"Apologies for the slight delay." Slavomír uttered, breathing heavily. The spiritual leader of the Rodnovery seemed a few years older than two weeks ago, his eyes full of pain. Over the last two weeks not a soul in the government or in the Prague Castle has seen him, yet now, the President herself has required his presence.

"Finally, Slavomír, you know how comrade Reiserová feels about these things. She... we believe Istkalen to be a space occupied by people of strong spirit and moral convictions. And we require your spiritual guidance to ensure that our wills are strong and resolute and our decisions... please... the gods." Lubomír Mejzlík started speaking, visibly slowing down when speaking about the Rodnovery gods and strength of the spirit. Over his course of yoga sessions with Albína Reiserová, he has learned that Albína was perhaps not a materialist in the strictest sort of sense. He has seen her talk about the possible existence of some forces beyond their understanding and he has heard her wandering how she could have survived the explosion in Prague Castle over four years ago. But he never imagined she would get this captured in a dead religion.

The spiritual figure stopped and caught loudly, leaning over slightly, his red face full of sweat, "My most sincere apologies to Albína, I've just... had to take some pills you know. It isn't getting any better I'm afraid, it might be getting worse."

"And meditating and sacrifices did not help?" Zuzana Saková asked, smiling at the exhausted man as she stood up from her chair.

Slavomír through her a nasty look with his blue eyes but did not say anything, instead finally catching his breath. "Karel is already here then? And where is Albína?"

"Comrade Reiserová is deep into meditation and Karel is getting updated on all the cultural news on Istkalen, both on the plane currently." Lubomír spoke of the President who was just in the middle of a nap onboard and Minister of Culture who was in the middle of an unexpected nap, with newspapers laying on his face, shielding his eyes from the light.

The three figures then all nodded and entered the plane, which departed with a further delay.

After a long flight the presidential plane lands and the government representatives, including the President, sit into their respective cars, Reiserová picking Šín to sit with as the two had very little time to chat in the plane, since after waking up from a nap she had to share her spiritual experiences with Slavomír, after not being able to share face to face for two weeks.

"They said it's supposed to be hot outside. Even the last update I have seen about the temperature here was suggesting this is a very hot day in Istkalen. But honestly, since landing here I feel like it's February, not August." The president says, shivering from cold in her summer dress.

"Probably because we landed a little late, it's dark outside now, so maybe the nights just get colder, resembling February more, even though it's August. If we didn't have to wait, we would be on time and you wouldn't be cold now." Šín responded, his eyes tired even after the nap.

"Oh shut it. You know having a spiritual guide here is important. But tell me all about the latest happenings in the country... and about their many beliefs! I've just gotten a really nice book about Istkalen, I just haven't got around to reading it yet... you know how busy I have been." Resireová spoke with a glitter of excitement in her eyes, staring at Šín longing at knowledge.

"Oh well... did you know that..." Šín stuttered, "It has been quite some time since Stereotypical Westener was mentioned in any capacity? There are rumors that he has died of heart failure after overeating in a sterotypical westener fashion on a stereotypical westener food.*" Šín smiled triumphantly.

Reiserová frowned and turned her face away from her Minister, "So you were sleeping instead of doing what I told you to do. And you made that rumor up. Ughh... fine! I will just have to find out everything, like I am always doing everything for all of you!"

The rest of the ride has been quiet, until finally the car has stopped in front of the old Imperial Palace and the two stepped out of the vehicle, followed by the other two ministers stepping out of their vehicles and Slavomír getting out of his. "I just hope we didn't make them wait for too long. I wouldn't want to not be accepted here anymore. Especially after I promised to come." Reiserová whispered, feeling guilty for all the delays.

The Tribunal

LORRAINE DEVI ARRESTED ON CORRUPTION AND INCITEMENT TO RIOT CHARGES

by Alfred Ingham - February 25, 2025

An image of Lorraine Devi.

The Harmony leader is in legal trouble after the deadly protests against the government. Image credit

Lorraine Devi, leader of the far-right Harmony party, was arrested early this morning on charges of corruption, incitement to riot, and hate speech. Authorities allege that Devi orchestrated and encouraged violent protests against the proposed Political Etiquette Act last month, leading to at least 21 deaths and hundreds of injuries and arrests.

