Caspian Clique Media Outlet

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/Taillon5.jpg[/IMG]

[i]A Caspian Soldier heads out on patrol from "Camp Apache".[/i]

[size="6"][b]Caspian Forces Battling Rebels North of Kandahar[/b][/size]

[i]Mike Taillon, Central Asian News Agency[/i]

[b]Kandahar, CC[/b] - