Lodamun

[imperialpearl]

By virtue of its economic relationship and now budding security relationship with Kafuristan, Lodamun has by the assessment of numerous analysts and commentators of the sort, enhanced its involvement in Majatra. Although within these assessments the importance of Kafuristani crude oil and natural gas has often been highlighted at the principles means through which Lodamun draws justification for its enhanced relationship with the south-eastern majatran state, there is a common ground shared between Kensington and al-Kasraj: concerns related to the rise of radical/fundamentalist ahmadism in the region. The victory of the fundamentalist Hezb-e Ahmadi (Ahmadi Party) in Solentia and its growing appeal among the nation’s young, male population had been a matter on the radar of the Lodamese security and intelligence community. 

At a congressional hearing on regional and global terrorism, then SSA Director William Schotts, concluded that although the conflict involving Kafuristan and Istalia poses a clear and present threat to Lodamese prosperity, the rise of Ahmadi fundamentalism within Majatra, particularly in Jakania and the South-Eastern Majatran states ought not to be disregarded. “It is my belief that although the present danger remains Istalia’s illegal war against Kafuristan. We ought not to turn a blind eye to the rise of Ahmadi fundamentalism and extremism in that region as it not only places our interests in that region at a unique risk but given extremism’s allure towards exporting said extremism/fundamentalism to other territories, it poses a threat to global security.”  With the conflict between Kafuristan and Istalia having been settled via a negotiated peace between the three nations involved, a tentative reconstruction effort within the nation begins but some security analysts have noted that it could be seriously hindered by the rise of the Ahmadi Party in Solentia and the ensuing Solentian civil war.

At an impromptu press conference on the stairs of the Lodamese Embassy in Al-Kasraj, Lodamese Ambassador to Kafuristan, Rosanna Lewden confirmed that the diplomatic mission had been “monitoring” the situation in Solentia for the better half of the past 8 months. She noted that the rise of the Hezb-e Ahmadi had been similarly matched by the Mutahad Kargar Gond (MKG), a left-leaning party largely comprised of trade unionists and those sympathetic to the broader Solentian worker’s rights movement. Since the outbreak of the civil conflict, both the MKG and Jaish-e Ahmadi (the paramilitary wing of the Hezb-e Ahmadi) have been engaged in a series of brutal skirmishes which had triggered a migrant crisis as thousands flee the ever-intensifying conflict. Most recently, it had been reported that the Hezb-e Ahmadi (ASIM) had been taking advantage of the conflict war in Solentia and were setting up training camps in Solentia’s isolated and mountainous Saspain Wilayat region.

 Ambassador Lewden noted that although the civil conflict remained of particular concern for the Lodamese Government, the rise of ASIM posed a greater threat. Pointing to the Gath Defence Collective’s assessment of the terrorist organisation, Lewden sought to underscore the group’s dangerous potential. “Although we recognise that the situation in Solentia is precarious and poses numerous security risks to Kafuristan and Lodamun, especially in this time of Kafuri reconstruction, ASIM’s resurgence in the area is of particular concern. We note this group’s dangerous potential to globalise terror and to export fundamentalism and extremism to all corners of the world,” Ambassador Lewden explained. With the civil conflict in Solentia brewing and Jakania seemingly without stable governance, many analysts have noted that these are the perfect conditions for ASIM and other groups to spring roots and grow their numbers.

As Lodamun is primarily concerned with the relative stability of Kafurstan as the nation rebuilds from its decades-long conflict with Istalia, it is likely that Kensington will take a more active role in the nation, particularly as it relates to security issues. “Instability in al-Kasraj creates uncertainty for Kensington. One can not begin to understand the importance of Kafuristani crude oil and natural gas imports for the Lodamese economy, as although the nation imports from a diverse selection of nations including Hutori, Dorvik, Lourenne and Aldegar, sweet crude from Kafuristan is largely responsible for fueling Berkwaki’s burgeoning downstream petrochemicals industry in the absence of Trigunian energy imports,” Leon Porter, a senior research analyst for the Centre for Geostrategic Policy and Research explained. “Given the fact that Kafuristan and Lodamun have recently signed a broad security agreement, I’d expect to see greater cooperation between the Lodamese security and intelligence community (inclusive of the NIB, SSA, ODI and GCO) and the Kafuri General Intelligence Directorate and the Military Intelligence Directorate, with the Lodamese Armed Forces to play a much larger role in the area.”

