Author Topic: Tamoran Imperial News Service (TINS)  (Read 74102 times)

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Offline Markus

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Crown Prince Jamshaid will be marrying the Seleucid princess Thekla
« Reply #90 on: June 23, 2019, 12:10:59 AM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Shawwal 20, 1440. Al-Ahad (Sunday)

The Imperial palace confirms that Crown Prince Jamshaid will be marrying the Seleucid princess Thekla
 
Princess Thekla at conference in Tamora after performing. Many in the Empire now look forward to seeing the princess wear the hijab.


The press office of the Imperial Palace has confirmed that after personal negations between Emperor Abbas and King Heydar, princess Thekla will become Crown Prince Jamshaid’s First Wife. Princess Thekla is the first non Tamoran to be married to a crown prince or Emperor in the last three hundred years with some saying that it has broken the established customs and traditions of the Safavid which always choose wives from daughters of the dukes of the Imperial Enclave. The Imperial Palace has not released the details of the agreement but has stated the sum for the princess was unprecedented and worthy of the importance and status of princess Thekla. They have also confirmed that the wedding will be in accordance “with the Manist traditions as have been all weddings of the Safavid since the founding of Tamora” which means that Princess Thekla will be expected to follow the Prophet before the marriage takes place.

Many in Tamora have congratulated the Imperial family and the Seleucid Embassy in Djerb for the news and saying that the two are a perfect match. Among those that issued congratulations are the kings of Tamora and prominent businessmen.

However, no congratulations came from the Church. With the Supreme Ayatollah making no comment on the issue and so far none of the Ayatollahs have expressed any opinion on the matter.  Sources close to the Church have said that the news has not been well received by the Church hierarchy and many in the (Manist) Orthodox community saying that this is a betrayal of the dozens of potential candidates in very prestigious nobles families that express a deep religious conviction and have been sidetracked in favor of a political marriage to a woman of a non Manist faith. One clergyman saying that “this was nothing short of a betrayal, it has been stated that the Imperial family was looking for a candidate when in fact they had set their eyes from the beginning on a non Manist princess and one that isn’t even very young to begin with”. It will be noted that Princess Thekla is indeed 20 years old and thus considerably older than the usual 14-16 years that First Wives usually have.  Others have said that a perfect opportunity has been wasted as Crown Prince Jamshaid is an Orthodox Manist himself and the there was hope in the church that his First Wife would also be an Orthodox Manist which is very unlikely that will happen now. But most have expressed concerns over the long run as they do not trust that Princess Thekla will be anything but a Manist in name only and that she will have a serious detrimental influence on the education of the future Emperors of Tamora. “What will she teach the future children when she knows nothing of our faith, our traditions, our history and our way of thinking?" said another clergyman. Others in the Church were less critical and have said that “it’s not that we object to the marriage or don’t accept it, it’s just that we are not happy about it and nobody can force it be enthusiastic. It’s a political arrangement typical of countries that put religion second to state matters and that’s nothing to be pleased about. “

We will follow closely the development, especially the Supreme Ayatollah’s comments on this as traditionally the marriages of Safavids crown princes are done by the Supreme Ayatollah and a break from this tradition will affect the unity of the Tamoran people.



Achkaerin Justiciars apprehend international fugitive in the federated Kingdom of Vojvodina 

The Foreign Office has issued a statement today that confirmed Achkaerin Justiciars have arrested an international fugitive and terrorist suspect that was hiding in the federated kingdom of Vojvodina. The suspect was not a Tamoran citizen and the operation was led by Achkaerin operatives with the Tamoran local and kingdom level enforcement agencies offering support when needed. The statement added that “The Empire of Tamora stands firmly against terrorism and will work will foreign powers in the effort to combat it”.



The nation of Fleur claims Tamora is an enemy of liberty but the Foreign Office is not impressed 

The tiny nation of Fleur released a statement claiming that Tamora is an enemy of liberty, ranking the Empire on the lowest possible scale. During a press conference, the Head of Foreign affairs, Alya Safavid was asked about this and she replied “The Empire has more pressing business than this. I understand from my staff that the nation that forbids all religious expression in public and does not even allow religious temples to openly display religious symbols in public claims that our Empire is an enemy of liberty. To have such a nation criticize us is something that the Empire can be proud of. Also, my staff informs me that they have also given a rating to the Theocracy of Kaitaine which means they recognize it and at least in that regard they have made the right choice “ when asked if Tamora will impose similar reciprocal sanctions on the Fleur Republic, Lady Safavid answered “ our citizens are free to engage in trade with whomever they choose. Tamora respects the rights of its citizens and will continue to do so in the future.” Lastly, Lady Safavid was also asked about the possibility of Fleur having an embassy in Djerb “I have been informed they have applied to open an embassy in Djerb and their application will be reviewed. However, they need to understand that our potential embassy staff will not comply with their anti-religious laws so that is something they have to sort out before we can move forward.”

It is interesting to note that the Empire is put on the same rating as the Neo Quywe Federation which seems to suggest that perhaps there’s more similarity between the two nations than perhaps expected.



The Foreign Office sends its congratulations to the Kingdom of Pramoria   

The Foreign Office congratulated the Kingdom of Pramoria for their national holiday where they celebrated the life of holy Alya whom is also venerated in the Empire of Tamora but on a different day.
“The Empire extends its congratulations to the Kingdom of Pramoria on this momentous occasion. Our two nations share a religious bond that allows us to fully understand the importance and significance of the holiday. God bless our two great nations!” 


Polakis Energy goes international, incorporates in Elysium   

Polakis Energy, the largest oil and gas business in Tamora has announced they have opened a subsidiary in Elysium. According to Polakis Energy the subsidiary called Polakis Energy International will handle operations aboard since Conglomerate commercial law makes it easier to handle foreign operations. Polakis Energy have also stated that they plan on acquiring exploration rights aboard to expend their business. When asked by the press the Polakis Energy has said that they are also exploring the possibility of going public on the Elysium stock exchange but they have yet to reach a decision. “Going public is certainly something we are exploring as an option but we need to consider all the factors first. Going from private to public offers many opportunities but also has drawbacks”.

Polakis Energy is the first Tamoran business to open a subsidiarity in Elysium benefiting from the contract signed by the Conglomerate and the Empire last year and many more businesses are expected to follow soon.



The Foreign Office does not comment on press speculations related to the siege of Haruna   

The foreign press has stated that “smugglers took advantage and imported an estimated 300,000 illegal firearms into Himeyama, including approximately 90,000 fully automatic rifles and carbines. The majority of recovered weapons can be traced back to Tamora”. The Foreign Office has called the media report as mere speculation and that as long as there has been no complaint from the Neo Quywe Federation it will not begin an investigation.


God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

Offline Markus

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KRNSS regional sat nav expands to cover the entire Midaranye region
« Reply #91 on: June 23, 2019, 04:48:48 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Shawwal 20, 1440. Al-Ahad (Sunday)

KRNSS regional sat nav expands to cover the entire Midaranye region
 
Kadyrov spaceport


Kadyrov Regional Navigation Satellite System(KRNSS) is Tamora's regional satellite navigation system and has been fully operational for more than years as we have previously reported and remains a vital part of Tamora’s national defense.

Today, the Ministry of War and announced that they have come to an agreement with Kadyrov to expand the regional system to cover the entire Midaranye region. The expansion which will cost approx. 300 mil dinars (usd) will be paid the Imperial treasury. When completed, the system will cover the entire Midaranye region as well as approx. 1500 miles around the region.

The fact that the Ministry of War has deemed necessary to expand the system is a sign that the prospect of improving the relations with the international community is growing ever more unlikely and that the sanctions in place are likely not just to prolonged but could be further expanded as can be seen by the recent decision of the Republic of Fleur. It also seems that the wave of international sanctions has begun to hit other countries in the region that are close allies to Tamora, like the Kingdom of Clysperis  which has been recently sanctioned by Rokkenjima and Royal Seleucid which is also on the sanctions list of the Republic of Fleur. According to sources close to the Ministry of War the expansion is meant to send a clear signal to both Tamora’s allies that should the international community think of cutting off their access to the foreign satellite navigation systems the Empire can offer them an alternative, and also the international community that Djerb will not cave to international pressures. 



Tragedy: authorities in the federated kingdom of Akkar have announced that Altai Airlines flight 633 has crashed   

Moments ago kingdom authorities in the federated kingdom Akkar have announced that Altai Airlines flight 633 which carried 110 passengers plus crew has crashed 40 miles East of Piranshahr, the capital of the federated kingdom of Akkar. According to authorities it is extremely unlikely that there are any survivors to the crash. The aircraft, a Tamoran designed and built aircraft, had been operating for 10 years. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the tragedy. There are no clues that indicate a terrorist attack and no terrorist organization has claimed responsibility for the crash. It remains to be seen what the cause of the crash is but some have already speculated that the international sanctions that Tamora is facing are responsible for the crash as they have taken a toll on our aircraft industry as manufactures and airlines are finding ever more difficult to acquire key components from aboard and the domestic suppliers that are offering alternatives are proving to be unreliable. However, these speculations have been dismissed by authorities which have said will be providing the investigation results to the public as soon as possible.

Kingdom authorities in both the federated kingdom of Akkar and Altai have announced three days of mourning in their kingdoms for the victims of the plane crash.


May the souls of the victims rest in peace and God give their families comfort in these difficult times!

Offline Markus

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Morelanders review Lodja’s military; Lodjans say it gives them hope
« Reply #92 on: June 24, 2019, 08:52:48 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Shawwal 21, 1440 Al-Ithnayn (Monday)

Morelanders review Lodja’s military; Lodjans say it gives them hope
 
TINS has a new colleague from our sister network in Zimalia.


Few relations are more tragic than the East Moreland- Lodjan one. Lodja which used to be a sovereign state has ceded much of its control of the arms forces to the Morelanders who review and “give advice” that strangely becomes law almost immediately in Lodja. One year ago, the almost teenager Queen Klara sacked all the heads of the Armed Forces and had them arrested, just as it happens in any normal country of course. In fact two of the three are now in jail after a sham trial with the third barely managing to escape the country he had served for decades. The men’s crimes? Not wanting to cede control of Lodja's armed forces to East Morelander. Of course the Lodjan leadership, if it can even be called that since most of what they do is answer the commands of East Morelander, held lengthy trials about how incompetent their armed forces where and how that was the fault of the Lodjan leadership. They talked a lot about corruption, misuse of funds and the likes and not a word of the chronic lack of funding available for new equipment. No, everything bad happing in Lodja was due to the fact that Lodja’s military was led by … Lodjans. One would almost wonder how they managed to survive for so long on their own if they did such a bad job.

Well, it’s been a year since East Moreland took control of their armed forces, so how are things going now? Let’s quote the Lodjan press :

“The past twelve months have also seen two significant military disasters, a destroyer catching fire and the recent loss of a A-18 aircraft possibly due to Water Nomad fire.”

After such incidents, surely the Lodjan leadership would kick the Morelanders out for incompetence; after all they are interested in are results, right?

Almost to nobody’s surprise that wasn’t the case. Their press lauded the report saying that “it gives them some hope”, hope for what they didn’t say. Their almost teenager Queen was quick to react and gave a long speech talking about how she wants her armed forces to look more like other nations or better said, be less Lodjan. She mentioned East Morereland five times while her own country or people only once. That’s how much she cares... about East Moreland of coarse. But the surprise didn’t stop there; she announced a massive 33% increase in the budget of the military, with ” the bulk of the new money being put towards procurement”. So the great Morelander experts advised her that more money for new equipment is the solution. Funny how that was never considered when the three Lodjans were in charge of the armed forces. Then the attitude was you have to get by with what you have. Of course, nobody is naïve to believe that this is just a simple arms procurement programe, it’s in fact the new tribute Lodja will have to pay to East Moreland’s ever increasing military industrial complex.  By this time next year we will be hearing of significant improvements of Lodja’s military thanks to Morelander help, the more equipment they’ll buy from East Morelander the better the review will be. This, dear viewers, is how a country loses its sovereignty in the XXI first century. Lodja’s example is perhaps the most publicized but they are not the first victims and they won’t be the last.



Polakis Energy International says its looking to expand abroad   

A company spokesman for Polakis Energy International, a subsidiary registered in Elysium, has announced they are looking to expand internationally by acquiring extraction rights, entering into partnerships or any other agreements that will allow them to begin extraction operations in foreign countries. “We are exploring all possibilities and we are very flexible in our approach, we have capital and expertise and we want to use it.” Polakis Energy has long been reluctant to expand aboard since predatory governments could use any excuse to nationalize their assets but the opportunity to incorporate in the Conglomerate has given the company the chance to do business outside Tamora’s borders without such risks.

The spokesman also touched on the issue ”incorporating in the Conglomerate and thus following all their laws sets aside the reputational risks we had as a Tamoran business. Despite our best efforts, some of our partners were reluctant to do business with us for a number of reasons that I need not mention. This easy and simple solution allows all parties involved: us, our partners and the Conglomerate to be happy about the arrangement.”

The spokesman added that leadership is ambitious in their plans and plan to consider more risks investments. “We realize that despite the fact that we are a household name in Tamora, we are not so well known in Midaranye and even less outside of this area. We are going to have to take some risks if we want to be able to expand rapidly. “

God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!


Offline Markus

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The Djerb Statement: defining our values
« Reply #93 on: June 26, 2019, 08:09:40 PM »
Shawwal 23, 1440 Al-Arba'a (Wednesday)
The Djerb Statement: defining our values
 
Some of the professors that are part of the "Djerb Group", along with their staff


Just as we had previously presented in one of our news bulletins, some of the prominent intellectuals of Tamora have been working for months on a declaration of our basic principles we Tamorans share as a society. According to them defining the core values is a necessary first step in order to be able to define a vision for the future and a way to push back against the constant onslaught that most foreign countries are waging against Tamora because of the way we manage our domestic affairs.
Today, the "Djerb Group" as they have been called ,released their statement of ten key basic principles that define us. Without claiming they are set in stone as the perfect and complete description of our values, the Djerb group hopes their statement will open a debate and reflection in the higher echelons of Tamoran society about the future of Tamora in a Mundus that’s increasingly hostile to us.
It remains to be seen if the Djerb statement will have any impact on Tamora and will be a sources of inspiration for the future. 

The Djerb Statement:

1.   Tamora is our home, the only place in Mundus we can call that. Centuries upon centuries of living here has given us a connection to these lands that few outsiders would understand. Our history, traditions and customs are roots that allow us to grow and develop as the unique people we are today.
2.   Since Tamora is our home we can decide how we want Tamora to look, what laws to have and who to welcome or reject. And we decide according to our morals and our needs and not according to foreign standards.
3.   We believe what our ancestors have thought us, that each of us has a place in Tamora and must do its part. We reject the idea that our leaders should abandon the responsibility of governance to the mob as they do in some countries that are called republics. Our leaders are trained to lead and they must assume the burden of this responsibility. Just as a doctor consults his patient regarding his condition, a good leader does so with his people but in the end it is the doctor that must administer the cure. In the same way a leader cannot pass the responsibility of leading his people to the “wisdom” of the crowd.
4.   We strongly believe that family is more important the individual: it is the family that raises us when we are young and it’s also the family that takes care of us when we are old. The individual must be aware that what he does not only affects him but also his family.   
5.   Justice is about retribution and compensation to the victims, families have a responsibility for the actions of their members.
6.   The laws issued by our divinely ordained sovereign are by their nature superior to any made up international law. 
7.   Tamora is more than a collection of individuals just happening to share a common space like a crowded airport. Our history, religion and customs bring us together and shape the way we think, act and understand one another. Looking to the outside for solutions to our problems is pointless and applying recipes that work in other nations is counterproductive.
8.   Religious expression is at the core of the Tamoran society. Tamorans seek to obey God’s commandments first and material gain second. A more prosperous society that is not fully in line to God’s commandments is not something we are interested in pursuing.
9.   We inherited our nation from our forefathers who sacrificed to preserve it as it is and we have a duty to pass it on to the future generations without altering it. We trust that the countless generations that went before us know better than the one currently alive today that might be inclined to change things because it does not understand their purpose.
10.   Our history offers the solutions to any problems our society may be facing today. Should it seem that history has no solutions it might be because what seems to be a problem is an uncomfortable burden that we must carry.   
 




Pharaoh Bektaten responded to “King” Andrew”’s latest sanctions levied against Clysperis   

Clysperis has always been known by its most valuable assets: the Pyramids of Nafu and its ancient history that puts most Mundus nations to shame. But after listening to the latest interview of Pharaoh Bektaten we can say that Clysperis has another great asset: Pharaoh Bektaten.

It all started with a move we Tamorans are well familiar with, the King of Seaforth had nothing better to do than announce sanctions against Clysperis. Apparently he has managed to solve the problems in his country and the surrounding ones and has set his sight on Midaranye once again. We have talked several times here on the negative influence the Helusian Empire has on Mundus so the actions of King Andrew are not surprising. What is surprising is the response from Clysperis where the young Pharaoh Bektaten chastised at length King Andrew and others like him who seem to think it okay to push their moral agenda on Clysperis and the Midaranye region as if it was their own backyard while jealously guarding their zones of influence when anyone dares to interfere. We say surprising because in Tamora and to a great extent Royal Seleucid, sovereigns have preferred not to comment on the sanctions. As far as Tamora is concerned, the tradition is for sovereigns to act rather than speak. With Pharaoh Bektaten’s rise to power it seems that not all Midaranye monarchs will follow the same line as Pharaoh Bektaten does not seem content to let the Helusian nations and other like them have a monopoly on public space and thus create a false impression that they hold the moral high ground when it comes to talking about the righteousness of the sanctions. The Pharaoh has instead opted to get in the ring and challenge the false ideas propagated the “internationalist powers” as she often calls them. Furthermore, in her speech Pharaoh Bektaten mentions Clysperis twice, Midaranye twice and Tamora once because she sees the sanctions not just as a war waged on Clysperis alone but on the whole of the Midaranye region and anyone who does not fall in line. And while she praises Tamora in her speech saying “it stands in proud defiance, choosing its faith, tradition and cultural integrity over appeasing these internationalists” it would seems that Pharaoh Bektaten is not content with just resisting under the pressure of sanctions and instead she;s actually fighting back, challenging the agenda of the internationalist powers and publicly asking other nations to speak up against these abuses or risk having the same thing happening to them. During the last minutes of her speech she also masterfully thwarted Seaforth’s offer of “refugee and asylum” to any Clisperi citizen by implying that Clysperis authorities will not disclose the criminal background of those applying.   

Midaranye has always been known for monarchs that prefer actions over speeches but with the new Pharaoh Bektaten in power it would seem that Midaranye now has an outstanding voice to tell our point of view to the world. Whether she will be successful in her fight against the giant internationalist powers is open for debate but if she is to stand a chance she will need all the support she can get from Djerb and Ipus.

We here at TINS admit we are impressed by the Pharaoh’s performance and look forward to hearing her speak more about the abuses of the internationalist powers.

God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!       

Offline Markus

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Shawwal 27, 1440Al-Ahad (Sunday)
Tamoran Dinar gets new bill; Prince Naser to leave the country on an economic mission
 
Prince Naser during the conference at the Tamoran Central Bank


Under the title " The Tamoran Dinar is about more than just one country " Prince Naser, the Vice-Governor of the Tamoran Central Bank, has unveiled the design of the new 200 bill, the largest ever in the history of the dinar. The bill is a first not only when it comes to value but also in its design because for the first time in the history of the Dinar the reverse of the banknote is dedicated to another nation and features Pharaoh Ramses V, the father of modern Clysperis, and alongside the motto "Thou makest all the land to drink unceasingly" which honors the importance of the river Hapi for the Kingdom of Clysperis, while on the reverse the banknote will have the Mausoleum of Alya and the motto " Nothing without God". The design celebrates the fact both nations use the Tamoran dinar as their national currency,  a legacy from the time when Clysperis was a Tamoran protectorate following its regaining of independence from the Soviet occupiers.

