdated)


Her Imperial Majesty with newly promoted Brigadier General Jesus Martinez (Brevet) in Etxea

Her Imperial Majesty made a surprise visit to visit the Kalistani forces in Etxea this week.  She has already returned to Kalistan via Luthori, but wanted to visit the Militia before they launched into Kundrati.  In the process, she also promoted the Kalistani Commander, Jesus Martinez to Brevet Regular Brigadier General for the duration of the conflict.

Her Imperial Majesty was travelling under strict cover and silence, and flew commercial to Luthori "to maintain cover." said private secretary and Imperial Spokeswoman Lady Marian Southern back in Eveari.  Lady Southern accompanied Her Imperial Majesty on the trip to Artania along with the Minister of Defense and about half a dozen security agents. "IBSI makeup artists used prosthetics and makeup to ensure that Her Imperial Majesty could travel safely and incognito, though of course, she travelled first class. She was also issued a passport for the trip by the Foreign Ministry that identified her as an investor, and featured a photograph of the Empress which employed the prosthetics." Her Imperial Majesty arrived in Luthori and then chartered a private flight to Etxea. In Jildrati City she debarked under the cover of night and was escorted without announcement to the Kalistani base camp.  Etxean Command was only informed of Her Imperial Majesty's arrival after she had safely landed and debarked the plane, while Institutional Militia commanders were given two hours notice of the visit.

Once at the base, Her Imperial Majesty stayed just over four hours.  She was primarily there to speak with the Kalistani Commander, now Brevet Regular Brigadier General Jesus Martinez, whom she promoted in a public ceremony just after sun up in Etxea, as well as visit with the men and women serving in the Militia.  "Her Imperial Majesty thought a little morale trip may be helpful," said Lady Southern.  "She acknowledged the danger that they were all facing but also stressed that this is the culmination of two generations of conflict and told them that she cares for all of them and will look forward to their speedy and successful return to the Empire.  She also paused the protocol and spoke with the troops directly, allowing herself to be photographed with the troops, and spoken with directly." 

The Lady Southern added "I think I even heard a few 'I's' in the conversations."

As the visit with the troops occurred just after morning formation, Her Imperial Majesty agreed to eat a meal with the Militia members.  She spoke candidly and openly with the members of the Kalistani Expeditionary Legion, and listened to many of them tell her stories about their homes and their loved ones.  The Empress reportedly did more listening than talking, and her visit greatly boosted the morale of the Kalsitanis in camp that morning.  "Its a shame we couldn't get the visit in place a few weeks beforehand," said Southern.  "Several regiments weren't in camp and have already deployed with the Kundrati Union forces.  They therefore missed the Empress' visit."

There is no record of what Her Imperial Majesty, the Defense Minister and General Martinez discussed during the on base visit.  "Nobody should attempt to speculate the contents of that conversation," said Lady Southern.  "Even I wasn't permitted to attend.  But there is oversight in the conversation as the Defense Minister was part of the talks."  Southern disclosed that the meetings lasted about three houses.

According to Southern, the Empress was only on the ground in Etxea for about four hours before returning to Luthori and then to Kalistan.  "There was no opportunity to attempt to find the old Ananto House on the Island," said Lady Southern.  "The Island is largely secure but it should be assumed that the place is riddled with spies who would likely have attempted to harm the Empress, according to their programming.  But additionally, Her Imperial Majesty believed that it was a far better use of her time to stay with the troops as long as she could and meet as many of them as she could before needing to depart."

Lady Southern said Her Imperial Majesty became emotional on her way back to Luthori, not only because she was thinking about the people she met were set to go into battle, but also because of the poor families who Kalistani Irregulars were going to slaughter on the battlefield.  "Her Imperial Majesty said she told Colo...  Excuse me, Brigadier general Martinez that no quarter was to be given if none would be offered.  She said she felt bad for the people of the Kudrati Mainland when the Militia is turned loose on them."

Her Imperial Majesty landed safely in Kaliburg last night, and immediately proceeded to Eveari to sleep off her jet lag.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Kalistani News in Brief: Chancellor hints at Development of new Fleet
FM visits Gao-Soto to open Relations; New investments in Health Care and Education announced
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 3, 5638


Chancellor Koenig discusses "spending Peace Dividend" at National Assembly

Chancellor hints at Development of New Fleet
Chancellor of the Empire Sir Michael Koenig, speaking with reporters after a closed door session with the Government, said that Her Imperial Majesty has expressed a desire to begin building a new fleet. "Our participation in the Kundrati War having come to a conclusion, it is now time for us to refocus our attention closer to home, at long last," said the Chancellor. "Over the next ten or so years, Kalistan will realize a peace dividend, both from the end of our involvement in Kundrati, and from the recovery of Kalistani markets and trade within the Empire. It's time, I think to begin spending this peace dividend to shore up some of the gaps in our own national defense."

The Premier outlined a plan by Her Imperial Majesty's Ministry of Defense to build a northern rapid response fleet which focuses on mobility and intelligence. "The idea is: Kalistan has three approaches. We have double coverage on two of those three, but we have always assumed that the third one, through the northern approaches of the Ananto Ocean along western Dovani was secure, so that one has always been left relatively open. A Fifth Fleet, stationed in the approach between Dovani and Keris, would help us close that last door and force an invasion into the Anantonese from each direction to have to go through two regular fleets before arriving in Kalistan. It's a position whose time has been long in the coming, but now that we can focus on ship building in Kaliburg and Gaduridos once again, we should get started before any more fascists decide to begin making trouble for the world."

