Spanish Goverment
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On the Threads and Attacks to the Vatican State
The Kingdom of Spain condemns the threads against the Vatican City state, as well as the attacks the Vatican has recently suffered against its soverengty and national security. Both the threads and the attacks, these ones being still of unknown origin, might have done by the same person that uttered the threads to the Holy Pope and the Vatican Government, Pope Tabitha, also known as Reszelport Jezebel-Swift.
The Minister of Defence of the Kingdom of Spain, Don Pedro Baños Bajo, has summoned the JEMAD (Jefe del Estado Mayor de la Defensa) to analyze the situation and the possible measures to be taken. The Royal Household has been informed about the attack to the Vatican City, while the military regions of Eastern Andalucía and those regions which have presence in the Mediterranean Sea have been put in an alert status.
D. Pedro Baños Bajo
Minister of Defence -
On the Joint Shield Program Announced by the European Coalition of Nations
The Kingdom of Spain shows its concerns on the Joint Shield Program announced by the European Coalition of Nations, formed by the United Duchies, the Kingdom of Reitzmag, the Federal Republic of Yosai and the Republic of Brickston, including their will to achieve the neutralization of "any aerial threats, including nuclear weapons", without acknowledging the risks of such a move not just for the European Union, but for the entire world.
As a country which holds nuclear weaponry, the Kingdom expresses consternation over this project, which does not attempt, as the announcement of this project says, to enhance defence capabilities, but rather escalate tensions among the European Union and mark nations that express concern over this project as aggressive to one member or the whole of the European Coalition of Nations. This project does not only open the door to void the dissuasory and defensive function nuclear weapons are supposed to have, but also enhance nuclear development and further investigation to improve our nuclear capabilities to keep being able to defend and dissuade any possible threats. The Spanish Government is unable to understand how governments in the European Coalition of Nations have been able to put forward such an initiative that, while it is within their sovereignty bounds, endangers the European Union and the entire World, moving the region into a constant escalation between these nations and nuclear nations in order for the last group to keep fulfilling their security guarantees and their right to self-defence through these means, if it ever got to be necessary.
Furthermore, this new project supposes a deterrent to the security guarantees of the Kingdom of Spain, as we are convinced it does too to any other nation with a nuclear arsenal. Nonetheless, we invite the members of the European Coalition of Nations to retract their statement and move towards a peaceful world, where no cold war erupts as a result of a non-sensical project which is threatening to nations with nuclear weaponry. Last, but not least, the Kingdom wants to remind members of ECON that peace and security is not achieved through joining their alliance, which has proved to be hostile towards many nations including Spain; but rather working on great diplomatic relationships with every single country that is a member of the European Union.
D. Jesús Aguilar
President of the Kingdom of Spain -
Address to the Nation of President Jesús Aguilar
Good evening, my dear Spanish citizens.
Today I address you not only as the President of the Government, but as one more citizen of this country called Spain. A country with a past of which we are proud, a present of which we feel even prouder and a future that we are building under democracy, unity and the vindication of our national sovereignty. Spain is not a nation that gives up easily, it always fights to the end and when the battle is over, we keep on fighting. Our empire, of which many ask us to be ashamed, showed us nothing but the values that this nation has. We are the nation that discovered America, the nation that dominated the seas for many years, seas that today, from the comfortable armchair of the uneducated in Europolis, they want to take away from us.
When I speak about the European Union, my words have always been positive and of great affection for an organisation to which we give everything and which reciprocates appropriately. Until today. Today, the European Union is showing us that it prefers the discomfort of its most prestigious and weighty members to those of lesser weight, with an incendiary diplomacy based on attacking and provoking, on causing reactions, like beating a dead horse. Meanwhile, they urge the Spanish people and their democratic government, which some nations dare to doubt its transparency and democratic functions, to comply with their irreverent, insensitive and uncultured regulations. The Union seems to prefer imposition over agreement.
To content us, to silence us, they are now offering us EU money to end taxes in the Straits of Gibraltar and Adventuranza, straits over which Spain has maintained, maintains and will forever maintain a territorial claim that we will protect until the end of our days. No one, no foreign country and no diplomat who thinks he knows what to do with our territorial waters, with our national policy and much less with our system of government and national representation, will give us any lessons. To all those who believe that this will stop the tax system, I dedicate the following sentence: you don't know how wrong you are. The Straits of Gibraltar and Adventuranza are Spanish, always have been and always will be.
We don't want EU money, we reject it. No one other than the taxes in the straits are going to fund the maintenance of marine life, the maintenance of local communities in both regions and the maintenance of the taxation system. No one other than the taxes will fund our people's employments, the future of the villages of the area. The Green Fund they are proposing is a bribe to silent us, to make us accept their act and comply with it. If the European bureaucrats think that will make us stop, the answer is no. Whether or not the proposal presented to the European Council is approved, I want to announce that Spain will continue to maintain and protect its territorial claims, maintain the regulations and maintain the taxation system; and we will exhaust every possible option to do so legally. No one in Europolis can impose, "manu militari", a standardisation of the Union's territorial and "international" waters with the disagreement of its major economic and military powers, and anyone who seeks to do so must know that they risk immolating the European Union.
When the Kingdom of Spain proposed to the Republic of Yosai a distribution of the Strait of Adventuranza in order not to provoke a crisis, it was done under terms of good neighbourliness and diplomatic responsibility to avoid a conflict. Spain will never resort to war, despite some suggestions to the contrary, to end this dispute. We continue to believe in diplomacy, but all we find is a concrete wall that is unwilling to budge an inch from its position. Today, I want to make known the proposals WE made in that negotiation: Yosai was offered to join the ASMSA, to have a single representative, just like us, to it; with a joint presidency and a voting system that only was able to pass votings if both representatives agreed; while compromising to protect and enforce the taxes in the Strait of Adventuranza. On the second section of this Treaty, the Spanish delegation offered an equal share of the revenue the taxes gave, a exclusion of ships from Spain and Yosai from the taxing, something we are keeping in Adventuranza; and the ability to make alterations to the taxing groups if there was an agreement between both delegates. The third section included dividing the Strait in two equal halves, 54.5km for each country, in which each nation would be able to enforce their own legislation and where the other country’s military wouldn’t be able to enter. Guess what, they refused it because of the tax. Everything they asked and keep asking for was there, we just asked for a tax: we got told no. The conclusion is simple: there was no will to reach an agreement, as there is no will from them today.
Now they are selling the story that it was us who rejected this agreement, that we have caused this crisis, and that we are going to provoke a war, lies that they only use against Spain and to degrade its international image. Today I offer you and all Europeans the truth that NO ONE, not even the most miserable of liars, will be able to say it is a fake. Spain wants an agreement, but we will not give in just because of the whims of a country that has proven to use childishness as a way of making politics against its neighbours. Nor will we give in to a European Union that is dying day by day, with an absent Commission that only seeks to see blood drip onto the carpet of the European Council, figuratively speaking. Its inaction is striking, and popular wisdom tells us that who says nothing agrees. It is therefore not crazy to deduce that the Commission supports this harassment against our country.
I would therefore like to announce that Spain maintains its position against any attempt to regulate the seas, to strip it of its maritime territories or similar. We are also against receiving money from the European Union that seeks to silence us, as if it were a bribe, to remove the taxation of the straits and the restrictions imposed by the competent authorities, which I have been told after their meeting today will continue. Spain did not join the Union to be bribed, mistreated and trampled underfoot. And it will not allow it. If the proposal is approved without our amendments, I would like to inform you once again that Spain will seek and use all available means to prevent its application on national territory, and may even resort to a temporary suspension of our European membership. Now, the ball is in the court of the European bureaucrats: do they prefer Spain inside or outside the EU? Do they prefer the status quo or taking a path with an unclear destination?
The door of my office remains open, and so does my private phone line. Spain, and I as its President, is always willing to dialogue and negotiate, but will never accept impositions from Europolis or other nations. To all the diplomats there, whose only target is this country and its taxation system as they have been proving during the last days: keep out. If you do not have a coastline, you have nothing to see here.
Thank you very much for your attention, and good night.
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Statement on the Strait of Gibraltar and the Strait of Adventuranza
The Kingdom of Spain and the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency have decided, in a joint summit, to reinforce the current deployment of the Armada Española in the Strait of Gibraltar, which Spain considers entirely as its regional waters, within the boundaries of a protective deployment. This deployment responds to the latest threats that the Strait of Gibraltar finds itself into by foreign powers and the instability that could be provoked by some of this regional and non-Mediterranean powers after the discovery of a new nation north of the Strait of Gibraltar.
The main purposes of this protective deployment is ensuring the Spanish waters boundaries, as well as protecting navigators going through the Strait of Gibraltar. The Kingdom of Spain also wishes to make clear that it does not intend to annex land or any other territorial asset that it does not belong to it, but rather protect its sovereignty and its waters. The Spanish Government, nor the Autonomous Government of Gibraltar, neither the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency, will never allow foreign powers not allied with Spain or any Mediterranean nation to perturb the peaceful status of the Mediterranean, and this protective deployment responds to the possible interference from some nations that believe they have the legal authority to do so.