"The Tamoran dinar a physical representation of the strong bonds that link our nations and the new design shows that for all to see " said Prince Naser at the conference adding that the banknote will be put in circulation in approx. 8 weeks. He had also touched on the need for the two countries to harmonize the financial regulations  “in order to take advantage of the opportunities of using the same currency”.  The Prince has indicated that initial talks with Clisperi counterparts are promising and that he will be leaving the Empire for Clysperis in order to “make sure that the Tamoran side shows the best possible commitment and willingness” in these talks.   



Prince Naser is publicly chastised by part of the Church     

Over 40 Ayatollahs have signed an open letter to prince Naser in which they publicly criticize the letter he has sent the Pharaoh of Clisperis in which the prince gives the impression that he is asking for mercy for the condemned individuals without actually saying the word mercy. The letter is harsh in its criticism saying among other that “ it is hard to imagine the reason why one who follows the Prophet would be asking for mercy towards those that have been condemned for their crimes when one is taught from the very young age the ancient words” mercy for the guilty is treason to the innocent”. To have his HIG write such a letter and spread aboard values that are contrary to the Book of Mani and our own morals is a grave mistake and we respectfully ask HIG to focus more on the economic aspects rather than the moral ones because we sadly have reason to believe he seems to have not mastered the basics when it comes to the latter”.   

Prince Naser has refused to comment on the letter other than saying that saying he has taken note of it.



The Manist International Art Fund (MIAF) incorporates as a company in Elysium     

To the surprise of many, it was announced today that one of the organizations close to the Church that are in charge of acquiring precious artifacts from aboard has registered in Elysium as a company. MIAF representatives have stated that the Fund is not interested in profit and “will never have one” and is instead looking to acquire precious Islamic artifacts all over Mundus.

“We realize that most major Islamic pieces out there are in the custody of public museums and we are fine with that. What we are looking for is taking part in auctions all over Mundus and trying to acquire the precious few pieces that are still available out there.” MIAF representatives have said their initial “spending money” is 50 million dinars (usd) and that if successful some of the art works that they will buy will be put on display in Elysium in the future Manist complex that is to be built there. As with the other Tamoran companies that have registered in Elysium so far, MIAF cites “hostile environment aboard” for Tamoran entities as the main reason for registering in Elysium. The representative has added “The great success of the Djerb Religious art exhibition shows there is a high demand for religious art in the Empire. Tamora is blessed to have most of the Manist art within its borders though of course various important art pieces still exist aboard and we are interested, very interested in acquiring them. Islamic art is however the second best thing and here the opportunities aboard are huge: from Phuebra to Abydos and Zimalia and even New Derusmia.”

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!     

Offline Markus

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Positive news coming from the Illumic for a change
« Reply #95 on: July 01, 2019, 07:08:31 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Shawwal 27, 1440 Al-Ithnayn (Monday)

Positive news coming from the Illumic for a change
 
TINS news anchor

In a move that surprised many Tamraon analysts, the Nyx Investment Authority(NIA), the investment arm of the Nyx Coalition, has indicated that it is looking to consider investing in Midaraye. The Nyx Coalition has been described by national analysts as a huge economy of approx 9 trillion dinars (USD) in GDP and almost 300 million people yet so far has stayed in isolation. The Tamoran government has signaled its willingness to cooperate and engage NIA but sources close to the foreign Office say that it’s much too early to say if this is a genuine sign of willingness to cooperate from the foreign titan or just a new strategy to exert influence and control over the region by trying to bribe the smaller countries of Midaranye and turn them against the Empire. It remains to be seen what Nyx’s intentions are but for now it seems the Helusians are no longer the sole masters of the Illuminic, whether that will bring a positive change for our region or on the contrary a new imperialist power that remains to be seen.



Crown Prince Jamshid Safavid to go on vacation in Royal Seleucid at the Royal Lake Palace   

The Imperial Palace has released a press statement informing the public that Crown Prince Jamshid Safavid will soon be leaving the Empire for a vacation at the Lake Palace in Royal Seleucid, this is the first time a Safavid will be spending time there and is also the first foreign trip of the Crown Prince which sources say, is not known to be interested in traveling aboard preferring to spend time in Tamora. The most likely reason for the visit is the chance for the Prince to spend some time with his future First Wife, the Seleucid Princess Thekla, which he briefly met at the Djerb religious art auction.



Jalal Deer Agricultural Conglomerate(JDAC) is the latest major Tamoran business to incorporate in Elysium   

JDAC is just the latest Tamoran business to incorporate in Elysium and take advantage of the contract signed by the Empire and the Conglomerate. Gholam Dabiri, the owner of JDAC, who is known for the bluntness of his statements, has stated that:

“I have no love of these financial machinations and I was reluctant to accept doing this but I am just frustrated with how slow the government is moving in regards to Socram. They don’t care about the huge agricultural potential there and my advisers tell me that this way we stand a better chance of getting in that market and I am willing to try anything at this point. “
He had also stated that JDAC’s foreign operations in Zimalia will be transferred to the Elysium incorporated legal entity for “better legal protection” and has nominated Phuebra as another potential target for investing abroad in agriculture.

“If God allows it, JDAC will become larger than Dizon Farms in less than ten years “added Gholam Dabiri. Dizon Farms being a Quintelian based agricultural company which many analysts estimate could be the largest agricultural conglomerate in Mundus. The Quintelian company has extensive operations aboard including Royal Selecuid where JDAC has only meat packing factory and a R&D center and has not managed to get past the restriction to own land there.


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!     

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Special edition: Exclusive interview with Her Majesty Pharaoh Bektaten
« Reply #96 on: July 02, 2019, 07:39:09 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Shawwal 28, 1440 Ath-Thalatha (Tuesday)

Special edition: Exclusive interview with Her Majesty Pharaoh Bektaten
 
During the interview Pharaoh Bektaten had this to say: "Tamora, you are strong and beautiful. I just wanted to say that." 


To some extent most Mundus nations claim to have long and prestigious histories but compared to Clysperis' truly ancient one, most seem like young nations who have only just appeared in Mundus. I am not ashamed to admit that I come from one such young nation. Before the dawn of the second millennium there was no Empire of Tamora and the Prophet Mani had yet to be born but Clysperis was already around for more than three and a half millennia. That's how old this Kingdom is and while it is not the largest or the richest of the countries of Midaranye it nevertheless fascinates the "young" nations of the region.

So in such an ancient land you wouldn't expect the Pharaoh herself to be using social media even less so to have your network be mentioned by the Her Majesty. The desire to learn how such a contrast between ancient and modern can be possible is one of the reasons why I am here in the first place.
I landed in the kingdom and made my way to ancient Khezu, the capital, where I would be meeting the Pharaoh herself. It's hard to describe the feeling you have when you see firsthand the pyramids, a proud symbol of Clysperis endurance over the millennia. And I say endurance because during its long history it has had formidable enemies from the Islamic Abydos to the more recent Soviet menace.

In the short time I stayed Khezu before my scheduled interview I did my best to get a feel of the nation and its people. In some ways the people are similar to Tamorans, there is an appreciation for religion, traditions and a feeling of pride in the achievements of their nation. Just as in Tamora, people here understand the need for some to lead and for others to follow. But there are also major differences, aside from the obvious ones like language and religion, here the Pharaoh enjoys a reverence among its people that goes beyond that of a regular monarch. The Pharaoh is not just the leader of the country; it's also the leader of the church and even more than that. She is seen as partly divine, the "living Horus itself" and in Clyperis many take that literally. The kingdom has traditionally been a friend and ally of Tamora but some issues cannot be overlooked such the veneration for the Pharaoh and the fact that the local Manist and Islamic communities. while offering respect to the Pharaoh, can never venerate her as it would go against their religion. Furthermore, there is the issue of Abydos which for many Islamic Tamorans, myself included, it is not just a foreign relations issue but also a religious one as we are daily reminded when pray facing.



- Thank you for agreeing to the interview with us. With your permission I would start with the historical aspects first then move on to present affairs. Clysperis is an ancient kingdom yet its roots go back to a different country : Abydos. How does Your Majesty see the Kingdom of Abydos? Now that Clysperis has emerged from isolation what can the Islamic community from Your Majesty's kingdom, Tamora, Abydos and the rest Mundus expect from Your Majesty in this regard?

Thank you for having me. May I begin by saying that I am honoured that my first interview is with TINS.

The Kingdom of Clysperis, as you may be aware, was originally a holding of the Kingdom of Abydos. Following a rebellion amongst the Muslim population in Abydos my ancestors, the royal line of Abydos, took what they could and escaped to Clysperis. There, they proclaimed Clysperis independent from Abydos and ensured the continuation of our government, culture and religion.

My father, Ramses V, had little dealings with Abydos; our Peoples have found it difficult to reconcile their differences. I'm certain that many Clysperi view Abydos through lenses most bittersweet. On one hand we've our proud Kingdom, a direct connection to our ancestors, and a monument to the preservation and reverence of one's past. On the other hand our native lands are no longer ours, however, I would argue that what we have lost in Abydos is more than made up for what we have built in Clysperis.

I hold nothing against the People of Abydos today; what was done is long in the past, and the People of Abydos are our kin in many ways. As you know we've a Muslim population here in Clysperis and while they do not follow our Congregation, they enjoy the right to practice their beliefs without interference from my Government. Reverence and faith, as I've witnessed at home, in Tamora, and amongst our Muslim citizens, is worthy of respect. For each faithful adherent to our faith I can find just as many devout Muslims, and though we pray to different deities we are all Clysperi.

The Islamic community can expect a friend and ally in Clysperis, for we only know discord with those who choose that path themselves. Should the day come where Abydos wishes to pursue a path of reconciliation and a mending of the divide between our Peoples, I shall be an open recipient to their overtures.



- Perhaps not enough of our international viewers are aware of the Soviet occupation of Clysperis and that's why some nations like the Kingdom of Seafoth were quick to react to your common sense decision regarding the Soviet occupiers and their families. Could you tell us a bit of what the decades of Soviet occupation meant for Clysperis and its people?

What decades of occupation bring to any People: your land is no longer yours, your culture suddenly becomes illegal, your faith is something which brings down upon you discrimination and outright oppression. Some of my People were taken to Soviet labour camps, the lucky ones perished quickly under the brutal conditions, saved from their bodies wasting away from extreme labour and malnourishment. Public executions were not at all rare, while the godlessness of the Soviet regime was forced upon Clysperis to an extent rarely seen.

Some of our temples and monuments were defaced, sacred texts etched in stone destroyed with chisels and dynamite; at times, I find myself brought to tears for the knowledge and words of wisdom from my ancestors which were so maliciously destroyed.

It is ironic that the Kingdom of Seaforth would react so strongly, given that they themselves took the land in which they live through murder and theft. Yet no one asks about the native tribes of Seaforth, what were their names? What did they call Seaforth? What torments did they have forced upon them for the Kingdom of Thieves to come into existence? But no, they are a people of justice, worthy of the mantle of telling other nations what is right and wrong, and what they may do within their own borders. It's...there are no words for such blatantly open hypocrisy.



- Since your emergence from isolation, Your Majesty has taken the Midaranye region and Mundus by surprise by telling the world what many of us common people felt and yet perhaps for diplomatic reasons other Midaranye leaders did not wish to publicly express. Surprisingly perhaps, Your Majesty graduated from a Rokkenjiman college. How does a Rokkenjiman educated monarch become such an eloquent speaker for Midaranye? And did that experience helped Your Majesty in anyway?

My foreign education blessed me with a view of Midaranye from outside of its borders, as well as the insight of what is said about our region on a daily basis. Their education paints a Midaranye which is backwards, oppressive, and brutal. Combine that with a media which calls on states like Rokkenjima to maintain order and raise people out of the dark, their words not mine of course, and you've the perfect recipe for ensuring that a population, who through disinformation and outright propaganda, mean well but do not understand the issues of which they are concerned about.

This well-rounded understanding and insight moves me to speak. You don't see Midaranye states establishing military bases on the other side of Mundus, nor do you see our armies imposing their worldview on nations which sit on the other side of Mundus, either. These are but two more differences between our cultures and that of the internationalist cohort; we live our lives by our faiths and principles, we don't see it as our mandate to bend the will of others or force that upon them because their differences hurt our feelings.



- Nothing is more unfair than reducing the complex economic situation of a country to a couple of numbers yet Clysperis is plagued by stagnation, high unemployment and has a low GDP per capita. Do you plan to address that and how?

Of course, but the answers are complex. I've been working, and will continue to do so, with my economic teams to build solutions that benefit the Clysperi People. It won't be one answer but many that fix this complex issue facing our People. I want to see every Clysperi capable of forging a path to prosperity, and we will reach that as we have every challenge that has faced us; faith, and adherence to our cultural values. If by the time I die every Clysperi is capable of living a life beyond poverty, of handing their children a better existence than that which they knew, I will consider my reign a success.

We are the people who built the pyramids, including those we left behind in Abydos. Ours people set a goal, we accomplish it, this shall be no different.



- Clysperis though mostly homogeneous does have significant Manist and Muslim minorities. What can they expect from Your Majesty's rule? How are these communities seen by Your Majesty especially when considering their particular customs and traditions?

Although my position as Pharaoh also sees me as the head of our religion, when it comes to those of other faiths within the Kingdom we are all Clysperi; a Muslim Clysperi is by brethren just as a Manist Clysperi is. We pray to different gods, but our respective faiths remain strong. In a world which trades faith as a commodity, those who remain reverent to the faiths of their fathers is commendable. I've already made moves to ensure that Manist discrimination does not set roots in my Kingdom and will see that any who commit a crime against another Clysperi based on a difference of faith are made a clear example of. We had the Soviets try to rob us of our faith, we won't take on that vile mandate ourselves by demanding another Clysperi to abandon his beliefs and lay claim to our gods over his own.

And, if I may, I will fight just as hard, if not harder, for a Muslim Clysperi or a Manist Clysperi. Unlike some nations, Clysperis cherishes the expression of faith and does not hide it behind closed doors. If you're afraid that the display of a faith different than your own is going to harm your faith? Then your faith is simply not that strong to begin with. My People, all of them, are my charge and I shall abandon none of them. I shall not stiffle their different faiths but nourish them. Am I clear?



- The Soviet occupation erased many of Clysperis institutions, including slavery. They did that of course not out of concern or mercy but in order to destroy Clisperi society's social cohesion, attempt to irreversibly break the social fabric of Clysperis and because they knew that the whole nation was in fact enslaved. Are you planning on restoring some of Clysperis' institutions and laws? And what would those be?

Slavery is a tricky issue, prisoners of war are recognized as a Royal resource and this is a law I have not overturn. While I hope my rule shall be without war, I will not overturn the wisdom of my forefathers. This answer may sour relations with the liberal world, but I've no tears to shed for their manufactured outrage.


- How would Your Majesty describe the Clisperi -Tamoran relations today?

Strong, and growing. Growing up my father always pointed to Tamora as a point of strength, an example I could follow, and I can see why. The entire world stands against you and what does Tamora do? You stand your ground, you stand strong, you concede nothing. Tamora is beautiful in soul, mind and spirit; an example for all nations to aspire. Our cultures, our faiths, they are not to be exchanged for promises beyond those who promise them. My father said 'look to Tamora and your course will remain true' and I can tell you, his words were spoke in wisdom.

Tamora, you are strong and beautiful. I just wanted to say that."


- Your Majesty, you are the absolute monarch of your kingdom with no institution or organization that hamper your decisions or sabotage your plans yet you're also a woman. Does it bother you that Tamora and Royal Seleucid have male dominated societies? Is it an issue in your relations with these two nations?

Not at all, for my society is neither Tamoran nor Seleucid. I am not some liberal who expects the world around me to bend to my state of mind, my expectations, or provide for me a 'safe place'. Under Clysperi law I am often referred to as 'he' as Pharaoh, as the Living Horus I am also referred to as 'he'. I accept it for what it is, in my personal capacity I am a woman, but I don't concern myself with the systems or orders that work for my neighbours. If I concerned myself with such things I'd become those we mutually frown upon, would I not?

Thus to be bothered over our Tamoran bretheren or our Seleucid neighbours being in male dominated societies? It is beneath my office. Although I am certain you'll have someone in Pyrettania or Valtheim who are outraged by this miscarriage of justice.



- Your Majesty has often talked about the Soviet menace and the destruction left behind by its legacy but there are still Soviet states out there: Kaitaine and Rodina. Do you have any plans regarding those two nations and their catastrophic grip they have over their people?

Unfortunately it's my plans that do not matter, but those of the People. They are the only ones who can effect change and, if they do, I will be amongst the first to support them. But as always it is all so more complicated than that. I will hear their needs with an open mind and support them as I best can.

This is why recognizing the Theocracy was important to me. Here we have a Kaitaine that is vastly different from that of the so-called Soviet Republic, and like our nations a state with few friends internationally. Imagine what Kaitaine may look like ten years from now, rid of the cancer of Stalin? That is how you beat back this lingering menace.



- Your Majesty's eloquent and precise assessment of the Midaranye region as well as the admirable way to which Your Majesty has exposed the shallowness of the internationalist agenda has earned the reputation among many in our studio and, judging by the number of emails we received, also regular Tamorans as the voice of Midaranye. Many Tamorans are now asking what are your plans for the Midaranye region? How do you see the region in five years if your plans are successful?

In five years this question will be obsolete; we'll have decided it ourselves.

Despite the Seaforthians.

Despite the Achkaerinese.

Despite the Rokkenjimans.

Despite the Morelanders.

It will be.

I mean, a Maori King bashes a skull in, in adherence to his cultural traditions and system of justice: the internationalists sanction these actions and protect them. Tamora, in adherence to its faith and traditions holds slaves: it becomes the most heavily sanctioned nation on Mundus. What is the reason for this clear and blatant example of double standards? Why is it the noble superpowers determine that one People is worthy of praise for snubbing its nose at the values they wear on their sleeve, but another must be crushed and made an example of? Why are some cultures worth protecting while others earn their ire?

The Maori, with the suspected help of East Moreland, violate the sovereignty of Tamora to no real consequence, instead being lauded for their actions. Had it been an operation aimed against Achkaerin, East Moreland or another power with more powerful friends, where do you think the Maori would be today? Likely occupied by the aforementioned powers. But because it is a Midaranye state the world cares not to even bat an eye; the standard is set that so long as you hold the right partners, you may do as you will, even if it stands against the values these noble superpowers claim to hold so dear to their hearts. Tamoran or Clysperi plights do nothing to further their agenda as saviours of the universe.

My plans for Midaranye, simply, is that these outsiders leave us alone. No longer does a King halfway across the continent tell sovereign states what they may or may not do. No longer do Ardian troops blemish the sovereignty of a Midaranye nation. No longer shall Midaranye be the board upon which these states play their games of dominance or control. We are not the native peoples of Seaforth who will be wiped from the pages of history, we are the People of Midaranye and it will be us who writes this chapter, and all which follow, to be handed down to our children, their children, and so on. Together, we will realize a truly free Midaranye, I have every confidence of that.




After I thanked Her Majesty for the privilege of giving us the interview, I made my way to the hotel and eventually to the airport. It’s hard to describe exactly the feeling you have when you are in the same room with Her Majesty. At first I didn’t notice anything special, but as the interview progressed and Her Majesty answered my questions in in the most eloquent manner and projected a confidence I have yet to see matched in other leaders, I was more and more captivated and by the end of the interview I was mesmerized and in awe with Pharaoh Bektaten. While I am not of Her Majesty’s faith, after spending less than an hour in her presence I can say I am beginning to understand why those of her faith see in her more than just a sovereign. I returned to Djerb with the confidence that with Clysperis’ emergence from isolation and Her Majesty leading the kingdom, Midaranye is in a better position than ever to fight back against the foreign powers that have plagued the region for so long.   
 
I am Widad Akrawi and this has been a special edition of TINS. Thank you for being with us. God bless Tamora! God bless Clysperis!


OOC: Thanks to Beatrice who did most of the hard work by answwerig the questions and picking the picture of Pharaoh Bektaten.