Devi was taken into custody by the Forecoaster Police Department after an arrest warrant was issued earlier this week. According to law enforcement, Devi misused party funds to finance demonstrations that escalated into violent riots and provided financial support to armed militias across Elthize to further intensify the unrest.

The protests, which erupted in major cities including St. Lucas, Montgomery, and Forecoaster, initially opposed government restrictions on public speech and political discourse that would be placed by the Political Etiquette Act, but quickly spiraled into some of the deadliest riots in recent history. Authorities claim Devi and other Harmony members incited violence by spreading inflammatory rhetoric and misinformation about the law’s implications.

Before her arrest, Devi dismissed the charges as "politically motivated." "These allegations hold no value," she stated. "Some of them are outright ridiculous. Claiming that we have secretly funded armed militias in Elthize? These are conspiracy theories. If they think they can silence us with this, they’ll have to try harder."

Devi's arrest has sparked a wave of reactions across the political spectrum. Bernard Lee, a Harmony MP, condemned it as "absolutely authoritarian" and called for President Melissa Chai’s resignation. "It has been about half a year and the left has already embraced a psychotic dictatorship. We cannot handle this any longer. Chai must go." Meanwhile, Progressive Conservative Party leader Wirt Harland described the arrest as "unprecedented" and warned that it "could set a dangerous precedent in Elthic politics moving forward." Former President Greenwich Grimwald, in his first public statement since leaving office, also denounced the arrest, stating it is "against everything Elthize stands for."

Meanwhile, members and supporters of the governing coalition have largely supported the arrest. Zoe Allen, leader of the Congress for Social Democracy, praised the authorities, saying, "Justice has prevailed over chaos." Moderates leader Freddie Abbey went even further, declaring "good riddance" and expressing her eagerness to see Harmony disbanded entirely: "All they've done is bring violence and disorder. I cannot wait for these thugs to be kicked out of our country's politics," Abbey claimed.

Devi is expected to appear in court within the coming days, where a judge will determine whether she will remain in custody or be granted conditional release, with a certain possibility of a block on leaving Elthize until the case is concluded. Tom Nakamura, vice leader of Harmony and a member of parliament, has stated that Devi would remain the leader of Harmony, even if she remained in custody, while he would assume her duties in a caretaker position.

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President Ran Mouri-Kudo Calls for EU-Wide AI Regulation Treaty at Press Conference

Executive Mansion, Commonwealth of Leagio – In a bold and decisive move, President Ran Mouri-Kudo has called for a European Union-wide treaty agreement to regulate the powers and ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at a press conference held at the Executive Mansion, the Leagioan leader emphasized the urgent need for a coordinated European framework to ensure AI development remains ethical, transparent, and beneficial to all citizens.

She stressed that while AI holds great potential to revolutionize industries, its unchecked growth could lead to privacy violations, algorithmic biases, and economic disparities.

"Artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented pace, transforming industries from healthcare to finance and beyond," President Mouri-Kudo stated. "However, with great power comes great responsibility. If we fail to put adequate safeguards in place, AI could exacerbate inequalities, undermine democratic values, and challenge human rights."

The President called on EU leaders to collaborate on drafting a legally binding treaty that would establish clear standards for AI ethics, accountability, and governance. She highlighted the importance of transparency in AI decision-making processes and the need for a framework that prevents misuse by both corporations and governments.

President Mouri-Kudo outlined key principles that she believes should be enshrined in the EU-wide AI treaty, including:

Transparency and Accountability: AI developers must be required to disclose how their algorithms function and ensure that AI decision-making is explainable.

Data Protection and Privacy: AI applications must comply with strict data security laws to prevent the misuse of personal information.

Bias Prevention and Fairness: AI systems must be designed to eliminate racial, gender, and economic biases, ensuring equitable outcomes for all citizens.

Ethical AI Use in Employment: Governments must regulate AI-driven automation to protect jobs and prevent mass layoffs.

Military and Security Restrictions: AI should not be used for autonomous lethal weapons or mass surveillance that infringes on civil liberties.

Human Oversight in Critical Decisions: AI should not be used to make life-altering decisions, such as medical diagnoses or criminal sentencing, without human oversight.

