Speaking at a review of Imperial naval forces today, General Xōchhuitl praised Iskirami Lord-Governors Sarbani, Atmar, and Karadeniz for their public support of the legitimate Imperial government and Emperor Xochiuhue. "We are immensely grateful that at least some nations in the IDU have sensible and intelligent leaders, and are most pleased to reciprocate the support and friendship the noble Lord-Governors have shown the Xiomeran Empire," General Xōchhuitl said. He further expressed support for the "Grand Xiomeran Expeditionary Brigade" being sent to Xiomera by the Lord-Governors Sarbani and Atmar. "The prowess of Iskirami warriors is well-known, even as far away as Xiomera. We are honored that they are choosing to stand with us, and that together we will soon restore order and harmony to Xiomera." In a related story, Xiomeran officials announced that the Iskirami Sultanate will be granted Tier 1 trade status, the first nation to be awarded the most favorable trade status under the new three-tier system. Imperial officials are also expected to offer the Tier 1 status to "nations of similar mindset" such as Shuell and Gonhog.
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The Emperor officially selected a new Secretary of Trade, and their first mission was to chart a course of action that "rewards the friends of Xiomera, and punishes its enemies", in line with direction from the Palace of Flowers. Cuālincōcatle, the CEO of defense conglomerate Coatōn Corporation, took up his new role as Secretary of Trade today. "Xiomera will henceforth follow a policy of 'trade as national defense' in which we respond to the actions of hostile nations with appropriate measures, while seeking to enhance our trading relationships with neutral and friendly nations," the Secretary said. As part of this policy, effective immediately, Xiomera will begin levying a fifty percent tariff on goods from Tsiba, as retaliation for that country's recent imposition of tariffs on Xiomeran goods. A new fifty percent tariff will also be imposed on goods from Eiria, Laeral and Milintica, as an "appropriate response to those nations' meddling in Xiomeran internal affairs and their support for seditionists and fake governments purporting to have authority over Xiomera," the Secretary said. Xiomera will also move to freeze any Milintican, Laeralite and Eirian government assets in the country, as retaliation for those countries' seizure of Xiomeran government assets abroad. "When the nations in question choose to stop taking hostile actions towards Xiomera, we will be pleased to restore normal trade relations, including the termination of tariffs. Xiomera is a firm believer in fair trade, but when other nations seek to use trade as a weapon against us, we will respond in kind," the Secretary said. As part of the new trade measures, it was also announced that any trade goods from Kerlile will also receive a fifty percent tariff, in retaliation for that nation's unlawful seizure of Xiomeran factories in that country. The factories had been shut down, but resumed operations after a Xiomeran director in that country was somehow suborned by Kerlian authorities. Any Kerlian government assets in Xiomera will also be frozen, as part of the omnibus trade sanctions measure. The new "trade as defense" policy will also encourage "Xiomeran self-reliance, self-sufficiency, innovation and hard work", Secretary Cuālincōcatle said. "Xiomera has abundant natural resources, advanced technology, and creative and hardworking people. We can be strong on our own, without having to cater to the demands of foreign powers who seek to subjugate us," the Secretary said. He said that in cooperation with the Secretariat of Infrastructure, the Secretariat of Trade will immediately begin taking measures to encourage a policy of Xiomeran self-reliance and self-sufficiency. As a final measure, the Secretariat of Trade is creating a three-tier system of trade relations. Tier 1, for friendly and allied nations, will have the most favorable trade conditions: zero tariffs, free trade and opportunities for mutual cooperation on research and development. No nation yet qualifies for Tier 1 status, but the government is expected to approach some nations shortly with proposals for them to join this tier. Tier 2, for nations neutral to Xiomera, will have less favorable but still friendly conditions for trade: relatively low tariffs and mostly free trade subject to some restrictions. Nations simply "need not act hostilely towards the Empire" to qualify for this tier automatically, Secretary Cuālincōcatle said. The lowest tier, Tier 3, will be reserved for nations deemed hostile to Xiomera, and will result in high tariffs, restrictions on what can be traded, and bans on purchasing Xiomeran land, companies, buildings or other assets. This tier is the tier that Milintica, Kerlile, Eiria, Laeral