In regards to the Strait of Adventuranza, the Kingdom of Spain and its Ministry for the Spanish Commonwealth, of Overseas Missions and Straits wishes to announce that it no longer considers Adventuranza as a Strait but as open sea, and that it wishes to end the current dispute between the Federal Republic of Yosai and the Kingdom by recognising the Sea of Adventuranza as equally split in two halves, and ending the taxation in the area, as well as the blockade of Yosaian cargo ships and registered, non-military vessels in the Strait of Gibraltar. Spain also wishes to start a new era in Spanish-Yosaian relationships, with cooperation and good-neighbouring policies as the main aspects of this new era.
D. Teodoro García Egea
Minister for for the Spanish Commonwealth, of Overseas Missions and StraitsD. Albert Issola
GSSA Director -
New Tariffs Imposed in the Strait of Gibraltar
Following the meeting of the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency, composed of all the members of the Parliament of the Autonomous City of Gibraltar, it was agreed by an absolute majority to review the tariffs and access to the Strait. This review will be in force for the whole year, and may be modified at the discretion of the GSSA itself.
The GSSA would like, once again, to address the attempts from outside parties to sway the GSSA's and similar authorities' decision. The GSSA is an independent and neutral agency under the direction of the Government of the Autonomous City of Gibraltar, and under the control of the Gibraltar Parliament. The GSSA is not dependent on or influenced by bodies of power greater than or equal to that of the Gibraltar Parliament and the Government of Gibraltar, thus maintaining the autonomy guaranteed through the Home Rule Charter for the City of Gibraltar, which dates back to 1995. Its actions and decisions are taken by the Government of Gibraltar and approved or rejected by Parliament, which is the guarantor of the neutrality and controller of the proper functioning of this agency, which is based on the pillars of independence, honesty, transparency and security.
Below are the new tariffs that will apply to each country's cargo vessels according to the following criteria:
"I. Cargo vessels' final destination is not the Kingdom of Spain.
II. Cargo vessels do a stopover in the Kingdom of Spain, then resume their route heading east or west of the Strait area.
III. Cargo vessels go through the Strait of Gibraltar, not stopping at the Kingdom of Spain"Tariffs:
Group 0: Inquista, Icholasen, Vayinaod, Fremet, Montenbourg, Spain, Gania, Angleter, Duxburian Union, North Diessen, Inimicus and United Kingdom.
Group 1: Leagio, Davidshire, California, Ruthund, Kaitsja, Gadalland & Aspern and Nofoaga.
Group 2: Lusitania & Vettonia, Elthize, Mennrimiak, Ineland, Pravoslaviya, Brickston, United Duchies, Strathae, Red Croatia, Istkalen, Czech Slavia and Yosai.
Group 3: Reitzmag and Huriyah.
Group 4: Union of Nicoleizian Soviet Republics.
Access criteria is as follows:
I. Military assets from the members of the Treaty of Telum will be allowed to the Strait of Gibraltar, and will have full access to it.
II. The Apostolic Kingdom of Angleter, the Archrepublic of Vayinaod, the Republic of Fremet, the Federal Republic of Gania and the United Dominions of Icholasen are granted a licence to go through the Strait of Gibraltar.
III. No other European nation’s military assets shall be allowed to enter the Gibraltar Strait.D. Albert Issola
GSSA Director -
On Reitzmag and Underath
The Kingdom of Spain expresses its concern on the recently signed Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between the Kingdom of Reitzmag and the Kingdom of Underath, that goes against any attempt of good neighbouring policies between Spain and Underath and any attempt to improve diplomatic relationships between the Kingdom of Reitzmag and the Kingdom of Spain. After the Armed Forces of Reitzmag denied their return to their traditional ways of aggression, expansionism, jingoism, and uninterruptable talk of war and conflict; this new Treaty confirms the exact opposite: the Kingdom of Reitzmag is back to aggression, expansionism, jingoism and the demolition of all diplomatic bridges between both countries.
The new Treaty signed between the Kingdom of Underath and the Kingdom of Reitzmag is an attack to the security guarantees of the Kingdom of Spain, who sees how a nation discovered by them now chooses the incorrect path and blows up any bridge to have good relationships between the Kingdom of Spain and itself. Back in the summit both countries had, Spain offered a defence pact to protect Underath, something that was refused due to the King of Underath affirming "his nation is a strong one just like it is". It now comes to a surprise that the Kingdom of Underath decides to let Europe's most incendiary, aggressive and expansionist nation to protect them while blowing all bridges up with us; instead of trusting its neighbour.
