Kalistani Major History

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Prince Regent orders a review of Treaties
"We need to see if some of these treaties have outlived their usefulness to Kalistan" says analyst
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
April 3, 5531


Imperial Government to review terms of Kalistan's Treaties

His Highness, the Prince Regent Bjorn has ordered the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to review Kalistan's Treaties in light of tensions in Northern Seleya. "It feels that the political earth has shifted under our feet since the Empress died," said political analyst Michael Bennots, from the University of Kalistan in Yoshimi, Suldanor. "The Prince Regent is no longer convinced that all of our international agreements serve us as they once did. So they are doing a review of the treaties and international relationships to see if those agreements have outlived their usefulness to Kalistan."

Bennots, who leads the FP thinktank Forward Sulari, did not say which treaties the Ministry was focusing on. "Things like ODEN are probably pretty safe," said Bennots. "And I am sure the effort might be more in line with a desire to recommit to the Non-Aligned movement and pro-Seleyan initiatives, as opposed to other agreements. Tensions with Baltusia are not the only thing that the Foreign Ministry is dealing with right now, and if feels that Kalistan has almost done an about face in recent years with regard to its role in Seleya. This might have something to do with the Andalay and Vintalli claims, it might have something to do with Baltusia, it may have something to do with Kalistan feeling that it is neglecting our home while trying to reach out to other international actors."

The move to evaluate treaty relationships has historically preceded periods of less internationalism in Kalistani policy and often more isolationism. "Kalistan tends to do what is good for itself, regardless of what others would have Kalistan do," said Bennots, "but this might be a personal thing. I think the Prince Regent is trying to live up to his Wife's memory, and rule as he thinks she would to leave an unbroken legacy for the Minor Emperor, but Nicolette II's policy was complex, and she benefitted from the extremely competent imperial state left to her by Nicolette the Great. Today, years later, Kalistan finds fewer allies in the world around it, and feels the pressure from a number of quarters. The Prince Regent may be responding directly to this, and may be looking to make new friends to replace ones he feels he is losing."

If Kalistan becomes more Seleya-focused, Baltusia could be the first place Kalistan might turn for good relations. "Baltusia is a fairly major economic player in the region," said Bennots. "Increasing trade and cooperation with Baltusia would make a lot more sense than some of the other arrangements Kalistan currently maintains. Lodamun has kind of gone dark, Luthori and Gaduridos are absent. Beiteynu has completely fallen off the radar. And our trade with Dolgava, Hutori and Lourenne have slipped significantly in recent decades, especially with Kalistan's refusal to denominate in any currency other than the Ruble. If Kalistan starts making new friends, this might be a great opportunity for countriesothr than the usual suspects to seriously commit to building good relations with Kalistan, especially since the Prince Regent has a more open mindset to finance, investment and trade, but also to change in diplomacy."

It is unclear what will be the result of the review. "We probably shouldn't read much more than a desire for reinvigoration into the Prince Regent's review of the treaties," said Bennots. "It is good to periodically go through our agreements and see which ones are currently resulting in a net positive for Kalistan, and for those which are not, to unsentimentally jettison them. This might not please everyone, but Kalistanis care about Kalistan first. If others happen to benefit, that is a coincidence. Kalistan acts like every other nation, and any suggestion that actions are done for altruistic reasons, or at a present loss for Kalistan in exchange for a completely uncertain possibility of a future gain is just propaganda. That might tell us something about where the Foreign Ministry is going, but maybe not the whole story."

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Kalistani Athletics Clubs and Sponsorships flood into Olympic Efforts
Kalistan is expected to participate in more than 2 Dozen Events across Games
Sulari, Duchy of Suldanor
July 7, 5531


Kalistani Skater Natas Carruthers expected to be among Competitors at next year's Olympics

With the Olympics just a year away, sponsorships are already coming in to fund training regimes and travel to Aldegar's 5532 Games. Kalistan is expected to field a full team in more than 2 dozen individual and team events for the main olympics and will also participate in a dozen Paralympic events. In the Olympic games, Kalistan will participate in all track and field events, as well as all water craft events, including surfing and crew, swim and diving events, including synchronized swimming, both road and track biking events, skateboarding, fencing, equestrian events including dressage, steeplechase and polo, as well as shooting, archery, fencing and gymnastics, both athletic and rhythmic. The only pool events that Kalistan is expected to participate in is Rugby and beach volleyball. Kalistan will also participate in mixed sport events the biathlon, triathlon and pentathlon, and will send two speed walkers to participate in 20K and 50 K events. In the Paralympics, Kalistan will send a basketball squad, a volleyball team, a rugby team, a bocce team, as well as sprint crews in track and field, shooting, archery, swimming, paracycling and lifting.