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TINS exclusive interview with Pharaoh Bektaten was a major success
« Reply #97 on: July 05, 2019, 10:23:54 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 3rd Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Saturday)

TINS exclusive interview with Pharaoh Bektaten was a major success
 
Khemnen Palace and the Pyramids of Nafu, two of the greatest jewels of Clysperis 


The exclusive interview that TINS did with Pharaoh Bektaten was well received in the Empire with many viewers resonating with what Pharaoh Bektaten had to say about foreign policy and the affairs of Midaraye. One analyst said: “She has done a superb job of showing the hypocrisy of the internationalist agenda as she calls it while also addressing the concerns many Tamorans had over the religious minorities in her kingdom. After her visit to Tamora her popularity greatly improved and now this interview solidifies that positive view Tamorans have of her. It’s hard to find any fault with how she handled the questions.”
TINS was extremely pleased to have had the opportunity to interview the Clysperi Pharaoh and is now looking to interview other VIPs of Midaranye and beyond



Morelander weapons kill Theocracy soldiers reports say   

The Bene Gesserit News has reported today that EMAC, the giant military company that sells weapons all over Mundus, has allegedly been supplying the Soviet rebel government with Mini-Dragon Drones. Few are surprised at this since the Morelander government has always had a position of suppression and persecution towards the Bene Gesserit. While initially EM claimed that an attempt by an organization linked to the BG that attempted to steal nuclear waste was the reason for their crusade against the BG. Rhe BG have proven them wrong when they issued a public apology for the incident committed by rogue elements of the BG which was not enough to appease the EM government. Seeing to whom they sell weapons makes us understand why they are not interested in improving relations with the BG and stopping the persecutions. 


 
Lodjans take to the streets to protest Morelander influence; the Lodjan government takes the side of the Morelanders   

Retiring members of the Lodjan armed forces took to the streets to protest the fact that the EM “recommendations”, which of course became law, have left them soon to be unemployed.  One protester outside the EM embassy had this to say:

“We have come here today because we are all about to lose our jobs, we will be unemployed in the next 6 months and our jobs will be given to foreign soldiers, mercenaries with no loyalty to our homeland.”

People at the protest reported that as soon as an armed EM soldier appeared at the embassy yard, the Lodjan authorities ordered the crowd to be pushed back offering a bizarre explanation that Morelanders “are a nation paranoid about security” and the protesters were “asking for trouble”. Maybe if the Morelanders wouldn’t interfere in other countries internal affairs and seek to impose their agenda then they wouldn’t need to be paranoid about their security.



Three Tamoran investments announced in Clysperis   

This week has been a busy one for the Clysperi economy. First, Prince Naser, who is currently leading an economic mission in Clysperis, has announced that for the first time the Imperial Wealth Fund (IWF), one of Tamora’s sovereign funds will be investing abroad with Clysperis being the first country where IWF will do so. IWF will be looking to invest one billion dianars/USD in Clysperis’ infrastructure and is currently in the talks with the authorities there for any projects that they have and are lacking funding.

The second news came from JDAC, the largest agricultural conglomerate in Tamora, that they have reached a preliminary agreement to buy 25 thousand acres of agricultural land in Clysperis. The spokesperson for the company has stated that this is just the first step in their expansion the kingdom and they first want to see how their first investment will do before committing to more. JDAC has stated that affordable prices for land, friendly relations with Tamora and the existence of servitude labor were among the deciding factors for the investment. While the JDAC has yet to say what the total price of the transaction is, sources in Clysperis have stated that it is estimated at around 10 million dinars/USD.   

The third news is about TINS, we are happy to announce that TINS has acquired a channel in the kingdom and will thus expand there. TINS has always strived to bring its audience a Tamoran perspective to international and national news and the expansion in Clysris is the second of the one after ZImalia. Viewers in Clysperis can expect the same quality shows as we have done here and at the ZImalian station but with a focus on the affairs of the kingdom. 

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!     

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Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 4th Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Sunday)

West Seleucid magazine D.T. names Thanasis Polakis as the most influential MidAranye businessman to follow in 2019
 
Thanasis Polakis together with his First Wife on the cover of D.T. magazine, one of the major business magazines in the Empire. 


The prestigious West Seleucid magazine D.T. names Thanasis Polakis as the most influential businessman of the MidAranye  to watch in 2019. Mr. Polakis who owns the largest oil and gas company in Tamora has become extremely active in recent years and 2019 has been perhaps one that has brought him more and more attention and success than ever before. He has been named Deputy Head of OPEN and has represented the Tamoran side at the third OPEN meeting, has made several visits in OPEN countries including Quintelia and administers the construction of the Haghighi Dam in Zimalia, a massive project worth 5 bln dinars/ USD. He has made a name for himself in the oil & gas industry and repeatedly stated that oil &gas “is here to stay” for the foreseeable future.  The magazines says that the incorporation of Polakis Energy International in Elysium is the first sign that Polakis Energy is not content to remain only a national player and is looking to expand aboard and will likely see the company acquiring exploration rights in other countries. While Mr. Polakis is not the richest man in Tamora, his net worth of 5.8 bln dianrs/usd nevertheless places him on a comfortable third place in the Empire. However, his connection in Royal Seleucid, his position in OPEN and his reputation of being willing to assume risks rather than play conservatively were the reasons why the magazine considers that Mr. Polakis is the number one MidAranye businessman to follow in 2019.


The construction of the Elysium city provides a major boost to the Attican construction sector   

Analysts say that the construction of the Conglomerate city of Elysium in the federated kingdom of Attica is providing a significant boost to the construction industry in the federated kingdom. The Attican economy is currently in a recession along with the entire economy of the Empire so the Conglomerate contracts with local construction companies are a much need boost to the local economy. Estimates say that the local economy has benefited from contracts of around 800 mil dinars/usd and approx. 15 thousand construction jobs have been created, a significant amount considering that the entire Attican GDP is approx. 280 bln dinars/usd. And since the construction of the Conglomerate city is far from over, further construction contracts are likely to be signed in the future.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!     

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Special live transmission: day one of the Synod of the Church
« Reply #99 on: July 19, 2019, 09:10:44 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 16th Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Friday)

Special live transmission: day one of the Synod of the Church
 
His Holiness, the Supreme Ayatollah, presided over the Synod


It is our great pleasure to be transmitting live the first day of the Synod of the Church. For those of you that have not had the chance to watch TINS, the Church of Mani has conveyed the yearly synod and will debate whether the idea presented by Imam Ashan Kayani in his book, “Who is the Kwisatz Haderach? And how is he related to Manism”, in which he claims there is a connection between Bene Gesserit and Manism, are in fact heresy. The BG have offered to send a scholar Professor Ruth Hipkiss which will answer the question of the members of the Synod helping them better assess the situation. The Synod will see attending two hundred and fifty Ayatollahs, the five Grand Ayatollahs and the Supreme Ayatollah. For us who believe strongly in the word of the Prophet is hard to be more excited.

For the first time the Church of Mani has managed to secure a series of agreements allowing our transmission to be aired live in : Pramoria, Socram, Clysperis, Pardclinnia (radio only), Quintelia (radio only), Phuebra, Royal Seleucid and Zimalia. So for those of you watching in those countries, TINS is sending its best wished to you. Also, the church is transmitting live on its website the event so there is also the option to watch there.

Spoiler:  Manists around Mundus • show



The some of faithful in Phuebra gathered at the local temple where they would see live the first day of the Synod.



Our brothers in faith from Socram praying for the Synod.



Thanks to the efforts of MAZ( Manist Association of Zimalia) and TINS-Zimalia even our communities in rural Zimalia had the chance to see the event live.





As the session started, the cameras moved and showed Lady Hipkis dressed in Blue tunic jacket, the traditional wear for the women of their branch of their faith.
In the large auditorium approx. 250 Ayatollahs were present. After the formalities of presenting and greeting her were done, several of the members of the clergy proceeded to ask her questions:

-Lady Hipkiss, first allow me thank you for coming here today. I looked at your CV and I see you have degrees in Physics and even a PhD and you have worked in several fields relating to science and research, all nobles pursuits I am sure. I am however puzzled, what exactly qualifies you as a leading scholar on the Bene Gesserit faith? Where is your study of theology for example?   

The very fact that I have dedicated my life to trying to understand the Universe qualifies me as a leading scholar of the Bene Gesserit faith. I am yet to find a religion on Mundus that does not claim it's God or Gods or other related concepts created the Universe. By trying to undertand the wonders of this creation we are studying theology. Now while on paper I have no degree in Theology that does not mean I do not understand the subject. I am a fully qualified Missionara Protectiva, that essentially means I had been groomed since the age of four to understand our faith, learn about other faiths and where possible look for common ground. The question you ask assumes that science and religion are seperate subjects, I merely see them as opposite sides of the same coin.
 

-Lady Hipkiss,  I have tried to prepare myself for this synod as I am sure have many of my esteemed colleagues also tried to do the same but I have not found a lot on your faith. Why is there so little information on your faith out there? With all due respect, if your faith keeps its secrets how do we know what you are saying today is true in relation to your faith if we can’t verify it with other public texts of your faith?

The Bene Gesserit faith has no secrets. I believe the issue here isn't us keeping our secrets, we have none. The issue is that as we began to make use of the 19th centuries technology our abiliy to share our faith was snuffed out. Our homeland and main religious centres were damaged, now as a few books were disseminated before that time the focus of the Missionara and Mothers was on nations with similar cultural heritage as ourselves, Ui Cenneslaig, Canterbria, Scordisci, Seaforth, places like that. We managed to preserve many books smuggling them out of Kaitaine to new homes in our schools, the nature of which needed to be kept discreet. That knowledge is there and we'd be more than happy to see people of all faiths and none utilising them. I suspect in the coming years you may well see a huge increase in the publication of articles, journals, thesis and oher documents relating to the Bene Gesserit. However you are aware with some of the matters of our faith. You see we believe that all faiths contain some truth. Therefore a Bene Gesserit would view your own faiths Holy Books as part of our own. As too they would the bible, torah, the Odinist Saga's, the Books of Sessifet and the Codes of the Cult of Helus and so on. Our faith even contains little mini offshots, what we call Combireligions. These are where some Bene Gesserit believe two or more faiths hold the most truths and lean their practices towards them. For example there is one I know of called Mahayana Christianity. A hybrid of Mahayana Buddhism and Christianity, which presumably interpreted Jesus Christ as a Buddha, and therefore in turn the first incarnation of Kwisatz Haderach. If it is of use to this Synod I'm more than happy to arrange for scholars to have access to any of the Chapterhouse libraries.


- What I do not understand is how you can have a religion that cannot even decide if it’s monotheistic or polytheistic. Correct me if I wrong but your faith believes that even the knowledge whether there is one God or more has been lost so how exactly can you decide that what all up us in the room believe, except you of course, is not entirely true and by that I mean the Book of Mani and his teachings?   

As I have said earlier a Bene Gesserit would not talk in so black and white terms  as right and wrong. There is a truth to be found in all faiths and all religious books. As for determing whether we are monotheistic or polytheistic even faiths that you assume have a concetre answer to that have issues. Take for Christianity, faith believing in a single God, however their holy books create an issue. Their God gave a man called Moses ten rules, the first of which is "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me" If there is truly one God why would he need to instruct his people to put no other God before him? At one point even the people who are today the Jews worshipped more than one God, one religious text states Elijah said “I am the only one of the Lord’s prophets left, but Baal has four hundred and fifty prophets" therefore in that time those people where Polythesic. Our standpoint therefore is just an acceptance of what many others faiths have struggled to accept. The true nature of God/Gods is clouded for many and all our faith does is seek to remove that cloud and in the meantime show our understanding of the situation.

(there were clear murmurs in the auditorium from the ayatollahs clearing expressing their disagreement over assumption that faiths do not know whether they are polytheistic or monotheistic)


-I would like to know what “special insight” do your holy houses have to God’s powers and perhaps your Reverend Mother if that’s the case?

Since leaving Kaitaine this matter has become less clear cut. In the past it was believed that members of the Holy Houses were granted what I suppose you could claim to be specific and special powers. There were some said to be able to heal with a touch, others who could see the future, supreme intelligence, exceptional bravery, stamina, the list is endless. Some believe this is because of the way God/Gods have blessed them. Others believe it is because there is something unique about their bloodline that when in contact with the spice Melange untaps a potential all humans have within them. People believe that as supplies of Melange dwindle since we left Kaitaine the visible presentation of these insights, gifts etc become harder to view. As for the Reverned Mother it is not a position that is filled with the death of the old one, not like the Christian Pope. A Reverned Mother is one who must prove herself to have what we refer to as Pre-Cognition. To become just one of the four leading Mothers attacthed to a Holy House one must be shown to have the confidence of a large number of Mothers, but to then claim the title Reverned Mother and unite the faith a final step must be shown to be true. When one of the Mothers attached to a Holy House dies she is normally in the prescence of a Truthsayer, a Missionara and a Honored Mates. Any Mother may then come forward and tell these three the last words of the dead Mother. Only someone blessed with Pre-Cognition is capable of getting the words exactly, as such many who attempt fail miserably, in those cases the three witnesses must pick what was closest to the final words, but that generally rules someone out of being a Reverned Mother. Erin McGregor spoke the exact wording of Hannah McKey and therefore proved to the faithful that she is blessed with that Pre-Cognition, add to that the fact she is a distant member of the Harkonnen branch of the faith then her closeness to God/Gods is obvious for all  the faithful to see.


- I am more interested in this “Kwisatz Haderach” as you call him. Will he be of your faith or could he be a member of a different faith like Manism?

For me to be able to answer this I must clear up this idea of you saying "your faith" or "Manism". If you imagine going to an art gallery and looking at an abstract painting you and me could well come away from that viewing with different interpretations, different emotions, different messages from the artist. Now that is how we see religion. We have merely looked at the image differently, maybe the light fell at a different angle, maybe the music playing that day in the gallery influenced us differently, but we saw the same canvas. So to ask what faith the Kwisatz Haderach will be is kind of misleading, he will be all faiths but could well be none. Let me explain. He has been on Mundus before, and he will come again. He has left clues to his existance but we need to interpret them, just like that painting in the gallery. When he does arrive he will finally unveil the truth and everyone will have made some mistakes. So Yes the Kwisatz Haderach will be Manist, and Christian, and Buddhist, Cultist and Odinist.

(At the BG professor mentioned the comparison with the art gallery and the abstract painter, there was a loud murmur of disapproval which only stopped when the Supreme Ayatollah made a sign with his hand to ask for silence)


- Imam Ashan Kayani has proposed the theory that the Prophet Mani was an individual that had what your describe “godlike” attributes and thus it can be explained how he gave us the book of Mani. What do you think of this theory and would that make the Prophet a member of the BG faith in your opinion?

Let me return to my metaphor of the art gallery. Most of us are casual art gallery atendees, we may not know the historic ideas behind an image, or what techniques can symbolise on a canvas. An art critic or museum guide however can help with our understanding. A Prophet in many ways is like that guide. The Bene Gesserit believes that Prophets in many ways are similar to the Missionara, they have been able to discover knowledge, they have tried to assimilate it into a world view and then presented it for people to judge. Just as with modern peer review in Science history has shown a similar process for Prophets, only more deadly. Take for example Islam's Prophet Muhammed. He presents his newly gained understanding of the world to the people of Mecca and was promptly chased out of town. Over time he presented new knowledge, showed new examples and the like and soon the religion flourished far from Mecca. A Prophet is merely a mouthpiece for knowledge and can help bring about a new understanding of God/Gods, that is the job of a Bene Gesserit, to seek a better understanding. Therefore I consider all significant religious figures such as Prophet Mani, Jesus, Moses, Raimond Unasson etc to be parts of the Bene Gesserit faith, they maybe just at the time didn't realise it.


- Lady Hipkiss, you might be aware that our faith puts a great emphasis on respecting a strict set of rules from how you dress to what you eat and how and when you pray. As far as you re familiar with these rules are they against the teachings of your faith?

Our faith has no set rules on dress. The four branches of the Sisterhood are the closest you will find to a dress code. A black robe for Mothers, heads shaven. A Blue tunic jacket for Missionara, a military dress uniform for Truthsayers and a pair of Red trousers and long sleevless jacket for Honored Matres. Members of our faith are taught to however be respectful of local customs, so a Bene Gesserit visiting Tamora would follow these customs. As for other rules their are few over-riding rules other than to respect knowledge, seek it out actively in any form and naturally try and leave the world in a better position than we found it. After all some would say we are a Doomsday Cult, simply waiting for a great world ending disaster. We have Missionara who are Budislamic, they believe that essentially Buddha was the Kwizach Hadrach and set the initial rules for mankind and that the Prophet Muhammed, who was a reincarnation of the Kwizach Hadrach, came to codify more clearly to help prepare mankind for future disasters. As such those following Budislam are mostly vegeterian, don't drink and you will see their Missionara members wearing head-scarfs.


- Correct me if I am wrong but your faith believes “all faiths being connected as one just with different interpretations” doesn’t that mean that the BG believe only what is common in all faiths and disregard the rest? And if that’s the case then I would assume you believe very little since there is little in common between us the Helusians for example.

I believe my answers up to now will have explained this however please allow me to clarify. I believe that most religions, not all but most, follow some similar patterns. The first being that there is an ongoing struggle between good and evil. The Cultists believe that it is between those loyal to Helus and his first creation the Underlords. Odinists believe between the Gods and the Frost Giants. Christians between God and the Devil. We believe therefore that there is some great evil in the cosmos that must be faced and that by being a good person we can do that on a daily basis. Most religions also believe that there will be a great end time. Christians call in the End of Days, the Cultists believe one day the Underlords will return and the Odinists have Ragnorok. We too believe that such a day will come when we shall have to face this great evil and that we must prepare for this. Now naturally the manner of that evil, the events of its coming and the results differ but in the end we believe that an evil is coming, we must seek it out and prepare for its arrival. That I believe gives us lots therefore that we must believe in. If an evil so large it will destroy everything is coming then it must be faced not by just one or two people but by everyone. So we seek to work with others towards that end. Even within faiths there are things they don't agree upon. Does the bread of Christianity actually become the body of Christ within you? The Christian Church spent centuries debating that.Yes we find there are little commonalities between faiths but they do tend to agree on the big things such as good v's evil, a need to face evil, a need to lead a good life and that a kind of end of time is a possibility.


- If you say that our customs are not against your faith then how come we have not seen any of your faith wear the hijab for example? It is a practice that is found not just in our religion but also in the Islamic tradition. Is it because you haven’t studied Mannism and Islam?

Until 18 months ago you wouldn't have known who was Bene Gesserit and who was not. We were hiding in an effort to ensure the future of our faith. Imagine for example a pale skinned, red headed girl living in Claith, Ui Cenneslaig wearing a hijab yet she does not attend a mosque. Questions are going to be asked by friends, by neighbours and the like. You will find if you visit the Chapterhouses those who have a belief in the combi-religions wearing such items, the Missionara even has a blue headscarf wearable as part of their uniform. Our students study all religions as part of the basic curriculum at Chapterhouses, sadly not always taught by experts because of the situation we faced, however that I suspect will change. From that point on will people begin to wear it? Maybe. You must also remember that over 200 years our faith has faced rather unique challenges and as a religion with such a wide variation in belief it is not odd to think people will be influenced in terms of customs by local geography. Look at the Truthsayers in Kaitaine, the girls have been there less than 18 months and have now practically all taken to wearing keffiyeh around their necks. This is not because of any instruction or doctrine. Its because that's what the local of Seitch wear. I think you will find that as the Bene Gesserit seek to become part of everyday life wherever they live and as more of the Bene Gesserit begin heading to places like Tamora to learn more you may well see items such as the hijab increase in use.

After that last question, the Synod adjourned only to resume the next day when the debate will be done with the doors closed to be public. A representative of the Synod publically thanked the BG professor for accepting the invitation to attend and for answering the questions.


Dear viewers we have returned to our studio where Ayatollah Arak has just arrived from the synod and can better tell us about how the session went.

-Thank you for being with us again. How did the question session go?
-Well I can’t speak for the Synod and giving an opinion now is not something to do. But I believe the public could see that the members were often not exactly pleased with the answers and at times offered vocal opposition. At times it seemed even that we were speaking different languages. The Bene Gesserit have a very unusual religion. But this synod is not about the them, it is about Imam Ashan Kayani and his theories, and that is what we will be discussing the next few days. We have not convened to the Bene Gesserit faith or to pass judgment on it and it’s important for viewers to understand that.