and Tsiba have been placed in, the Secretary confirmed. "A policy of 'trade as defense' shall enable us to build and maintain a strong economy no matter what certain foreign powers do. By pursuing this policy, and relying on our own strength, resources and abilities, the Xiomeran Empire will prevail," Secretary Cuālincōcatle said. In a speech at a ceremony at the Cauhloc today, Emperor Xochiuhue denounced "malcontents, anti-Xiomeran elements, protesters, foreign agents and provocateurs" and announced "extraordinary measures" to rein in lawlessness and restore order throughout the Empire. The ceremony was held today to honor Imperial police officers and soldiers who have been injured while performing their duties and upholding law and order throughout the Empire. The Emperor bestowed a special commendation on Mocuautoa, an Imperial Police sergeant who singlehandedly held off a wave of attackers in Acoctsin, in the Far Western Military District, after the rest of his unit was trapped in an ambush. "The example that Mocuautoa, and the other defenders of the Empire, have set in their steadfast refusal to accept chaos and rioting, and their firm resolution to protect Xiomera and its people, has made it clear to me that we must take stronger measures to restore order in every single corner of the Empire. Their sacrifices cannot be for nothing, and the attacks upon them, and upon our institutions, cannot be tolerated one moment longer," the Emperor declared. To that end, the Emperor announced a decree with a series of new measures to restore order. All public gatherings are banned, and a full curfew from dusk to dawn imposed. These measures are effective immediately in all localities, and anyone violating them is subject to immediate arrest. In addition, all law enforcement, security and military forces in the Empire are authorized to use "all necessary force" to break up illegal demonstrations, as well as to detain anyone refusing to cooperate with authorities or comply with the new measures. Imperial officials also confirmed that, due to the ongoing civil emergency, all civil authorities are hereby suspended, with the exception of military district governors, who will report directly to the Emperor. Municipal leaders, such as mayors, will still be able to handle administrative functions of their communities, but security will now be directly handled by the military and police commanders in their respective areas. Local police will now report to the military tribunal in their community. The Imperial court system will also no longer handle any matters related to the civil unrest, and the military tribunals in each community will handle those cases. The new decree also suspends, indefinitely and immediately, any form of election, vote or appointment of any officials not directly appointed by the Palace of Flowers, including the Great Selection. The Emperor's order, Decree No. 31, Proclaiming a State of Martial Law in Xiomera, takes immediate effect, is indefinite in duration and supersedes any previous decrees relating to such matters. "This decree is necessary to ensure that the power granted to the Emperor is not superseded or otherwise misdirected," the statement formally issuing the Decree read. Attempted illegal protests in Tlālacuetztla, Xochiatipan, Huitzitaca and Xohuayán were brought to a quick end by the skillful deployment of the Imperial Police, supplementing local police forces, the Secretariat of Security confirmed today. 375 arrests were made, according to security officials. "These illegal protests, coming so soon after the recent implementation of Decree No. 27, the Decree for Managing Public Assembly, are a clear act of instigation, subversion and disorder. Such efforts to introduce disharmony into the Xiomeran society, led by a minority of malcontents under foreign influence and direction, cannot be tolerated," Security Secretary Calhualyana declared in a press conference following the police action. "The mandate of the Emperor, who seeks only to maintain social order and harmony for the benefit of the Xiomeran populace, will not be flaunted in such a manner." Secretary Calhualyana confirmed that additional reserves of Imperial Police, including some former officers being brought out of retirement, will be deployed to areas of unrest until complete order is restored. The attempted protests today were linked to agitation concerning the myth of climate change being promulgated by radical leftist groups such as the Lauchenoirian group Watchdogs of Our Earth, or WOE, as well as anti-Xiomeran elements in places such as Manauia Island. The protesters were attempting to link their own rallies to protests taking place today in other nations lacking in social order. They were also attempting to revive disproven and inaccurate claims that Imperial plans for developing Manauia Island will cause some sort of damage