"We really look forward to doing very well in Aldegar," said skater Natas Carruthers, from Sulari, who is ranked #1 in Kalistan's Skateboard lists and is widely expected to attend the Games. "This will be the first time in anyone's living memory, and with so much participation, I think it will be a good tournament for Kalistani Athletes." Carruthers' like hundreds of other amateur athletes have been training obsessively since the Olympics were announced. "Yeah, it's kind of a grind, day in and day out, but we've got a lot of good sponsors that make it so most of us don't actually have to do much else other than train all day, eat healthy, and not have a lot of stress while we prepare for the games."

The Kalistani Olympic Committee, which is in charge of Kalistan's Olympic training regimes, have set a strict no drug policy and tests its athletes monthly. "It's been kind of a bummer, having to skate sober," said Carruthers. "But most of the athletes I know have made the commitment to stay clean until the games are over, because we understand that it means a lot of participate in the sport and just let our natural ability shine." While ODEN-K is listed as a major contributor to the Kalistani Olympic Committee, it has also barred Kalistani Athletes from purchasing drugs from its stores, and has committed to informing the Committee if some athlete makes an attempt to do so. "It's all to keep us honest," said Carruthers. So far only four athletes have been excused from their teams for violating the policy.

Carruthers, like all other Kalistani Athletes, will compete over the next year in both conditioning and training exercises as well as competitions to determine the final make up of Team Kalistan. "We have spots for four male skaters and four female skaters on Kalistan's team," said Carruthers. "And there are like 52 skaters here who will be competing for those four spots. We have all these kids out here competing, and like, any one of them can beat me out in the end. I think whoever will participate, we have a pretty good shot, all things considered."

Asked what he thinks about the situation in the Anantonese Ocean that threatens the peace during the Olympic Games, Carruthers simply said "Yeah, I don't have a lot of time to pay attention to all that. We here are all focused on one thing, and that is winning in Aldegar. If they can't get it sorted before we head south, we are really missing out on a great opportunity for Kalistani athletes to shine, and represent the Country for the first time in I don't know how many centuries. Sometimes you have to prioritize, you know? Like, is it even worth it?"

Carruthers excused himself for his halfpipe run. All around the Empire, athletes just like him will spend the next year doing just that, as Kalistan prepares for the 5532 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Aldegar.

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Kalistan Stands 3rd Regular Fleet Down from Alert
Subs maintain watchful positions in the Middle Anantonese Ocean
Yoshimi Station, Duchy of Suldanor
April 2, 5532


Intelligence Assets of the Regular Air Force fly surveillance missions over seas between Kalistan and Gaduridos

Kalistani Naval spokespeople confirmed that the surface elements of the 3rd Regular Fleet have returned to garrison at Yoshimi Station late last month as tensions between Kalistan and Baltusia have decreased. "We still have a threat of an aircraft carrier in the Ocean," said Navy Captain Jill Martin, "but we thing we can contain that threat with a mix of non-intrusive elements including diplomacy. Baltusia has taken steps to ensure that a regular channel of communication is being established with Kaliburg, and it has engaged in diplomacy with other nations that give us some assurance that Baltusia has not gone rogue, but hopes to keep its place in the Community of Seleyan Nations."

The Captain added that submarine assets of the 3rd Fleet will remain deployed in the oceans between Kalistan and Gaduridos, to allow Kalistan a quick response should Baltusia decide to defect from their spoken word. "We'll also return to a 72 Hour Alert as Baltusia begins assembling its Carrier Escorts, to make sure that Baltusia doesn't decide to sneak attack our National Territory." The submarines and the AWACS from the Regular Air Force will keep eyes on the Baltusian coastline, and will happily verify the situation in the region for the purpose of keeping tensions from boiling over again. "If Baltusia is talking with Lourenne, there is probably a pretty good chance that Baltusia and Kalistan are headed for more peaceful relations, rather than war. It looks like we've dodged that bullet after all."

The decision to keep Kalistani submarines in the Middle Anantonese is a dramatic expansion of the Kalistani theater. "The subs often operate from time to time in the Middle Anantonese, but this is the first time the subs will maintain station in that part of the ocean, rather than sitting in port. But right now, there is a real lack of any sort of security in that Ocean, as the building of this Air Craft Carrier demonstrates, and planners up at Bozo River decided to make the Middle Anantonese Ocean look more like the Northern Anantonese Ocean from a submarine standpoint. This includes regular patrols to the South between Kalistan Proper and Gaduridos." The patrols will be complemented with AWACS flyovers and monitoring, a long planned missions for these aircraft.

"Bozo River thinks Baltusia is successfully contained, in so far nothing they will do will adversely affect peace between our two nations," said Captain Martin. "While preserving Baltusian Sovereignty and persuading them to bring us into the loop of their thinking without firing a shot, we also open doors for more trade and cultural exchange. Peace and good relations between our two countries is a good thing for Kalistan. And it is a good thing for our navy, whose enlisted men and women can return home to be with their families during the time of the Olympics."