-This was also the first time that the Synod was broadcasted live in several countries. First of all, why these countries in particular? One would think that is because they are the ones with significant Manist population but for example Vaguzia is missing.
-Well yes, we wanted to have an agreement with a national network in each country where the followers of our Prophet are present in a significant number. Thanks to TINS and its sisters channels, we had Zimalia and Clysperis covered but we had to also consider the other countries. We had some issues in Quintelia nad Parcinnia where we could only find a radio channel to broardcast but in Vaguzia we couldn’t even find that. The Helusian hold on that country is incredibly strong. The people were very polite and basically said “we are sorry, we understand but we don’t want any trouble” etc.

-But why would the Helsusians be against a live transmission of the Synod of our church?
-Because it goes at goes against the core of their narrative. Today, people from nine countries totaling a population of close to a billion people could see or hear live a“terrorist” and “slavers” debating, talking and generally acting like any other human being. They could see the BG professor talking without any mal thought about the Cult of Helus, they could see our church trying to understand and seek the truth. The Helusians and Rokkejima among others have painted us and the BG as monsters and when you show the people how we really are they begin to ask questions and that’s the last thing the Helusians want. I mean Rokkenjima broke all ties with us because Tamora recongnise the Theocrayc as the legimate government. People could see live just how “dangerous” the Bene Gesserit really are and can decide for themselves.

-You mentioned close to a billion in population but that’s not the total viewership of the event.
-No, not at all, it will be far, far lower than that of course. But hopefully people even outside of our faith will have looked at least a couple of minutes at the session and made up their mind for themselves.

-What should the people of our faith get from this first day and the Synod in general?
-That the faith is growing and that the Church is adapting to meet the needs of the faithful. Now, one in three that follow the Prophet lives outside Tamora and the church has to reach out to them, to be more engaged since that is what the faithful outside Tamora are asking us to do. I have talked to people aboard and they told me that they don’t want to join the mandatory military service as that could put them into the situation that they would be picking arms against Tamora. The brother in faith that asked me that was someone who had never been to Tamora before and had no connection other than our faith.

-How does the Church plan to reach out?
-It all depends on the nation. While generally the countries where our religion prospers are not rich they still have different needs. Some have good relations with the majority religion and the national authorities, others not so much. Some are in nations that are much poorer than Tamora while other have emerged from isolation and we have discovered that they have evolved on a different path and a process of reconciliation will be needed. So the Church is now looking to reach out, we are transmitting live, the Supreme Ayatollah will soon visit Clysperis and we are exploring other ways to reach out to the other countries where Manism has a significant presence. Our faith is not a numerous one, it doesn’t have political power anywhere outside Tamora and its members are not rich but what we do have is solidarity.

- What should the people of other faiths get from this first day and the Synod in general?
-I hope it has spurred a curiosity in them, to learn more about us. I also hope it has shown something about the Bene Gesserit. As I said, I am not impressed with their lack of theology but also their lack of orthopraxy but scholar Professor Ruth Hipkiss has said resonated with us deeply in at least one regard, the country of the Bene Gesserit, Kaitaine is under occupation by an Atheist government for more than a century, one that is systematically doing its best to erase the Bene Gesserit faith within its borders and even outside. So when many of us were frustrated that we couldn’t find more info on their faith, we had in fact missed the point that the reason is because they have been persecuted for so long that they were forced underground even outside of Kaitaine. We know so little about them because they were in danger of disappearing at the hands of an Atheist government. There are many faiths in Mundus and many things can be said about Mundus but not that is irreligious so viewers will sympathize with the plight of the Bene Gesserit. I think the people of Mundus find the idea of a regime that seeks to eliminate religion by force simply horrendous and will begin to understand why the Bene Gesserit are so determined to regain their lost country.

-Can the Church do something to help the Bene Gesserit?
-That is for the Synod to decide.

-Thank you so much for being with us.
-Thank you.

Thank you for being with us dear viewers. God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!
Spoiler: ooc thanks • show

Thanks to Libby for the massive effort of writing the answers to the questions. Also thanks to Dave, Major Jaws, Yolotan for providing an answer to the live trasmission permission request.


 

Offline Markus

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Manistophobia and Islamophobia rear their ugly heads in Clysperis
« Reply #100 on: July 20, 2019, 08:32:16 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 17th Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Saturday)

Manistophobia and Islamophobia rear their ugly heads in Clysperis
 
Pharaoh Beketaten visited the Mosque dressed according to Islamic requirements. The picture shows the Pharaoh hugging the Muslim Imam of the attacked mosque. 


Two Manists, one man and one woman, were dragged from their homes and beaten in the streets; the woman suffered several broken bones, while the man was thrown into the Ḥ'pī river and left to drown in a state of unconsciousness. Only the intervention of bystanders saved the man whom was dumped into the river. He is now in critical condition at the local hospital.
Furthermore, a mosque in the Clysperi city of Nebpi was vandalized with messages such as "Muslims go home," "not welcome," "you're not stealing Clysperis too," and "Beketaten lays with dogs" spray painted all over the mosque.

These attacks of religious hate come just weeks before the planned visit of the Supreme Ayatollah to the kingdom of Clysperis, the first such visit aboard in modern times, and during the time Synod of the Church.

The Clysperi branch of the Manist International Alliance for Combating Hate and Discrimination (MIACHD) has strongly condemned both attacks and has raised 200 thousand dinars/usd in donations which will be used to reward those that will provide information that will lead to the capture of the perpetrators of both attacks. They have also urged authorities to show no mercy or respite in the pursuit of the perpetrators. ”The fact that such incidents took place shows that those responsible expect their actions will go unpunished. The authorities have a responsibility to the victims to show no clemency in pursuit of justice. “  The local leader of MIACHD personally visited the bystanders that helped the Manist Clysperi out of the river and thanked them for not remaining indifferent. 

Shortly after news broke of the attacks, Pharaoh Beketaten had this to say “"When I was alerted to these acts I wept; that people in my country are harming our brothers and sisters and defacing others houses of worship.”

A few hours after the attack  Pharaoh Beketaten went at the mosque and personally helped to pick up the pieces inside as well as provide moral support to the community. She  also went to the local hospital where the two Manists faithful are treated and was joined there by Prince Naser. The two visited the patients and prince Naser gave a brief statement afterwards: “I will ask all Tamorans and Clysperi to pray for the two. I would also like to thank Her Royal Majesty for the support she has shown to the two religious communities that have been the targets of these attacks. The attackers want to spread hate and division and they know that religion is the core value that defines people across the Midaranye region. But what they don’t know is that when faced with adversity Tamorans close ranks and come together. I think it will be the same in Clysperis because the Clysperi people will understand that the attackers seek to divide and weaken the nation at a critical time when Clysperis needs to be united to withstand the foreign pressure it will encounter as it grows and become more powerful on the world stage.” 



Photos show that Phraoh and Prince Naser are mostly likely dating   

A TINS photographer was lucky enough to take of a picture of Pharaoh Beketaten and Prince Naser holding hands at the Elysium Economic Forum(EEF). This comes after rumors were circulating in some circles for days that the two have flown together in a light aircraft near the pyramids of Nafu as Prince Naser is an amateur pilot. The Imperial Palace has refused to comment on the incident but sources say that Prince Naser has been summed to the Imperial Place as soon as the EEF is done.

   The news came as a surprise to the general public with people generally having a positive reaction to the news since Pharaoh Beketaten enjoys a high favorability among the public and one that is steadily increasing. The news however was not well received by many of the in the clergy which have raised concerns about the religious implications of such a relation, the precedent it will set as well as the religious indifference it implies. This is perhaps one of the few instances in recent times when public opinion, especially the one of the Manist community, is not aligned with the opinion of the clergy.

   It remains to be seen what the Imperial Palace will do in the coming days and if Prince Naser will be recalled from his economic mission in Clysperis. 


Polakis Energy becomes a sponsor of Mundus Games   


Tamorans had the pleasent surprise of seeing the Polakis Energy Logo at the opening of the games in New Derusmia. It is the first time that a Tamoran company becomes a sponsor of an international sporting event. Analysts have said that Polakis Energy decided to sponsor the games as  part of an ongoing campaign to raise its brand awareness and thus help in their expansion aboard through their Conglomerate subsidiary. However, when Thanasis Polakis was asked to comment on the decision to sponsor the Mundus Games he had this to say:

“Despite what others have said, the main reason why we did it is for the Tamoran people and Tamoran athletes that will compete in the games. Our men and women will be competing in a country that has sanctioned us and on a continent that as a whole has decided to sanction Tamora. Until now our athletes had only our flag as a familiar symbol, now I hope that seeing a familiar name will help in some small part. “


The Tamoran job fair in Ui Cenneslaig comes to an end   

The Tamoran job fair in UC has come to an end, the fair saw some of the largest businesses in the Empire vising some of the major UC schools in an attempt to convince students and alumni there to consider Tamora as an option for their careers. While the job fair visited several educational institutions, the greatest presence was at the BG Chapterschool. While the fair was described by some foreign experts “inadequate” and even “unprofessional” the organizers were nevertheless pleased with the results. They have answered criticism by saying the foreign experts apply foreign standards to Tamoran business practices and have said that while interest from students was low, they will most likely consider doing it again, probably in Achkaerin or Cantabria. “We hope to have an event like this every year. We have seen a lot of curiosity from students and some alumni have shown interest. There is a great cultural barrier between us and much of Mundus and people come with certain expectations that we cannot fulfill but we nevertheless believe there is a niche out there for those that want to make a difference in world. “ When asked if they  considered Achkaerin and Cantabria as the next potential destination for the fair because of the presence of BG schools, the spokesperson has said it’s merely “fortunate a coincidence”.


Kadyrov Industries shows interest in latest RS technology: bacteria runways   


Kadyrov Industries spokesperson have said that they are watching closely the development of the RS project which could be of great use in Tamora, in the federated kingdom of Vojvodina, because of the desert there. “We eagerly wait to see how the next month attempt at building the runway will go.”

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!     

 

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A tale of two kingdoms: Clysperis and Lodja
« Reply #101 on: July 21, 2019, 08:05:55 AM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 18th Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Sunday)

A tale of two kingdoms: Clysperis and Lodja
 
Pharaoh Beketaten during the visit to a Muslim mosque in the Clysperi city of Nebpi.

At first glance the two kingdoms seem to have quite a few things in common. There are both ruled by women sovereigns who claim they are divine in some way or form, are both active on the international stage and both countries seem to be engaged in reforms. Where they differ is in their approach to these reforms and international relations, Pharaoh Beketaten has been an outspoken critic of the international cartel currently running Mundus and is a stalwart defender of sovereignty, while Lodja has been engaged is a systematic and consistent relinquish of sovereignty: MCUR, TUNA and now the giving up control of their armed forces to East Moreland.

Last week, people all over Mundus could see what this different approach means for the citizens of the two countries.  While Beketaten  was faced with treasonous elements within her military, Clysperis had them executed without any repercussions for the common people. On the other hand, Lodja which now takes orders from East Moreland in military matters has seen the decision to fire soldiers who have served in their armed forces to make room for those whose loyalties lie elsewhere; it has seen their Queen announce a massive 33% increase in the military budget with new reforms soon to follow. The Lodjan people will now have to pay for all that since that increase in military spending will have to come from somewhere and soldiers have already took to the streets to protest the planned layoffs. The Lodjan leadership has no doubt made the following decision: rather than compete on the international stage, it is better to surrender now without a fight and get better terms. The Queen gets to stay queen as long as she doesn't stray from the direction imposed by East Moreland, she will pay tribute ( where do those extra funds for the military are going to go? Local supplies or the Morelander company EMAC?), gives a concubine to the Morelander king and in return they are protected by CNN, Mundus' most powerful military alliance. Some in Mundus were willing to argue that the deal Lodja made is not so bad. However, we see that the surrender of sovereignty also has high material costs as the Helusian Empire is not looking to turn Lodja into a colony in order to bring wealth there but rather to take it home.

The events of last week prove that what Pharaoh Beketaten  has been saying is true: giving up your sovereignty is not just humiliating, affects your customs and religion ( you don't think the Lodjan concubine of the Morelander king will get to keep her religion, do you?) but it also impoverishes your country. Sovereignty is becoming a luxury in Mundus and it's a shame that some nations chose to surrender it so easily.



Morelander Minister of Defense inadvertently offers a comedy show   

This week the Morelander minister denied that Morelander has sold weapons to Soviet Kataine, weapons that lead to the killing of several Theocracy soldiers. The Minister of Defense was quick to deny it saying that the country known for having the largest exporter of military equipment on Mundus (EMAC)  finally found a customer they didn't like and were not willing to sell them weapons. As amusing as that was, that was just the beginning. The minister then went on to criticize the Bene Gesserit women soldiers for showing indecent behavior. Now, we of course praise the minister for his concerns but we're amazed that in a country where the Morelander king constantly displays his Lodjan concubine who dresses so little that even the very liberal press of East Moreland was shocked, the Morelander minister saw fit to criticize women thousands of miles away.

We have no doubt that the Morelander minister of defense is truthful when he says that they sold no weapons to the Soviets just as we convinced that his conservative views are genuine so he hope to see him chastising his king for having a concubine wearing dresses that we here on TINS don't ever dare show onto for fear this network would turn from informative news channel to provider of indecent content.


Q&A with Ayatollah Azad Arak on the situation in Lodja   

We have been receiving more and more questions from Lodjans asking as about the worsening situation in their country. So we decided to invite Ayatollah Azad Arak to help us answer some of those questions:

-Thank you for agreeing to the interview. A lot of Lodjans are asking if Lodja can still be saved. What answer do you have for these people?
-I get that question a lot from Lodjans  who see the humiliation their country is experiencing and want to do something. There are a lot of good people in Lodja and therefore it pains me to say this but it's the truth: Lodja can no longer be saved, it's too far gone. Its institutions are now under control of those that favor bowing their head than arguing your point and that includes their queen. However, while the country cannot be saved, individuals can be. I encourage all Lodjans to educate themselves and convert to our religion. Set aside the Lodjan way that brought you here in this mess, that encouraged you to give in to your basic urges and choose the religion that actually sees in its members more than just individuals enslaved to their urges, the religion that has strict requirements and actually asks people to make an effort. Lodja of today cannot be saved but a new Lodja, one that will follow the word of the Prophet can rise in its place and make it take back its rightful place among the nations of Mundus.

-That will take generations…
-Indeed, sovereignty is a precious thing that is easily lost and hard to regain. Lodja is no longer an independent country, regaining its independence will be a slow process. But if people there begin to look at what caused this downfall and are open to accepting the word of the Prophet then their grandchildren can live in a sovereign country. Manism requires sacrifice, Lodjans will need to make sacrifices knowing full well that only their grandchildren will see the benefits.

-It really makes you feel sorry for Lodja.
- It does. It's tragic and sadly they are not the only ones. Many more nations in Mundus are going the same path. One only need to look at Xaeth for another perfect example, only difference is that there the process has just started as opposed to Lodja which is too far gone.

- Another Lodjan viewer asks if we hate them because of the sanctions they placed on us.
- I can't speak for everyone but I don't think we Tamorans hate them. Lodja together with a whole slew of other countries are engaged in an economic war against us that seeks to impoverish us. Millions of Tamorans are worse off because of these nations that seek by any means to make us kneel before them. That cannot be pushed under the rug; the Lodjan leadership is directly responsible along with those that have sanctioned us. That being said, we understand that the average Lodjan has no part in this is and is a victim of the current international order. We also look at what's happening in Lodja with pity and don't gloat at the misfortune of their people. As I said, I hope more Lodjans will consider becoming part of our faith and we would welcome them with open hearts.

-So there is no hate for the Lodjans?
-Absolutely not, they are double victims:  once of this absurd international cartel from which they also suffer though to a lesser degree because their leadership has surrendered as well as also victims of hedonism, not being able to control their passions.

-Thank you so much for being with us.
-Thank you.


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora! 

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A race to the bottom: Rokkenjima is attempting to overtake Lodja
« Reply #102 on: July 25, 2019, 07:15:03 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 22nd Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Thursday)

A race to the bottom: Rokkenjima is attempting to overtake Lodja
 
"Student" Beatrice of Rokkenjima and Lodja's worst fear when it comes to submission to East Moreland

The Rokkenjiman Empire gives in to the Helusian Empire as the Rokkejiman Empress calls for a national day of reverence for the Morelander 12th century historical figure known as Paul the Explorer. The Morelander Paul was a raider king, similar to present day King Andrew of Seaforth that is raiding Tamoran assets, that somehow ended at one point in his life in Rokkenjima. The Morelander press talked extensively about him implying at times that the extent of the Morelander influence in those times went so far as present day Rokkenjima and thus furthering their national glory. Few in MidAranye would care what a Morelander raider from around eight centuries ago did and no doubt the Rokkenjiman people felt the same way if one were to judge by how little press coverage the event got in their nation’s press or how poorly Rokkenjimans see East Moreland and especially their king. Latest poll shows King David of East Moreland having a favorability of just 29%, a drop of 8 % from the previous year. So in this environment what does the Rokkejiman empress do? She calls for a national day of reverence for the Morelander “explorer”, fires Grand Marshal Henry Cole because he didn’t attend the funeral of the “explorer” and took on herself the title of “student of Paul”. Can you imagine Emperor Abbas taking the title of student of a foreign historical figure, from a country you don’t like and of a different religion than you or Emperor Abbas?   That’s how humiliated the Rokkejiman people must feel these days, forced to revere a foreign figure they care little about, from a country they don’t really like and of an alien religion. 

But why did the Empress Beatrice… sorry we meant to say student Beatrice did that? Because the tides have turned and Rokkenjima lost the competition with the Helusians. Now the Helusians ask for this public display of subservience to them, for it is hard to imagine that “student” Beatrice did that without consulting the Morelanders. But these recent actions are probably making at least one nation worry and that is Lodja. Their leadership has been consistent in their giving up of sovereignty to the Morelanders. There was no Morelander recommendation that they did not turn into law, no request that they deemed too humiliating to honor to the letter. For years it seemed that Lodja’s place as the most faithful and humble of the servants of the Helusians would be a title that no nation could threaten to take away from them but with student Beatrice’s recent new found love for Helus they definitely have some serious competition. And Rokkenjiman people have reason to fear that this is merely the start of a long string of humiliations they will now have to constantly endure.

Pharaoh Beketaten had the foresight to predict such a thing would happen. On her social media profile she posted this just weeks before student Beatrice decided to sell out her culture to the Helusians:

“Even with Seaforth removing sanctions on Clysperis, MidAranye continues to face challenges no other region in Mundus does. Truth is that they are jealous; whereas they sell themselves for the benevolence of the noble superpowers, MidAranye recognizes that there are something things you just can't put a price on.” She went on to say:
“One day an aspect of your culture is the price, the next you are bowing before Helus and forsaking your own God. We will not so easily erase our cultures and practices to join the cultureless homogeneous collective.”

Spoiler: Pharaoh Beketaten social media posts • show








Reading these words today and looking and what is happening in Rokkenjima and how their Empress is bowing to Helus shows that, despite what foreign detractors have said, Pharaoh Beketaten was right all along. She is sounding the alarm and is warning people of what is happening behind the scenes. However, unlike most sovereigns she isn’t directing her message towards other foreign heads of state whom will no doubt carry on with their agendas but to the people of Mundus which are not all so thrilled to see their cultures erased in order for their leaders to gain a seat at the table of the Helusians. 

TINS thanks Pharaoh Beketaten for speaking the truth to Mundus and assures her that there are millions of people out there who not only think the same way as her about the current affairs in Mundus but look to her for solutions to the current predicament Mundus finds itself in.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora! God bless Pharaoh Beketaten!