The Chancellor said that the plans for the new Fleet were being finalized, including any necessary procurement from external sources, and the first skeletons would be laid in by 5642. He also inexplicably added "I am also a complete fool, and love the Lady Baronette Helen Maldonado from Lolla very much. It was my decision alone to tell you all that." When asked about the seeming nonsequitor, the Chancellor answered "No Comment."

FM Visits Gao-Soto to open Relations
Her Imperial Majesty's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lady Anya Waltrip travelled to Gao-Soto this week to meet with the new Chancellor Anna Yumeji Tone, and express Her Imperial Majesty's desire for closer relations with the northern Dovani nation. "Kalistan frequently gets itself into hot water when discussing other nations," said Lady Waltrip in a press conference following the meeting. "So I simply offered Her Imperial Majesty Empress Mary I Ananto's congratulations on Chancellor Tone's election, and expressed the Empress' optimism that our two nations can work together on a wide spectrum of issues. I was greeted warmly by the Government here, I felt that they listened, and I think the ground work is laid for cordial and regular relations going forward."

The first step, said Lady Anya, was to establish an embassy and exchange Ambassadors. "As in most places, Kalistan retains a full time consulate here in Gao-Soto. It allows the Government in this nation to contact our Government directly at need, but primarily serves those from Gao-Soto who would like to travel or do business in the Empire." The Foreign Minister discussed Kalistan's historical issues around the ethno-federalist strife in the country but said that it appeared that the country is making strides to resolve those conflicts internally. "We would like to let Gao-Soto know that we are open to cooperation and maintaining friendly relations with Gao-Soto." The Foreign Minister said she also invited her counterpart to Kalistan for a visit.

New Investments in Health Care and Education announced
Her Imperial Majesty's Minister for Health and Social Services, Dr. Kylie Montero, announced a significant new investment in health and education in Kaliburg today. "Her Imperial Majesty has authorized a ₭600 Million investment in health and education over the next ten years. The money will be used to bring rural health clinics online that will serve large areas of mostly rural and remote populations in Odufaray and Nevaras, and to provide early childhood education to about 8 million school children, so they can get an early start with fundamental concepts like literacy, mathematics and science."

The money will also target aging facilities which have been in need of updating. "Some of our rural health clinics just need to be remodeled," said Minister Montero, "but we've also identified about twenty clinics in Nevaras and Vrassa which need to be just rebuilt. The buildings they were operating in just couldn't support a lot of basic procedures, like outpatient surgery, abortion provision, or serious emergencies, and the result was that people were having to travel sometimes as much as 100 miles to get into a facility that could accommodate them. In this day and age, that is not acceptable, and the problem hits hardest in rural areas, so this is an area of real inequity that we will address."

The Education funding will go to provide early Childhood education in rural areas. "We are seeing a large gap in education attainment between the cities and the countryside," said the Minister. "This problem is long standing, and though most of Kalistan's children live in our cities, the Government has long attempted to encourage de-urbanization and settlement of rural communities. But if there aren't services there for families, there is no incentive to leave the cities. Who would have guessed it. This money for education seeks to begin addressing this by expanding school options for younger children in rural areas, to help give them the benefits that their city cousins take for granted."

The Ministry is already beginning several projects on the Mainland.

@TheRepublic

[Doc]

Princess Margaret begins dating Matthew Westmoreland
Kaliburg Banker introduced to Crown Princess by Princess Monica
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
May 12, 5638


Her Highness, Princess Margaret Ananto-DeLaurentis and Matthew Westmoreland seen here at Imperial Opera

The Crown Princess and younger sister to the Empress, Her Highness Princess Margaret Ananto-DeLaurentis, has begun a very public relationship with Kaliburg investment banker Matthew Westmoreland. The Princess, 24, officially announced her association to Mr. Westmoreland, 28, at this year's Order Day Function in Eveari. Westmoreland was her invited guest, and the event was an opportunity to introduce him to the Princess' family and friends.

Matthew Westmoreland, a Kaliburg Native, has worked for the Bank of Sulari in the capital as a commodities trader and personal financial manager. He is tied to an upper middle class family, who have long supported the arts in the Capital. Through them, Princess Monica Ananto-DeLaurentis met Mr. Westmoreland and played matchmaker for the two. After being introduced, Mr. Westmoreland was seen out and about Kaliburg with the Princess, though the official announcement only occurred recently.

"We were introduced by my mom," said the Princess, at the Season Opening of the Imperial Opera last week. "He's funny, he's handsome and he knows how to cook. Melted my heart immediately," she said with a smile. Mr. Westmoreland responded, "I was skeptical at first, when Lady Monica spoke with my parents about setting us up. Everyone in the world knows Meg, and so it was a little intimidating, but I found a kind and gentle soul here, and to be honest, we have a ton of fun together, and share so many interests, that that initial kind of intimidation melted away. She's a very kind person, and I feel so at ease when I'm around her. And she's teaching me to surf, with is really pretty neat."

Princess Margaret, who is still in college at the moment, said she wants to spend more time getting to know Westmoreland in various settings. "His parents are friends with my mom and the Baron, and they visit my mom in Luxon quite often. I want to see how he is in kind of awkward moments, because you know you can really tell a lot about a person when they have to handle stress. But I think he'll do fine." She said that she and Westmoreland have been dating about 15 weeks already, only three of which have been public, and she feels like they are very compatible.

"I just wonder when my sister is going to find someone," said Princess Margaret. "But she works all the time. I think she could use some stress relief." Her Imperial Majesty Empress Mary I Ananto is, for the record, still single and has not been seen out socially with anyone but her family members. "Mary is very much a loner, though. I don't know any man or woman who can keep her interested for very long..."

We look forward to seeing Princess Margaret and Mr. Westmoreland out in society more often now that they are officially a couple.

@LaModa