The decrease in tension is a great relief to the Imperial Government, who commented that they look forward to meeting with the Government of Baltusia to discuss expansion of trade links between the two countries so both countries can work on a Seleyan trade network not under the control of influence of outside governments.

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Kalistan Military Chief States that Ananto Strait remains Closed
"No Foreign Military Vessels have transited Strait" says Admiral Davis
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
December 18, 5534


Admiral Davis, His Imperial Majesty's Minister of Defense, Addresses Regional Security in Kaliburg

The Minister of Defense, Admiral Guillermo Davis, addressed the security situation in the Anantonese Ocean. "The Kalistani Regular Navy continues patrolling the Northern and Southern Limits of the Ananto Strait, and no foreign Naval vessels have transited those limits." The Defense Minister was asked to address the international security situation, but confined policy statements to the regional situation. "The issues occurring in Vascania are not Kalistan's issues. We maintain neutrality in that and all foreign conflicts, and focus specifically on Anantonese affairs."

Listed among the issues relating to Anantonese security, the Defense Minister noted that the Baltusian Carrier remains a subject of interest. "We understand that Baltusia has completed its carrier's escort fleet, and I think Kalistan has come to an understanding with Baltusia around that task force: Baltusia understands that Kalistan will not hinder its movement as long as it doesn't move toward Kalistan. We acknowledge and endorse Baltusian sovereignty and the right to defend itself, but we also want to make sure that their doing so does not risk Kalistani lives or interests in the region. I think with our current understanding, though it remains informal, we can keep peace and coexist given the new situation that fleet creates."

With regard to the ongoing situation in Rapa Pile, the Defense Minister noted that "Kalistan is about as far away from eastern Dovani as any nation can be in Terra. None of the military activities relating to that situation have anything to do with Kalistan. There is no reason that any of the participants of that conflict should in any way approach the Strait. And as predicted, none have. We have no reports of any foreign nations attempting to transit the Ananto Straits. We have however stepped up patrols as well as AWACS surveillance in the Northern Anantonese to ensure that peace and security in the region is maintained. I have also ordered shore Surface to Surface batteries onto alert, and we will be on full alert to any foreign nations attempting to transit the Strait. This business about international water is a matter for other Nations, there is no question about the status of the Ananto Strait."

The Defense Minister reiterated Support for Ananto Strait Accord II and reiterated that Kalistan did not acknowledge the so-called "Law of the Sea" treaty. "Kalistan looks to its own security, whatever other nations happen to think they would prefer."

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Emperor in Waiting
His Imperial Majesty to enter National Service; Orders Regency to be Extended
Eveari, Grand Duchy of Ananto
March 5535


His Imperial Majesty Emperor Fredrick II Ananto, in his personal garage in Eveari, heads to National Service

His Highness, the Prince Regent Bjorn announced today that His Imperial Majesty, The Emperor Fredrick II Ananto has decided to postpone claiming the throne for four years while he takes a post in the National Service Program. The Emperor, now 19 and eligible for service, will serve as a mechanic working with KALMILINCO for his term of service. The work will involve building and servicing equipment employed by the Kalistani Regular Force, and is expected to highlight the young Emperor's passion for auto mechanics.

"His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor has put off his enthronement so that he could follow millions of other Kalistani citizens into the NSP and perform his civic duty for the Empire," said Prince Bjorn. "He has completed his primary civil and administrative education and is ready to take the throne, but like his mother and grandmother before him, he has instead opted for National Service first and delayed his taking up duties of the State for four years. This action, he feels will allow him to get more real world experience and get a better understanding of the lives of the citizens of Kalistan which he has reluctantly been sheltered from for so long. Following his term in National Service, he will be placed on the throne and the regency will end."

The decision of the Emperor to delay coronation, though he has reached the age of Majority was acquiesced to by an impatient Institutional Party, who reluctantly agreed to let the Emperor serve in the NSP rather than on the Throne. "In another life" said Prince Bjorn, "My son might have been a mechanical engineer. But in this life, he is the Emperor, and the National Assembly will have to indulge him.:

Prince Bjorn will continue in his post until the Emperor is released from National Service, and then will oversee the transition to a fully crowned monarch. The decision was partly made with a mind to the turbulence in the world: Bjorn has years of experience in the post, and it is hoped that the chaos will die down before His Imperial Majesty returns from Service.

