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I

1

NOUVELLE ALEXANDRIE'S BUDGET HEADS TO VOTE WITHOUT OPPOSITION

• Without the Expected Debate, the Federal Assembly Moves the General Appropriations and Taxation Act of 1730 Towards a Decisive Vote, Unchallenged.
• Crafted by the Federal Consensus Party, the Budget's Journey Was Conspicuously Unimpeded by the FHP.
• While Supporters Praise the Government's Focus on Social Justice and Sustainability, the Absence of the FHP in Discussions Leaves a Gap in Democratic Process Scrutiny.

CARDENAS, FCD -- The Federal Assembly of Nouvelle Alexandrie closed debate on the highly anticipated General Appropriations and Taxation Act of 1730, with a vote expected today. What was expected to be a fiery session ended with the ruling Federal Consensus Party (FCP) steering the budget towards a vote without any meaningful opposition.

The budget, viewed as a transformative plan for the nation's future, lays out sweeping tax reforms and substantial investments in public services, education, environmental protection, and technological advancement. Despite the broad implications of these tax changes and spending priorities, the Federal Humanist Party (FHP), currently the official opposition, notably refrained from participating in the debate, effectively allowing the government and its allies to expedite the process to a vote.

This unusual silence from the FHP has raised eyebrows across Nouvelle Alexandrie, leading to speculation about the party's internal dynamics and its future strategy. Critics of the FHP have pointed out that this abstention from the debate represents a missed opportunity to challenge the government's policies and to advocate for alternative proposals, potentially alienating its voter base and supporters who expected robust representation.

The lack of opposition debate has not gone unnoticed by the electorate, with reactions ranging from disappointment to outright frustration among those who had anticipated a comprehensive discussion on such a significant piece of legislation. The FHP's absence in the debate is seen by many as a dereliction of their duty to provide checks and balances, leading to concerns over the health of Nouvelle Alexandrie's democratic processes.

As the budget now moves uncontested towards a vote, the focus shifts to the implications of the FHP's strategy, or lack thereof. Observers suggest that this could lead to a period of introspection within the party, as it grapples with the fallout from its decision to remain silent. Meanwhile, supporters of the budget celebrate what appears to be an assured passage, even as they lament the absence of a more vigorous democratic debate.

The upcoming vote on the budget, while almost certain to pass, marks a critical juncture for Nouvelle Alexandrie, not just in terms of fiscal policy but also in the broader discourse on political engagement and representation within the federation.

2

DIPLOMATIC MISSION ENDS IN TRAGEDY: SHIREROTH'S PRINCES DOWNED BY BENACIAN UNION DEFENSES

Image based upon accounts of witnesses and reconstruction of events by Magisters-Carnifex; Benacian Union; 1730 AN.

• The "Journey to the West" Mission, Aimed at Resolving a Succession Crisis and Diplomatic Tensions, Culminates in a Fatal Misunderstanding
• Princes Rubin and Ichirō, on a Diplomatic Mission to 's Koningenwaarde, Perish as Their Aircraft Is Mistakenly Targeted
• Immediate Repercussions Felt Across Shireroth and Hurmu, as Benacian Union Expresses Regret Over the Incident and Faces Internal and External Scrutiny

SHIREKEEP, IRS - In a sudden and sorrowful conclusion to the diplomatic endeavor known as the "Journey to the West," the mission spearheaded by Princes Rubin and Ichirō to address a succession crisis and other diplomatic challenges in 's Koningenwaarde, has tragically ended. The princes, representing the Shirerithian throne by directive of Kaiseress Salome, were aboard an electric jet when it was erroneously engaged and destroyed by the Benacian Union's defense systems.

The delegation aimed to tackle the complications arising from the "Secunda Divisio" and the contentious marriage of Aurangzeb Hakimi bin Alsalam to Lucy Myksos, deemed illegitimate by Shirerithian law. Departing amid escalating tensions, their aircraft faced immediate challenges, including radar lock-ons by the Benacian Union's air defenses, leading to a catastrophic miscommunication within the Benacian military command.