[imperialpearl]

As Kalopia’s position in Solentia deteriorates amidst a rallying of the various warring factions against its intervention into the nation’s bloody internal conflict, Commander of the Lodamese Armed Forces’ Majatran Command (MAJCOM) and Director of National Assessments William Pittman met in Helios with top officials within the Kalopian Government and defence establishment, with the intention of reaffirming Lodamun’s support for the nation’s intervention alongside acting on earlier recommendations towards establishing clear lines of communication. Although the nation had seen initial success in the early stages of its “limited military intervention” having captured numerous towns and cities on the Kalopia-Solentian border alongside a bold raid which captured the nation’s capital, much of the steam/momentum generated during said early stages has been largely lost as Kalopian forces becoming increasingly bogged down as they face tougher resistance. 

It had been reported in both Solentian and Kalopian media that both the Hezb-e Ahmadi and the Mutahad Kargar Gond (MKG) had formed an unlikely alliance, unifying their forces against the Kalopian intervention. This united front, coined “the Ahmadi Union” has since made significant progress in halting the expansion of the Kalopian “safe zone.” The Special Directorate for Solentia (SDS), the entity which has been overseeing Kalopia’s intervention into Solentia noted that the formation of the Ahmadi Union was “deeply ironic” adding that “the very factions who initiated this devastating civil war for power among themselves have now united against Kalopia, a nation that came to stop the bloodshed and restore stability.” It has also been reported that since Kalopia’s intervention, ASIM (Ahmadi State in Majatra) forces have had the unintended effect of “super-charing” the terrorist organisation’s extremist sentiments. From suicide bombings in the safe zone to the proclamation of a “jihad” against Kalopia, Helios’ worst nightmare, a protracted conflict is gradually being realised.

In meeting with key officials within the Kalopian Government and the SDS, General Gerrard Stedman reaffirmed Lodamun’s support for Kalopia’s intervention, offering that the nation [Kalopia] stands as a bulwark against the rise of extremism in the Majatran continent. He noted that with Associate Secretary of Defence for Majatra Phineas Gorley having affirmed Lodamun’s support for Kalopia and proposed the creation of clear lines of communication between the two states recognising their shared interests in the region, there was now a need for such lines of communication to be established. The expansion of King Bassam Naval Air Base to host the Lodamese Armed Forces Command and Control Centre/Forward operations base for MAJCOM is likely to play a major role in the coming years, even as the Kalopian intervention begins to lose momentum. In speaking with Kalopian the respective heads of SDS, including Vice-President Melis Sahin, Minister of Defense Theodoros Dervishi and Minister of Internal Affairs Herolinda Jakupi, General Stedman stated that broad airstrikes against ASIM targets were an option which was currently being considered by the Haney Administration in Kensington. 

At an impromptu press conference following his meetings with Kalopian officials, both General Stedman and Pittman noted that the Haney Administration has considered its options, noting that recognising the ever-changing dynamic in the nation. “President Haney continues to monitor the situation in Solentia, Kalopia and Kafuristan. I can note that he has had numerous phone calls with President Blerta Rexhepi on how Lodamun could support Kalopian forces in Solentia alongside achieving our own objectives of bringing about the complete destruction of ASIM and heralding a more stable Solentia. I’d like to note that an intervention similar to Kalopia’s is not being considered by the National Security Council,” Pittman explained. It being reported that even as works in King Bassam Naval Air Base continues, numerous aircraft from the Lodamese Air Force are reportedly en route to Kafuristan for “permanent basing” including F-16s and F-15s.

[imperialpearl]

With considerable pressure mounting related to Kalopia’s stalled efforts in alleviating the humanitarian crisis developing in Solentia amidst the internal conflict, its ‘limited military intervention’ and the ensuing blockade which has had the unlikely result of inducing a minor famine among Solentia’s vulnerable and displaced, President John Haney announced the Lodamese blueprint for addressing the humanitarian crisis which has befallen the nation. The announcement came at a press conference held at Whitehall following a meeting with key members of his cabinet including Secretary of State Oliver Caillou, Secretary of Defence Kristian Harding and Administrator of the Lodamese Agency for International Development (LAID) Barry Slater. “The situation in Solentia is untenable. It is clear that the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Solentia demands immediate action,” President Haney said. Although since announcing its intentions to seek the ‘complete destruction of ASIM’ and the ‘re-stabilisation of Solentia’, the Haney Administration had been largely mum on its supposed approach to the humanitarian crisis. 

