RESPONSE TO THE NEW POPE Following the ascension of Pope John Francis we are keen to point out some misunderstandings.
1. The nation of The Odinist Republic of Nya Åland is not persecuting Christians.
As a nation we have strict codes and laws that regulate the manner in which religion is permitted. This is an a similar manner to how Abydos do not permit non-Muslims into their capital nor do East Moreland permit a person without having undergone their sword ceremony to carry such an item in public. As a result no nation has claimed these two and countless others persecute against religion. As The Odinist Republic of Nya Åland is the homeland of the Odnist faith and therefore every part of it is sacred. As you would expect a person visiting a Temple, Mosque or Church to respect that places traditions were ask people in this Sacred Land to respect it by not defiling it with symbols of other faiths.
Furthermore we believe what a person believes is their own business. We permit religious schools of minor faiths so long as that school does not outwardly display religious symbolism. For example Christian schools in Krokom will as we speak be performing Nativity plays to their parents and local community. This is perfectly acceptable as it takes place within the confines of their school buildings and is not broadcast onto the streets.
2. Tytor's actions will have no impact. To date we have sat under Tytorian sanctions for a significant time. We have felt little impact as other nations are more than happy to trade with us. Furthermore we have determined to not let Tytor's perception of us influence our foreign policy. We have offered aid, which to date has not been accepted, following their terrorist attacks. Additionally we have co-operated with them on many JET operations. We are active members of the Council of Albion and would welcome co-operation with our continental neighbours. The Pope is merely trying to drive a wedge between our nations where we believe none in necessary.
3. Protecting the Innocent.On two occasions the Gungnir terrorist group have attempted to carry out a campaign of terror against religious minorities in our nation. Both times members of the The Odinist Republic of Nya Åland's armed forces have put their lives on the line in order to ensure the safety of the innocent and people who do not share their faith. It was special forces of The Odinist Republic of Nya Åland who were instrumental in supporting freedom fighters in Marseille and Acquitane to ensure their freedom from persecution by their own faith. In neither case did our nation seek to impose our faith on those we aided. The choice to welcome Odin into your soul is one that must be made freely and willingly.
We wish the new Pope well in his new position and as always our doors are open.
Head Gothi
Stein Ulfsson