The reaction of Shireroth and Kaiseress Salome's was swift, leading to a tense encounter with the Benacian Union's representative, culminating in a dire sequence of events indicating a serious potential military escalation with nuclear weapons. Hurmu has expressed profound grief, moving to address the repercussions diplomatically with the Benacian Union. Other nations in Benacia like Sanama have also raised their military readiness as tensions continue to escalate.

The Benacian Union has arrested Jon Marenai-Eqlarion al-Osman, responsible for the missile launch, signaling internal accountability measures and heightened military readiness in anticipation of possible retaliatory actions from Shireroth.

3

NATION IN MOURNING: NOUVELLE ALEXANDRIE REACTS TO TRAGIC DEATHS OF SHIREROTH'S PRINCES

Flag of Nouvelle Alexandrie.

• New Alexandrian Flags Flown at Half-Mast as a Mark of Respect and Solidarity
• King Sinchi Roca Expresses Deep Condolences and Calls for Peaceful Resolution
• Public Vigils Held in Major Cities; Citizens Lay Flowers at Shireroth's Embassy
• Civic Leaders and Academics Discuss Implications for Regional Diplomacy

Cardenas, FCD -- In a solemn expression of grief and solidarity, Nouvelle Alexandrie has responded to the untimely deaths of Princes Rubin and Ichirō with flags at half-mast across the country. King Sinchi Roca issued a statement early this morning expressing his "deepest sorrows and most heartfelt condolences to the families of the princes and to all those in Shireroth shaken by this tragedy."

The incident, resulting during a diplomatic mission, has led to a strong reaction from across Nouvelle Alexandrie. In the capital and other major cities, citizens gathered for vigils and placed flowers at the Shireroth Embassy, turning these sites into makeshift memorials. King Sinchi Roca, in his address, stressed the importance of diplomacy and peaceful negotiations, reflecting on the fragile nature of international relations. "Let this tragic event be a reminder of the dire consequences that misunderstandings and lack of communication can have in our interconnected world," stated the King.

The tragedy has prompted a wider discussion on security and the necessity of robust communication channels between nations. Academics and civic leaders convened panels throughout the day, debating ways to prevent such incidents in the future and to stabilize the volatile continent of Benacia.

IMPERIAL CONSTANCIAN FLAGS AT HALF-MAST

The flag of the Imperial State of Constancia

• All flags at half-mast declared by Autokratorial Decree
• This includes the flag at the Imperial Constancian Embassy, Shirekeep in Shireroth
• Imperial Family in mourning on untimely death of Princes Rubin and Ichirō and their party
• Imperial House distantly related to present Mango Throne dynasty

Petropolis, CON -- The flag of the Imperial State of Constancia was ordered, by Autokratorial Decree to be flown at half-mast today, until the burial of Princes Rubin and Ichirō, the Constancia News Agency announced at the standard 9:00 a.m. morning broadcast.

An Autokratorial Decree is a directive, issued in the name and with the authority of the Basilinna, or Empress, by an official known as the Autokrator of Constancia. In recent years, this has almost always been the heir apparent to the Imperial Throne, who takes on the post of regent plenipotentiary, and usually performs most governance functions, with the Basilinna confining herself to less tedious and more ceremonial functions. Constancia proudly declares itself an Imperial State, and while it has the trappings of most nations, like a head of government (known as the Mesazon) who holds office while it has confidence of the legislature (known as the Imperial Synkletos, sovereignty does not flow up from the people; on the contrary, it flows down from the sovereign, presently the Basilinna Esmeralda al-Osman, to the Autokrator, and to the government of the day, who govern in Her Imperial Majesty's name and with her consent.

In accordance with Constancian law, all government offices, all military installations, all ports and airports, as well as all schools and all Imperial Constancian diplomatic posts Micraswide are required to fly the Constancian flag.

5

NEWS ACROSS NOUVELLE ALEXANDRIE

The Cortes Federales building in Cardenas, Nouvelle Alexandrie

The National Herald - (Cárdenas, FCD)

FCP GOVERNMENT'S BUDGET SAILS THROUGH THE CORTES FEDERALES WITH WIDE SUPPORT

• The Federal Consensus Party's General Appropriations and Taxation Act, 1730 Passed the Federal Assembly 383 - 306
• Experts Debate the Potential Impacts on Small Businesses; Many Fear Increased Taxes and Regulations
• Government Significantly Cuts Deficit Over Next 5 Years; Holds Promise for Balanced Budget
• United for Alvelo and the Democratic Socialist Party Express Cautious Optimism; Plan to Monitor the Implementation of Budget and Government Spending

Entertainment Nexus - (Beaufort, NLY)

CELEBRITY CHEF OPENS NEW 'FARM TO TABLE' RESTAURANT

• Famed Chef Martin Delgado Returns to Beaufort, North Lyrica to Launch His Most Ambitious Culinary Venture Yet
• The Restaurant Promises an Eco-Friendly Dining Experience with Ingredients Sourced From Local Farms
• Reservations Booked Solid for Three Months, Highlighting Growing Public Interest in Sustainable Eating
• Venture Attracts Significant Investor Attention, Delgado Says "If You Build A Good One, They Come To Eat"

Science Weekly - (Parap, WEC)

NEW ALEXANDRIAN SCIENTISTS DEVELOP ADVANCED WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM

• Breakthrough Technology Could Provide Access to Clean Water for Remote Communities in Nouvelle Alexandrie
• The System Uses Solar Power to Operate, Reducing Energy Costs and Environmental Impact
• Field Tests Scheduled for Later This Year; Government Eyes Nationwide Implementation
• Scientists at Royal University of Parap Pioneer Development of Technology with Eye for National Implementation

Local Lens - (Cajamarca, WEC)

CITY COUNCIL APPROVES NEW PUBLIC PARK IN CAJAMARCA

• The Park Aims to Preserve Local Flora and Fauna While Providing Recreational Spaces for Residents
• Community Leaders Praise the Initiative, Highlighting the Need for Green Spaces Amidst Urban Expansion
• Environmentalists to Partner with the City on Educational Programs and Sustainability Workshops

12

SURENŠĀHBANU MITRADOKHT DIES AT 86, LEAVING CONFEDERACY IN SUCCESSION CRISIS

Surenšāhbanu Mitradokht, whose 35-year reign was marred by conflict

• Shahbanu passes away on 12th day of 1st month, 1731 after months of declining health
• Cause of death unclear, ranging from old age to radiation sickness to poisoning rumours
• No appointed heir, triggering dispute over succession to Suren throne
• Multiple factions and pretenders stake claim, raising fears of civil war
• Regency council takes interim control but divided over confirming new Surenshah
• Allies anxious as key figure holding together fractious Confederacy is gone

Surenshahr, SUR -- The Suren Confederacy was thrust into turmoil today with the death of its monarch, Surenšāhbanu Mitradokht, at the age of 86. Her passing after a 35-year reign marred by wars and revolts has precipitated a succession crisis, with no clear heir apparent.

Official court chronicles cited Mitradokht's visibly declining health in recent months, including a severe coughing fit, as the cause. However, rumours swirled of potential radiation poisoning from the Babkhan Holocaust over a century ago or accusations she was poisoned by rivals.

In keeping with Zurvanite funerary traditions, the Shahbanu's belongings underwent elaborate rites and cremation under tight security ahead of her anticipated sky burial, the customary exposure of the corpse to vultures in the tower of silence. A period of mourning has commenced across the Confederacy.

With no named heir, the throne passes to the eldest Suren dynast by custom. But internal feuding has muddied the line of succession, with multiple branches staking claims. This has raised fears that infighting could erupt into outright civil war if consensus is not reached.

For now, a regency council of nobles, military, and clergy has assumed interim control. Yet they remain divided on confirming the new Surenshah, with the situation increasingly unstable according to Constancian observers.

Foreign allies who depended on Mitradokht's ability to keep the fractious Confederacy together find themselves adrift, anxiously watching the volatile power struggle unfold.