Some have speculated that wherein Kalopia’s intervention had covered numerous domains including a direct ground assault alongside a broader humanitarian effort (ranging from aid to accepting refugees), Lodamun’s involvement would have been at an arm’s distance and would have likely been limited to airstrikes against key targets throughout the nation. “In underscoring Lodamun’s relationship to the situation in Solentia as being one connected to its continued support for Kafuristan even as the nation continues to rebuild after the devastating conflict against Istalia, President Haney and Secretary [Oliver] Caillou have not offered any comment as to the extent of Lodamun’s “intervention”. It is my belief that given the nature of the conflict, and the fact that King Bassam Naval Air Base is certainly being primed for its first major test as a major operations centre in Majatra for the Lodamese Armed Forces, our involvement in Solentia would likely be limited to airstrikes against certain targets and persons of interest throughout the country,” Kevin Harmon, a strategist with the Centre for Geostrategic Policy and Research explained.

In lamenting the aid flowing into Solentia from Kalopia via the safe zone established by Kalopian forces was simply ‘not enough’, Haney said that LAID and the Lodamese Air Force are likely to work with the SDS (Special Directorate for Solentia) in coordinating increased humanitarian airdrops within the safe zone. He noted that it was important that LAID and the SDS establish corridors for humanitarian aid for persons “trapped” in Ahmadi Union-controlled territory. “It is imperative that LAID work with the SDS to establish humanitarian corridors within the areas around the Safe Zone so that persons within those areas can access humanitarian aid. What we seek to do here is to avoid a broader famine which will only worsen the humanitarian situation,” Haney explained. 

Secretary of State Oliver Caillou, stated that although the administration was not concerned that the conflict in Solentia might develop into a larger one (involving various combatant nations), it was nonetheless concerned amidst the rise of ASIM and the formation of the Ahmadi Union and how these entities could ultimately stimy Lodamese efforts towards alleviating ‘unnecessary suffering’. “As we’ve seen on numerous occasions in other situations throughout the world, in those instances where nations provide humanitarian aid to populations under significant strain, humanitarian aid is often intercepted by warlords seeking to create their own fiefdoms,” Secretary Caillou noted. He added that there was considerable room for the LAID and the Lodamese Air Force to work with the Baeguk peacekeepers which are reportedly being sent to Kalopia to assist Kalopian forces in establishing stability in the safe zone. “We maintain a positive relationship with Baeguk, thus I believe that there is room for cooperation among our personnel in ensuring the Solentian people can receive the humanitarian assistance they so desperately need,” he added.

Secretary of Defence Kristian Harding confirmed that the Lodamese Navy was forming a task force to establish a sea-borne humanitarian corridor off the Eastern and Southern Solentian coasts. He noted that a new Expeditionary Action Group (EAG) was being formed with the intention of establishing a clear Lodamese presence in the area alongside protecting the sea-borne humanitarian “bridge.” “What we have worked out with the Lodamese Navy is an arrangement wherein two of our amphibious landing ships will act as massive humanitarian aid ships and will anchor themselves as close to the coast without of course beaching themselves. These ships possess LCACs (Landing Craft Air Cushions) which can be used to ferry aid from the ship to the shore where LAID personnel will establish a temporary distribution centre. I have been informed that the Lodamese Marine Corps, who will be accompanying the EAG will provide helicopter support via the V-22 which will augment the efforts of the LCACs in bringing aid ashore,” Secretary Harding detailed. 

He added that there were considerations being made with the Kafuri Government related to the potential for overland humanitarian aid via the Kafuristani border, however, such plans are still being negotiated. President Haney noted that recognising the fact that to facilitate the aforementioned sea-borne humanitarian corridor, LAID personnel will be required in Solentia, he noted that should any action be taken which might endanger the lives of Lodamese citizens in the country, the EAG alongside aircraft stationed in Kafuristan would have no qualms in mounting a disproportionate response against enemy combatants. “As we conduct these humanitarian operations, should harm befall a Lodamese citizen, I am prepared to authorise a particularly disproportionate response against enemy combatants.”