The President reaffirmed Leagio’s own commitment to responsible AI governance, citing the country’s advancements in digital infrastructure and ongoing initiatives to ensure ethical AI use. Under her administration, the Ministry of Digital Affairs and Communications has been working to draft national regulations aligned with broader EU standards. Additionally, Leagio’s government has initiated cross-border partnerships in digital governance and cybersecurity, as outlined in the Westwood Accord signed with the Commonwealth of California​. These partnerships aim to strengthen international cooperation on technology-related challenges.

The call for an AI treaty has sparked mixed reactions across the European Union. Supporters of the initiative, including members of the Progressive Alliance Party (PAP) and Green Party (GP) of Leagio​, praised the President’s leadership in addressing the pressing issue of AI regulation. However, the Federal Constitutional Conservative Party (FCCP) and Federation of Centrist Democrats (FCD) voiced concerns about potential overregulation, warning that excessive restrictions could stifle innovation and economic growth​. Meanwhile, industry leaders have expressed cautious optimism, with some calling for balanced policies that promote both innovation and ethical considerations.

President Mouri-Kudo announced that she will be engaging in diplomatic talks with EU leaders in the coming weeks to push forward discussions on the proposed treaty. She has also requested that the Leagioan Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs draft an initial proposal to be presented at an upcoming EU summit.

"We stand at a crossroads where we can either shape AI for the good of humanity or allow it to be dictated by profit and power," President Mouri-Kudo concluded. "Leagio is ready to lead the charge for responsible AI governance in Europe and beyond."

The global community now watches closely as Leagio positions itself at the forefront of ethical AI governance, signaling a new era of digital responsibility in European policymaking.

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Results of the January 2025 Election Referendum

Effective 12 February 2025

The voting in the January 2025 referendum to call an election, pursuant to Deomcratic Procedure Act 2024, has now concluded and the results have been validated by the Election Security Ombudsman :

Total vote count: 2,305,492.5 (% change: N/A)

Question on ballot: Do you vote to compel the Braetha to call a national election on 20 April, 2025?

Answer breakdown

% respondents indicating "YES": 23% (530, 263 votes)

% respondents indicating "NO": 77% (1,775, 229.5 votes)

FINAL RESULT: An election will not be called for 20 April, 2025. On this date there will be another election referendum, pursuant to Democratic Procedure Act 2024.

ERE BACH'AIR DUN

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Stabbing Attack in San Diego

SAN DIEGO---A stabbing attack occurred in the San Diego State area as clubs closed at 2:30 a.m. Reports of a disgruntled altercation outside of a nightclub was known. San Diego Police and the CFP are investigating. Prime Minister Harris, with her attorney general background, has been watching keenly.

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The Commonwealth of Leagio expresses deep concern over the ongoing violence and loss of life in Elthize related to the protests against the proposed Political Etiquette Act. We extend our condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and urge all parties involved to seek a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Leagio upholds the fundamental principles of democracy, freedom of expression, and the rule of law. We firmly believe that peaceful protests and open dialogue are essential components of a healthy democratic society. The reports of civilian casualties and the use of excessive force in some areas are troubling, and we call upon all authorities in Elthize to ensure that human rights and civil liberties are respected.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises all Leagioan citizens currently in Elthize to exercise extreme caution, avoid areas of unrest, and follow local authorities' safety instructions. For those seeking assistance, the Leagioan consulate remains available for support and, if necessary, will coordinate safe return options.

We urge all stakeholders in Elthize to work toward a resolution that prioritizes the safety and rights of its citizens and prevents further escalation of violence.
Signed:
President Ran Mouri-Kudo
President of the Commonwealth of Leagio
Prime Minister Revy Robertson
Federica Mogherini
Minister of Foreign Affairs

Political Map of California

Worrying increase of homeless former-Aspernians should be addressed, charities say

A new study by the Sertian Border Clerks, a human rights and immigration charity, has shown that the number of homeless people who formerly held Aspernian nationality has increased from 18% in January of this year to 24% as of this July.

Many people who lived to the south of the country, in Osperfey or the West Olves had their Sertian passports and other vital records destroyed or confiscated by the Aspernian regime, and now struggle to prove their immigration status to landlords and letting agencies.

Former Aspernian citizens are different from persons designated as Aspernian sympathisers, the latter of whom actively participated in the secession of the Republic of Aspern. Aspernian sympathisers have had their vital records and government documents taken away and currently do not hold the right to live in Sertia other than in prison, and those who are still not imprisoned have warrants out for their arrest. The minimum sentence they will all serve is 3 years 1.5 months.