BENACIAN UNION ERUPTS IN MASS 'DAY OF RAGE' RALLIES

Crowds march through the streets during anti-Shireroth protests in Chryse on the Day of Rage, chanting furious denunciations and ritual curses.

• Massive rallies sweep across major Benacian cities on 12.I.1731 AN in backlash over Shirerithian outrages
• Attendance mandatory in Ardashirshahr, Chryse, Merensk for all able-bodied "meritorious subjects"
• Furious speeches whip crowds into frenzy, call for hardline stance against Shireroth
• Effigies of Kaiseress Salome burned as "Death to the Snake" chants erupt
• Incident days earlier saw Salome decapitate Benacian diplomats, threaten "armageddon"
• Officials declare Shireroth has "dismantled all protections" and lost sovereignty

Chryse, BEN -- Whipped into furious outrage over the shocking execution of its chief diplomat in Shireroth days earlier, the subjects of the Benacian Union took to the streets in unprecedented numbers on 12.I.1731 AN for mandated mass rallies that swept across major cities in a spectacle dubbed the "Day of Rage".

Attendance was obligatory in the population centres of Ardashirshahr, Chryse, and Merensk for all able-bodied and meritorious subjects, with severe penalties threatened for any absences. Workplaces, schools, and public venues were shuttered for the day as transportation networks marshalled everyone to the designated rally sites.

Upon arrival, immense crowds stretching for miles found themselves inundated with feverish speeches from officials and party cadres brimming with furious denunciations of recent Shirerithian actions and calls for an uncompromising stance against the rogue regime in Raynor's Keep.

The spark that ignited the outpouring of rage was the horrifying public decapitation of the Benacian Union's chief diplomat Abner Shas after he delivered a message of condolences over the tragic downing of a Shirerithian aircraft days before. In a shocking breach of all diplomatic protocols, Shas and his entourage were summarily executed on live television by an unsettlingly calm Kaiseress Salome.

As if the murders were not galling enough, Salome compounded the offence by declaring "as smoke vanishes, so let them vanish, as wax melts before the fire" - widely interpreted as indicating an intent to unleash apocalyptic retaliation upon the Benacian Union. Her actions were unanimously denounced as displaying depraved callousness and a deranged disregard for human values.

At the Ardashirshahr rally, titanic effigies of Salome were ritualistically burned as multitudes chanted slogans like "Death to the Snake" and "Avenge Shas". One speaker, Jahangir Khan, the Szodan of Elluenuueq, whipped the masses into a frenzy by demanding Shirerithian subjects be given 48 hours to renounce their homeland or face internment as the Benacian Union prepared to enact "full accountability" upon the rogue state.

Commissioner for Foreign Affairs Ayesha al-Osman, addressing crowds in Chryse, went further by declaring that Shireroth had forfeited all sovereign rights and "dismantled all protections" through its embrace of "state terrorism and crimes against humanity." She vowed the crimes of Salome's regime would not go unanswered but stopped short of explicitly calling for war.

The visceral rage and unrestrained vitriol on display underscored just how profoundly the recent Shirerithian actions have inflamed the Benacian populace. With officials and N&H cadres fanning the fires of indignation with bombastic rhetoric about enduring "grievous" trials ahead, it seems increasingly clear that significant escalation or rupture in relations now appears inevitable.

13

HURMU RECALLS AMBASSADOR TO SHIREROTH?

Prince Alexander is grandson of the reigning Basilinna of Constancia and related to the royal families of Nouvelle Alexandrie, Natopia, and Shireroth

• Submits resignation of commission to his mother, Princess and Chancellor Rosamund
• His father is Hurmudan Senator and Imperial Constancian Ambassador to Hurmu

Huyenkula, HUR -- It came as a surprise to many when the regular Hurmu Air Service flight from Normark landed at Huyenkula International Airport, to reveal its VIP passenger, Prince Alexander Ayreon-Kalirion, Ambassador of Hurmu (officially, "The Realms held in right by the Order of the Holy Lakes") to the Imperial Republic of Shireroth. Prince Ayreon-Kalirion has been ambassador to Shireroth since 12.XIV.1724. He was previously Ambassador of Hurmu to Natopia.