[imperialpearl]

Although it has been noted that both nations have maintained cordial relations, diplomatic and/or even economic contact between Lodamun and Deltaria has been largely non-existent. Lodamun’s policy towards the Majatran continent has been largely marked by its inherent distrust of the Beiteynuese-led order on the continent, which has in many parts led to what some have considered an underdeveloped ‘Majatra Policy.’ Although successive administrations have made attempts towards engaging with the continent, albeit through engaging certain, “like-minded” states on the continent namely Kafuristan, their engagement with other territories outside of this self-imposed bubble has been minimal. Yet, out of the announcement of a new, more open-minded government in Čahtica, the Haney Administration believes that there is an opportunity to be had in expanding its engagement with Deltaria. 

Deltaria has long occupied an interesting space in the Majatran continent. The nation has seen numerous political systems, economic models and geopolitical strategies all of which have set it aside from others on the continent as a clear non-conformist. Although it has lent its historic strength to some of the continent’s more successive regional integration movements including the MSCO and the Majatran Association (MA), it has traditionally maintained a position on the continent as a broad independent. Some have noted that from that angle, there are numerous similarities which could be drawn between Lodamun and Deltaria, particularly on their historic “independence” streaks. Although for Lodamun such a streak has come to a sort of ending as the nation slipped into the Anantonese Empire, it nonetheless maintains a unique sort of independence under the AE structure.

The election of President Dražen Aleksić and the dramatic transformation of the Deltarian internal governance apparatus have been received by many as a net positive for both the economy and regional security. “Immediately out the door, President Aleksić has demonstrated that his government is keen on restructuring the Deltarian state to exert much-needed stability in Southern Majatra. A resurgent Deltaria in this regard is certainly a nation we can work with,” State Department Press Secretary Raymond Hill, explained. According to PS Hill, Secretary of State Oliver Caillou and Merchant-General Charlotte Farr were reportedly en route to Čahtica to meet with President Aleksić and key members of his cabinet. He noted that although Secretary Caillou intends to use the meeting as a means of first brokering diplomatic and economic relations between the two states, he’d also use it as an opportunity to advance greater coordination among nations becoming increasingly involved in the Solentian humanitarian crisis. 

Recently, both President Aleksić and Foreign Minister Nikola Hrnjkaš met with officials from the Ahmadi Union (the leading political entity in Solentia) where his government pledged some T25m (LOD $24.240m) in humanitarian aid to the party. The Lodamese State Department is currently coordinating a major humanitarian effort in the nation involving airdrops in the Solentian interior and the construction of a temporary sea-side distribution centre for humanitarian aid on the nation’s eastern and southern coastline. “The Secretary believed that this was an opportunity for both our nations to cooperate and to coordinate our efforts. He intends to broach the idea of a potential deal for the transfer of Solentian refugees for temporary resettlement in Deltaria under the auspices of Lodamese financial aid. Under that proposal, Deltaria would be asked to accept refugees from Solentia and the Lodamese Government, through the Lodamese Agency for International Development (LAID) will cover much of the costs associated with their transfer and resettlement,” Hill explained.

Beyond this, MG Farr is expected to meet with key figures in the Deltarian government and the business community on opportunities for trade and foreign investment. Deltaria has traditionally maintained one of the more dynamic economies on the Majatran continent if not its strongest. However, amidst decades of mismanagement at the hands of successive governments, much of the nation’s economic success had withered away. President Aleksić’s dramatic reforms have sparked interest in Deltaria by numerous Lodamese firms alongside the Harrington Company, who note that the eventual stabilisation of the nation’s economy had lifted much of its profile in the eyes of potential investors. “The Harrington Company is nonetheless extremely interested in forming new bonds between Lodamun and Deltaria. If what both President Aleksić and Governor [of the Deltarian National Bank] Ilija Oreški have said is to be believed, we are certainly in store for a major rebound in the nation’s economy and a reversal of its downward growth prospect,” PS Hill said. 

Of particular interest in the Harrington Company, PS Hill stated that the return of stable governance in Čahtica increases the potential for a deal between Lodamun and Deltaria on iron and uranium exports. The planned privatisation of Lodamese Steel and the liberalisation of the Lodamese steel industry has sparked increased demand for iron imports whilst growing energy demand and a national refocusing on nuclear energy by the Civil Projects Administration (CPA) and the Office of Atomic Energy (OAE) has peaked national demand for uranium. “Certainly a trade agreement between our two states is something the Merchant-General will discuss with Trade Minister Dražen Kremenić and could form the foundation for a broader economic relationship between Lodamun and Dletaria,” Hill concluded.

[imperialpearl]

Ahead of a broader summit on trade and investment between the two nations, the Harrington Company has announced it intention to lift tariffs imposed on Dorvish energy imports, reversing a decades-long measure initially introduced at the height of the chaos surrounding the collapse of the previous SKP-led political order. In a press statement issued earlier this morning, Harrington Company Chief Factor Dr Linus Switzer noted that following a review of the entity’s tariff regime against Dorvish energy imports, which found that notwithstanding the fact that there were notable instances of exemptions, especially during periods of high demand, Lodamun’s policy on barring crude oil and natural gas imports from entering and being traded within the nation’s borders ought to be ended. “Our review has shown that it is no longer necessary to maintain such a regime and thus, with the approval of the Merchant-General and the President, tariffs on Dorvish energy imports will be rescinded,” Dr Switzer said via the statement. Following the SKP’s collapse in the late 5400s and Dorvik’s withdrawal from the international sphere, an economic downturn settled within the country which triggered uncertainty throughout the global community. As Dorvik had been previously a major producer of crude oil and natural gas, the nation had been, up to the SKP political crisis, a major source of energy imports which at the time were crucially needed to feed Berkwaki’s then-infant downstream petrochemicals industry as well as fuel the nation’s gas-fired powerplants. 

Political uncertainty within Dorvik ultimately lent itself to broader uncertainty related to the nation’s ability to maintain production levels, even amidst the sudden shift in the government’s focus towards other economic ventures. Lodamun and Dorvik had maintained a long-term supply agreement, negotiated between the Harrington Company and the Natural Resources Technical Management Corporation (NTVS), which underscored the importance of the North Artanian energy province to the sustainability of Lodamese electricity demands alongside its initial ambitions for the downstream petrochemicals sector. Seeking reassurances from Dorvik’s transitional government, the Harrington Company sought to ensure that it could continue to rely on Dorvik and the NTVS to deliver, however, its overtures towards a renegotiated agreement were largely ignored by the then government. Halleck in response would allow the NTVS agreement to lapse without room for negotiation, turning immediately to secondary sources. This ultimately led the Harrington Company to sign agreements with Kafuristan where he also hinted at the idea of lifting tariffs on Beiteynuese energy imports.

The tariff in question would ultimately come into force following Halleck and then Secretary of Commerce and Industry Hector Garza sought to ring-fence Lodamun’s infant petroleum exporters. Companies including North Seleyan Petroleum and Jackson Energy benefited from preferential terms and were often favoured/put ahead of foreign suppliers under the justification of “home-shoring.” Halleck, following a meeting with Garza and then President Eric Carver would slap an 80% tariff on Dorvish energy imports, noting that there had been no formal treaty document governing Dorvish-Lodamese trading relations following the SKP’s collapse. Lodamun, having established itself as a major consumer of crude oil and natural gas, largely for the purposes of producing refined products, will likely see a boon in refinery production as more gas comes online. Dr Switzer stated that there was room for the HC to potentially negotiate a lower bulk price in exchange for greater access. “Although we have no intention of undercutting the NTVS, we nonetheless recognise that the price which had been negotiated decades prior cannot be applied today and will thus be subject to negotiation where we [the Harrington Company] hope to settle on a new, lower price,” Dr Switzer explained.

[imperialpearl]

Following months of backroom negotiations between the two states, Lodamun and Dorvik signed a free trade agreement earlier this morning, which could open the door for greater Lodamese involvement with the economies of the Artanian continent. The agreement, as mentioned previously, represents the culmination of months of negotiations between officials from the Dorvish Government and the Harrington Company. The agreement represents the first major trade agreement between Lodamun and an Artanian state since the initial fallout between Luthori and Lodamun on the Commonwealth framework. Prior to the commencement of negotiations on the treaty’s terms, then Merchant-General Hector Garza noted that it was important for Lodamun and Dorvik to reset their trading relationship recognising the “new dynamic”. His comments were ultimately set against the backdrop of the easing of tariffs and other restrictions against Dorvish goods and services in the Lodamese market. Following the nation’s collapse from geopolitical supremacy on the continent, the Harrington Company erected numerous tariffs and trade restrictions on Dorvish products, pointing to the noticeable decline in quality and the rise in dumping by the nation’s successive unstable political governments.

 Farr's initial meeting with his Dorvish counterpart sought to reverse much of the restrictions imposed on Dorvish goods, therein clearing the way for a renegotiation of Lodamun’s relationship with Dorvik. Prior to the nation’s economically devastating political crisis, Dorvik stood as one of Lodamun’s major import and export markets, with the Harrington Company importing some 15% of all energy imports (be it crude oil and/or natural gas) from Dorvik ports/terminals. The collapse in industrial output within the nation alongside numerous snubs at the hands of the nation’s previous caretaker governments (and their refusal to renegotiate agreements), ultimately led to the collapse of the long-term supply agreements between the Harrington Company and the nation’s state-owned energy company (Insert). In the absence of Dorvish energy imports, Lodamun turned to other states throughout the world including Hutori, Lourenne/Kalistan, Kafuristan, Trigunia and Aldegar. Amidst the return of competent leadership to the halls of power in Haldor, it became incumbent on the Harrington Company to reset Lodamun’s trading relationship with Dorvik, recognising its yeoman and earnest attempts towards re-establishing itself as an economic heavyweight on the Artanian continent.

In plain terms, the Lodamese-Dorvish Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement follows the established structure of Lodamun’s broad-based model treaties and thus lies as a bilateral agreement. The removal of tariffs and trade barriers on numerous Dorvish goods and services including energy (oil and gas), automotive, defence products/material and banking/finance could become a major boon between the two states and may stimulate demand within Dorvik itself. Since the political crisis, Lodamun have become a major consumer economy on the world stage, particularly in the energy market owing to Berkwaki’s ever-expanding downstream petrochemicals industry. A removal of tariffs on Dorvik crude oil and natural gas imports could be the saving grace for foreign and trade policy planners as Lodamun continues to restructure its foreign and trade policies towards closer relations with “like-minded, stable states”. Merchant-General Charlotte Farr has long maintained an inherent suspicion of the idea of Lodamun importing energy from the often antagonistic Trigunia, pointing to the previous drone debacle and the nation’s recent civil war as justification for Lodamun to reconsider its relationship with the Kerisian energy giant. “I think this free trade agreement could be the means by which we weaken our dependence on Trigunian energy imports, recognising the unstable nature of that nation’s near-feudalistic economy. There is a discussion to be had in replacing Trigunian imports with Dorvish imports entirely,” MG Farr explained. 

Secretary of Energy and Natural Resources Oliver Knight noted that Lodamun’s consumption of crude oil and natural gas was significant, in that although imports were no longer solely used in power generation but were instead used in the creation of subordinate products, the scale of the production of these products was massive compared to other territories. “What cannot be denied is that we [Lodamun] are one of the world’s largest importers and consumers of energy (particularly crude oil and natural gas). Whether you want to view that as an achievement in itself is subjective. What matters is that the extent/scale of our business (of our demand) from other states is noticeable, even as we continue to maintain our policy against joining the Vamaj network.”

Yet despite this, many have noted that Lodamun’s “pivot” to numerous Artanian states including Dorvik, Kundrati, Dundorf, Ikradon, Hobrazia, and even Narikaton & Darnussia, is set against the backdrop of the nation’s changing relationship with Luthori. The central Artanian state has long been the largest market for Lodamese imports and exports on the Artanian continent, however, a growing rift between the two states on numerous issues including defence and their involvement on the Seleyan continent is changing the dynamic of this decades-long relationship. With MG Farr having rejected the idea of a Lodamese re-entry to the Commonwealth trade framework, the lack of structure with respect to trade between the two states ultimately leaves significant room open for the Harrington Company to begin treating Luthori as any other states with which Lodamun maintains no trade agreements with. 

[imperialpearl]

The more than two decade reign of President John Haney has come to an end as William Tabner, the new leader of the Democratic Party of Lodamun led the party to another landslide victory in the national “superelection” last monday. Owing to term-limits established under the Lodamese constitution wherein a President may serve a maximum of three terms (be it consecutive or non-consecutive), President Haney, having served fifteen (15) years or three consecutive terms was no longer eligible for re-election. At the party’s national convention, which had been held months prior in Moorsborough, delegates from the various states and territories threw their support behind various candidates from the numerous factions within the DPL (Democratic Party of Lodamun). For much of months leading up to the convention, there had been a clear battle between former Vice-President Isaac Turner and President-elect Taber of the Left Libertarians and Moderate factions of the DPL respectively. Tabner, then Governor of Newchester secured the majority of support from party delegates, alongside the endorsement of the party’s Green and Liberal Conservative factions. As the quasi-leader of the party’s Moderate faction, Tabner was said to be one of the key figures responsible for the party’s decision to distance itself from broader solidarity with “far-left” ideologies both at home and abroad. In securing the party’s nomination for the Presidential election, Tabner sought to transform the party’s image to ultimately fit his moderate/centrist ideology.