Aspernian citizens, however, have been caught in the crossfire, many have lost their homes and are subject to trafficking, homelessness and even deportation proceedings since they are unable to produce legal documents.

Last year in light of this scandal the government relaxed the rules around deportation and immigrants who do not have legal documents. The effect of this change is yet unclear.

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30 January/Enero 2025

The Commonwealth Government is carefully watching the demonstrations in Elthize. As always, we respect national sovereingty, the right to peaceful assembly and protest.

Hon. Kamala Harris, MP

Republic

*Íkrat has headed off the internal threats to her rule - but is not yet out of hot water

Against all odds, Elizabeth Íkrat has managed to consolidate power and put an end to the disintegration of the country.

Under her direction, the Tabithist (formerly Arian) Church has surrendered much of its hard power in exchange for relaxed regulations on evangelism and public communications and guaranteed representation in certain national cultural organizations, releasing the ex-members it had abducted and held captive in an attempt to gain leverage over the government, dissolving the "intentional communities" it had founded to disrupt governance and foment terrorism in Kirelesile and the former German Territories, and surrendering what remaining arms it was allowed to retain under the October Accords it agreed to following the failure of its attempt to seize control of the Istkalenic state.

The paramilitary of the Agrarian Union, led by the still-obscure far-left firebrand Veia Veivet Iveva, and the increasingly restless "young officers" of the Istkalenic military, allegedly led by long-time ASPIS head Lauri Laakonen, ex-Colonel Kuldar Loime, and Colonel Kallentan Ésketemar, have, too, stood down in the violent campaign they, in a tenuous alliance, had led across the countryside to root out perceived corruption, material, moral, or otherwise, and re-establish what they saw as "18th of April revolutionary institutions" unfairly dissolved previously governments, such as the radical feminist Women's Committees and the levelling, redistributionist People's Courts. In exchange for a number of admittedly significant concessions - Veia Veivet Iveva and Lauri Laakonen have been made the country's co-presidents, succeeding interim Head of State Ursula Korhonen, the Agrarian Union paramilitary is to be integrated into the existing civilian police force, and the Women's Committees, though not People's Courts, are to be re-established with full powers across the country - they have agreed to recognize the legitimacy of the national government and the monopoly on power, and particularly violence, it is thus entitled to.

Even the Radical Democratic Party, which had used its positions in cabinet and in parliament, in addition to its paramilitary presence in Kirelesile, to intimidate the government into placing strict caps on non-Kitetois wealth and participation in the professions, has been forced to kneel before a newly bolstered and emboldened Íkrat, agreeing to surrender its arms and allotted ministerial portfolio, receiving in exchange only amnesty for those of its members guilty of inciting and participating in intercommunal violence.

Only the religiously-aligned Censorate remains out of purely civilian government; while its ability to directly influence and even govern parts of the country is now significantly diminished from its peak in mid-December, it retains its independence and hatred for Íkrat, with its President, Ursula Orlich, continuing to threaten to do, in her own words, "everything that is possible" to "permanently end liberal Western perversion in Istkalen" and "oust, condemn, and mercilessly punish Íkrat and all of her traitor-collaborators in the civil service." But even the Censorate must now continue its campaign against the cabinet and the parliament from a point of precarity - with Íkrat now re-empowered, her government can once again threaten and deliver on its threats, and thus place severe practical restrictions on the ability of the institution to execute its plans to abolish Istkalenic parliamentary democracy.

But Íkrat is by no means out of danger. Though she has managed to put an end to any serious institutional threat to her power, she has done so, again, only by making enormous compromises that may ultimately do more to undermine the state than even her earlier intransigence did. By granting the Tabithists free reign to propagandize to the population at large, they have put the country at genuine risk - especially considering the growing reaction against the rapid cultural liberalization of the occupation and Rikkalek years - of a future fundamentalist uprising, one which would put the Lirisian foundation, increasingly Western-liberal nature, and by extension stabliity of the modern Istkalenic state in question. The integration of the unruly, highly ideological, and mob-like paramilitaries of Veia Veivet Iveva, too, already threatens to place the continued rule of law in question, and may serve, if Íkrat ever again falls out with Iveva and her followers, as a dangerous fount of revolution. This is not to speak of the legitimization of the "young officers," a group which descends from the NSC, remains deeply enamored with the idea of military rule, and now have effectively been told that mutiny remains possible and enormously promising as an avenue for change - nor of the lack of consequences faced by the provocateurs and thugs of the RDP, who now remain free to continue to stoke ethnic tensions and division in Istkalen.