Article 2's sections 1 and 2 of said Treaty are a threat to the Spanish people living in the city of Gibraltar and its surroundings, and therefore the Kingdom of Spain will act to protect the security of its people as well as its own security as a democratic, civilized state. The protective deployment that has joined the permanent patrol of the Spanish Armada in the Strait of Gibraltar, fully and uniquely recognised as Spanish waters by the Kingdom of Spain, has been ordered to protect said waters from any non-authorised intrusion coming from Reitzmag or any foreign power that is not allowed to enter the area according to the GSSA regulations. The Kingdom of Spain would also like to state that any agression or attempt of agression to its ships will be regarded as an act of war, with the horrible consequences that could have for millions of people in the European Union.
The Kingdom has always advocated for peace, and keeps doing so, but we will not stay seated and with our arms crossed while we see how a foreign power blows up the peaceful status of the Mediterranean Sea; and how said nation would not care of leading the region into its first Regional War.
D. Jesús Aguilar
President of the Kingdom of Spain -
PERTE of Microelectronics and Semiconductors
In view of the growing demand for semiconductors in key sectors such as automotive and household appliances and the need to accelerate autonomy in chip manufacturing, this PERTE aims to strengthen the design and production capacities of the microelectronics and semiconductor industry in Spain from an integral perspective and to favour national strategic autonomy. This strategic project is expected to mobilise a public investment of 12,250 million emus up to 2027 and will in turn trigger a significant volume of private investment.
PERTE Chip will be developed around four strategic axes that cover the entire value chain of the industry in different phases: conception, design, chip production and boosting the manufacture of ICT electronic products, so that it acts as a generator of demand for the microchips produced, and boosting the semiconductor entrepreneurial ecosystem. This comprehensive vision will have a multiplier effect for the Spanish economy as a whole.
The following actions will be implemented:
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Reinforcement of scientific capacity. With actions to strengthen R&D&I on cutting-edge microprocessors and alternative architectures and integrated photonics, develop quantum chips. An investment of €1.165 billion is foreseen for the period 2022-2027.
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Design strategy. This includes actions that will boost Spanish capacity in the design of microprocessors through the creation of fabless companies (whose designs can be manufactured by others, without the need to have their own factory) for the design of cutting-edge microprocessors and alternative architectures; test pilot lines; semiconductor training network. 1.33 billion will be earmarked for this axis.
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Construction of manufacturing plants. To provide domestic semiconductor production capacity in leading-edge (below 5 nm) and mid-range (above 5 nm) semiconductor manufacturing. The budgeted public investment is 9.35 billion emus.
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Revitalisation of the ICT manufacturing industry. This includes actions such as the creation of a capital fund focused on chips to finance start-ups, scale-ups and innovative SMEs in the national semiconductor sector, with an initial public allocation of 200 million emus. It is also aimed at strengthening domestic production in electronics manufacturing - which uses microchips as input - to act as a driver for the semiconductor industry and absorb part of its production. The estimated budget amounts to 400 million emus.
In addition, a special commissioner for the governance of PERTE will be created to ensure the coordination, effectiveness and coherence of the actions between the ministries involved in this strategic project.
D. Luis de Guindos Jurado
Minister of Economy and CompetitivenessD. Víctor Calvo-Sotelo Ibáñez-Martín
Minister of Science, Innovation, Research, Digital Transformation and 2030 AgendaD. Román Escolano Olivares
Minister of Industry and Commerce -
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Gobierno de España - Gobierno Aguilar IV
PRESIDENT: D. Jesús Aguilar
- First Vice-President; Minister of the Presidency and Relations with the Cortes: Dña. María Soraya Sánez de Santamaría Antón
- Second Vice-President; Minister for Territorial Administrations: Dña. Marta Merino Muñoz
- Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation: D. Alfonso María Dastis Quecedo
- Minister of Defence: Dña. María Dolores de Cospedal
- Minister of Justice: D. Rafael Catalá Polo
- Minister for Home Affairs: D. Alberto Núñez Feijóo
- Minister of Economy and Competitiveness: D. Pascal Donohoe
- Minister of Finance and Public Function: D. Cristóbal Ricardo Montoro Romero
- Minister of Agriculture, Fishing, Food and Water: Dña. Isabel García Tejerina
- Minister of Climate Change, Environment, Rural Development and Demographic Challenge: D. Jaime Eduardo de Olano Vela
- Minister of Education, FP, Culture and Sport: D. Íñigo Méndez de Vigo y Montojo
- Minister of Universities and Transparency: D. Elías Bendodo Benasayag
- Minister of Employment And National Insurance: Dña. María Fátima Báñez García
- Minister of Health, Consumption and Social Welfare: Dña. Josianne Corneloup
- Minister of Industry, Trade, Tourism and Energy: D. Álvaro María Nadal Belda
- Minister of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda: Dña. Mariastella Gelmini
- Minister of Science, Innovation and Research: Dña. Anja Karliczek
- Minister of Digital Transformation, Cybersecurity and 2030 Agenda: D. Víctor Calvo-Sotelo Ibáñez-Martín
- Minister of Social Affairs, Social Rights, Inclusion, Migrations and Equality: D. Barack Obama
- Minister of Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth: Dña. Isabel Plácida Bonig Trigueros
- Minister for the Spanish Commonwealth Affairs, Overseas Missions and Territorial Waters: Dña. Cayetana Álvarez de Toledo Peralta Ramos
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Focus Africa 2023: Redefining the Spanish Foreign Approach to African Nations
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation is pleased to announce the creation of Focus Africa 2023, a new foreign policy to be applied during the last months of 2022 and the whole of 2023 in and with Africa, in order to address the challenges facing both the continent and Spain. The Government understands the relevance of the African continent, as well as the strategic relevance and significant economic potential the nations in said region of the European Union have. It is, therefore, a priority for the Kingdom of Spain to push forward this new foreign policy, that will see diplomatic, economic and other bounds with African nations significantly strengthened.