to the world environment. Security Secretariat officials also believe that these protests are a cover for the anti-Xiomeran agitation already taking place in isolated corners of the Empire, led by a tiny minority of dissidents still supporting the disgraced and abdicated former Empress Yauhmi. "All of this is a thinly veiled attempt to weaken the Empire for the benefit of other powers, and it will not succeed. Xiomera's destiny will not be thwarted, no matter how hard they try," Emperor Xochiuhue said in a statement supporting the actions of the Security Secretariat. In comments today while touring an Imperial airbase, Emperor Xochiuhue warned that the Imperial government "is well aware of foreign manipulations and machinations taking place behind the scenes," and delivered a stern message to those seeking to interfere in Xiomeran affairs. "We are aware that certain nations are currying favor with the former Crown Prince and the fake government he has cobbled together in cowardly hiding in Laeral. We are also aware of deliberations in the Eirian Senate about sending 'volunteers' to Xiomera, and the ineffectual and tiresome maneuvers of the tiny and pathetic state of Milintica as well. We are also aware that certain powers, such as Kerlile, Eiria, Laeral and Legionas, have conspired to suborn our diplomats abroad and turn them against this government. These foreign actors are delivered notice that we are not blind in Tlālacuetztla by any means, and will take all necessary measures to protect Xiomeran sovereignty and independence," the Emperor declared in his speech to airmen at Chueypotzotl Airbase near the capital. The Emperor was especially firm on the subject of so-called "volunteers" that other nations may attempt to send to Xiomera to cause dissension or violence. "Any foreign provocateurs or instigators we capture in Xiomera will be subject to the same laws, and the same punishments, as anyone of Xiomeran citizenship who conspires to commit criminal acts or acts of sedition or separatism," the Emperor warned. "Foreign governments are urged to ensure that their citizens stay home, where they belong, and not cause trouble in Xiomera. We cannot be responsible for the consequences if they do not." Public assembly restrictions institutedIn response to a recent outbreak of seditionist violence in the city of Xochiatipan, the Imperial government announced new restrictions on public gatherings throughout the Empire. Effective immediately, any public gathering or assembly larger than five people must be approved in advance by municipal officials. Certain areas are also now off-limits to any organized public gathering. This includes, but is not limited to, areas within 150 feet of any police station, school or college, military installation or government building. These new restrictions are subject to enforcement by the Imperial Police, as well as local law enforcement.
In a related story, the Imperial government announced today that it has created a new website and telephone hotline for citizens to report suspected seditionist activity, as well as violations of the public assembly ban and the curfew instituted in certain cities. The website www.alert.gov.xe and the phone number 44-54872905 are available 24 hours a day for the use of concerned and patriotic citizens. In response to lawlessness taking place in scattered areas of the Empire, an emergency Great Selection convened at the Palace of Flowers today by the Provisional Imperial Government of Xiomera has formally selected a new Emperor to take over from the disgraced Empress Yauhmi. By popular acclaim of the ihuicatl, and with the blessings of the priests of the Huēyi Teōcalli, Xochiuhue, son of former Emperor Xolōtl, has been chosen to take the Obsidian Throne and lead the Xiomeran Empire into a bright and glorious new future. Emperor Xolōtl ruled Xiomera for thirty years from 1971 to 2001, before his death due to old age. As the son of a former Emperor, Xochiuhue restores a proud Imperial lineage to the Obsidian Throne. The new Emperor has served in many roles in both Xiomeran government and business. After a stint of compulsory national service in the Imperial Army, Xochiuhue served as an analyst and investigator with both ASI and IMI, before retiring from public service ten years ago to start his own private military and intelligence consulting firm, Ahualtec Universal Enterprises. "I had been content to leave government service and operate a humble business dedicated to helping keep people and businesses alike safe and secure. But when one is called to the service of the Empire, one does not refuse that call," the new Emperor told XIN after the Great Selection concluded. "I am honored to serve, and I will ensure that the Empire emerges stronger and more prosperous than ever from this crisis caused by the previous poor leadership before me." With the new