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The Foreign Office announces: Lady Leyli Qasemi is the ambassador to Nyx
« Reply #103 on: July 26, 2019, 05:27:40 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 23rd Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Friday)

The Foreign Office announces: Lady Leyli Qasemi is the ambassador to Nyx
 
Leyli Qasemi outside the Foreign Office shortly after it was announced publicly that she will be representing the Empire as ambassador to Nyx 


The foreign office has announced today that they have selected Leyli Qasemi as the first Tamoran ambassador to the Nyx Coalition since their emergence from isolation. Lady Qasemi is virtually unknown in Tamoran’s diplomatic circles and has little experience in foreign affairs with sources close to the Foreign Office saying she has been selected because of her ties to Nyx’s peculiar culture. We managed to arrange for a short interview with Lady Qasemi while she was at the Foreign Office just after she was formally announced as the Tamoran nomination for ambassador:

- Lady Qasemi, congratulations for your nomination as ambassador to Nyx. Please tell us a bit of your connection to Nyx since we understand that was one of the major pluses for your nomination.
-Thank you. I am a priestess of the Cult of the Dark Goddess that is part of the Pantheon of Hollow which is the same umbrella religion as the one in the Consecrated Nyx Coalition, I have also graduated from one of the colleges in Nyx and speak Celestial. I am now studying hard to learn to better speak Chimeric.

-Some have been critical of your nomination because they feel you do not represent Tamora and its values since you are part of the major religions of Tamora. How would you answer to that criticism?
-I think Tamorans are entitled to ask questions about the people the Empire sends aboard to represent it. As far as I am concerned, I am a loyal subject of the federated kingdom of Akkar as well as a strong believer and advocate of Tamoran values. If anything, my nomination shows that Tamoran values are universal and extend to all religions that make up our vast Empire.

-I think it’s safe to say that the Foreign Office has given a lot of attention to Nyx. Lady Alya Safavid personally attended the crowning of their Ascendant and now the Foreign Office has carefully selected a candidate for the position of ambassador. Some of our viewers are asking what is so special about Nyx that merits such attention?
- I think the Foreign Office strives to have good relations with all nations and is always willing to engage in talks. Let’s not forget that despite the fact that dozens of nations have unjustly sanctioned the Empire, Tamora has not retaliated with similar sanctions. But to refer to your point, I would state that the Consecrated Nyx Coalition is the most populous and has the largest economy of our continent and it has always been the position of the Empire that while all nations are deserving of equal respect, not all nations are equal. There is also more than just the sheer size of the Consecrated Nyx Coalition that is worthy of respect. It is a nation where the people don’t have the tendency to immediately assume that if something is done differently outside then it’s automatically done better there. There is not the same need in the fabric of their people to conform to foreign standards just because they are international and as a Tamoran that is something I deeply respect. Lastly, the Consecrated Nyx Coalition has also showing an openness to engage in constructive cooperation as we have seen in the decision of the Nyx Investment Authority to consider investing in MidAranye. A very different approach than what many others nations have pursued in relation to the Empire.

-What will your focus be as ambassador? Are you planning on arranging a state visit between the two countries?
- I think it’s too early to be talking about state visits. I will of course first need to obtain the confirmation of the Consecrated Nyx Coalition to be an ambassador there and should I be honored to receive that I will, with the hosts permission of course, focus on the cultural and economic aspects, I understand the Coalition has great talent in ballet. I also hope to be able to meet the representatives of their Chamber of Commerce and perhaps the Nyx Investment Authority. The Consecrated Nyx Coalition, just like the Empire, is vast and rich in culture and there are lots of opportunities to explore.


-Thank you for your time, Lady Qasemi.
-Thank you.


Kadyrov Industries confirms the sale of 30 fighters to the Conglomerate   


Kadyrov Industries have issued a statement in which they have confirmed the sale of 30 multirole fighters to the Conglomerate for approx. 2 billion dinars/usd. The deal is the largest foreign sale Kadyrov Industries has done and some analysts have speculated that it is also politically motivated. The Kadyrov couple who own the business are the wealthiest family in the Empire with Musaevna Kadyrov being a close friend of Alya Safavid, the First Wife of the Emperor. In fact, Musaevna Kadyrov has at times represented the Empire at foreign conferences a privilege no other non-noble family has received. The deal was apparently concluded at the Elysium Economic Forum where both the Kadyrovs and high representatives of the Conglomerate attended the event. Kadyrov Industries has so far not decided to incorporate any part of their business in Elysium and are the largest Tamoran business to not have done so. It remains to be seen if the recent deal will bring a closer cooperation between Kadyrov Industries and the Conglomerate and if that cooperation will also have an influence on Djerb.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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Princess Thekla comes to Tamora,her new home
« Reply #104 on: July 27, 2019, 03:36:53 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 24th Dhul Qadah, 1440h (Saturday)
Princess Thekla comes to Tamora, her new home
 
Princess Thekla, speaking in Parthian, greeted the press and thanked Tamora for the warm welcome 


This morning princess Thekla of Royal Seleucid and Crown Prince Jamshid have arrived at Djerb Airport. The Crown Prince has spent a couple of weeks in Royal Seleucid at the Royal Lake Palace  where he had the opportunity to better get accustomed to Royal Seleucid and as well as spend time with his future First Wife, princess Thekla.

Thousands gathered at the airport to greet the future princess of Tamora who seemed overjoyed and moved by the warm greeting she received. The two made their way to the Imperial palace which is now also the residence of princess Thekla. In accordance with Tamoran customs, the mother of the Princess, Whilom Queen of Royal Seleucid Yanna Soter is now welcome at any time and for as long she wants to spend time in the women’s section of the Imperial palace, a privilege which by tradition is given only to the mothers of the wives of the Emperor and the crown prince.

The Imperial palace has not announced a date for the wedding and according to sources a period of accommodation will first be needed in order for Princess Thekla to get acquainted to Tamoran customs, traditions and responsibilities. Furthermore, no mention has been made about the expected conversion of the Princess, with the Imperial palace asking for discretion in this private matter.



The Tamoran association of postal administrations has issued a commemorative series of stamps: The four crowns of MidAranye   

The Tamoran association of postal administrations(TAPA) has issued a commemorative series of stamps honoring the current sovereigns of MidAaranye. The series features four stamps, one for each sovereign: Emperor Abas, King Heydar of Royal Seleucid, Pharaoh Bektaten of Clysperis and Queen Aisha of Pramoria. According to the  Tamoran association of postal administrations, the four sovereigns represent the defining voices of the region and TAPA wants to honor them and their countries. Collectors from all over Mundus can rejoice as TAPA has informed that the stamps would be available to be bought from all Tamoran embassies aboard.



The Synod of the Church concludes: Imam Ashan Kayani is exonerated from the charge of heresy; the Church will begin to explore the religious persecution taking place in Kaitaine   

After a week of deliberations and decisions, the Synod has completed its deliberative process and has informed the public of its decisions. The most anticipated ona was whether Imam Ashan Kayani was committing heresy by spreading his controversial views about potential links between the Bene Gesserit and the teaching of the Prophet Mani. The Synod has decided that he is exonerated of the charges but was clear it is not a blank check to promote any ideas and it will task a group of six Ayatollahs to monitor the works of the Imam. The Synod all reminded the clergy that the only way such ideas can be explored is through the Book of Mani, the final and supreme authority in matters of faith. And that any theories, religious texts or revelations can be considered only as long as they do not contradict the Book. One Ayatollah summarized the guidelines best when he said: “Any religious text or theory of the Bene Gesserit or any other faith can be explored and explained through the Book of Mani and not the other way around. The prophet Mani is the last Prophet of Mundus, our religion is the youngest and thus the correct one as God has given us the prophet Mani precisely because all the other religions where incorrect.” 

Imam Ashan Kayani was extremely pleased with the exoneration and has said he will continue his work. He has also thanked the BG Professor Ruth Hipkiss for her help and support at the synod and has said he hopes to have the opportunity to continue to work with her in the future. He has also said that he bears no resentment to those that have brought before the Synod the accusation of heresy saying they were not driven by hate or ill thoughts but by a deep love and trust in the Book that had unfortunately blinded them when it came to nuances.

The synod has also issued a statement in regards to the ongoing religious persecution taking place in Soviet Kaitaine. According to the Synod there are over 20 Bene Gesserit schools that have been destroyed, two archives and millions that have been incarcerated over the decades for their faith. The Synod has said that it aims to bring to light this tragedy by working with the Bene Gesserit to document the persecutions that have taken place for so long in Kaitaine and will seek to mediatize them so that all of Mundus will begin to understand what is happening there.



Four Tamorans arrested in Xaeth   

Four Tamoran tourists were arrested in Xaeth on charges pertaining with possession of drugs. The Foreign Office has informed the public that the four Tamorans are subjects of the Imperial Enclave and that all drugs that the Xaeth police claim to have found in their possession were legal under the laws of the Imperial Enclave. The Foreign Office has instructed the Tamoran embassy to offer legal aid to the retained Tamorans and hopes that they will be released as soon as possible. The Foreign Office reminds all Tamorans that when travelling aboard they need to be observant of local laws just as they have to when travelling from one Tamoran federated kingdom to another.  Despite the optimism expressed by the Foreign office, sources close to the Tamoran embassy in Xaeth have said that the local authorities are unlikely to release the Tamorans very soon as they will use any excuse to prosecute the tourists since the Xaethoon authorities harbor anti Tamoran views.     



Lady Leyli Qasemi, ambassador to Nyx, launches video clips about her ambassadorship     


After Lady Leyli Qasemi was approved by Nyx authorities as ambassador, the Tamoran embassy in Nyx released s short video clip where Lady Leyli Qasemi presents herself and greets the people of Nyx. We will present the clip for you to view:


(The clip features Lady Leyli Qasemi speaking in Chimeric. It is clear that the speech has been rehearsed numerous times. Despite her best efforts, her accent is clearly foreign, the pronunciation is sometimes wrong but the message is still easy to understand by a native speaker) 

"Greetings people of Nyx. I am Leyli Qasemi and I am deeply honored to be the first Tamoran ambassador to Nyx since your emergence from isolation and to also have the opportunity to help build bilateral relations with your great nation.

I am not a career diplomat, I have lived my life like any ordinary Tamoran. I come from an average background and my parents have taught me from an young age to speak both my native language and Parthian. At the age of fourteen I married my husband and I had the pleasure then of going with him on a trip across all the six kingdoms of Tamora. I still remember perfectly the amazement I had when i found out that there are more than just two languages to refer to the things that make us Tamoran like: Gods or God, faith, family, love, country, loyalty ,tradition, justice, soul, death and afterlife. I was amazed to see just how many nations there are in the Empire, each with its own language and history, and all of them adding to the majesty of the Tamoran Empire.

After my trip across Tamora, I went to the village of Soma and dedicated completely to the highest calling for a Tamoran woman: to become a mother. The Gods blessed me with four beautiful children through my youngest was taken by Necra when she was just ten years old. Her death had a profound impact on me and lead me to embrace the religion of my husband, the cult of Lilith. I did that without ever turning my back on the values I deeply held until then and instead use them as a foundation to build upon.

As a follower of the Cult of Lilith I become interested in your great country and studied online at one of your universities which greatly helped in my study of the language of the Gods as I eventually become a priestess of Lilith. That connection to your people has helped me gain the highest honor of my life: to represent the Tamoran Empire and all its kingdoms as ambassador.

I know that Consecrated Nyx Coalition, just as the Tamoran Empire, is not just huge but also very diverse, with people speaking many languages, and that people deeply care about their religion and their traditions. As ambassador to Nyx, I deeply respect and admire your commitment to your traditions and values, your willingness to sacrifice for your religious beliefs  and your outstanding achievement in building such a prosperous country. The Empire of Tamora wishes to be a partner and a friend of the Consecrated Nyx Coalition. I look forward to visiting your great cities, praying together in your places of worship, enjoying your art but above of all I want to spend time in the rural areas of Nyx, where people have a strong sense of self-reliance that will no doubt will remind me of my village back home.

I invite you all to contact us via our social media for any questions you might have about the Empire of Tamora but most of all, I invite you to send me your suggestions about how to improve cooperation between our peoples.

May the Gods bless our two great nations!”     



Lady Leyli Qasemi, ambassador to Nyx, commented on Ascendant Natrax’s speech in Xaeth     


Lady Leyli Qasemi commented on the recent speech Ascendant Natrax gave in Xaeth by saying that:”I believe that Her Holiness' assessment of how the international community reacted to Tamora’s preservation of its traditional institutions is largely correct and that understanding is a great building block for future bilateral relations between the Consecrated Coalition and the Empire. I will not comment on her Her Holiness statements regarding other nations since that is something that concerns the Consecrated Coalition and the respective countries. I will however ill comment on what was described as an Aranye first policy, and say that is both a bold and very ambitions policy and one that will require reliable partners, a lot of effort as well as hard choices to be made along the way. The Empire of Tamora is not opposed in principle to that idea but without further information on what that implies we cannot issue an opinion.” 


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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One hundred thousand people gathered to see King Heydar’s betrothal ceremony
« Reply #105 on: August 04, 2019, 06:29:44 AM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 3rd Dhul Hijjah, 1440h (Sunday)
Almost one hundred thousand people gathered to see King Heydar’s betrothal ceremony
 
The open air ceremony attracted approx 100 hundred thousand people who wanted to see the Seleucid Royal couple


This week Tamora was host to a great event. King Heydar of RS had his betrothal ceremony in South Markazi, near Volos( the capital city of the federated kingdom West Seleucid). Among the many important attendees there was also the Imperial family: Emperor Abbas, his First Wife Alya and the Crown prince along with princess Thekla as well as approx. 100 hundred thousand people who came to see the Seleucid royal couple and the ceremony. Tamorans from all over West Seleucid and beyond gathered to see the new duchess of South Markazi being betrothal to King Heydar. Furthermore, princess Thekla, unlike the rest of the imperial family, took active part in the ceremony respecting to the letter the requirements of the Anahitaist faith and thus ending speculations that she has converted to the Manist faith.

King Heydar talked about a series of subjects including the excellent and ever expanding cooperation between Tamora and Royal Seleucid but perhaps the best received announcement was the fact that a new large Anahitasit temple will be built on the location of the ceremony. The federated kingdom of West Seleucid, through among the richest kingdom of Tamora, has always lacked a major religious site of the Anahistaist faith. After this event it would seem that will change in the near future as Whilom Queen Katerina said, "I am determined this Temple shall be the first of many my son constructs to show the greatness of the Goddess. It's an exciting time."

While the event was a success, and is a new milestone for the relations between the two countries since such a betrothal ceremony of the Sotar family has not taken place before in Tamora and King Heydar and his soon to be wife Haniyahare are the first foreigners in more than 300 years to receive Tamoran noble titles, there were some awkward moments. King Heydar during a visit at a local military veterans club made a series of bizarre statements regarding Pharaoh Beketaten, saying she “abuses his subjects”, referring to the large minority following the Cult of Helus. The king did not go into details about this and mentioned no specific examples other the social media of Pharaoh Beketaten.

However, the local veterans that had the chance to speak with King Heydar have said they are honored to have had the pleasure of speaking with HM and have said that it is the first time they have talked to a high noble, Tamoran or otherwise.
 
As the duke of the newly created dukedom of South Markazi, King Heydar will be ruling over a region of approx. 2000 sq miles and have approximately 1,5 million subjects. According to law, the title of duke gives the holder complete control of the county level government and all its properties. Therefore, King Heydar as duke of South Markazi, will be able to administer the county with few restrictions and will be able, among other, to pass laws, override the decisions of the county level courts  and many more. It will remain to be seen if King Heydar, as duke, will give duchess Haniyah a major role in administering the county.



Pharaoh Beketaten’s address to the Kingdom called the speech of the century

The Djerb group, the authors of the Djerb statement that attempted to define what are the Tamoran values, have issued a statement regarding Pharaoh Beketaten latest address to the kingdom of Clysperis. The address called “We Are Not A Problem To Be Handled; A Midaranye Declaration Of Independence” is according to the Djerb Group the “best political of the speech of the XXI first century and reflects what many in the Tamoran Empire and beyond feel and know to be true“. The Djerb Group has continued to work with various universities across the six Tamoran kingdoms to attempt to define what Tamora’s vision for the future is considering its values that are constantly clashing with those of much of the rest of Mundus. The Djerb Group has added in its statement “that the speech is the best rebuke of the dominant philosophy currently in place in Mundus that use subjective terms like “equality” and “universal rights” to usurp the sovereignty of nations by asking them to conform to standards they do not accept and have not taken part in defining them. But perhaps the best part of the speech is that is shows to the peoples of MidAranye and the whole of Mundus that MidAranye is a not the problem and instead names clearly the nations whose constant interference in the affairs of other countries are indeed a problem for the peace and stability of Mundus.” The spokesperson for the Djerb Group was stated that the speech is a great addition to their work and will help them define what they describe as “Tamora’s vision for the future” and are also pleased to see that Tamoran concerns about the current affairs in Mundus are shared by other MidAranye nations.


Anti Tamoran and anti-Seleucid rhetoric in at the Pride event in New Derusmia


Some of our foreign viewers often ask to give them examples of hate that is propagated in Mundus against Tamora, as if the fact that half of Mundus sanctioned us is not enough. The latest pride event is the perfect example. For our viewers in Tamora, we will note that the pride event is annual event of the LGBT community where nations gathered to say just how oppressed the LGBT community is even though most of them say they’ve never had anything against them to begin with. It is at this wonderful event that one of the speakers had this to say:

"And now, we have the historic chance of having a world accepting us more and more, aside from a couple of slaving scumbags and genocidal maniacs, and we even have a little Emperorling who's been seen and reported to pick up a young Lodjan stud for a dance, but he still remains silent!"

Now of course such board statements were of course drastically rejected by the public since describing millions of people in those turn is not tolerant. So let’s see how the crow reacted:

(More applause, as the crowd grows and the Band is getting drowned)

It would seem not. Well no doubt the next speaker will correct things:

“"I mean, let's be fair. He's probably under a lot of Pressure….”

As you can see, no reprimand whatsoever took place. It was considered normal speak, just something you use every day and think nothing about it. This dear viewers is the sad state of Mundus today and the hate that these people have is the reason for the sanctions.


Major OPEN project begun construction on the Tamoran- RS border

A large gigafactroy is being constructed in West Seleucid, approx. 150 miles from  Volos and on the border with Royal Seleucid. This is the first such project being constructed by OPEN, and is expected to create approximately three thousand jobs that will be shared between West Seleucid and Royal Seleucid. The factory is expected to power some half a million cars. Tamora has allocated 25% of the shares, of them 5% are owned by the West Seleucid Wealth fund, 5% by various other local Wealth funds from West Seleucid, and the rest being owned by more than 200 private organizations ranging from banks to religious institutions. 


Attican shenanigans against the local population


Some local governments in Attica are resulting to new and clever ways of harassing local slave owners. Their latest invention? All power of attorneys that masters have given to their slaves in order to represent them in dealings with third parties are considered null and void. Yesterday, the Supreme Court of Attica has upheld such local laws in a decision saying that if a slave does not have rights as a human being then it cannot under the law represent its master in dealings with third parties. The opinion of the court was immediately upheld by the Queen of Attica who signed the opinion and made it into law. Now virtually any local or country level government in the federated kingdom of Attica can pass similar laws and thus harass legal abiding citizens who happen to own slaves. Immediately following the court’s decision, ten counties, all of them ruled by Christian dukes, passed similar restrictions. Right now more than half of the counties in the federated kingdom and its capital Alaverdi have passed such laws. More bad news came today as the Supreme Judge of Tamora refused to take on the case, calling it “an internal matter” of the federated kingdom. The Church has issued a statement calling the recent measures in Attica unfortunate and saying that the church will recognize the validity of such written authorizations as it has done until now.   

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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Tamora and Clysperis reach agreement on work permits
« Reply #106 on: August 04, 2019, 01:23:35 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 3rd Dhul Hijjah, 1440h (Sunday)

Tamora and Clysperis reach agreement on work permits
 
TINS news anchor


The Imperial Press office has announced today that Tamora and Clysperis have reached an agreement on work permits that the two countries will be providing to each other’s citizens. In short, each country will issue on demand work permits after the requester has passed a background check. The work permit will be valid for 12 months with the possibility of renewal upon request. The two governments reserve the right to restrict the issuing of permits in both total number and/or certain fields/sectors that a government may deem necessary to protect for whatever reason.

So far on the Tamoran side only the Imperial Enclave, the largest of the Tamoran kingdoms, has announced that will be issuing work permits for Clysperis citizens wishing to apply to work in Tamora. The government has not mentioned any restrictions so far and has said it will review the process and its effect at the end of the year. As far as the other Tamoran kingdoms are concerned: the federated kingdom of Altai has refused to enter the program citing religious issues, Vojvodina has done the same but on the ground of serious economic troubles that include high unemployment, Attica and West Seleucid have announced they are analyzing the agreement and its potential effects and will reach a decision by the end of the year while the Akkar has announced that it will begin issuing permit in three months but no permits will be issued for agricultural work citing cultural reasons specific to the tradition of the federated kingdom. 
 