Focus Africa 2023 is directed at the Commonwealth of Leagio, the Union of Duxburian Dominions, the State of Elthize, the Federal Republic of Lusitania and Vettonia, the People's Democratic Republic of Svarna Surya and the Kingdom of Huriyah. This new approach of the Spanish foreign policy to said nations will increase ties between us, but also help to understand our nations better. The Kingdom of Spain would like to invite, during 2023, all leaders from these nations to have a summit with Spain.
The Kingdom of Spain will also work harder in order to improve the understanding of said nations and getting to know the concerns of the nations that it does not have intense foreign relations with, like Lusitania and Vettonia or Svarna Surya. When it comes to Elthize, Leagio and the Union of Duxburian Dominions, Focus Africa intends to enhance cooperation and improve, even more, our fluent diplomatic relationships. All the Spanish ambassadors in Africa will attend a summit in Melilla on Friday, 11th November 2022, in order to prepare the deployment of the new approach for Africa.
D. Alfonso Dastis Quecedo
Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation -
On War Refugees
After the War Declaration of the Kingdom of Reitzmag on the People's Democratic Republic of Svarna Surya, the Ministry of Social Affairs, Social Rights, Inclusion, Migrations and Equality has called an urgency meeting of the Immigration Board, presided by Minister Barack Obama, in which the Minister has expressed concern for the ongoing situation in the far east. It has been decided that:
- The Kingdom of Spain will only accept refugees that have a Spanish passport, have cooperated with Spain in the past or have relatives in a legal status in Spain.
- The Kingdom of Spain will also accept athletes, musicians and other Svarnans that may provide the Kingdom of Spain with talent.
- The Spanish Government calls for an agreed European response to this crisis, and announces it will not accept more than 500 general refugees.
D. Barack Obama
Minister for Social Affairs, Social Rights, Inclusion, Migrations and Equality -
Spanish Travel Advisories
The Spanish Government, after hearing the suggestions from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, has decided to apply the following Travel Advisories for Spanish Citizens over the countries listed on the map below. This travel advisories will be in place until August 1st, 2023; when the Government, once again advised by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, will elaborate a new map.
Changes Concerning the Previous Map
- Yosai moved to the Yellow list.
- Reitzmag and the United Duchies added to the Yellow list.
- Svarna Surya added to the Red list.
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New Tariffs Imposed in the Strait of Gibraltar for 2023
Following the meeting of the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency, composed of all the members of the Parliament of the Autonomous City of Gibraltar, it was agreed by an absolute majority to review the tariffs and access to the Strait. This review will be in force for the whole year, and may be modified at the discretion of the GSSA itself.
The Gibraltar Strait Security Agency would like to remind that it is an independent and neutral agency under the direction of the Government of the Autonomous City of Gibraltar, and under the control of the Gibraltar Parliament. The GSSA is not dependent on or influenced by bodies of greater or equal power to that of the Gibraltar Parliament and the Government of Gibraltar, thus maintaining the autonomy guaranteed through the Home Rule Charter for the City of Gibraltar, which dates back to 1995. Its actions and decisions are taken by the Government of Gibraltar and approved or rejected by Parliament, which is the guarantor of the neutrality and controller of the proper functioning of this agency, which is based on the pillars of independence, honesty, transparency and security.
Below are the new tariffs that will apply to each country's cargo vessels according to the following criteria:
"I. Cargo vessels' final destination is not the Kingdom of Spain.
II. Cargo vessels do a stopover in the Kingdom of Spain, then resume their route heading east or west of the Strait area.