Perhaps more importantly, virtually all of these cessions and concessions are deeply unpopular with the Istkalenic people. Though the resulting stability has managed to create statistically significant improvements in public approval for the Íkrat government - where its support once was as low as 13-17%, it now appears to stand in the low to mid twenties, from 21-25% - there is significant evidence to show that they have also led to an even further collapse in public trust around it. In mid-December, before these agreements, distrust, while high, was also unusually weak - though roughly 90% of Istkaleners indicated a lack of trust in the sitting ministry, only 5% of their number insisted that theirs was strong. Now, however, though distrust remains in the low 90s, its strength has exponentially increased; a supermajority of those claiming a lack of trust insisted that theirs was strong in polling organization Kalitmulen's January poll. If Istkalenic opinion was capricious before, only God might be capable or properly describing what it might be now, under such extraordinary conditions - and even then it may very well be that He is incapable of rising to the task. In any case, with suspicion now so intense, even the slightest of mistakes might now lead to the Íkrat government losing virtually all of its credibility. With so many alternative centers of power having survived the crisis, such an event would almost certainly be catastrophic for the continued survival of the Republic.

The Structure of the Leagioan Education System

Education in the Commonwealth of Leagio has evolved significantly over the years, adapting to the needs of a growing and diverse society. Through various reforms and initiatives, the nation has established a robust education system aimed at fostering academic achievement, personal growth, and preparation for post-secondary opportunities. The Leagioan education system is organized into three main levels: Elementary, Middle, and Secondary education, with a strong emphasis on post-secondary planning at the high school level.

Elementary Education

Elementary education in Leagio typically begins at age six and spans six years, covering grades 1 through 6. This foundational stage is designed to instill basic literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills in students. The curriculum includes core subjects such as mathematics, Leagioan history, science, and language arts, as well as supplementary subjects like physical education and the arts. Teachers aim to create a nurturing and inclusive environment to encourage curiosity and a love for learning. Additionally, early standardized assessments are introduced to identify areas where students may need extra support.

Middle Education

Middle school in Leagio lasts three years, encompassing ages 12 to 14 and covering grades 7 through 9. This stage bridges the gap between elementary and secondary education. During this stage, students delve deeper into core academic subjects while also exploring new areas such as foreign languages, technology, and career awareness. The Lifejumper Administration introduced the Leagioan End of Year Exam (LEYE) at this level to assess student proficiency in key subjects such as mathematics, science, and Leagioan history. These assessments help teachers and policymakers tailor educational strategies to enhance student outcomes. Middle school also begins to prepare students for the transition to secondary education, emphasizing study skills and personal responsibility.

Secondary Education

Secondary education in Leagio spans four years, from ages 15 to 18, and covers grades 10 through 12. High schools are designed to cater to a wide range of academic interests and career goals, offering a combination of mandatory and elective courses. The curriculum ensures students have a solid foundation in traditional subjects while allowing for specialization in areas such as STEM, the humanities, or the arts.

The Leagioan End of Year Exam (LEYE) is also a critical component of secondary education. Administered annually, the LEYE assesses students’ mastery of core subjects and helps guide them toward appropriate post-secondary pathways. Performance on the LEYE can influence opportunities for enrollment in Merit Enrichment Courses (MEC) and other advanced programs. The exam serves as a benchmark for both academic progress and readiness for higher education or vocational training.

A distinctive feature of Leagioan high schools is their strong focus on post-secondary planning and development. This includes programs and initiatives to help students identify and pursue their career aspirations. Career counseling is a cornerstone of the high school experience, with counselors working closely with students to develop personalized post-secondary plans. Options include preparing for higher education, trade schools, military service, or direct entry into the workforce. Schools often host career fairs, college visits, and workshops on resume building and financial literacy to equip students with the tools they need for success.