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Kalistani and Ikradon Trade Delegations Meet
New Economic and Diplomatic links forged with Artanian State
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
August 7, 5535


Initial Trade Talks at the Ministry of Trade lay ground for deeper relationship

As Dovani continues its unending descent into what the Kalistani Foreign Minister recently called "stupidity", Seleya and Artania are more and more appearing to be the model of sanity and stability. This was the message of the recent mid level trade talks between the Empire of Ananto and Kalistan and the central Artanian nation of Ikradon: "We have come to initial agreements over a raft of regular trade arrangements, and have expanded talks into diplomatic negotiations," said His Imperial Majesty's Trade Minister Sam Waltz, following the conclusion of the meetings in Kaliburg. "Kalistan is looking to increase its ties to international commerce, we are taking it at a very conservative pace, but we think that we can put Kalistan into a very competitive position, especially with regard to proximity compared to nations further to our east and South. In exchange, Ikradon gets a regular partner in the region for peace and prosperity."

The details of the trade deal include mostly agricultural and manufactured goods, including some finished products from Ikradon which may be of some use in the Kalistani Aircraft industry. "They mentioned that they produced an alloy in their nation which they utilize in aircraft manufacturing. It remains for us to see whether it will be a better material for our own air craft, especially if it is heavier and/or more expensive than the aluminum that we currently use in fuselage construction, but it is something that we are interested in experimenting with at least, and Ikradon seems to produce this stuff." In addition to direct trade, Kalistan and Ikradon will provide open markets for each nation's goods respectively. "Kalistan tends to like foreign things. We are kitchy, you might say, and if someone has something from a far away land, they tend to attract excitement for that thing and that builds a market."

In addition to the broad ranging trade talks, the trade counterparts discussed formal diplomatic exchanges. "We talked about opening a permanent Embassy in Ikradon," said Minister Waltz. "It is in Kalistan's interest to have a direct link to the Government of Ikradon, who our Emperor has not yet had the opportunity to meet yet. When the Emperor is enthroned, an Embassy in the capital would make it much easier to visit and hold direct talks with the Artanians." A diplomatic mission to Ikradon would complement the diplomatic agencies that Kalistan has built in Luthori and Dundorf. "While most of the world's rankings do not measure regular relations as a form of influence, Kalistan certainly welcomes the opportunity to be able to ensure peace through regular and robust discussions with foreign governments. We don't any confusion about anything regarding foreign policy: We are not a nation which immediately turns to war when things get a little boring. Kalistan needs regular, normal relations as a part of our Security, and we are always on the lookout for friends."

Both states have agreed thus far to fair and reciprocal trade between the two states, and Kalistan has already begun putting orders in for Ikradonian commodities. "We expect a balanced trade agreement," said Waltz. "We won't buy more from them than they do from us, so we will find out where the equilibrium point is in trade." Further talks over specific commodities were welcomed, said the Minister. This trade deal comes on the heels of the Seko Royal visit last year and a commitment to welcome Sekowan goods in Kalistani Markets now that matters have permitted peace and commerce between the two Anantonese Nations. "The expansion of Kalistani trade with Sekowo and now the Ikradion deal really improves Kalistan's trade volume in a short space, and provides Kalistani consumers with both new products and access to new cultural tastes and trends," said Waltz. "We in return get to export our own manufactured goods and trends back to them. It is a net positive for the world, and a absolute gain for Kalistan!"

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Kalistan News in Brief: Emperor Acquires new Palace
Kundrati Aircraft received; Brad Willis Selected to represent Kalistan at FOMAT
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
October 1, 5535


Prince Regent acquires Wilson Hill Neighborhood, including Wilson House to serve as Kaliburg's Imperial Estate

Emperor takes over Wilson Hill Neighborhood in Kaliburg
His Highness the Prince Regent Bjorn acquired title to the upperclass Wilson Hill Neighborhood in Kaliburg for the House of Ananto. The neighborhood, built on Wilson Hill, comprises more than 2400 acres of the forested Wilson Peninsula in southern Kaliburg, though it does not include the southern unit of the Davon Dunes National Seashore that is adjacent to the Ananto Strait. The neighborhood, which has about 250 large homes and mansions on it, was previously seen as the refuge for Kaliburg's wealthy. All homes have been bought out by the House Ananto, and most will be vacated and demolished. About 50 homes, mostly facing Davon Bay, will remain to serve as guest homes, staff quarters, and administrative buildings, while Wilson House will serve as the new Palace and Imperial Seat for His Imperial Majesty the Emperor.

The acquisition of the property and land cost the Anantos more than ₭ 100 million, but no public money was used in the purchases. The Office of the Prince Regent also said they plan to spend an additional 1.5 million to fully restore and refurnish Wilson House to make it suitable for the Emperor to live in when he leaves the National Service. Wilson Hill is far larger than the Family estate in Eveari, and will serve as the Emperor's Kaliburg Home. Meanwhile, the Townhouse in Downtown Kaliburg, that served the previous Empress and Prince Regent is being converted into a museum featuring family history for Crown aficionados, and the current Imperial Seat on the National Mall will be converted into a public library.