On the campaign trail, Tabner advocated for the party to return to the centrism of the [Julliet] Andrews Administration, offering that its stints under progressivism and social democracy had ultimately weakened the national economy. Although not drawing/painting a direct connection between the previous administrations and Lodamun’s supposedly weakened economic condition, Tabner nonetheless sought to draw attention to the supposed pitfalls of “extraordinary government intervention”. Here he offered that although it was reasonable for the government to intervene in the market in special circumstances, the extent to which the Lodamese Government had intervened under previous administrations (most notably the nationalisation of the public railway network alongside the nationalisation of the Lodamese steel industry) had supposedly stifled business development. Beyond this, he also campaigned for tougher firearm laws, throwing his support behind a grassroots campaign which has on numerous occasions, called for a nationwide ban on automatic weapons. On defence, he has noted that the Lodamese Armed Forces must continue to enhance its capabilities to not only protect Lodamese interests both at home and abroad but also to protect the interests of the Anantonese Empire in Seleya.

[GreekIdiot]

OOC: Heads up on the Kalopian news thread, here.

[imperialpearl]

In a statement released earlier this morning, the Federal Holdings and Investment Board (FHIB), the agency responsible for the management of the various shares and investments held by the Lodamese Government, announced that it would be acquiring PetroRoyale’s 25% stake in SouthernOil. The Lodamese Government has long underscored the importance of crude oil and natural gas to the nation’s economic future, particularly amidst growing investment into Berkwaki’s downstream petrochemicals sector. Sourcing reliable crude oil and natural gas remains an ever-present concern for the government as the vast majority of the nation’s major energy producers are either in a lacklustre state of production or have histories of chronic political uncertainty/instability. The statement noted that although the agency contested the scale of PetroRoyale’s 25% stake, it was nonetheless committed to a review of the company’s stake and a subsequent revaluation. “The 165 billion LFR valuation for a 25% stake in a lesser-known energy company operating primarily in the South Ocean is certainly of concern. It is our belief that the figure stated may have been an error on the part of the Lourennais media or their source as such a valuation exceeds the market value of many of the world’s more established energy companies including Neftkomp and Enies,” The statement read. SouthernOil was created via a joint venture between numerous companies both Luthori and Lourenne, and primarily operated in the South Ocean Basin. PetroRoyale’s decision to sell its stake to the FHIB comes amidst growing fortune in Trigunia (even as the nation experiences mounting domestic instability) and Aldegar (which is experiencing a minor rebound in economic activity). Owing to the regulations governing the FHIB, although it would acquire a quarter of stock in the company, it would refuse to exercise a voting right and would instead throw the weight of its stake behind decisions which advance the value and assets of the company. “The FHIB is restricted in what it can do when it acquires stakes in numerous companies and investment opportunities. It is much different from the conglomerate holding firms of the world in that it is ultimately guided by the principle of “reasoned actions.” To finalise the sale, President of the FHIB Dr Isaac Caldwell alongside officials from the Treasury Department and the Department of Energy and Natural Resources travelled to Eroncourt to meet with officials from both PetroRoyale and SouthernOil. The decision ultimately represents the first major foreign stake/asset purchase by the FHIB and is ultimately in line with the agency’s founding premise which was to manage, secure and expand the investment holdings of the Commonwealth of Lodamun. Dividends from SouthernOil, similar to domestic holdings will likely be routed to the Public Capital Fund (PCF) which now exists as the nation’s quasi-sovereign wealth fund

[imperialpearl]

As part of a shift in its offensive posture, particularly as it relates to the deployment of airborne maritime patrol assets with a specific emphasis towards enhancing its reach/operations into new patrol areas and reinforcing existing patrol zones, the Lodamese Navy announced a slew of maritime patrol deployments. Ranging from the Artanian Sea and the South Ocean to the Schismatic and portions of Temania, Lodamese Navy maritime patrol aircraft (i.e. drones and jets) have been ordered to step up their efforts in providing round-the-clock situational awareness in numerous bodies of water both within Seleya and beyond. The announcement comes at the latter end of the Lodamese Armed Forces’ decision to withdraw forces from Mordusia alongside the conclusion of the Istalian-Kafuri-Pontesian War. The former came amidst a reassessment of the importance of staging assets in Mordusia towards the Lodamese Armed Forces’ broader regional and international efforts, while the latter came amidst the negotiated peace settlement between the three states.