III. Cargo vessels go through the Strait of Gibraltar, not stopping at the Kingdom of Spain"Tariffs:
Group 0: Inquista, Icholasen, Vayinaod, Fremet, Hellas, Spain, Angleter, Duxburian Union, North Diessen, Inimicus and Mishar.
Group 1: Leagio, California, Elthize, Gadalland & Aspern and Nofoaga.
Group 2: Lusitania & Vettonia, Ineland, Pravoslaviya, Brickston, United Duchies, Strathae, Blue Croatia, Istkalen, Czech Slavia, Federal Republic of Icholasen, Bulgaria and Oregon.
Group 3: Reitzmag, Yosai, United Kingdom and Huriyah.
Group 4: Union of Nicoleizian Soviet Republics, Neo Venetia and Svarna Surya.
Access criteria is as follows:
I. Military assets from the members of the Treaty of Telum will be allowed to the Strait of Gibraltar, and will have full access to it.
II. The Apostolic Kingdom of Angleter, the Archrepublic of Vayinaod, the Republic of Fremet, the Kingdom of Hellas, the Mishar Republic and the United Dominions of Icholasen are granted a licence to go through the Strait of Gibraltar.
III. No other European nation’s military assets shall be allowed to enter the Gibraltar Strait.D. Albert Issola
GSSA Director -
On the Rotatory Direction of the ASMSA
Rebeca Torró Soler, first woman to ever occupy the Direction of the Adventuranza Sea Maritime Security AgencyThe Adventuranza Sea Maritime Security Agency wishes to thank D. Francisco Martín Gallego, from Cantabria, for his hard job and commitment while directing the agency for two years, after last year's rotation could not take place. Martín Gallego's role has been crucial in order to maintain peace in the area, and to find a new status for the region that would appeal both the Kingdom of Spain and its neighbours. The ASMSA would like to remember that, since April 2022, the Kingdom of Spain does not recognise Adventuranza as a Strait but rather as a sea, and that it has dropped any claim on the other half.
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 is Doña Rebeca Torró Soler, Councillor for Territorial Policy, Public Works and Mobility in the Comunitat Valenciana.
The Adventuranza Sea Maritime Security Agency has also discussed the possible adhesion of Puerto Rico to the agency. However, the Government of Puerto Rico has declined the invite, therefore the agency members have rejected this possibility.
Dña. Rebeca Torró Soler
ASMSA Director -
President Aguilar New Year Eve Address
Good afternoon my dear compatriots,
As has been my custom since I took office as Prime Minister, I am addressing you on yet another New Year's Eve to assess from a personal point of view what the year we are leaving behind today has meant for Spain. Before entering into any assessment, I would like to thank you once again for listening to this speech and for allowing me to enter your homes via television. I do not want to begin without first sending warm greetings to all Spaniards abroad, as well as to the victims of the new war in Europe, which has taken place in Svarna Surya.
This year I would first like to salute the Spanish soldiers deployed in the Spanish military bases abroad, specifically in Aether, Gadalland, Nofoaga, Ineland, Mishar, Montenbourg, the United Kingdom, Leagio and Inimicus; as well as those who are currently patrolling the seas and oceans of our world. Their efforts and commitment to Spain should not be forgotten in a year in which their role has been key to strengthening Spain's international image. In June, the military sphere became a major presence in our lives as our capital, Madrid, hosted the first-ever summit of the Treaty of Telum. During this summit, the members of the alliance had the historic opportunity to lay the foundations of the new treaty, of our strategic concept and to define the roadmap for the years to come. Madrid and its citizens dressed up to welcome four high-profile foreign leaders, and we gave an image to the world that very few expected. Spain is an open country, a friend to its friends, that will always ensure security and peace, not only for its citizens, but also for those countries that trust us.
Also during 2022, Spain has strengthened its presence abroad: Jean-Claude Juncker was elected this summer as Premier Commissioner of the European Union, and Luis de Guindos was elected as President of the European Central Bank, an institution of great prestige and importance at the head of which he will do a great job. I have also had the opportunity to welcome many foreign leaders this year, and to travel to new countries around the Union: Lusitania and Vettonia, Leagio, Ineland, Elthize, Aether, Hellas, California or the United Kingdom, among many others. Our kingdom has also had some run-ins with other countries during these 12 months, but these have been resolved swiftly and effectively. Although we no longer believe that Adventuranza is a strait, but a sea, I would like to insist that Spain will never be cowed by anyone, and that a concession does not mean that we will allow Spain to be limited by countries that use weapons instead of words as a solution to the hijacking of ships, or that make demands to Europolis about who they can or cannot be at the same negotiating table with. Our country and I myself know who we can trust, who we can call allies, who we can call friends, who we can call partners, and who we can only call by name. I take this opportunity to send warm and affectionate greetings to our Telum Treaty allies, as well as to Spain's friends, who know who they are.