Post-Secondary Preparation Programs

In alignment with national education goals, Leagioan high schools provide multiple pathways to support students in achieving their post-secondary ambitions. Merit Enrichment Courses (MEC) and dual enrollment opportunities allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.

The MEC program is a hallmark of the Leagioan commitment to academic excellence. These courses are designed for high-achieving students who wish to challenge themselves with advanced content. MEC classes cover a wide range of subjects, from advanced mathematics and sciences to in-depth studies in literature and social sciences. They emphasize critical thinking, independent research, and rigorous assessment. Successful completion of MEC courses often grants students credits that can be applied to higher education institutions in Leagio and abroad, giving them a competitive edge in college admissions.

Vocational training programs are also widely available, offering certifications in fields such as healthcare, information technology, and skilled trades. Examples of vocational training institutions include the Leagioan Technical Institute for Advanced Manufacturing (LTIAM), which specializes in CNC machining and robotics; the Commonwealth Academy of Healthcare Professions (CAHP), which offers certifications for nursing assistants, paramedics, and medical technicians; and the National Center for Renewable Energy Trades (NCRET), which trains students in solar panel installation, wind turbine maintenance, and energy efficiency technologies. Additionally, trade schools such as the Leagio School of Culinary Arts (LSCA) and the Federal Institute of Automotive Technology (FIAT) provide hands-on training for aspiring chefs and automotive specialists, respectively. These programs ensure students have the skills and credentials necessary to enter high-demand careers directly after graduation.

Higher education in Leagio is supported by a network of community colleges and universities. Examples of community colleges include the Eastern Commonwealth Community College (ECCC), which focuses on associate degrees in business administration and computer science, and the Muale Regional Technical College (MRTC), known for its programs in engineering technology and healthcare. Universities such as the University of the Commonwealth (UC), the nation’s flagship institution, and the Western Commonwealth University (WCU) offer a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Specialized institutions like the Leagio Institute of the Arts (LIA) and the Commonwealth Agricultural and Technical University (CATU) provide focused education in fine arts and agricultural sciences, respectively. These institutions play a vital role in fostering innovation and preparing students for advanced careers in their chosen fields.

For students pursuing higher education, preparatory courses for university entrance exams are integrated into the curriculum. Additionally, internships and cooperative education programs provide hands-on experience in professional settings, further bridging the gap between secondary education and the workforce.

President Mouri-Kudo’s eyes lit up with interest as she listened to Kamala’s explanation. “That’s fascinating, Prime Minister. It’s a unique history—five independent colonies coming together to form what is now such a dynamic and influential nation. Adopting the name ‘California’ for the whole region must have been a unifying and visionary step.”

She paused thoughtfully. “It’s remarkable how histories of federation often mirror the values of collaboration and unity we strive for today. Leagio’s own journey has its parallels, bringing together diverse regions under a shared identity while maintaining their unique characteristics.”

With a warm smile, she added, “Thank you for sharing that piece of history. It’s these kinds of stories that deepen understanding and appreciation between nations. And, on behalf of the people of Leagio, I’ll make every effort to enjoy and learn from California during my visit.”

Kamala jumped from the surprise.

"General Secretary Watanabe, Toukyou ni shoutai shite kurete, arigatou. I studied Yosainese in undergraduate studies but I'm rusty," she said. "Ueno Park is so beautiful, I didn't mind the mild infarto (heart attack)."

Slalium's Spaceport
3rd January 2025 - 02.00 Caribbean Time

Extracted from the RTVE Official Broadcast, images offered by the Agencia Espacial Española

We are receiving new images from the Slalium Spaceport, where the Miura I crew has departed for the launch pad. We are in T-3 hours and counting, and these are the names of the four brave astronauts who, in a few days and if everything goes as it should, will set foot on the Moon. On board of the Miura I are Pablo Álvarez Fernández and Sara García Alonso from Spain, Christopher Huie from Nofoaga and Jonathan Parse from Sertia. Former astronaut Pedro Duque is joining us today...