Ambassador Ayreon-Kalirion, dressed in an ordinary dark-colored business suit, was whisked away from the tarmac by official vehicles, and did not deign to pass by the passenger terminal like ordinary travelers. No one was present to reveal further details to the press. The spokesperson of the Secretary of State for External Relations later noted dryly for the assembled media that, "Ambassador Prince Ayreon-Kalirion, our ambassador to the Imperial Republic of Shireroth, tendered his commission to his mother, Princess-Chancellor Rosamund, upon his arrival in Huyenkula."

It is not yet determined if the removal of Ambassador Ayreon-Kalirion was an official act of the Government, or if this was done by the ambassador's own volition. It will be recalled that Ambassador Ayreon-Kalirion's maternal family is also the reigning dynasty of the Imperial State of Constancia, which has very publicly directed all its flags within the Euran state and elsewhere throughout Micras, to be flown at half-staff, an internationally-recognized symbol of mourning. It is yet unclear if the Imperial Constancian Embassy in Shirekeep has recalled its ambassador as well. There is also talk in Petropolis that the Shirerithian Ambassador was summoned to the Imperial Palace mere hours after news broke of the murder of the Benacian Ambassador to Shirekeep. In the Imperial Synklētos, there were a great many speeches decrying the "barbarism of a crowned sovereign", and a "shameful display of one claiming to be a civilized state".

Sources within the Senate of Hurmu claim that the ambassador's father, Senator Prince Utas Enrique Naian and concurrent Imperial Constancian Ambassador to Hurmu, offered a resolution of condolence on the death of Princes Rubin and Ichirō, and that the ambassador's own mother, the Princess Chancellor, announced to the Senate that her son left his post in a rage at the treatment of a fellow accredited diplomat to the Imperial Republic.

Harming the diplomatic representative of a sovereign nation is generally treated as an act of war.

15

CONSTANCIA SEALS BORDERS WITH SUREN

The Imperial State of Constancia has significant border lengths with the Suren Confederacy

• Surenšāhbanu Mitradokht had died just days before
• Succession crisis expected
• Constancian reserve units mobilized
• Humanitarian crisis looming

New Drakorda, Principality of Molivadia, CON -- "The borders and border crossings between the Imperial State of Constancia and the Suren Confederacy remain shut, as of now."

This is the official statement coming from Paquito Daez, senior officer of the Borders Control Agency for the Principality of Molivadia. What this means is that despite their protests, except for official traffic, no one can cross the borders of Constancia and Suren, at least for the Constancian side. This includes Varaz and Mitra, more commonly known as Raspur. Anyone who attempts to do so in violation of law is liable to be shot.

The only way with which anyone from Suren may enter the Imperial State is through an airport, or a port, like Nivardom or elsewhere, like in Shahzamin, or the longer way around through the Gulf of Aqaba. Even security in the Republic of Vey as well as the Ecclesiastical Mountain Republic has been strengthened. Units of the Imperial Constancian Armed Forces have been mobilized to ensure this very condition. These instructions were attested to by the Imperial Constancian Ambassador to the Suren Confederacy, as he declared that no petitions for asylum would be accepted or processed by the Constancian Embassy in Surenshahr.

It will be recalled that a few months ago, an Autokratorial Decree was issued and made public, advising that the Imperial State had no objections to external emigration to areas governed by the Southeastern Eura Provisional Administration of the State of Oportia, which were taken due to Operation Verdant Reach.

II

13

NEWS ACROSS NOUVELLE ALEXANDRIE

The Lajas NatAlex Launch Alliance factory, recently opened in Santander; 1731 AN.