So far the authorities in the Kingdom of Clysperis have not made an announcement regarding work permits and any restrictions they might place but analysts say that considering the huge difference of GDP per capita between Clysperis and Tamora (2000 dinars/usd per capita vs approx. 11000 dinars/usd per capita) it is likely that few Tamorans will apply for work permits in Clysperis and that most of the demand for work permits will come from the Clysperis side.

The news about the agreement has had a mixed reception. While businesses welcomed the agreement, local churches have raised concerns that a large influx of Clysperis workers will put a pressure on wages and thus hurt Tamoran families. One Imam said that the agreement comes at the “worst possible time” because Tamora is now in a recession with unemployment rising, under such conditions “issuing work permits to foreigners is something that makes no sense”.

This is the first such agreement Tamora has entered with another country and it remains to be seem how well received it will be by the Tamoran population. Already local law enforcement agencies has raised concerned that a large number of Clysperis coming in to Tamora could raise issues considering the difference in language, the fact that Clysperi might not be aware of some of the customs of the Imperial Enclave and lastly there are concerns that in the potential event that Clysperi might commit serious crimes and thus be sentenced to slavery that might put a strain on the Tamoran-Clysperi relations. According to authorities, the Imperial Enclave alone expects to issue approximately 500 thousand work permits by the end of this year.



Prince Naser returns home, is recalled from his economic mission in Clysperis

Prince Naser has returned home in Djerb after being summoned by the Imperial Palace following reports, including ones presented here on TINS, that Prince Naser is romantically involved with Pharaoh Bektaten of Clysperis. According to sources close to the Imperial Palace, the prince has postponed coming home to Djerb giving both his work as head of the economic mission in CLysperis and the tragic incidents in Clysperis as excuse. However, following the signing of the agreement of between Tamora and Clysperis on the work permits, Djerb has decided to revoke him from his position of head of the economic mission and thus the prince had no excuse to return home. So far Pharaoh Bektaten has not confirmed or denied the relation and has instead said they will mutually decide on a press response.

Prince Naser’s lack of public acknowledgement of the relation as well as his delay in returning home has created a lot of irritation among the Church. One Ayatollah saying that the situation is now becoming ridiculous saying Prince Naser lack of public acknowledgment is putting both the Pharaoh and the Empire in a humiliating position and that the prince should assume publicly the relation and the consequences of it. In this case the consequences of it means that Prince Naser will have to marry Pharaoh Bektaten otherwise the prince’s actions will continue to be haram. The Prince however, will have get permission from the head of the family, in this case Emperor Abbas, for the marriage. If the situation is not resolved soon, according to sources close to the Church, prince Naser will be formally excluded from the Church bringing great shame to the entire Safavid Imperial family. Furthermore, Pharaoh Bektaten is a of a different faith than that of the Church and which will further complicate things for the Imperial family.


Yearly military exercise set to begin next week


The yearly military exercise of the Imperial armed forces is set to begin next week. Just as in previous years the exercise will be massive involving one hundred thousand men, one thousand tanks, over two hundred planes and various other equipment. According to sources, the exercise will not feature an invasion from Pramoria and Royal Seleucid and will instead focus on a potential invasion from Tauradelia, Slava Lavosk and Abuqiya helped by a foreign coalition that would invade by sea. Last year’s military exercise also excluded Royal Seleucid and this year Pramoria is also not considered as a potential source of an invasion signaling that relations with Pramoria are close following their emergence from isolation. 

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!


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Djerb group releases new paper called the “conflict of visions”
« Reply #107 on: August 09, 2019, 11:05:37 PM »
Shawwal 23, 1440 Al-Arba'a (Wednesday)
Djerb group releases new paper called the “conflict of visions”
 
Some of the professors that are part of the "Djerb Group", along with their staff. They have spent well over an year working on the papers they released. But their work is not yet done, they now have to work hard if they want to spread their ideas thought the Empire

The Djerb Group, some of Tamora’s most prominent intellectuals, has released a new statement called the “Conflict of visions”. The 30 page document details how the current state of international affairs regarding Tamora is caused by a conflict of visions our country has with most of Mundus and explains how the conflict is being fought for decades through cultural and economic means and how it will eventually lead to military conflict. According to the statement, Tamoran values, which were defined in a previous statement, in particular and MidAranye values in general are incompatible to most of what the rest of the world calls “Mundus values” and are thus at odds in almost every field. The paper explains how every field from arts to sports and to language and architecture is a battleground between our values and foreign ones.

While the paper raises many concerns it also offers a hope and a roadmap for the future. According to the paper Tamora needs to fight back against the foreign values that are so alien to our people and it must do so by being more engaged on the world stage and countering foreign influence all over MidAranye and beyond. In the end, the paper describes this new conflict, that Tamora will need to wage if it is to survive, as the ultimate battle between good and evil; making it a moral imperative that all Tamorans join it without regard about the odds of victory. 
The Djerb group will try and organize various debates in universities across the empire in an attempt to promote their ideas and help “wake up” the Tamoran people as they described it.




The Tamoran Central Bank(TCB) has reached an agreement the Theocracy of Kaitaine about their new currency   


The Tamoran Central Bank has issued a statement informing the public that TCB will print and back the currency of the Theocracy of Kaitaine. The new banknotes whose design are entirely the creation of the Theocracy, feature on the observe the Reverned Mother and on the reverse various landmark from Kaitaine. The Theocracy thus becomes the second country outside Tamora (after Clysperis) to have some sort of link to the Tamoran Dinar, though analysts have said that the Theocracy’s new currency remains mostly a symbolic gesture and has no impact on the affairs of Kaitaine.

Currency collectors have already expressed their enthusiasm with the new currency and according to them some have already contacted the Theocracy embassy in Djerb to ask how they can buy some for their collections. One collector has said that the this first currency issue “is in high demand from collectors all over the empire since it’s not every day that a state, even a contested one as the Theocracy,  issues a new currency.” According to collectors, they expect the banknotes to be in high demand aboard too by foreign currency collectors as well as Bene Gesserit individuals around Mundus. Another collector said “the banknotes are a symbol that the new Theocracy is slowly becoming a state. I expect many BG followers would want to have at least a banknote for sentimental proposes so I expect their price to rise fast. “

Once economic analyst offered a potential explanation on why the Theocracy chose to have their currency issued by the Tamoran central Bank as opposed to some third party private institution: “By having the full faith and credit of the Tamoran government backing them they are in fact real currency as opposed to some piece of paper that would be backed by the Theoracy which is unrecognized by most of Mundus. “He also added that while TCB has not released any information on the number of banknotes that it will release to the Theocracy, the number cannot be that large since the measure is one of symbolism rather than actual need.

The issuing of currency is the first agreement that the Tamoran government has reached with the newly formed Theocracy government. If rumors are true, there might be more opportunities for future collaboration in the education area as the Theocracy press has informed that their new proposed Theocracy school might be built in Tamora.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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Number of Manists in Clysperis on the rise according to recent census
« Reply #108 on: August 11, 2019, 01:13:08 AM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 10th Dhul Hijjah, 1440h (Sunday)

Number of Manists in Clysperis on the rise according to recent Clysperi census
 
A Manist temple in the kingdom of Clysperis, the second largest religion in the kingdom with 11% of the population following the Prophet


According to the recent census in Clysperis, Manism is on the rise in the Nordic kingdom of MidAranye. The latest date shows a 1% increase from 10% of the population to 11%. Pharaoh Beketaten welcomed the news on her social media account as a sign of religious freedom and also praised the Manist community’s contribution to Clysperis’ history. 

The Manist community in Clysperis is one of the fastest growing Manist communities in Mundus. Despite incidents as the recent Manistophobic attacks, relations between the local Manist community and the majority faith are at an all-time high. It is under these conditions that the Supreme Ayatollah will visit Clysperis in the coming weeks. According to sources, the local community has formally requested the Church to elevate the leader of the local Clysperi Manist church from Major Ayatollah to Grand Ayatollah, a rank which will give him the right to sit on the Supreme Council of Djerb alongside the five Grand Ayatollahs and the Supreme Ayatollah himself. No statement has been made by the church regarding this information but sources say that the request has met stiff opposition from many Ayatollahs who see it as a gateway to foreign influence within the Church.


Pharaoh Beketaten popularity has reached a new high in Tamora 

Ever since Clysperis' emergence from isolation, Pharaoh Beketaten has been a constant and active supporter of good relations with Tamora in general and the Manist community in particular. Her first foreign visit has been to Tamora where she has made a powerful impression with her speech at the Cemetery of Martyrs. She often mentions Tamora in her speeches and social media and has tackled the recent Manistphoblic incidents in her country by showing no mercy for those that have committed such crimes and thus being in full accordance with the Manist justice principle that “mercy for the guilty is treason to the innocent”. She fully understands that the only appropriate punishment can deter future crimes from taking place as well as give victims and their families the security that authorities are there to protect them. It is perhaps no surprise that after this week’s interview where Pharaoh Beketaten revealed that her best friend is a Clysperi girl of the Manist faith that her already high popularity in Tamora has spiked and has reached unprecedented levels for a foreigner leader. She also enjoys a notoriety among the Empire that no foreigner has. Whether it is heart of Tamora, in the Imperial Enclave, or the secluded parts of the federated kingdom of Akkar, Tamorans have heard of her, and more and more of them have a positive impression of her. Already, her royal address “A Midaranye Declaration Of Independence” is being debated in universities all over the Imperial Enclave and it is likely that it will influence the Empire’s future diplomats. Professors from the Djerb group have said that in the debates they have organized about their vision for Tamora and what they have described as the conflict of visions, Pharaoh Beketaten is very often mentioned by students and professors alike as an example of taking on the internationalist powers rather than quietly resisting. 

Her latest interview addressing the alleged relation with Prince Naser has been the most watched event of the month in Tamora. It was an interview where she addressed the legitimate concerns of many Tamorans all while stressing again the close relations between our two countries. And while the numbers have yet to arrive, we are sure the interview was well received by most Tamorans. 

But while her popularity in the Empire is growing fast and her speeches are seen as a benchmark for MidAranye not everyone is happy with it. King Heydar has expressed criticism over some of her social media statements and increasingly in Djerb there are those who feel her influence over the Tamoran people is too great. These concerns, at least in Tamora, come out of prudence when it comes to foreigners, especially foreigners that have been educated in internationalist countries. 



Talks advance on the Alaverdi - Damarga highway link

Tania Tankian, the Minister of Transportation of the federated Kingdom of Attica, has said this week that talks are progressing well on the proposed link between Alaverdi(the capital of the federated kingdom of Attica ) and Damarga (the capital of the Kingdom of Pramoria). The talks seek to find an agreement that will link the highway system in Attica and Pramora and ease the transportation of goods between Tamora and Pramoria. Also, the talks are part of a larger plan that seeks greater cross border interconnection with the aim to grow one of the most dynamic economic regions of MidAranye, the VIDA triangle (the region between the four MidArayne cities of Volos, in the federated King of West Selecuid, Ipsus, in the Emirate of Royal Seleucid, Damarga, in the Kingdom of Pramoria and Alaverdi, in the federated kingdom of Attica). 



The King Heydar faces his first incident as duke of South Markazi(federated kingdom of West Seleucid)

Stergios Arvanitotis, a citizen of Royal Seleucid, has been found guilty of breaking and entering and has had his conviction confirmed by the ducal level court of South Markazi. He was found guilty by the lower court and has been in detention for approximately 4 months waiting for his appeal. This week, the ducal court has confirmed the conviction. The Seleucid citizen is a faithful of the Cult of Helus and has entered Tamora during the Royal Seleucid food crisis. According to prosecutors, the man had unlawfully entered the farm of a freeman residing in a town located in the dukedom of South Markazi searching for food. He was apprehended by the owner who called the police and had him detained. According to prosecutors, Stergios Arvanitotis claimed that he had entered Tamora with the purpose of buying food for his family in Royal Seleucid and had no intention to commit any criminal acts. However, according to his testimony he was robbed by an unidentified group of men as soon as he got in Tamora. Furthermore, according to the same testimony the man was desperate to get food for his family and that lead to him breaking and entering the farm. During the trial the owner of the farm, a member of the Anahitasit faith, had testified that he beard no ill will towards Stergios Arvanitotis and has said he did not seek any compensation he would be entitled for the crime committed against him. Also, he has stated during the trial that he understood the desperate situation of the accused and that he had sent food to Stergios Arvanitotis’s family in Royal Seleucid when he heard of his motive. Because Stergios Arvanitotis confessed to the crime and cooperated with the prosecutors, the trial was swift and Arvanitotis was charged with paying the smallest possible fines for his crimes as well as the costs for the trial, in the sum of 40 thousand dinars/usd. According to the public lawyer representing Stergios Arvanitotis, the man does not have that money so he will most likely be either sold into slavery or held into detention for years because the Foreign Office of Tamora often asks for a hold in the auctions of foreign citizens.

According to Tamoran laws, the decisions of the courts are considered opinions and need to be validated by the appropriate noble in charge, in this case the Duke of South Markazi, King Heydar. The law states that if the noble does not issue his written consent for the opinion of the court within thirty days then the consent is assumed and the opinion of the court is implemented. Stergios Arvanitotis has already petitioned King Heydar as Duke of South Markazi for clemency and his petition is supported by the local Anahistait association of South Markazi. However, the local association of the Manist Church has asked for the court’s opinion to be upheld and justice to be served as to not encourage similar acts in the future.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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How a comic book scandal turned national news
« Reply #109 on: August 11, 2019, 06:59:14 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 10th Dhul Hijjah, 1440h (Sunday)

How a comic book scandal turned national news
 
TINS news anchor


This week the city of Erzurum, in the federated kingdom of Akkar, has reached national news after a local comic book creator, Ari Sancar, had a crash with the media. It all started when the creations of Ari Sancar, an amateur comic book creator, made regional headlines after local religious leaders have raised that her comics are divisive and too political especially considering that the comic books are meant for kids. Furthermore, some went further and criticized her creations as potentially blasphemous for the Kemetic Orthodoxy religion. Here are a couple of highlights from her comics that better explain her work.

Spoiler: main highlights of the controversial comics • show


In the comics the main country is referred to the as the Nordic Kingdom. Although Clysperis is not expressly mentioned, many of the images clearly suggest that the Nordic Kingdom is in fact a direct reference to Clysperis.



The Nordic Kingdom is presented as a bastion besieged by evil forces. The Queen of the Nord has a vision showing her that her kingdom will be a ruin if the current trend continues.



Desperate to save her people and the kingdom, the Queen of the North prays to Divinity for help protect her kingdom. The comics often feature the Queen praying.



One of the reasons why the comics were accused of being blasphemous is the fact that the Sky God is represented remarkably similar to some depictions of Clysperis’ main god Horus. Presented here is the Sky God fulfilling an ordinary child his most ardent wish that he had been praying for over an year: to touch a god. The comics books often present the Sky God as a defender of the weak and the powerless against the forces of evil.



Another god that appears in the comics is the Divine Mother, which many have considered it to be a representation of the Clysperi Goddess Isis. She is often presented as saving children freom the forces of evil.



A lot of critics have called the comics political and divisive because of the representation of the evil forces. Here is the God of War, a reference to the Helusian god of war Jekar. He is always presented as wearing Western cloths. He is also presented as a “legionnaire” of the cowardly Chief God, a reference to the Morelander god Helus.



The battle between the God of War and the Sky God shake the skies. During these battle the whole Nordic kingdom prays for the Sky God to vanquish the God of War. While the God of War is defeated by the Sky God, the cowardly Chief God always sacrifices some of their believers in order to resurrect the God of War and nurture his hatred of the Nordic Kingdom.





Ms. Ari Sancar during the press conference that later become headline all over the news throughout the Empire.

The story reached national news after Ari Sancar answered some questions from the journalists. While the beginning of the press conference went well, with Ms. Sancar stating that she “had absolutely no intention to commit blasphemy against the religion of Clysperis and in fact I consider my comics a tribute to Pharaoh Bektaten to whom I look up to and have nothing but respect. “ Things however took a turn for the worse when one journalist asked Ari Sancar, whom is a liberal Manist, why is she not wearing the hijab. It was at that point that she tensions were raised and she answered:

“Because my husband approves and so did my father before I married. See it’s people like you that are problem and why foreigners are trampling on us whenever they have the chance. Because you sow division instead of us being united against the foreigners who have sanctioned this country to recession and seek to ruin us. What is the point of your question? You didn’t know that not all of us wear the hijab all the time?”

Following another exchange with the journalist, Ari Sancar suspended the press conference and left the room. The exchange though was presented by all major media networks of the Empire and trended on social media. By the evening many media trusts had talked shows about the incident touching on such things as the old differences between the Orthodox, Conservative and Liberal branches of Manism, the negative effects of the economic sanctions on the Tamoran society and social cohesion as well as talks about Ari Sancar's outburst and character. While many praised Ari Sancar and agreed with her, there were plenty who considered the comics inappropriate. The harshest critics came from the federated kingdom of West Seleucid, many of the high nobles there saying that such writing are “not welcomed” in the federated kingdom. Most likely their concerns came after King Heydar had expressed concerns that the Helusian minority in Royal Seleucid is feeling attacked and thus many of the nobles in the federated kingdom there did not want to affect relations with the Eastern neighbor.  Later that evening, Ari Sancar’s imam came to her defense during an extensive interview he gave to the press:


Ms. Sancar's imam, Bekir Celebi, explained in detail while the accusations levied against Ms. Sancar are both unfair and unfounded.

“Ms. Sancar is a devout follower of the Prophet and a pillar of our parish. I have known her for more than two decades and she has nothing but a deep love for Tamora that is only surpassed by her love for her family and her faith. As a mother of two she is however deeply concerned about the economic future of Tamora and what prospects her children will have for the future. That is a concern many of us have in the kingdom of Akkar and we feel that perhaps Djerb and the Imperial Enclave in general has been too quiet about the economic situation of the Empire,  adopting a policy of silence and waiting for things to turn around. There are many faithful who feel that unless we do something, things will not turn around by themselves. Ms. Sancar wanted to do something and as a regular subject of the kingdom she had few options so she decided to present through these children books or comics an educational story about good and evil, one that Tamorans of all faiths can get behind. Our city Erzurum has more than half a million souls and many faiths, from those that follow the Prophet to Islam, Druze, Anahitasim, Christianity and others. We have very good relations between our faiths. When Cassiopeia Vasilakis become the first foreigner to serve at the Royal Court of RS as Crown Prince Hadi's personal spiritual adviser I personally congratulated the Anahitaist priestess from the local temple in our city and as a Tamoran I rejoiced at the new just as I did when Cassiopeia Vasilakislater was later appointed Ambassador between Faiths in Royal Seleucid. I also watched live the ceremony of King Heydar that took place in the federated kingdom of West Seleucid and was happy for the honor the Anahitaist community received by having the RS king in their midst but also the promise of the future temple.  Ms. Sancar has nothing but respect for all faiths and has decided to represent though her books gods not of our traditions in an attempt to make it accessible for all the faiths in our city and beyond. She often volunteers in the community having in her care children that come though different religious backgrounds. Her books are meant to inspire children of all faiths, to improve their moral character and to unite them around our Tamoran identity. There is absolutely no way that she aimed to offend the Kemetic religion of Clysperis. Her drastic reaction at the press conference can be best explained by the fact that she didn’t expect that her work which aims to unite Tamorans could be so viciously  attacked and also to be put in the position to defend her standing within the faith after living a life where she displayed a pristine record of obedience to God’s commandments. “

The Imam also added that nobles of the federated kingdom of West Seleucid showed too “much timidity” by saying that “some children books are not welcomed in their federated kingdom”.  In the end of the interview, the Imam said that those that think that Ms. Sancar will back down and have her work suspended do not know her well enough or her character and that “the whole parish and the local community is behind Ms. Sancar and fully supports her work.”