Emperor's enthronement, in accordance with Xiomeran law, the Provisional Imperial Government is hereby dissolved. The new reign of Emperor Xochiuhue takes immediate effect. Long live Emperor Xochiuhue! Long live the Xiomeran Empire! Speaking on behalf of the Provisional Imperial Government, General Xōchhuitl announced a new decree which takes immediate effect. Decree No. 6, the Decree For True National Unity, abolishes the four tribal domains which had previously been used to divide up the Empire. Their corresponding positions of tlatoani and cihuacoatl, along with any tribal councils or other bodies of authority, are likewise abolished under this decree. Tribal police forces are also ordered disbanded under this decree, as is the Xiomeran Civil Guard. These terms of the Decree are being issued due to repeated incidents of disloyalty and insubordination by certain units of the tribal police forces and the Civil Guard. Effective immediately, four new Military Districts are created in place of the former divisive and problematic political divisions known as tribal domains. The Far Western Military District will cover the Netlcoātl Islands and the territory formerly known as the Necatli Tribal Domain. The Western Military District will cover the territory formerly known as the Itotemoc Tribal Domain. The Central Military District will cover what was once known as the Tepiltzin Tribal Domain. The Eastern Military District will cover what was previously known as the Xiomeran Tribal Domain, along with Manauia Island and Cenotillo Island. "This Decree will end the division and tribalization of our country, and unify us as never before. Today, we emerge as one Xiomera, one Empire and one people, with the strength of millions and the legacy of centuries to fuel us. Division, separatism and clinging to old identities and old ways will no longer hinder us," General Xōchhuitl said when announcing the Decree. Attached to the Decree is an additional order banning the teaching of any curriculum or lesson plan not approved by the Secretariat of Education, specifically banning the teaching of "separatist" ideology. This overrules a previous "reform" implemented by the disgraced and deposed former Empress Yauhmi which allowed the teaching of divisive alternate national identities and encouraged tribal-based separatism. During his speech, the General also dismissed moves by certain nations, who he refused to dignify by name, who have expressed disapproval of the Provisional Government's actions or even gone so far as to terminate diplomatic relations with the Empire. "Let them run their countries how they like. This is our country, our homeland, and we will do the same on our soil regardless of the judgments of others," he said. Separatist rioting put down in NecuatexiA minor outbreak of separatist violence has been brought to a halt by Imperial security forces in the city of Necuatexi. The rioting began after the removal of the Necatli leader Noxochicotzin following the abolition of separate tribal domains. The rioting was reportedly brief and insignificant, and has been fully brought under control, according to the new Governor of the area, Xicotzin. Manauia Island Project to resume under original planOfficials with the Secretariat of Infrastructure announced today that the government will scrap a "revised" plan put into place for the development of Manauia Island by the discredited former government of Xiomera, and will return to the plans the Secretariat originally developed for widespread development of the island in accordance with national goals for development and economic growth. "The original plan was the best plan for Manauia Island, and the previous government allowed those who oppose advancement and modernization, along with environmentalist anti-growth types who hate everything involving development, to influence us into making wholesale changes to appease them. We are pleased that we will be able to return to our original plan to bring modern infrastructure and economic growth to the island for the benefit of everyone," Xōclo, the Secretary of Infrastructure, said. Neighboring Cenotillo Island, as well as the Netlcoātl Islands, are also expected to be added to the plan. it is eventually planned that undeveloped and rural areas of Huenya Island proper will also be added to the plan, as part of a massive nationwide development initiative. The Provisional Government is expected to begin soliciting bids soon from the international community for development partners, and has already begun accepting development proposals from Xiomeran corporations. After an emergency meeting, the Provisional Imperial Government has issued several new decrees. General Xōchhuitl, the acting leader of the Provisional Government, announced the decrees to the media today. Decree No. 1, the Decree For The Maintenance Of Social Order, reconfirms the