The Aldurian - (Punta Santiago, ALD)

GROWING ANXIETY AMONG NEW ALEXANDRIANS IN SHIREROTH AND BENACIAN UNION

• Citizens Fear Potential Nuclear Exchange Reminiscent of The Scouring
• Talks of Evacuation Plans Surface as Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
• Memories of 1695's Catastrophic Events Stir Public Unease and Calls for Peace
• Federal Government Pledges to Safeguard New Alexandrian Expatriates Amid Crisis

Times of Alduria-Wechua - (Parap, WEC)

NATALEX LAUNCH ALLIANCE OPENS FIRST SPACESHIP FACTORY IN LAJAS, SANTANDER

• Dingo-Class Shuttle Manufacturing Set to Boost Local Economy and Job Market
• High-Tech CarSan Corridor Anticipated to Become Global Aerospace Hub
• Strategic Partnership Between Dingo Enterprises and Javelin Industries Marks New Era for Nouvelle Alexandrie
• Expected Creation of Thousands of Jobs Spurs Economic Optimism in Santander

Parap National Journal - (Parap, WEC)

CONCERNS RISE OVER QUECHIPA DAM'S STABILITY AMID INSPECTIONS

• Experts Call for Rigorous Inspections to Prevent Potential Catastrophe
• Local Authorities and Engineers to Conduct Comprehensive Safety Evaluations
• Public Nervousness Reflects Fears of Broader Impacts of Possible Dam Failure
• Government Reacts Quickly to Safeguard Lives and Save the Dam

Le Soleil de Lyrica - (Beaufort, NLY)

ALDUATOM ALEXANDRIUM REACTOR BEGINS TESTING IN MASSINA

• World’s First Alexandrium Reactor Prototype Touted as Milestone in Clean Energy
• Innovative Technology Promises Unprecedented Efficiency and Safety Standards
• Massina’s Test Facility Attracts International Scientific Community’s Attention
• Reactor Testing to Continue for the Next 5 Years Before Full Approval

IV

21

Nouvelle Alexandrie Economic Dashboard (Month IV, 1731)

Nouvelle Alexandrie Economic Dashboard (Month IV, 1731)
Economy of Nouvelle Alexandrie