Ms. Sancar’s Imam declaration of support, have puts many criticism to rest. According to sources the controversy proved to be a boon for the comic books sales, with many Tamorans seeking to buy them either as a sign of support for Ms. Sancar or out of curiosity.

What do you viewers think? Are these comic books inappropriate or a beneficial educational tool for children? Please write us on our website your opinion.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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Hassfurt emerges from isolation and it's not a pretty sight
« Reply #110 on: August 17, 2019, 05:02:43 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Dhul-Hijjah 15, 1440 As-Sabt (Saturday)

Hassfurt emerges from isolation and it's not a pretty sight
 
TINS colleague from our sister network in Zimalia.


Every now and then a nation emerges from isolation. If it's from Midaranye it is usually proud of its history and traditions seeking to preserve them rather than please the current international order of Mundus. If it's from another place other than MidAranye it is usually the opposite, they have an almost knee jerk reaction to homogenize and adopt every international standard,  treaty and value until there is nothing but the nation’s flag that sets them apart from the other nations of Mundus.

Hassfurt however is different; it is a nation whose religion and entire culture is based on the color of your skin and hair. Anything else it doesn't matter: family ties, good behavior, exceptional service to your country etc. Their whole philosophy can be best described as white means saint, black means sinner. All others fall somewhere in between. Of course, at the sight of such a racist country, surely the international order will oppose and criticize them, right? Of course not, because Hassfurt has played nice and signed a couple of treaties showing that it has no intention of challenging the current order it is now embraced with open arms.
We always knew that the current international order is not about human rights but about power and control and the Hassfurt case is perhaps the perfect example of this.

The Foreign Office has released a statement saying that it will open an embassy in Hassfurt and allow the same for Hassfurt but has added that as long as the current policy of seeing darker skin people as less worthy of respect remains in place in Hassfurt then prospects of future cooperation remain extremely limited. The ambassador to Hassfurt will be Imam Aref Asayesh. The Imam has stated that he will not bring his wife and children to Hassfurt citing the hostile environment of the country as the reason. Furthermore, the ambassador has stated that unless required he will not accept to meet with any citizens of Hassfurt that belong to the top two stratums and that he will use his mandate to work as much as possible with people of the fifth stratum with whom he "is sure he has more in common and that they have more to share then the rest".


 

Imam Aref Asayesh has said that he can't wait to tell the Guine (what Hassfurt considers the lowest stratum) about the Prophet Mani: " that brown skin, dark haired man whose teachings from a thouand years ago have led to the creation of the greatest country on Mundus: the Tamoran Empire."


This is perhaps the coldest opening of relations that Tamora has had since our emergence from isolation and for many Tamorans feels that it is still far warmer than Hassfurt deserves.
We wish our ambassador to Hassfurt all the patience and calm in the world since we are sure that those will be put to the test from the moment he gets there.


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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The Tamoran Imperial navy gets new ship
« Reply #111 on: August 19, 2019, 05:58:52 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Dhul-Hijjah 17, 1440 Al-Ithnayn (Monday)

The Tamoran Imperial navy gets new ship
 
TNS Princess Thekla is now the largest ship in service of the Imperial Navy



The Tamoran Imperial Navy has received a new ship: an amphibious transport dock. The ship was designed and built by Royal Seleucid and, at 25 000 tones,  it is the largest ship to be in service on the Tamoran Imperial Navy. Because of the long history of the Empire as a landlocked country, the navy has often been seen a branch less important for the defense and promotion of the Empire’s interests. However, events in the last two years have made Djerb reconsider the importance of the navy as a way to enhance the Empire’s ability to project force outside of the MidAranye region.
The contract to buy two amphibious transport dock and four destroyers is part of a larger deal that saw the Empire pay an unprecedented 7.3 bln dinars(usd) in bride price for Princess Thekla who will be marrying Crown Prince Jamshid. Furthermore, Djerb has announced that the ship will be called Princess Thekla honoring both the future First Wife of the Crown Prince and celebrate the bond that this marriage will bring between the two royal families.


The controversial comic books are now sold out 


The controversial comic books TINS has presented before are selling exceptionally well and are now sold out. It appears that controversy surrounding them has greatly increased the interest in them. The author has said she not only will continue making more but is currently seeking a way to have them distributed digitally and thus allowing Tamorans from any of the kingdoms to buy and enjoy them.

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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A curious case: a Midaranye flag appearing in Vaguzia?
« Reply #112 on: August 24, 2019, 05:05:27 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Dhul-Hijjah 22, 1440 As-Sabt (Saturday)

A curious case: a Midaranye flag appearing in Vaguzia?
 
You need not feel confused if you don't remember seeing this flag before, we have seen before either until we went to Vaguzia


Those of us who live in MidAranye know our flags very well, we cherish them because we know they represent more than just colors painted over a piece of cloth, they are a symbols of who we are, they are a reminder of what our parents and grandparents fought for and a symbol of the legacy we will leave behind to the generations that will come after us. However, our news team was surprised to find out that in faraway Vaguzia, in the Manist communities of Zimalian origin, an interesting phenomenon is taking place: a flag of MidAranye has appeared.

It is for this reason that we have sent a team to Vaguzia to investigate this rather curious development and talk to the locals there.  Vaguzia is a multi-ethnic and multi confessional country similar in that regard to Tamora. It also has a significant Manist community numbering over 7 million souls, most of whom are of Zimalian origin. They have never been to Tamora or any Midaranye country for that matter and yet they share a cultural connection with Midaranye through the Manist religion. The Manist temples in the country do a good job not just of teaching the faith but also its cultural and historical roots. When our news crews talked to members of the parishes it become obvious that people are aware of things happening in MidAranye as well as having a general idea of the region's history and basic geography. We have met some parishioners who despite never setting foot in Midaranye nevertheless have an emotional attachment to the region. They watch TINS, keep up to date on current events as well as try to understand more of the region's history. They sympathize with our values but do not feel an attachment to one particular MidArayne country but rather the region as a whole, as one parishioner explained. 




Malala Ghazali has been great in explaining how do Manists of Zimalian origin see MidAranye and what does MidAranye mean to them.


We talked to Malala Ghazali, one of the people the people of coming up with the idea of having a MidAranye flag and what it means for the community.

-Please tell how you came with a flag for MidAranye.
-That’s easy really, I didn’t. It wasn’t my idea really, it’s a collaborative effort. A lot of us in the Manist Zimalian community living in Vaguzia were talking online about something like this for months if not more. Some users were using different flags as signatures on their forum posts, had various debates about etc. That’s when I said; why not actually take that from the online environment and move it on the real world?

- So what happen? How did the community react?
-Well it started an endless debate about what which flag is better, how none are good etc it dragged for weeks.

-Until you reached a consensus…
-No, not really. I eventually got tired of waiting and decided to take a version I liked the most and started making some flags and sharing them with friends at the parish and the imam. I figured I can’t wait for the community to reach a consensus that will never come. Also, who’s to say that it has to be one flag? This is not a state sanctioned movement; there can be dozens of flags and variations.

-But why not use the flag of a MidAranye country?
-Because I am not from a Midanraye country or I have no roots there. I know people in our community who use the Tamoran flag but they are people who have roots in Tamora. For them waving the flag is part of their ethnic identity, which is not the case for me. My family traces its roots to Zimalia.

-What does the MidArayne flag mean for you?
-There is a lot of talk about what it represents, for me it’s a cultural symbol connected to my faith. As for the symbols themselves, the green is obviously related to the faith while the lion represent in my opinion the spirit and attitude on MidAranye, that of proud defiance of not going along to get along but of standing your ground and defending your values even of personal cost.

-How is the Faith treated in Vaguzia? Is the government prejudiced against those of our faith?
-The Faith  is treated well, we can worship as we please and Vaguzia has taken in and continues to take in lots of immigrants, especially for Zimalia and Phuebra. So it’s a multicultural place, people are used to our faith and to Islam and the government leaves us alone. But while Vaguzia is great and welcoming it is also not what I would call my culture, I feel I have more in common with Muslim Phuebrans than I do with the majority Vaguziase and their Cult of Izra. One needs only to look at how the government looks like to see why I and many like me do not feel any connection with it.  I like Vaguzia but I feel no need to put of its flag up nor do I believe its values are aligned with mine.

-Do you vote ?
-No, I do not care for Vaguzian politics.


Talking to  Malala Ghazali was an illuminating experience. It showed just how far our Faith has reached Mundus  and how these communities aboard see things. Malala and many parishioners like her see MidAranye with different lenses, they tend to overlook the borders and the huge cultural diversity of our region and focus on its defining values. And for some Manist communities in Vaguzia, those defining values are seen as a counter culture, one that is deeply rotted in ancient traditions that do not change with time and instead ask people to change if they are to belong to them. For us living in Tamora and probably for most living in MidAranye having a MidAranye flag makes little sense but for those living aboard that are connected to our region through our Faith it is a different matter. When talking to the Manist Vaguzians our news team didn’t feel that they were trying to dilute our history but instead trying to find a way to show they are part of our culture and having a MidAranye flag was their solution.


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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We admit: we were wrong and we are glad that’s the case
« Reply #113 on: August 24, 2019, 08:29:22 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Dhul-Hijjah 22, 1440 As-Sabt (Saturday)

We admit: we were wrong and we are glad that’s the case
 
TINS news anchor


Not many days ago we informed the public about a new country that was emerging from isolation: Hassfurt. It’s not hard to remember it, it’s the country whose whole culture is based on the belief that if you look like a Morelander then you’re a saint (some restrictions may apply as you might need to color your hair a bit) and if you look like a Zimalian then there’s something awfully wrong with you. Hassfurt played it safe and as soon as it emerged from isolation it signed no less than seven international treaties showing a thirst for international order akin to King Lapu’s thirst for alcoholic drinks. Of course that love of international treaties did not come from conviction. After all, most of those treaties were drafted by people of the lower stratas as they “politely” would call them and that can’t be good for them but it was a way to shield them from any criticism. We were expecting the international community or what goes by that name to take their offer, we were in fact certain of it. We were however proven wrong, whether it was MidAranye (Tamora and CLysperis), Rokkenjima, Tytor, Achkarein or New Derusmia they all rejected Hassfurt approach to human relations. The Press Office of the Prime Minister of Tytor even called out TINS for being wrong and they were right to do so. While the Helusian Empire and its allies have not issued any criticism of Hassfurt (East Moreland was too busy praising its military industrial complex to take the time), half of Mundus did and being half wrong it’s still being wrong. So we are glad to see there is some hope for Mundus after all. 


Opinion piece: What happen to SANE?


A few months ago the new Ardian alliance/pact called SANE took Mundus by storm. Because of Rokkenjiman threats against China and New Derusmia, which lead Tamora to offer to help protect those nations, the threatened nations banded together with Quintelia to form an organization of 450 million people and 10 trillion dinars /usd. When taken as a single entity SANE was larger than Rokkenjima and more than a match in almost every respect. Furthermore, there was interest in expending the organization since the members agreed to drop the clause that limited membership to nations that bordered an existing member. Yet after such a strong start, the organization now seems to have died down. It is hard to pin point the exact reasons why that happened and harder still to predict if SANE will reemerge from its apparent slumber. However, their apparent failure shows how hard it is for new blocks to continue to be present on the world stage and become relevant. The Helusian Empire manages to exert so much influence over the affairs of Mundus precisely because it’s very hard to new power blocks to continue cooperating and engaging on world affairs. As long as new powers blocks do not appear on the world stage, the Helusian Empire will not only remain as Mundus hegemon but will seem as the only viable security provider for the nonaligned nations of Mundus. The Helusian Empire can be criticized for many things but the lack of competition it gets from the rest of Mundus is not their fault. As long as Mundus remains content to follow their leadership then Mundus is also party to blame for the current situation on international affairs.


God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

Professor and Ayatollah Azad Arak

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Agreement reached on the Alaverdi – Damarga highway link
« Reply #114 on: August 24, 2019, 11:06:27 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Dhul-Hijjah 23, 1440, Al-Ahad (Sunday)

Agreement reached on the Alaverdi – Damarga highway link
 
Damarga, the capital of Pramoria, will be linked via highway to Tamora in less than 12 moths if things go according to plan


The minister of transportation of the federated kingdom of Attica and its counterpart in the kingdom of Pramoria have reached an agreement on expanding each side’s highway to the joint border in order to link the two capitals.  Each side will cover the cost of building its side of the highway and will link up at the border.  The construction is estimated to take up to 12 months and analysts say it will help increase cross border traffic and business as well as help the competitiveness of the VIDA triangle region.

Ever since the kingdom of Pramoria has emerged from isolation, the authorities in the federated kingdom of Attica have tried to enhance cross border cooperation as a way to alleviate the effects of the current recession taking place in the Empire.



MidAranye region sees its first free trade zones

Recent weeks have seen bold announcements by both the Emirate of Royal Seleucid and Kingdom of Clysperis in regards to the establishment of free trade zones. Royal Seleucid announced that it will open the MidAranye Free Trade Zone which “will allow any company to bring in materials or goods without paying any form of import tax and should those materials then be used to help manufacture more than 30% of a finished good within Midaranye it will be permitted to leave without paying any additional taxes.” On the other hand, the kingdom of Clysperis went with a free trade zone in that is part of a larger plan.

Tamoran economic analysis have said that two free zones are very different in approach,  the Royal Seleucid one being perhaps a first in Mundus and at least the first in MidAranye because it offers benefits even if the manufacturing takes place in another country as along as that country is from MidAranye.  Such an approach is unusually generous and is perhaps the best example of how fast cooperation is increasing between Midaranye countries. The Clysperis free zone, on the other hand functions pretty much like any other free zone.

Tamoran businesses have shown interest in both projects. For the Royal Seleucid free trade zone already dozens of manufacturing businesses have shown interest in establishing some sort of presence there. It is well known that Tamoran manufacturing sector has been hard hit by international sanctions and the MidAranye free trade zone in Royal Seleucid is seen as a great opportunity.


King Heydar upholds the decision of court in South Markazi case

King Heydar has decided not to overrule the court in South Markazi calling respect for law as vital. The king's sister Princess Afroditi, which is also the Royal Seleucid ambassador to Lodja, has raised funds and paid the 40 thousand dinars USD that the convicted owed to authorities. Mr.Arvanitotis (the convicted individual) will have to replay the debts through voluntary work. The King also praised Mr. Kontotis , the victim of the theft, for the kindness shown and has said he wants his son, Prince Golzar, to spend time at Mr. Kontotis  farm in order to understand the privilege he has of being born a Soter. The announcement has excited the both Mr. Kontotis‘s family and the local community. Mr. Kontotis has already said he plans on expanding the house and adding an extra room in order to be able house the son of the king of Royal Seleucid. Many in Mr. Kontotis village are proud that he has been named by King Heydar as “Supplier of Food to the Court of the Royal Seleucid Royal Family" as such a title will also raise the standing of the whole village.




Mr. Kontotis's house. This could also be the temporary residence of Prince Golzar of Royal Seleucid for the time he will spend at the farm.



Lakhzovia faces schism 

The native faith of Lakhzovia faces a schism showing that Lakhzovia is not only wrong on international relations by sanctioning Tamora and breaking all contact but also on matters of faith. It remains to be seen if the schism will weaken the Lakhzovian state, so far the Lakhzovian government has stated that it sees it as a religious matter and has not publicly taken a side on the issue.



Michal Elia Kamal performs in Pramoria 

Michal Elia Kamal, one of the most popular Tamoran singers and a native of the federated kingdom of Akkar, has performed for the first time in Pramoria, at the Royal concert hall. Her band Light in Babylon has also performed at the Glastomundus 2019 in East Moreland and the band is now becoming more popular in Pramoria since the country has emerged from isolation.

https://www.facebook.com/michaleliakamalofficial/videos/1841334609459650/

Michal Elia Kamal performing in Damarga (Pramoria).


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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Empress Beatrice shows her usual arrogance and gets a hard lesson
« Reply #115 on: September 01, 2019, 02:48:56 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 2nd Muharram, 1441h (Sunday)

Empress Beatrice shows her usual arrogance and gets a hard lesson 
 
TINS news anchor


This week, Empress Beatrice or the Student of Paul as she likes to call herself, has taken to Twitter to attack Pharaoh Beketaten. The message can be best summed up by this" your people are poor and therefore you should shut up and let us who rule over opulent countries do the talking".

We often see this attitude in the opulent countries of Mundus, their leaders assume that because their countries are rich that somehow must be thanks to their brilliant leadership thanks as if their countries were dirt poor when they took the throne. Sadly, Rookenjima does not hold a monopoly on this kind of arrogance with the Helusian Empire and other being excellent examples of this mentality.

But Empress Beatrice 's statements are more than just arrogant,  they are malicious for she knows full well that the total embargo she put on Clysperis is one of the hurdles that keeps the Clysperi people poor.
In the following posts Pharaoh Beketaten explained to the Servant of Helus the historical tragedies Clysperis faced that handicapped the development of the country and the effects of the sanctions she placed on the Clysperi people. Because make no mistake, regardless of what the foreign media say, those sanctions are paid by the average Clysperi.

After Empress Beatrice was schooled by Pharaoh Beketaten, she resorted to what rich countries always do when poorer countries don't fall in line: bullying. So she sent a criminal wearing uniform to make veiled threats against the Pharaoh. That is Rokkenjiman diplomacy in action.

Lastly, we couldn't help but notice the much higher number of likes the posts of the Servant of Helus also known as Beatrice and her henchman got compared to the Pharaoh. Something which is easily explained by the much higher number of people who are unfortunate enough to call Beatrice their sovereign. We believe it would be a nice gesture to show your support for the Pharaoh by clicking like on her posts and show her that her message is greatly appreciated even outside Clysperis' borders. Let's show the Helusians and their servants that Pharaoh Beketaten is not alone and has the support of many Tamorans.



Pharaoh Beketaten gets warm welcome as she arrives in Djerb   

Pharaoh Beketaten is on a private visit to Tamora the third visit she makes to the Empire after the state visit at the beginning of the year and the working visit she did at the Elysium Economic Forum.

Since this was a private visit, protocol stated that authorities were not to be present at the airport. But while the authorities were not, at least the high ranking ones, the people were. Tens of thousands of people were waiting to greet the Pharaoh. Ever since Clysperis has emerged from isolation, Pharaoh Beketaten has managed to capture the hearts of the Tamoran people like no other foreigner has done before. Her speeches and social media messages while controversial in some parts of Mundus and even Midaranye, where King Heydar has expressed criticism, are nevertheless resonating with the Tamoran people. Pharaoh Beketaten has been relentless in her criticism of foreign powers and the detrimental effect they have on Midaranye. But more importantly, Pharaoh Beketaten has shown that poor countries can have a voice and one that is critical of the current international cartel running Mundus. She has not been intimidated by criticism and has continued to tell her people, the peoples of Midaranye and Mundus in general that the current international order is not just unfair but also illegitimate and thus has no sway over her kingdom and the Midaranye region. Furthermore, instead of looking at the liberal Western countries with undue reverence she has reserved that respect for the religions and people of Midaranye and she has often publicly expressed her admiration for the Tamoran people and the Empire.



You know the Pharaoh is loved by many in Tamora when you see imams and faithful praying for her safe landing.



Tamorans waiting for the Pharaoh to arrive at the Djerb International Airport



The International Women's Council is announced by the Queen of RS is proving controversial   


The Queen of RS has announced an invitation to the Ipsus Royal Palace to launch her new initiative, The International Women's Council. While the initiative can and should be praised for promoting the vital role women have in society, the initial speech goes at times beyond that and seems to suggest that women should somehow feel bad that a field like film making is "dominated " by their fathers, husbands and sons. The speech seems to suggest men and women are not halfs of the whole that forms the family but separate components that are competing against each other.

However, that is not the major problem of the speech but the fact that in the end it gives the example of an unrepentant Lodjan prostitute and praises her instead of praising the millions of women whom in the same situation would rather face starvation than result to such lows. The praise doesn't stop there and goes so far as to consider that the activity of corrupting other women and turn them into prostitutes while profiting from it is something to be praised and not condemned in the harshest of terms.