Kundrati Aircraft make their way to Kalistan
The Kalistani Regular Force finally took receipt of the long awaited Lasaitasuna Multi-Role Fighter jets built in Kundrati. The contract, which was signed in the last Empress' Reign, was delayed for about 20 years as Kundrati experienced a period of instability in Government. However, the new government, being reminded of the arrangement made with Kalistan, fulfilled its part of the Bargain and transferred the fighter aircraft, along with production schematics to Kalistan, so that More can be built at AeroKal's Gendaris facility. The Lasaitasuna (RLE: MiG 35) will extend Kalistani Air superiority in the Northern Anantonese Ocean: its combat range is about 650 Miles, and from bases in both Ananto and in Kalistan Proper, the range of these versitile fighter jets will cover the entire Ananto Strait as well as significant portions of the Ocean adjacent to Kalistani Territory, to further enhance Kalistani security in the Region. The cost of these jet fighters was about ₭ 25million per aircraft. In addition to the purchase, the Kalistani Regular Navy will be decommissioning four Sativa Class Submarines to transfer to Kundrati, along with technical advise for 5 years. The deal finally sealed, Kalistan looks forward to the opportunity to train with the new equipment with Kundrati specialists and sailors. KalMD, working with KALMILINCO is expected to spec out the avionics package on the new fighters to include enhanced targeting and detection elements to allow Kalistani Pilots to coordinate fire with ground and sea based platforms.

Brad Willis to Represent Kalistani in Noumonde
FOMAT XXVIII has been called for Noumonde, and Kalistani music fans have overwhelmingly selected alternative singer/songwriter Brad Willis to represent Kalistan in the Contest. Willis, a Kaliburg native was selected from 14 entrants on Radio 1, and will represent the Empire with his Alternative Radio hit "It's Over". The song, recorded for KMI in Kaliburg, is off Willis' debut album Proximity which recently hit number 15 on the Album chart, carried largely by Willis' cover of the classic Stepanov Song [video=youtube]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8AWFf7EAc4?si=H-M9TRFS6DOzO4lX]"The Sacred Chord,"[/url] first performed by Joanie Yeardly on Reimagining Stepanov. The song "It's Over" is the follow up single. Willis said "It's a kind of a sad song, not really one for a pop music contest, but it is probably the most interesting song on the album, so I am glad that if they were going to send me to perform any of those songs, that this is the one they want me to play." FOMAT will be held in Noumonde as Dorvik, the winner of FOMAT XXVII in Kalistan declined to host, and Noumonde took up the duty as runner up.

You can listen to Willis' "It's Over" from his debut Proximity on KMI and support him in FOMAT!

[Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MMXjunSx80]

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Duke Victor in Gaduridos
Uncle of Emperor takes Consulting Job in Ciudad de Gadur
Ciudad de Gadur, Vintalli (Marlingantos)
March 17, 5536


His Highness, Duke Victor Ananto-Martin of Suldanor with wife, the Duchess Carlota Ananto-Orleans in Gaduri Capital

Victor Ananto, Duke of Suldanor and uncle of His Imperial Majesty, the Emperor, has taken an informal consulting job in Ciudad de Gadur, Gaduridos. The job involves working with the caretaker Government of Gaduridos, advising on administration and business. His ties to Kalistani business have proven invaluable in the southern Republic, and through contacts the Duke has personally secured, trade volume with Gaduridos has more than doubled since his return to Gaduridos eight years ago. As a result of the contacts he built up over the years, his clear connections with the Kalistani Crown were also naturally in high demand, and have made him a sort of informal Ambassador and direct representative of the Crown to Gaduridos.

Duke Victor, who maintains a large estate just outside the Gaduri national capital, has been informally working with the caretaker President and Prime Minister of the Government to increase centralization and administrative efficiency. He has also advised on two separate non-partisan elections that have returned the two caretakers to their respective offices. He also has given advice that has led to a renewed efficiency in revenue collection on the federal and state levels, and continues to work closely with Kalistani militia officers to ensure that the Gaduri Guardia Nacional is maintained, permitting Gaduridos a modicum of security as the Government works to reorganize.

"It is clear that Victor's profile in Gaduridos has grown as the last political organizations have dissolved," said Professor Martina Jones, of Kaliburg Polytechnic University. "He doesn't fill any official role there, but his presence in country, his very intimate familiarity with the culture and ways of people and his contacts with the main political, economic and cultural actors in the society give him an enormous, if still behind the scenes, role in Gaduri affairs. But it is also clear that Victor serves as a representative of Kalistan to the Government of Gaduridos: nobody is mistaken about this. Kalistan's interest is that Gaduridos remains stable, secure and prosperous, even if there is not much official political activity on the national level. And Victor is also not doing this alone; none of it would be possible without the vision of the Gaduris themselves."