Core Economic Indicators
Metric	Current Value	Change (Since XI.1730)	Description
GDP (1731 AN)	NAX€ 27.0 trillion	▲ +1.9%	Robust growth in GDP, driven by strong exports and improved industrial and agricultural output.
Inflation Rate	1.8%	▼ -0.5%	Inflation continues to decline and has reached below the FBNA's 2% target.
Budget Deficit/Surplus (1731 AN)	NAX€ 42.5 billion Deficit	▼ -50%	Significant reduction in the budget deficit due to increased tax revenues.
Public Debt	NAX€ 11.4 trillion	▼ -1.7%	Further decrease in public debt, supported by prudent fiscal management and implementation of new budgetary measures.
External Debt	NAX€ 4.3 trillion	▼ -4.4%	Strong decrease in external debt aided by a booming export sector and strategic debt repayments.
Labor Market Indicators
Metric	Current Value	Change (Since XI.1730)	Description
Unemployment Rate	4.9%	▼ -0.8%	Significant improvement in employment, especially in export-oriented and agricultural sectors.
Youth Unemployment Rate	14.6%	▼ -0.8%	Decrease in youth unemployment due to targeted training programs and burgeoning service industries.
Labor Force	216.3 million	▲ +0.8 million	Expansion of the labor force, energized by a vibrant economic environment and job creation.
Labor Force Participation Rate	66.7%	▲ +0.3%	Enhanced participation rate as more individuals are encouraged by promising job prospects.
Financial Market Indicators
Metric	Current Value	Change (Since XI.1730)	Description
Nouvelle Alexandrie Stock Exchange Index	11,300 points	▲ +3.7%	Stock market sees impressive gains, reflecting investor confidence and robust economic health.
Consumer and Corporate Finance
Metric	Current Value	Change (Since XI.1730)	Description
Consumer Debt	NAX€ 1.31 trillion	▲ +5.6%	Consumer debt increases as households expand their spending, driven by higher consumer confidence.
Consumer Savings Rate	2.4%	▼ -0.2%	A slight decrease in the savings rate as consumers opt for increased spending.
Corporate Debt	NAX€ 2.9 trillion	▼ -3.3%	Corporate debt reduction continues as businesses leverage favorable economic conditions to enhance liquidity.
Housing and Production Indicators
Metric	Current Value	Change (Since XI.1730)	Description
Housing Prices Index	101 points	▲ +2.0%	Continued rise in housing prices, driven by demand in burgeoning economic regions and investment inflows.
Industrial Production Growth Rate	+0.8%	▲ +0.8%	Notable improvement in industrial production, mirroring growth in consumer goods and defense exports.
Sector-Specific Performance
Metric	Current Value	Change (Since XI.1730)	Description
Technology Sector Growth Rate	+6.5%	▲ +0.2%	Steady growth in technology sector due to innovation and increasing global demand for high-tech products.
Alexandrium Industry Index	90	▲ +4.0%	Remarkable growth in Alexandrium industry due to increased defense spending and global security concerns.
Retail Sector Index	90 points	▲ +2.0%	Retail sector thrives with strong consumer confidence and a boost from recovered employment rates.
Manufacturing Output Index	99 points	▲ +2.0%	Manufacturing sees robust growth, fueled by both domestic and international demand.
Construction Activity Index	102 points	▲ +2.0%	Construction industry booms with new infrastructure projects and commercial developments.
Agricultural Output	+3.5%	▲ +6.0%	Agriculture rebounds significantly, anticipating bumper crops and benefiting from favorable weather and trade agreements.
Services Sector Index	94 points	▲ +2.0%	Services sector expands, driven by tourism and enhanced business activities.
Automobile Industry Index	80 points	▲ +3.0%	Automobile industry accelerates with renewed consumer interest and advancements in vehicle technology.
Financial Services Stability Index	98 points	▲ +3.0%	Enhanced stability in financial services, supported by economic growth and regulatory improvements.
Healthcare Services Index	105 points	▲ +2.0%	Continued investment in healthcare amplifies growth, focusing on innovation and patient care.
Energy Consumption Rate	+2.5%	▲ +1.5%	Energy consumption rises with increased industrial activity and expanding infrastructure.
Renewable Energy Investment	+21%	▲ +2.0%	Commitment to renewable energy strengthens, aligning with national sustainability goals.
Tourism Arrival Numbers	+17%	▲ +2.0%	Tourism flourishes, propelled by effective marketing strategies and wider economic recovery from the Recession of 1726.
Export Growth Rate	+6.5%	▲ +2.5%	Exports surge, particularly in defense and consumer goods, benefitting from strategic trade agreements.
E-Commerce Growth Rate	+23%	▲ +2.0%	E-commerce continues its explosive growth, adapting to consumer preferences and technological advances.

VI

2

COLD WAR RUNS HOT: EMERGENCY EVACUATION ORDER ISSUED FOR NEW ALEXANDRIAN CITIZENS IN SHIREROTH AND THE BENACIAN UNION

New Alexandrian citizens start to arrive at Goldfield International Airport, Benacian Union; 1731 AN.

• Immediate Evacuation Order Issued Due to Escalating Conflict Between Shireroth and the Benacian Union
• All New Alexandrian Citizens in Shireroth and the Benacian Union to Be Evacuated
• Evacuation Orders Issued by Secretary of State Morissa Baumann
• Flights and Transportation Arranged by the Department of State Out of Shireroth and the Benacian Union
• Citizens Urged to Contact the Nearest New Alexandrian Embassy or Consulate Immediately
• Civilian and Diplomatic Emergency Response Teams Mobilized to Assist in Evacuations

Shirekeep, IRS -- In response to growing tensions and the impending conflict between Shireroth and the Benacian Union, the Department of State, led by Secretary of State Morissa Baumann, has issued an emergency evacuation order for all New Alexandrian citizens currently in the affected areas. The evacuation is set to begin immediately, with the government coordinating flights and other modes of transportation to ensure the safety of its nationals.