At the national level, Spain has voted this year that we are now seeing leave, once again giving me its confidence to occupy the post of President of the Government. This position, which I have held since 2016, is demanding and hard to assume, but I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks, as I did in July, for the support of many Spaniards who trusted me to continue leading this country from the executive branch. Spain has proven to be a democratic country, in which on the very night of election day we are able to obtain the definitive results of our elections, eliminating uncertainty and suspicions of rigging. Democracy in Spain is not at risk, nor is it called into question by anyone: we are a fully democratic country with a particular legal system, which does not oppress but includes all the historical nationalities, regions and other regional bodies that make it up. Our cultural, linguistic and even ethnic diversity is what makes our country unique, and respecting it, as well as working to advance the inclusion of these regions in the autonomous state, must be priorities to be taken into account during 2023.
Moreover, we should congratulate ourselves for the great work we have done this year, not only on a personal level, but on a collective level: Spain has become this year the fifth largest economy in Europe, and the third richest country per capita, with a GDP growth of more than 4 billion euros. This growth, which is not only due to the good work of the technicians of the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, as well as Luis de Guindos and Pascal Donohoe, is also due to the economic activity in which you, the Spaniards, play a great role. Our GDP now stands at almost 7.2 billion euros, and the target for this day in a year's time is to reach 9 billion, in the most conservative scenario, and 10 billion in the most optimistic one. But not only the economy has been a factor to take into account this year: so has our development of the Spanish Space Agency, which will inaugurate a second spaceport in Gadalland in January next year, which will join the one in Nofoaga and the one we already have on national territory; or the social and technological advances that have taken place this year. We will continue working to move forward and make 2023 a year that very few will forget.
I conclude by wishing you a happy entry into 2023 and that the year that will begin this midnight after eating 12 grapes and listening to the clock at the Puerta del Sol will be a year full of happiness and good times with your family and friends; as well as a great year for our country. Best wishes to all of you, Feliz Año 2023, Happy New Year 2023.
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On the War Threats of the United Kingdom
The Kingdom of Spain condemns the war threats of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland on a recent statement issued by their Government, in which it was stated that "reliberating Gibraltar" was over the table. The Spanish Government would like to remind that Gibraltar has never been subjugated by any country and that is has always been under Spanish sovereignty, and that the British Empire era the United Kingdom once went through has been over for years. The Spanish Government has called the British Ambassador for inquiries, in order to receive a formal apology and obtain the needed explanations after these unberable threats that put in risk the Mediterrean Sea stability and peace in the European Union.
Dña. Soraya Sáenz de Santamaría Antón
First Vice-President of the Kingdom of Spain
Minister of the Presidency and Relations with the Cortes -
Statement - On the United Kingdom
The Kingdom of Spain rejects and condemns the sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom Government, without prior approval of said nation's Parliament, in which Spanish assets are both banned and frozen, alongside with a operation ban for Spanish companies in the United Kingdom. These sanctions, however, do not come as a surprise for the Spanish Government, that has seen how its British Counterparts and the British Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, have taken the decision to deteriorate the excellent relationship between both countries during the past weeks, using the Strait of Gibraltar taxation system as a excuse.
The Kingdom of Spain, once again, insists that the Strait of Gibraltar waters are Spanish property, and that the Spanish Government position will not change on the matter, as the Strait of Gibraltar current status is undisputed and enforced by the Spanish Armada in the framework of the Operación Columnas de Hércules. The territorial integrity of Gibraltar and its surrounding waters, including those of the Strait, remain a Spanish red line on both its internal and foreign policy, and has been backed by several nations since its establishment back in 2020. No nation sanctions or threats will change this position the Kingdom of Spain has had since the establishment of a taxation system in the area, a position that has been backed by several Mediterranean nations. The Spanish Government would also like to remind that both the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency and the Ministry for the Spanish Commonwealth Affairs, Overseas Missions and Territorial Waters are always up for summits and meetings in order to discuss tax-related matters with any European nation.
The Spanish Government reserves its right to respond to these sanctions in due time, without retorting to war, but employing the legal resources available in the Spanish Legal Order, such as the Royal Decree, and hearing the Congreso de los Diputados and the Senado de España as it has always done. The Kingdom of Spain remains a democratical nation and still respects the role of Parliament in its democracy, considering both chambers as key to the well-functioning of the State. In addition, the Spanish Government has called the British Ambassador to Spain for inquiries.