There is a certain consonance between the two Anantonese Island Nations that gives Kalistan a natural interest in actually working to maintain things as they are. "Gaduridos was only recently a rising power," said Jones. "It may have slipped from its zenith, but the Kaistani government wants to make sure that it does not slip too far. To this end, Kalistani firms have been increasing their purchases from Gaduridos, and at least one new container ship has been dedicated to Anantonese Trade specifically, to ensure that Kalistani goods are shipped into Gaduridos and Gaduri Products make it to Kalistani Markets. This informal trade integration has alone kept Gaduridos fairly stable despite limitation of Government policy. A strong Gaduridos aids a strong Kalistan."

So far there is no movement on deeper consonance between the two nations. For now, Victor remains a private citizen, though he is by far the most important Kalistani National living in Gaduridos and an invaluable representative of the Kalistani Government in Ciudad de Gadur. It is certain that the Prince Regent would like the Duke to take a more active role in the promotion of the Ananto claims in the region, but for the moment, there seems to be no activity to strengthen ties any further than would exist between two friendly nations. The economic relations between Kalistan and Gaduridos don't even reach the level of integration of the Anantonese Economic Standardization Accord. "There doesn't seem to be anyone even capable of introducing that treaty, or any other treaty for that matter in the Gaduri Government at the moment," said Jones. "The authority simply is not there." But the dramatically increased role of an Ananto in an advisory role in Gaduri government and economy is a new kind of integration, one that signals a major deepening in commitment of the Empire for the Islands. "It is the Regent's hope that when Gaduridos does get its government reorganized, this advice and assistance is acknowledged," said Jones.

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Prince Bjorn Discusses Kalistani Affairs
Invited crowd includes press, foreign policy elites and business leaders
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
April 30, 5536


Prince Regent Bjorn Ananto addresses Kalistani Elite at Imperial Seat in downtown Kaliburg

The Prince Regent was the keynote speaker at this year's Spring Luncheon, a developing annual affair where members of the Anantonese State rub elbows with Policy elites, business executives of Kalistan's major public and private firms and members of the press. Notably included were members of Kalistan's labor unions and growers' syndicates from various Duchies, as well various noted authors, actors and musicians. The Luncheon is in its third year, but this is the first time the Prince Regent was in attendance. It is part conference, with panels and discussions of public affairs, and part grand dining experience put on by award winning chefs from Kaliburg Polytechnic Culinary School.

The panels were well attended, and included discussions of the growth in Kalistani trade contacts over seas and in Seleya, new developments in energy recycling in hybrid and hydrogen based engines, expansion of several of Kalistan's capital, durable and strategic goods supplies, and various international incidents that, while steering clear of them, may none the less have some effect on Kalistan, especially in exports. The panels were primarily a networking opportunity for the elite guests of the luncheon, but the main attraction was the keynote speech, delivered by His Highness, the Prince Regent Bjorn Ananto-Nordholm. Below is the transcript of his brief remarks.

"Peers, Members of the Order of the Grey Smoke, Assembled Dukes, Counts, Barons, and Marquees, members of the Press, Members of the Unions and the Syndicates, Members of ODEN, and sundry others. I want to welcome you all the the third annual Spring Luncheon.

Please indulge me while I take a moment to tell you a story. It has to do with my beloved Nicolette, who we have lost... She used to tell me that the best way to improve my Vrassan was through public speaking. You see, I have always been self-conscious about whether I had an accent, or whether I was pronouncing words correctly, or if I was saying things precisely as I should. It is not a speech impediment: I simply did not have the good fortune to be born among you and the opportunity to speak Vrassan as a first Language. So I was always learning and watching, to see how she pronounced things and spoke and said things.

Many of you do not know Nicolette as I did, though she was your avatar as a people. But I knew her and I will tell you, in public, she was the Ice Queen: She was very dispassionate, because she had to be. She was not allowed to appear to have fun or take things lightly, because it was explained to her, by her own mother that if she laughs too much so other people can see her, they will not take her seriously, they will not tremble in dread as she passes by, and they will not show her the deference and courtesy that she is due by virtue of her birth. Instead, they will treat her as if she were common. Nicolette was nothing if she was not royal, by both blood and demeanor, but her mother told her that some people treat joy as a weakness, and in public, she must be even keeled, not too hot nor too cold, not showing contempt nor showing favoritism. She must not let them see her laugh.

But in private, she did laughing enough for two full lives. Our home was one of so much joy. So there was one day, when I had to make a dedication of some thing, like maybe opening a bank branch or something, and I had to give a little speech. And I asked her if she had some advice for me to make this speech better and clearer and meaningful, though it was some mundane thing.