existing nationwide curfew from midnight to 8:00 am until further notice, and grants local police forces, along with the Imperial Police, the emergency power to detain anyone violating the curfew. The decree also bans public gatherings of more than 10 people for the duration of the emergency, and authorizes local police and the Imperial Police to establish security checkpoints throughout the country. All Xiomeran citizens, as well as any foreign visitors in the country, are now required to carry their identification at all times, and provide it upon demand to any authorized law enforcement officer or soldier acting in accordance with Decree No. 1. Authorities are now authorized to detain anyone refusing to identify themselves or not carrying the required identification. Decree No, 2, the Decree For The Furtherance Of International Recognition, requires all nations with embassies in Xiomera to present their credentials to the Provisional Imperial Government at the Ximac Fortress, the temporary seat of government until the Palace of Flowers can be restored to normal operations. All nations with diplomatic representation to Xiomera will be required to formally recognize the Provisional Imperial Government as the legitimate government of the Empire. Any nations not doing so will have their ambassadors declared persona non grata and asked to leave the country immediately. A notice to this effect has been delivered to all embassies currently operating in Xiomera. Xiomeran ambassadors overseas are also ordered to immediately recognize the Provisional Imperial Government, or resign and surrender the embassies in question to new ambassadors to be chosen and dispatched by the Provisional Government. Decree No. 3, the Decree Against Socialism And Communism In The Empire, formally repeals and revokes any and all of the so-called reforms previously instituted by the former Empress Yauhmi, including any "social reforms" and changes to the tax code. This Decree takes effect immediately. The Secretariat of Support will be immediately dissolved, and its facilities and offices handed over to the Secretariat of Security for conversion into additional facilities for national security and law enforcement purposes. Decree No. 4, the Decree For Re-Establishment of Appropriate Media, formally repeals and revokes changes to the laws concerning media activity in the Empire made by the former government. All print, broadcast and online media are once again subject to prior review by the Secretariat of Security and the Secretariat of Justice prior to publication or dissemination. This decree applies to both domestic and foreign media outlets, and any and all staff of same, operating anywhere within the Empire. The Secretariat of Security will also re-activate the national monitoring program, known as "Happy Society", to ensure compliance. Decree No. 5, the Decree For Resolution Of The National Emergency, formally de-recognizes the so-called "government in exile" led by the former Crown Prince Texōccoatl, and declares it null and void. The Decree further reaffirms the Provisional Goverment as the legitimate government of the Empire until such time as a Great Selection can be convened and a new Emperor chosen. The Decree also reaffirms that the Provisional Government is a temporary entity only, and that within one month's time, a new Emperor will be chosen, and any Decrees issued by the Provisional Government will cease to have effect, along with said Provisional Government. At that time, power will transition to the newly chosen Emperor, in accordance with Xiomeran law. Further Decrees will be issued by the Provisional Imperial Government as needed. All Xiomeran citizens and foreigners within the country are reminded that compliance with the Decrees, or any other provision of Xiomeran law, is not voluntary and strict penalties for noncompliance are in effect. Citizens are urged to report any violations of the law to the Secretariat of Security at phone number 066, or the Imperial Police at phone number 069. Violations can also be reported online at impsec.gov.xe or imppol.gov.xe. Crown Prince Texōccoatl will travel to Laeral beginning April 5th on a state visit, officials with the Imperial Household confirmed today. The historic trip will mark the first state visit ever conducted to Laeral by a Xiomeran leader. "In his role as Ambassador-at-Large to the International Democratic Union, the Crown Prince will meet with Laeralite officials, and discuss matters of trade and international relations," the statement from the Palace of Flowers read. The Crown Prince is expected to make stops in Althea, Laeralsford, Hanshui and Minsheng province during his five-day visit. The Crown Prince will watch a performance of the Althea Ballet, meet with legislative and academic leaders, and discuss opportunities related to trade, business, tourism, education and