"Given the escalating situation, our top priority is the safety and security of our citizens," said Secretary Baumann. "We have mobilized emergency response teams and are working closely with our embassies in the region to facilitate a swift and orderly evacuation." Citizens needing assistance are advised to contact their nearest embassy as soon as possible. Embassies and consulates are equipped to provide logistical support and the latest travel advisories. The government has also established hotlines for emergency communication and assistance.

New Alexandrian citizens in Shireroth and the Benacian Union shared their concerns and relief at the government's quick action. "The situation here has been getting tense, and we're relieved to hear that our government is taking steps to get us home safely," commented Elena Márquez, a teacher working in Shirekeep, Shireroth. "Knowing that flights and arrangements have been made gives us peace of mind in these uncertain times," added Jonathan Keeler, a businessman in Chryse, Benacian Union.

This evacuation order follows reports of increasing military activity and threats across the Benacian continent, posing significant risks to foreign nationals. The Department of State continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as the evacuation progresses.

VII

13

SHIRO-BENACIAN CONFLICT EXPOSES FISSURES IN NOUVELLE ALEXANDRIE'S SUPPORT FOR RASPUR PACT

Protests in Nouvelle Alexandrie calling for reevaluation of Raspur Pact membership

• Growing Dissent Among New Alexandrians Questions the Benefits of the Raspur Pact Amid the Shiro-Benacian Conflict.
• Reports Highlight Ongoing Violations of Free Movement and Trade by the Benacian Union, Undermining Pact Provisions.
• Nouvelle Alexandrie Faces Investment Barriers in the Benacian Union, Contrasting with Open Access for Benacian Union Firms in Nouvelle Alexandrie.
• The ESB Group Operates with Minimal Restrictions in Nouvelle Alexandrie, a Privilege Not Reciprocated for New Alexandrian Firms in the Benacian Union.
• Poll by IOP/NBC News Shows Public Sentiment in Nouvelle Alexandrie Split Nearly 50%/50% on Continuing Raspur Pact Membership.

CARDENAS, FCD -- Recent developments in the Shiro-Benacian conflict have sparked a significant debate within Nouvelle Alexandrie regarding its membership in the Raspur Pact. Citizens and policymakers alike are questioning the efficacy and mutual benefit of the alliance, especially in light of recent actions by the Benacian Union that seem to contravene the foundational principles of the Pact.

Critics argue that the Benacian Union's consistent disregard for the free movement and trade agreements has not only strained relations but has also placed Nouvelle Alexandrian businesses at a disadvantage. "It's increasingly clear that the current framework allows the Benacian Union to exploit our markets while shielding their own from our investors," stated Deputy Jose Perez (UfA).

On the other hand, proponents of the Pact argue that Nouvelle Alexandrie's economic success and political influence is heavily tied to its international alliances, especially the Raspur Pact. "Withdrawing or reducing our role within the Pact could undermine decades of economic progress and stability," commented Professor Lucien Gramercy, an economics professor at the Royal University of Parap.

The pervasive influence of the ESB Group in Nouvelle Alexandrie has become a focal point for those advocating for a reevaluation of the Pact. This multinational conglomerate enjoys significant freedom in Nouvelle Alexandrie, a liberty that is not afforded to New Alexandrian companies within the Benacian Union.

As the debate continues, a recent poll by the Institute of Public Opinion (IOP) and NBC News indicates that public opinion is sharply divided. Approximately 47% of respondents favor reassessing Nouvelle Alexandrie's role and commitments within the Raspur Pact, spurred by the ongoing conflict and perceived inequalities in economic relations.

As war continues in Benacia, the future of Nouvelle Alexandrie's position within the Raspur Pact remains uncertain, with significant implications for its international strategy and domestic politics.

RASPUR PACT SUPPORT POLL
% of registered New Alexandrian voters
Margin of error: ±3%

Opinion	Percentage	Change
Support Continuing Membership	50%
Support Reassessing Membership	47%	▲ +3%
Indifferent or No Opinion	3%	▼ -3%