She said "Well, You will be standing there in front of an audience and you may get concerned that all the people there stare at you." And I said, "I suppose you mean, I should imagine the crowd naked." I think I read that while, you know, learning about public speaking. They always tell you to imagine the crowd naked you know. And she said "You could do that, but when I give a speech, I imagine myself naked. This way, I know that no matter what I say, I can't possibly be more embarrassed by that than I would be if my dress suddenly you know, vanished." I laughed to hear my wife describe her own anxiety, because you know she was the model of poise, and to hear her thinking of herself like that was rather funny to me. I think I told her something like Yes, I can imagine that too, and we giggled and she called me bad and everything, you know--we were so young then and it was something to say that was as you say, kind of bawdy...

Anyway, we had a laugh at it, and then I had to go give the speech, and well... as I was standing there, I was trying to remember what she said to me, and I started getting kind of nervous, but then her words rang in my ears, and I will tell you, the first words out of my mouth were "Man, I do look good today!" I tell you, I don't my face has ever turned redder, as that crowd sat there silently in confusion... I finished the speech and went home to tell Nicki: "I don't think they will ever invite me back..."

I've given a lot of speeches since then, some I wanted to give, some I had to give, but her advice still goes with me, and I will say, even at my age, I do damn look good!

*The crowd roared laughter and applauded*

Now to the actual topic of my speech, and hopefully I have taken up enough time so I can only get through a few of these points before they 'play me off' so to say... I don't think it is news that Kalistan is in very good shape. Our long standing practices of fair trade have brought us new partners, and our markets are more open now that they have been in living memory to both foreign goods and foreign investment. We have made several important improvements to the economy to allow for foreign nations to begin investing more aggressively in domestic production and in finance. We have made banking reforms, and have worked diligently to continue Nicolette's infrastructure projects, with extension of the National Rail in Kalistan to more cities, and the expansion of the ship building and servicing facilities at Port Elga. We have also secured vital assets for Kalistan's national defense, and we are now more secure from international threats than ever before.

There are a number of international events that we are keeping very close watch over, to ensure that they do not expand to our part of the world. The Sekowan peace has been secured, but there is still a major conflict going on over the Vascanian annexation of its neighbors. Kalistan has deliberately not taken a position on this affair: We do not feel that we have enough information on the matters underlying the annexation to decide to take a side. However, we would reiterate that Kalistan stands unequivocally on the side of recapturing territory that has historically been taken from some country, and if it appears that Vascania was restoring its control over territory it once held but was illegitimately taken from it, The Empire will stand for that principle. It was a position that Nicolette had arrived at toward the end of her reign, and it is also one both I, and the previous regent, Duke Victor of Suldanor have impressed upon the Emperor Fredrick II. This is an important principle of national sovereignty: Territorial integrity occasionally will supersede the principles of liberal internationalism. As a result, Whatever the situation in Vascania, Kalistan stands on the side of restoration.

Kalistan is watching with great interest the various wargames taking place to the south of Gaduridos. I would like to thank the Baltusian Government for honoring our policy positions regarding the use, even in simulated environments, of weapons of warfare near Imperial waters. Their measured and reasonable approach to the matter allows them to get the training in that they seek, honors their right to conduct their military training operations as any other sovereign nation would be allowed to, and also steers clear of any possibility of provocation of the Empire. Kalistan wants to live at peace with our neighbors and work together to enhance regional and continental security. But we also will do whatever we can to avoid the insecurity of uncertainty. The Baltusians who have agreed to conduct their wargames far away from Kalistani waters, have done their part to avoid the possibility of any confusion, and I appreciate their opportunity to build trust with them. Our submarines still patrol the sea between Kalistan and Gaduridos, but the patrols are merely routine, and are not associated in any way with the actions of Baltusia. It is our hope that this foundation can be the basis for new relationships with Baltusia.

On Gaduridos, I appreciate the efforts of Duke Victor on behalf of the Anantonese Empire, and his tireless work for the benefit of the Vintallian territories. Kalistan's presence in Gaduridos is historical, and as our influence there continues to grow through trade, military and financial support, it is my hope that Gaduridos sees the obvious benefit to association with the Empire. A stable and prosperous Gaduridos, Gateway to the Indrala and Aldegar, is as beneficial to Kalistan as it is to Gaduridos, and we put our considerable resources toward stabilization, both political and economic, with the aim toward alignment between our two nations. We share so much with Gaduridos, to include their dialect of Egelian, a love for Gaduri food, a love of Gaduri culture and music, and a genuine appreciation and affinity for the people of Gaduridos. We wish to see Gaduridos prosper: Doing so supports the Emperor's titular oath: in fact, the dynastic appellation is popularly known as the 4th, or Gaduri Dynasty. Our destinies are forever bound together under the Crown. But while we remain separated politically, Kalistan will still continue to invest in Gaduridos, advise their government, and help arm and train their National Guard forces to ensure Gaduri security and peace.