 Prior to its departure from Mordusia, the Lodamese Navy had operated maritime patrol drones from the nation, via a shared airbase alongside the Royal Mordusian Air Force, however, amidst the withdrawal of Lodamese assets and personnel from the nation and their subsequent transfer to facilities in both Aldegar and Saridan, the LN believes that there is merit towards establishing permanent patrols from these new arrangements. Speaking at a press conference held at the Department of Defence building in Kensington, Secretary of Defence Walter Kent confirmed that the new directive would ultimately see maritime patrol aircraft being deployed to all Lodamese naval air stations throughout the globe, with the intent of establishing and/or augmenting pre-existing nautical maritime patrols. “At the very heart of this shift is a clear understanding of the importance of information. We [Lodamun] have long underscored the importance of establishing and maintaining superiority of information and our operations - the deployment of maritime patrol assets throughout various theatres - is evidence of that,” Secretary Kent explained.

Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and Azuron maritime patrol drones are reportedly being dispatched to Naval Air Stations Crockett (in Malivia), Amsted (in Aldegar) and Bentasur (in Gaduridos). Notwithstanding the recent diplomatic debacle surrounding Beiteynu and Lodamun related to the latter’s withdrawal from the Neset diplomatic treaty, Kent pointed to Lodamun’s ratification of the Migrant’s Accord as a basis for maritime patrol aircraft being sent to NAS Crockett. “Lodamun is an observer of that agreement and will abide by its articles, particularly those related to observers. We will coordinate with the 3rd Federation and its structures towards sharing military intelligence from our patrols in the area and will coordinate said patrols with the broader framework including Beiteynu and Narikaton & Darnussia,” Kent clarified. Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James Murray and Commander of Majatran Command (MAJCOM) General Thomas Elder noted that the Lodamese Navy’s presence in Malivia remains limited to aviation assets (maritime patrol aircraft and drones), noting that the deployment of maritime surface assets (although not necessary now) would likely be coordinated and discussed with the relevant bodies namely 3F and Narikaton & Darnussia. 

Kent noted that as part of the deployment of aircraft and drones to Naval/Air Station Amsted, such a deployment would likely augment the existing efforts of the Lodamese Coast Guard under Operation Barracuda. Barracuda remains the Lodamese Coast Guard’s foremost patrol operation and covers the Mad Dog Ocean, Artanian Sea and South Ocean. Kent has noted that the deployment of Beiteynuese maritime assets in the Artanian Sea as a result of the ongoing situation in Kundrati continues to be monitored by the Lodamese Armed Forces but stated that there was no connection between the deployment of assets to Amsted and the arrival of Beiteynuese forces in the area. “These deployments are ultimately aimed at plugging clear gaps in our patrol zones as the Poseidons and Azurons will fly missions, particularly into the South Ocean and the Sea of Lost Souls. Although we continue to monitor the movements of the Beiteynuese Navy via OTH radar, nations are free to navigate global waters as we have done,” Kent explained.

The deployment of maritime patrol aircraft in Gaduridos represents a major leap in the Lodamese-Gaduri relationship, largely facilitated through the AE. By deploying said assets from Marligantos, the Lodamese Navy would ultimately possess greater access to the Schismatic Sea as well as Southern Seleya and Southern Dovani as a whole. According to the Commander of Seleyan Command (SELCOM), Admiral Linus Toule, such a positioning/deployment of assets is aimed at augmenting the efforts of the Lodamese Coast Guard under Operation Bobcat. Similar to Barracuda, Bobcat primarily relates to the LCG’s patrols along the western coast of Dovani and the eastern coast of Seleya. With the Coast Guard managing the patrol zones from a similarly important joint naval base in Marligantos, some analysts noted the deployment of maritime patrol aircraft (jets and drones) was inevitable. “I wouldn’t call this the Lodamese Navy flexing its muscles but taking advantage of numerous vacuums in geostrategy. What we are seeing here is another round of forward deployments as Lodamun begins to make use of its overseas basing agreements,” Frederick Watts, an analyst with the Centre for Geostrategic Policy and Research said. AWACS aircraft are reportedly set to accompany the deployments at Naval/Air Station Crockett in Malivia alongside Bentasur in Gaduridos, as speculation swirls regarding the forward deployment of aerospace forces throughout Lodamese overseas bases.