D. Alfonso María Dastis Quecedo
Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation -
Statement - On Gadalland and Aspern
The Kingdom of Spain follows with special interest the developing events in Gadalland and Aspern, a very valuable ally of Spain where the Spanish Armed Forces hold significant military presence and with which Spain has a Defensive Agreement that entitles the Spanish Military to defend Sertia in times of need. The President of the Kingdom of Spain, Jesús Aguilar; the Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation, Alfonso Dastis; the Minister of Defence, María Dolores de Cospedal; and the Minister for the Spanish Commonwealth Affairs, Overseas Missions and Territorial Waters, Cayetana Álvarez de Toledo, are meeting in the Palacio de la Moncloa to discuss the situation.
The Spanish Government does not support the declaration of independence issued by Aspern and the West Olves, and recognises the Government of Sertia led by Fornithias Cranst as the sole authority over the island. This position has also been adapted by the Spanish Commander for the Caribbean and the Pacific, General Carlos Brown, who is monitoring the events with his team and the troops deployed in Gadalland and Aspern. In a diplomatic telegram sent by the Spanish Government, President Jesús Aguilar has told Fornithias Cranst that "Spanish troops are ready to serve in any situation that requires their aid".
The Spanish Government does also call Guthrun Wond to abide by the legal order of Gadalland and Aspern, as he has done during the term he served as the Head of the Braetha, and to cease with his intentions to break up Gadalland and Aspern, a nation he used to have huge love for when he was in office. The Kingdom of Spain also offers its mediation to both parties and hopes that a peaceful and diplomatic answer is reached soon.
D. Alfonso Dastis Quecedo
Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and CooperationDña. María Dolores de Cospedal
Minister of DefenceDña. Cayetana Álvarez de Toledo Peralta Ramos
Minister for the Spanish Commonwealth Affairs, Overseas Missions and Territorial Waters -
Joint Statement between the Kingdom of Spain and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
The Kingdom of Spain and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland have agreed to carry together the duties of the 'Operación Columnas de Hércules' in exchange of a military base lease to the United Kingdom in the city of Gibraltar, after a meeting between the President of the Spanish Government, D. Jesús Aguilar, and the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, that was held in the city of Gibraltar on the 3rd of April, 2023.
Both leaders have underlined their will to cooperate to achieve a safer Mediterranean Sea, that now faces "a critical moment in history" after the passage of the Freedom of Navigation Act. The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, has shown his support for the taxation system applied by the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency as for the territorial waters claim that the Kingdom of Spain holds in the Strait of Gibraltar, both complying with European law. In addition, Jesús Aguilar has thanked the British Prime Minister for his "sincere, honest apology" and has welcomed the United Kingdom's will to help Spain at keeping the Mediterranean safe from "modern day threats that are not far from Spain".
D. Jesús Aguilar
President of the Kingdom of SpainSir Keir Starmer
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland -
On the Hellenic entry into the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency
The Gibraltar Strait Security Agency wishes to announce that the Hellesthalassa Kingdom, commonly known as Hellas, has joined the Gibraltar agreement today at 0:00 CEST, effectively becoming a member of the GSSA. The President of the Gibraltarean Government, Mr. Fabián Picardo; alongisde the Spanish-Gibraltarean Director of the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency, D. Albert Issola, have both welcomed Hellas to the agency and stated that "a new time for Gibraltar begins today".
Due to this agreement, the fuctioning and governance of the Gibraltar Strait Security Agency changes. From today, the GSSA has two directors: one appointed by the Kingdom of Spain, who has delegated said function to the Government of Gibraltar; and another appointed by the Government of Hellas. Both directors will be in charge of making decisions, requiring unanimous agreement to adapt any decision. In addition, the Strait of Gibraltar has been divided in two equal parts, seven kilometres each.
After their first meeting, both directors have agreed to keep the current tariffs and access criteria, which was released in a statement published on December 27th, 2022.
D. Albert Issola
Spanish Director of the GSSAMr. Lysander Athanasiou
Hellenic Director of the GSSA -
On the Capture of Guthurn Wond
The Spanish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation wishes to congratulate Sertian authorities for the capture of Guthurn Wond, which has been possible thanks to the great training and professionality of these. The Spanish Government, as the nation in charge of the defence of Gadalland and Aspern, and Sertia, wants to outline this successful operation within the cooperation that both Spanish and Sertian authorities established a few years back and that remains untouched up to this date. Spain also wishes to reaffirm its compromise with this and other agreements signed with Gadalland and Aspern, and offers its support to Sertian authorities in whatever they need, as to the Head of the Braetha, Fornithias Cranst.
D. Alfonso Dastis
Minister for Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation
The Kingdom of Spain