In closing, I have about three years left in the position of Regent. It is my great hope after that that my son, the Emperor will take up his duties of service to the people of the Anantonese State. I hope that I am allowed to retire in peace: I began speaking of the Empress Nicolette, my heart. When she was taken from me... from all of us, please excuse me... from all of us... I didn't even get to say goodbye to her properly. I was in a coma when they put her in the crypt. I have never had the opportunity to feel the grief that is the proper due of a husband that survives his wife. There are many days where I wish I could join her, but the Empire cannot allow me to feel those feelings for too long. I mean to say, before I start sobbing as a little baby, that I have held this Empire together so that my son will properly inherit the Empire his own mother would have left for him. I have taken steps to make his life, perhaps a little easier in some ways, but in other ways, maybe more complicated. But in three years, it will be his to govern. I will always support his right to rule all he is entitled to, and will support this family to my dying day. Which, after giving up the Regency at the correct time, will be closer to me than my wedding date. I hope to visit my family's home in Kazulia, and perhaps celebrate Kazulia's accession to the Non Aligned Movement. I miss so many people, but these three years will present unique challenges, and I do not have time to dwell on that right now. I thank you for your attention and your indulgence, and if I may ask one more favor from you, People of Kalistan, may I thank you in advance for your applause."

The crowd gave the Prince Regent a standing ovation, a salute he returned, before waving, stepping away from the podium, and nodding respectfully to the color guard before returning to his suite in the Imperial Seat.

[Doc]

Lord Wilkes Signs Single Party Legislation
Kalistan officially unifies Politics under Institutional Party
Kaliburg, Grand Duchy of Ananto
August 1, 5536


Lord Stephen Wilkes signs Single Party Legislation to Officially abolish Liberal Democracy in Kalistan

In an act unthinkable during the Republican Period, Lord Stephen Wilkes, Chancellor of the Empire, put an end to the last vestiges of Liberal Democracy in Kalistan with a single crossing of a t and dotting of an i. The act, known as the "Single Party State and Outlawing Fascism Act" proclaimed that all political formation outside the Institutional Party shall be illegal and disbanded. Freedom of Association is maintained, but the only organized political activity in the National Legislature or in any of the Duchies will occur under the banner of the Institutional Party of Kalistan.

"With this act, the Empire is acknowledging in law what it already follows in practice," said Lord Wilkes. "The Institutional Party is the Party which enacts the will of the Sovereign, and while we remain at liberty to debate HOW we do that, our political function is clear. Kalistan is now and shall be for as long as the Institutional Party exists, an absolute monarchy, where all legitimacy and authority derives from the singular, absolute will of the Emperor. And I do say, nobody shall mourn the passing of internecine and counterproductive political civil warfare less than I. With that, I happily sign."

Reaction to the bill in Kalistan was apathetic. "For so many years, political Parties have risen and fallen, all promising new things, and to what end? They disband as soon as they form," said Marcia Womack, of Sulari. "We don't have to look back too many years to see the most recent example of this. But the Government doesn't even form its own agenda, so what difference does it make if we have one party or 50?"

Brian DuGard of Bozo River said "The State functions and generally speaking, I agree with what they are doing. Not worrying that our political structure is in good hands, or that they are governing in the interest of fairness and justice gives me time to do other things in life, like catch up with friends and family or go see a play or something. We fully understand in this country how the political system works, and we know that change happens in the streets rather than in the Government, so it seems far more simple and efficient to just have one Party than to make those parties fight with one another every six years."

Allison Kendrick of Yoshimi said "There was more than one Party? When was that?"

In all, most people (78%), when polled, said either "Yes, I support a One Party State," or "Whatever they are doing is fine with me." A small minority of respondents (6.2 percent) said "I am deeply opposed to the end of civil liberties in society" and most of those responded to the follow up question with some variation of "It doesn't matter whether the Parties do anything, I just want to feel like I have a choice." The poll was taken in Kaliburg and Sulari over 10 days in late July, and has a margin of error of +/-2%.

"Liberalism is officially dead in Kalistan," said Lord Wilkes. "This bill is the last nail in its coffin. And now that even the appearance of formal democracy is out of the way, we can begin building a real democracy, where the people see their aspirations and desires reflected in the will of the Emperor and the actions of His Government to carry out that will. We are no longer pretending that political disagreement is a positive thing. And dropping the pretense will only be a net positive for the people of Kalistan."

The act also officially outlawed fascism, which is anathema in Kalistan, and was even during the Republican period. "There is no place in this nation for the tenets of fascism, nor for actors who wish to use this nation to cosplay their fantasies of racial supremacism, police statism, and a cowed populace," said Lord Wilkes. There are plenty of other nations to do that in: Kalistan remains staunchly anti-fascist, and this bill provides the Government new tools to disband and disperse fascist formations when they attempt to raise their horrific heads in our society." The bill will go into effect within 9 months.