The astronauts then arrived at the White Room, from where they entered the Miura I, the close-out preparations took place. Soon enough, the astronauts were safely secured in their seats and Pablo Álvarez assumed the Starman Mission command. The conckpit switch configurations were checked by the team, and after positive feedback, Álvarez started the air-to-ground voice checks with Launch Control in Slalium: «Launch Control, this is Miura 1 performing air-to-ground voice checks. Can you hear us?». Launch control replied back: «This is Slalium's Launch Control. We can hear you loud and clear, Miura I. 5 out of 5». Then, Álvarez proceeded to perform the same checks with Mission Control in Sevilla, where the Headquarters of the Agencia Espacial Española were located at: «Sevilla Mission Control, this is Miura 1 performing air-to-ground voice checks. Can you hear us?». Mission control responded: «Loud and clear, Miura I. Good luck!».

With no leaks on the crew hatch, the White Room close-out was complete and the close-out crew began their retreat to fallback area. The time kept counting down, and with 45 minutes on the clock, the Launch Director gave permission gave permission to go for loading fuel into the rocket. Seven minutes later, the spacecraft launch escape system was up and running. With 35 minutes left for launch, the fuel loading began. When the clock went down to T-20 minutes, the clock was held for 15 minutes, during which inertial measurement unit preflight alignments were completed and the Shuttle Test Director conducted the final launch team briefings.

The clock then resumed its way down to zero, and the second stage started getting liquid oxygen, the onboard computers and backup flight system transitioned to launch configuration, the fuell cell thermal conditioning started and the cabin vent valves were closed. With 9 minutes on the clock, the countdown was held again. The Launch Director, Mission Management Team and Shuttle Test Director started polling their teams for a go for launch, after they received a new weather report and analysed all the data they had at that moment. Everything was looking great, and the three teams decided to go for launch.

During the 45 minutes the countdown was held, the members of the 3 delegations from the Kingdom of Spain, the Kingdom of Sertia and the Republic Nofoaga arrived to the grandstand reserved for them, which was next to the general grandstands where thousands of people were already waiting for lift off. Then, the countdown started moving again, and the nerves began to grow within Launch Control, Mission Control and the people watching, including politicians. The Director of the Agencia Espacial Española was in the Launch Control dependencies, accompanied by the Minister of Science, Innovation and Research.

Extracted from the RTVE Official Broadcast, images offered by the Agencia Espacial Española. Bold indicates time, all words following are said by the Launch Director. Words in cursive are said by AEE personnel. RTVE did not say a single word, only offered images. Communication takes place in Spanish

T-9 (05.51 Sertian Local Time): Start automatic ground launch sequencer.
► The automatic ground launch sequencer has been succesfully started
T-7 minutes and 30 seconds: Retract orbiter access arm.
► Orbiter access arm retracted.
T-5 minutes: Start auxiliary power units, arm solid rocket booster range safety safe and arm devices.
► Everything up and running.
T-3 minutes, 55 seconds: Start orbiter aerosurface profile test, followed by main engine gimbal profile test.
► Aerosurface profile test positive, main engine gimbal profile test positive. General feedback remains positive.
T-2 minutes and 55 seconds: Retract gaseous oxygen vent arm.
► Gaseous oxygen vent arm retracted.
T-2 minutes: Crew members close and lock your visors, please. Good luck.
PA: Visors closed and locked.
T-50 seconds: Transfer Miura I from ground to internal power.
► Transfer is complete.
T-31 seconds: Ground launch sequencer is go for auto sequence start.
► Confirm.
T-16 seconds: Activate launch pad sound suppression system.
► Launch pad sound suppression system activated.
T-10 seconds: Activate main engine hydrogen burnoff system.
► Main engine hydrogen burnoff system activated, ten seconds remaining.

The crowd then began to shout every number from 10 to 0. Everyone was expectant, nervous, excited. Some even felt emotional. RTVE then offered a split image of the rocket and the crowd counting down to zero.

10...

9...

8...

7...

T-6.6 Seconds: Main engine start.
► Main engine started, we are ready.

6...

5...

4...

3...

2...

1...

T-0 (06.00 Sertian Time): Lift off!

The Muira I lifted off to the sky successfully. The crowd clapped and cheered, so did the delegations. Nevertheless, in the Launch and Mission control dependencies, someone could have cut the atmosphere with a knife. Everyone was nervous, everything seemed to be working just perfectly.

Extracted from the RTVE Official Broadcast, images offered by the Agencia Espacial Española. Bold indicates time, all words following are said by the Launch Director. Words in cursive are said by AEE personnel. RTVE only offered images, if any comment is made, it will be denoted.