innovation. He is also expected to meet with President Liu Mei-han and Trade Minister Raoul Chen during his visit. "This is a historic opportunity for Xiomera to expand our relations with one of the great states of the IDU," the Crown Prince told reporters today. "Our nation is on a path of change, and nations such as Laeral can provide us excellent guidance as we move forward with the Throne's own ambitious and far-reaching plans for reform in Xiomera." The Crown Prince also stated that he was "very excited" about the possibilities for cooperation in areas related to trade, which could "enhance the prosperity of both of our countries." While this will be the first official Xiomeran state visit to Laeral, it is not the first trip to that country for the Crown Prince, who attended talks in Maivers in December of 2019 to resolve the South Xiomeran Sea crisis. Opening of Huenyan Assembly delayedDue to delays in construction related to the new building of the Hall of Unity, Imperial officials have announced that the opening of the new Huenyan Assembly will be delayed to April 10th.
The first public meeting of the new Assembly had been scheduled to take place on April 6th, but "unavoidable delays" in the final tasks related to construction caused the session to be moved, Imperial spokeswoman Tlālzixiuhxa said. "While the delay is regrettable, let us remember that the construction of an entirely new legislative building, on what was previously just an empty plot of land, in just a few short months, is still an impressive achievement and a tribute to Xiomeran skill and ability," Tlālzixiuhxa said. With most fighting in Vulkaria at an end, and the Malvarian Liberation Front "effectively dismantled", Imperial forces will "substantially scale down" their presence in the country, officials said. Defense Secretary Xochiqui confirmed that the great majority of Xiomeran forces in Vulkaria will return home within the next few weeks. "With the command structure of the M.L.F. decimated, and their remnants on the run, justice has been delivered for the crimes of these animals. We have accomplished our mission, with the help of our coalition partners and the incomparable bravery and skill of our soldiers." A small contingent of 2,000 Imperial Army soldiers will remain behind in Vulkaria, as part of a previous agreement with the Vulkarian government. A private mercenary firm had been previously training Vulkarian soldiers in counter-insurgency efforts. The Imperial Army will take over this mission, as the previous private-sector effort "was clearly deficient," the Defense Secretary said. The Xiomeran contingent will also maintain the Forward Operating Base Moyolehuani near Godenia as a facility to provide a rapid response should the M.L.F. or any other terrorist groups in Vulkaria spring up again, the Defense Secretary confirmed. Speaking to the media in Godenia today as the first Xiomeran soldiers began preparing to return home, the commander of the mission, Brigadier General Tlanexchel of the Jaguar Warriors, praised the soldiers under his command. "They proved every bit worthy to have the Imperial flag on their shoulders," the General said, providing particular praise to Imperial Army and International Legion units who found themselves thrust into heavy fighting almost immediately. "Despite their inexperience, these units found their steel quickly and adapted admirably. They bent, rather than breaking, and then delivered a powerful counter-punch to the terrorists," the General said. Five Imperial Army soldiers, along with three International Legion soldiers, are being recommended for honors. Three Imperial Army soldiers and two International Legion soldiers have been recommended for the Golden Sun Medal, the Xiomeran medal for honor in combat. Two additional Imperial Army soldiers and one International Legion soldier are being recommended for the enhanced Golden Sun Medal with Imperial Crown, the highest Xiomeran medal for honor in combat. In addition, one Jaguar Warrior, who died in a special operation, is also being given the Golden Sun Medal with Imperial Crown. 93 Xiomeran soldiers died in the Vulkaria mission, and an additional 360 were wounded. In a statement from the Palace of Flowers, the Empress praised both those receiving medals and all who were lost or injured in the Vulkaria mission. "Their sacrifices to avenge the spilled blood of innocents, and to ensure that no other innocents suffered at the hands of terrorist swine, are in the highest and most noble Xiomeran tradition. They shall be remembered as heroes," the Empress said. The Empress also praised the sacrifices of the other coalition partners, calling them "noble and honorable" and expressing hope that Xiomera can work with other nations in the future to "ensure a mutually stable and secure future for all." |
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