The International Women's council suffers from too much ambition. In an effort to gather at the table women from all countries it nevertheless has to result to the  common denominator between women from all countries and of all morality ( or lack of thereof) and in the end that means having to accept women who just have notoriety regardless of what they did to earn that notoriety. Because of that the IWC fails in maintaining any standard of decency and unless it sees some kind of reform in the future it is just another initiative akin to many outside MidAranye where people gather a table to only talk but without having anything relevant to say and for whom morals remain at best a nuisance and at worst a side note not worthy of mentioning out loud.



The Imperial Enclave announces that over 100 thousand work permits have been issued to Clysperi workers   

The Imperial press office has released a statement that so far 100 thousand work permits have been issued for Clysperi workers for employment in the Imperial Enclave. Earlier this year an agreement has been reached with the Kingdom of Clysperis allowing for workers from the two kingdoms to work in the other kingdom upon being issued a work permit. The press office has said that demand for the work permits remains strong and that it is expected to continue at that rate until the end of the year if not more. Authorities have not changed their initial estimation that 500 thousand permits will be issued by the end of this year.


Pharaoh Beketaten keeps her promise to her "best friend"   

Pharaoh Beketaten had promised a Clysperi girl of our faith to that she will get to see Tamora and Pharaoh Beketaten delivered.  Soraya Danesh arrived in Tamora earlier this week along with the official Clysperi delegation. But the surprise the didn’t stop there. This Sunday, Soraya was also present at Great Temple in Djerb standing in the front alongside the highest women of the Empire. The Supreme Ayatollah started his sermon by greeting the friend of the Pharaoh and asking her if she would be available to talk after the service to which an emotional Soraya could barely contain her emotions when answering “yes”. 

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!


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The influx of Clysperi workers create the first problems
« Reply #116 on: September 22, 2019, 06:46:34 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): Muharram 23, 1441 Al-Ahad (Sunday)

The influx of Clysperi workers create the first problems
 
A restaurant in Djerb, like most such establishments it is segregated by sex.

The recent influx of Clysperi workers to the Imperial Enclave creates the first issues. Since the Imperial Enclave has begun opening up the labor market by issuing work permits, over 200 thousand Clysperi workers have begun working in the Imperial Enclave, the only Tamoran kingdom to have opened the labor market to the Clysperi workforce.

Clysperi are choosing to work in Tamora because of the higher salaries than the ones their home kingdom and send the money they earn to their families back home. It also helps that there are some cultural familiarities between the two people. Clysperis has a significant Manist minority in their kingdom and are familiar with some of the customs and norms we have. There are however cultural barriers,  the most significant being the fact that Clysperi do not speak Parthian and thus employment opportunities remain limited to low skilled jobs.

The business community is pleased with the influx of workers allowing them to cut labor costs in the current recession. However, there have been incidents caused by cultural differences. The head of the Djerb police department has come out with a statement regarding these incidents and has also issued a series of recommendations for Clysperi working in Tamora:

"Based on the incidents he had so far we have prepared a series of guidelines for the Clysperi community in Djerb which is now growing at a rapid pace. The main issues that the guidelines touch are the cultural norms that so far have created issues for foreign workers:

First, public transport is reserved for the slave population of the city. Unlike in other parts of Tamora, Djerb uses mass transit exclusively slaves so we ask Clysperi to respect that rule.
Second, while it is not mandatory by law, for obvious reasons amenities tend to be segregated by sex. Owners set the rules and asking for exception is pointless. Insisting to receive an exception or not respecting that rule is cause for the police to intervene.
Thirdly, while Tamoran citizens can own firearms, regular foreigners are not allowed to carry firearms or buy them. Foreign workers should be aware of these restrictions especially since firearms are commonplace in Djerb.
Forth, police officers do not speak Clysperi so knowing at least basic Parthian when dealing with the police is extremely helpful. "

The Djerb police department has added there have not been serious incidents and that they expect that in the medium term such incidents will drop in number as the Clysperi community grows and becomes more aware of the particular customs of the Imperial Enclave and Tamora in general.



The city of Djerb to cancel surveillance system     

Djerb local authorities have installed last week surveillance cameras in the center of the city to deter crime and help police track criminals. The authorities proceed to install the cameras despite widespread opposition from residents which raised privacy concerns. 
However, less than 48 hours after they were installed all cameras were nonoperational following serious vandalism. According to police most cameras were shot by unidentified individuals presumably in opposition to the local authorities planned 24 hours surveillance.  Following the incidents local authorities have said they will now abandon their program of surveillance and seek other means to combat crime.



Machal Mining incorporates in Elysium

Machal Mining, the largest Tamoran mining business which owns several important mining licenses in Zimalia, has announced they have registered a subsidiary in Elysium called Machal Mining International. The company had previously announced their intention at the Elysium Economic Forum where they have also said they plan on moving their foreign assets, in their case the mining operations in Zimalia, to the Elysium subsidiary with the goal of eventually going public on the Elysium stock exchange.



MidAranye Commodity Exchange praises Tamoran expansion of mining operations in Zimalia 

The MidAranye Commodity Exchange, a private institution owned by investors from Tamora and Royal Seleucid, has welcomed Machal Mining expansion of mining operations in Zimalia.
"Machal Mining have been selling their commodities though use since the exchange became operational. We are pleased to see them expanding in Zimalia and we believe this is beneficial for all parties involved. On our part it will mean more trades on our exchange increasing our market share of commodities transactions and that is good for everyone since more competition between financial centers is in the interests of investors. "

The MidAranye Commodity Exchange trades commodities from Tamora, Royal Seleucid, Zimalia and SICR ( China) and was launched with the aim of offering Midaranye business,  especially Tamoran ones,  an alternative where they could trade their commodities without the threat of sanctions. Sources close to the exchange say that in the future it is likely that both Clysperis and Pramoria would begin selling their commodities though MCE. On the Tamoran side, businesses use MCE almost exclusively and avoid other foreign exchanges.



The Tamoran - Clysperi negotiations over tariffs reductions stall

Sources close the Foreign Office have said that the current talks between Tamora and Clysperis on dropping tariffs aimed at bringing the two economies closer together are stalling. The issue is contentious; on the Tamoran side tariffs are huge by all standards reaching even 300 percent in some cases and are seen as part of a long standing policy aimed as insuring self-reliance for the Empire's economy. On the other hand, Clysperis while not having nearly such high tariffs are nevertheless worried that a tariff drop could see the much larger Tamoran economy "flood" their market with Tamoran manufactured goods and drive some Clysperi out of business. Some even going so far to suggest that dropping tariffs for Tamoran goods could lead to more religious violence as the one previously seen in the Kingdom or that some Clysperi businessmen could resort to supporting rogue elements of Clysperi government as the ones we have seen recently executed.

Furthermore, analysts have said that the recent recalling of Prince Naser to Djerb is most liely responsible for the impasse in negotiations. The prince cooperated very well with the Clysperi Pharaoh and had understandably much authority over Djerb's bureaucracy. Without him leading our delegation,  business interests that seek to postpone indefinitely the tariff drop are now wielding much more influence and the bureaucracy is now moving in the usual slow pace.



The Imperial Navy completes its expansion plans

The Imperial navy has received its forth destroyer and now has completed its massive expansion plan which saw it acquire 2 amphibious class ships and 4 destroyers. The ships are all Seleucid designs and half those ships were manufactured in Royal Seleucid with the other half built by Tamora. Building such massive warships has been a first in Tamora which is not known as a naval power and until 1958 was still a landlocked country. The Tamoran ships were built by Sarafian Shipyards in the joint Tamoran-Quintelian shipyard of Attica.


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!


Offline Markus

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The MidAranye Economic Corridor gains traction
« Reply #117 on: September 25, 2019, 07:50:47 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 26th Muharram, 1441h (Wednesday)

The MidAranye Economic Corridor gains traction
 
The planned MidAranye Economic Corridor will help connect Tamora's industrial centers to the MidAranye region and beyond



The recently announced MidAranye Economic Corridor gains traction as Royal Seleucid shows interest in the project. King Heydar has announced recently that he will be building a new major highway between Tamora and Royal Seleucid as well as expand the capacity of the Seleucid ports on the Sea of Kyne. Tamoran authorities have of course welcomed the announcement.
 
Spoiler:  MidAranye Economic Corridor • show


MidAranye Economic Corridor as was proposed at the Elysium Economic Forum:



Green - phase one
Red - phase two
Gray - phase three





Economic analysts have praised the decision and according to them the Southern half of the corridor is now secure with Royal Seleucid and Pramoria agreeing to the project. While Pramorian authorities have not yet made any statement of the project, Pramoria has reached an agreement last month where their capital port city will be linked via a highway to Damarga, Tamora’s largest port. The same analysts say that now the crucial next step will be to see if the Abuqiyan authorities also join the project. Without them the project will likely never be able to achieve the link between Tamora and Clysperis that Djerb want so much to see happening since it is very unlikely that where Abuqiya will not join, the countries of Vanora and Safraen will.  One analyst said:

“An economic corridor between Tamora, Royal Seleucid, Pramoria and perhaps, in the more distant future, the Slavic Federation is not a small achievement. It helps link even more the major economies of MidAranye however it doesn’t really bring something new to the table. Linking South MidArnaye to the North will truly change things for the region. Northern MidAranye is more politically diverse than the rest of MidAranye, you don’t really see much cooperation between our government and Vanora or Safraen. Clysperis is Tamora’s only partner of the countries of the Safren Gulf and linking Tamora to Clysperis is vital for Djerb for both economic but also political reasons. “

The analyst added that in his opinion it is very unlikely that Djerb will be able to convince Vanora and Safren to join the project: “I think they have been mentioned in the proposed plan more out of political convenience rather than anything else. There is little desire in the North to cooperate with the larger MidAranyre region or at least that has been the case so far. In fact I believe it is more likely see Tauradalia joining the project than Vanora or Safren.”

Sources from the Foreign Office have said that the imperial government is ready to engage in talks with Abuqiya in order to see if they can come up with a way for them to join the project.
While the business community is supportive of the project, not all are happy with it. Some critics, especially among the Church, view the project as irresponsible because it is taking place at a time when Tamora is in a recession and they would rather see the money spent on other projects. Furthermore, some in the clergy have been critical that Socram has not been factored in the project in some way especially since Vanora and Safren have been mentioned. Socram has a very large Manist population and the Church has been more outspoken recently about the need to see imperial government do more to help the Manist communities aboard. 



Thanasis Polakis, CEO of Polakis Energy, goes on an international tour to secure funds for the Haghighi Dam   

Polakis Enegy has released a statement today saying that Thanasis Polakis will go on an international tour where he will meet business leaders and will also seek to secure funding for the Haghighi Dam in Zimalia. Construction of the dam is well underway but funding has been stuck at 80% for some time and needs a further 1 bln dinars/usd in order to reach its funding goal.
 
Mr. Polakis will be visiting Safren, Vanora, Abydos, Allied States of Ardia, Nueva Ardia, Toshikawa, Marseilles and Aquitaine. However, analysts are skeptical about the initiative saying that “most of the countries on the list are not friendly towards Tamora. While investors there will most likely be willing to listen to the proposals made by Mr. Polakis, we must not forget that there are hundreds of other opportunities competing for the same investors and the overwhelming majority of them are in countries that are not under international sanctions.”



The International Energy Institute (IEI) opens in Josai   

The International Energy Institute opens in Josai. IEI is an NGO that aims to do research on the energy sector in Mundus, analyze the impact of government policies have on the energy sector and seek to promote pragmatic policies to governments around the world.

IEI started with a 10 million dinars/USD grant from Polakis Energy who has said that it hopes that IEI will counter balance the green energy lobby in Mundus. The head of the institute, Javid Motafaram, has said that IEI “seeks to be a voice for the energy sector of Mundus” adding that “we often see Mundus leaders talk extensively about green energy and how they are willing to pour in billions in subsidies and tax breaks for them without anyone challenging them, asking if that is wise or if that money spent actually produces the desired effects.”

Mr. Motafaram has denied claims that IEI is anti green energy saying IEI is for all sources of energy if they are viable economically without subsidies and tax breaks. He has said he has picked Josai as HQ for the institute because of Josai’s assumed neutrality and has called the city state “an oasis” where researchers and guests from around Mundus can meet to discuss and debate policies without any political hindrance from the local government. “We chose Josai to make a statement; IEI aims to work with all that are interested in furthering the goals of the energy sector regardless of their country of origin.”

Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

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Imperial Address on the peace and security of the MidAranye region
« Reply #118 on: September 28, 2019, 11:27:07 PM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 30th Muharram, 1441h (Sunday)

Imperial Address on the peace and security of the MidAranye region
 
Emperor Abbas Safavid addressing the nation


"As-salamu alaykum fellow Tamorans from all the kingdoms of Tamora and beyond the borders of the empire.

Ever since our emergence from isolation we have seen the international community take a critical stance on our traditions and our way of life. Without knowing or understanding our culture they sought to pressure us into changing our long standing laws and institutions, to make the Empire more like the rest of Mundus. Had they bothered to better understand us they would have known that what they seek to change in Tamora is something that no ruler, even an Emperor, can change because they are God’s laws as it is written in the book of our Prophet. 

But while the far away nations were sanctioning us or issueing statements of condemnation, the nations close to us, that know our ways and our history, continued to have good relations and work with us.  The sanctions placed on us have not damaged relations with our friends, the Emirate of Royal Seleucid, in fact I would say it has brought us even closer. We have worked with them on numerous projects and continue to do so. It is perhaps of no surprise that our royal families are soon to be celebrating the marriage of the Crown and princess Thekla.

The excellent relations we had and continue to have with the Emirate of Royal Seleucid have created a climate that has encouraged others nations from our region to emerge from isolation. More nations now have a reason to come out and engage knowing there are others who share their views  and perspectives on history, culture and how countries should be governed. MidAranye is now more vibrant than ever before and though our religions, traditions and cultures sometimes different a great deal, there is in many cases a common perspective on life and how we see Mundus and its affairs. We, who are part of MidAranye, tend to be more religious, more patriotic, more cautious when approaching international organizations or treaties and much more reluctant to give up our sovereignty than in other parts of Mundus. This different perspective often leads to us being at odds with much of the rest of Mundus. Outside of MidAranye our concerns are often not understood while our consistent preservation of our traditions is seen as archaic or even backward at times.

It is in the national interest of the Empire for MidAranye to continue to be secure so that the nations that have emerged from isolation continue to express their vision of Mundus without fear of retribution from non MidAranye countries and for other MidAranye countries to have the confidence to emerge from isolation. It is for this reason that I am announcing a new policy in regards to MidAranye. From now on, the Empire of Tamora will play a more active role in the security of the region. Any foreign government intervention by a non MidAranye country in the internal affairs of a MidAnraye country will be seen an aggressive act by our Empire and any military intervention by non MidAranye country will be interpreted as a hostile act against the Empire. MidAranye has changed a lot in recent years, there is no need for nations outside of MidAranye to interfere here. However, we do understand that there was a time when perhaps such interventions were needed so any agreements currently in place would of course not be affected by our new policy.

In accordance with this new policy, after close consultations with Pharaoh Beketaten, Tamora will deploy a continent of troops in the Kingdom of Clysperis to extend Tamora’s security umbrella to the Northen part of MidAranye. The Kingdom of Clysperis is a close ally of the Empire and Pharaoh Beketaten, I believe I need not mention, is a close friend of Tamora. For those not familiar with MidAranye history this might seem as unprecedented but we know that in the past such close military cooperation between Tamora and Clysperis has existed and has brought benefits to both nations.

Lastly, I would like to express our commitment to more cooperation with our MidAranye friends and neighbors. More projects joint projects are being started, some at our initiative but many more at the initiative of our friends. This is proof that our common perspective on the world is a good foundation for future cooperation.

Thank you all, God bless Tamora!"



The Imperial government has issued a press statement on troop deployments to Clysperis


Following the Imperial address, the government has released information regarding the deployment of troops that will take place in the kingdom of Clysperis. According to the government the troops and equipment will be moved there by the end of the month. As announced in the imperial address the contingent is now part of what is described as the Safavid doctrine which seeks to provide a security umbrella for the nations of MidAranye.

Spoiler:  troop deployment in Clyperis • show

Navel Contingent
1 x Steregushchiy-class corvette
2 x Varshavyanka subs

Army Contingent
5,000 soldiers
20 x 9P157-2 Khrizantema-S
20 x BMP-3
20 x Tornado-G
10 x TOS-1
20 x Buk
10 x 2A36 Giatsint-B
50 x GAZ Tigr

Air Contingent
1 x A-50E
12 x Ka-50
12 x Su-34
12 x Su-35
1x  Il-78


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!

OOC: Thanks to Dave for writing the make up (number of troops, equipment) of the contingent.

Offline Markus

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Ramsar Palace to undergo renovation
« Reply #119 on: September 29, 2019, 11:13:27 AM »
Local date in Tamora (Islamic calendar): 30th Muharram, 1441h (Sunday)

Ramsar Palace to undergo renovation
 
Ramsar Palace is made entirely out of wood, a rarity in Tamora

The estate, located at the outskirts of Djerb, has almost 1000 acres(390 ha) of land and belongs to the Safavid Imperial family. The palace is often used by imperial family members as a place of retreat where they can enjoy privacy outside the eyes of the press. During its over two hundred year history it has hosted various dignitaries including the most recent Pharaoh Ramses V, who has lived there for years in the period which he stayed in exile in Tamora because the Kingdom of Clysperis had been under soviet occupation. According to sources, the renovations will be done rather quick since the palace has been well maintained.



Over 100 Tamoran students have applied to the new Islamic university in Abydos   

According to the government of the federated kingdom of Altai, more than 100 students have applied to study at the new university in Abydos. The students, most of them Muslims, have applied to the university because of the prestige associated with having a diploma in the “country of Mecca” as many call Abydos in the Tamoran Muslim community. Religious education in Altai, as in most of Tamora, is in high demand and the new Islamic university in Abydos, unlike most foreign university, offers not just a traditional religious education but also respects basic requirements like segregation of students by sex.



Head of Foreign Affairs, Alya Safavid attended the Memorial Day service in Safraen   

Head of Foreign Affairs, Alya Safavid, attended the Memorial Day service in Safraen. While the incidents in Safraen happened long before our nation emerged from isolation, Lady Safavid explained why she attended the service there: “Safraen is part of MidAranye and the events there have implications for the entire region. The tragic events that took place in Safraen are also a reminder of the risks the region faced at a time when Tamora and many of the countries of today were in isolation. I think it serves as a reminder of why MidAranye countries need to work together closely. Whether some may like it or not, God has put as all on the same boat that is MidAranye and we have to work together.

I think it is important for all nations to not forget the Soviet calamity that hit Northern MidAranye and destroyed so many lives. The uncomfortable truth is that although the Soviets are no longer in MidAranye they still occupy and oppress the people of Kaitaine and its satellite states. Pharaoh Beketaten of Clysperis has been extremely vocal in her criticism of the Soviets since her kingdom has been greatly affected by the Soviet occupation. Tamora and Clysperis are working together to see that the Soviets and their destructive ideology are finally defeated and the people liberated. Memorials such as the one in Safraen perhaps explain better than speeches why the Tamoran and Clysperi governments are so adamant in their opposition to the communist government of Kaitaine. “

When asked if the government of Safraen should also recognize the Theocracy of Kaitaine, she answered: “I do not believe this is a good time to discuss this. I will however say that both Tamora and Clysperis offer good arguments for that position and I also believe it is a position would do justice to the victims and the families that were affected by the Soviet invasion.”   



President Kadassa flaunts his lack of knowledge in front of university students

President Kadassa offered a sad example of ignorance when we needed to be reminded who Pharaoh Beketaten-Hesy-Re was and then boasted that he cannot locate Clysperis on the map. To make matters worse, the statements were made in front of university students. None of the students dared to criticize the President for his remarks showing the full control the has over the lives of the people of Lakhzovia. No doubt that President Kadassa can locate only one foreign country on the map and taht is Rokkenjima, which incidentally is also where the de facto capital of Lakhzovia is located. However, the fault is not entirely with President Kadassa. After all, had Rokkenjima not supported his regime, the people of Lakhzovia would have longed removed him from power. But Rokkenjima supported his regime just as it supports the current Soviet regime of Kaitaine. 


Until next time: God bless the Emperor! God bless Tamora!