T+58 seconds: Miura I has reached Max Q.
► Affirm, every system is within normal ranges.*

T+2 minutes and 35 seconds: First stage cutting off and separating.
PA: Affirm.
► Separation confirmed.

T+11 minutes: Second stage cutting off and separating.
PA: Affirm. We are on our way to the Moon, everything is normal here!
► Separation confirmed, transfering control to Sevilla Mission Control.

(The rooms in Slalium and in Sevilla explode into cheers and joy)

T+11 minutes and 15 seconds: Miura 1, this is Sevilla Mission Control. Can you hear us?
PA: Loud and clear, Sevilla! Miura 1 on its way to the Moon!

RTVE: And that is it! The Agencia Espacial Española has done it! Miura 1 is on its way to the Moon! From Radiotelevisión Española, congratulations to the big time at the Agencia Espacial Española for this major achivement in our history.

Meanwhile, in Slalium, everyone was celebrating in the grandstands. One by one, Francisco-Javier Benedicto and Anja Karliczek greeted and congratulated the Agencia Espacial Española workers, who then were met by the Royal Family, the Spanish President, the Head of the Braetha and the President of the Republic Nofoaga. The Kingdom of Spain, the Kingdom of Sertia and the Republic Nofoaga had done it: they had launched a rocket towards the Moon. Now, another countdown had been started... soon, the Miura I crew would begin their approach to the Moon.

«Checks were under our estimations, do not worry about them», Feijóo noted.

«As I see there are no more topics up for discussion, I guess it is time to call this summit to an end. Mr. Key, it has been a huge pleasure and a very productive one. I hope that the steps that we have given today mark the start of a new era in our bilateral relationship, which I expect to grow in trust and friendship. Thank you very much for coming», Feijóo concluded.

On the Rotatory Direction of the ASMSA

The Adventuranza Sea Maritime Security Agency wishes to thank D. Alejandro Ramírez Hurtado, from Ceuta, for his services and commitment during the year he has served as the Director of the Agency.

Due to the agreement between Ceuta, the Canary Islands, Escocia, Cantabria and the Comunitat Valenciana, the head of the ASMSA changes every year, rotating in a circle from west to east. The new Adventuranza Sea Maritime Security Agency Director is Don Manuel Miranda Medina, Councillor for Territorial Policy, Territorial Cohesion and Waters in the Canary Islands.

The new director wishes everyone a Happy New Year, and is committed to stability and progress for the Adventuranza Sea, as well as environmental conservation.

EFE

Airbus A321XLR makes Debut in Madrid-Tullion route Madrid - 31.12.2024

Iberia's presentation of the A321XLR, the newest company's aircraft

The Airbus A321XLR is a reality. Iberia presented yesterday its newest aircraft, entirely produced in Spain, while the plane has had its inaugural flight today, covering the highly demanded route between Madrid and Tullion, which is registering the highest number of passengers since its establishment. According to Iberia, the arrival of the Airbus aircraft makes the route "more sustainable", allowing the Spanish flag carrier to increase the frequencies between Spain and Leagio while accomplishing with the company's compromise with the environment.

Airbus has guaranteed comfort on board and affirms the aircraft is ready for long-distance flights, flying up to a maximum of 4,700 Nautical Miles and creating exciting opportunities for airlines. According to the Spanish company, the A321XLR is «the lowest risk solution for airlines to open new long haul routes, offering full long haul passenger experience including wider economy seats, full flat business class seats, latest generation IFE and connectivity».

With a seating capacity of up to 244 passengers, the A321XLR burns less fuel, with the CO2 emissions having decreased a 30% compared to the A321neo. The noise footprint has been reduced by Airbus on a 50%, while the maximum flight time reaches 11 hours. Compared to the other variants of the A321, the XLR increases its range a 15% compared to the Long Range version of the A321neo, which translates in 700 nautical miles. According to a spokesperson from Airbus, they expect orders of this variant to be "high".

I understand the concerns but the idea is set a standard set by all European nations who choose vote on it. It would be up to member states to enforce the standards and laws in this but the main benefit is this makes a standardised test to be able to sell throughout Europe a big benefit for businesses. My concern if it was to be enforced from a central Europolis body would be that it would put off nations adopting the standards.

James Mizrachi-Roscoe, IAC commissioner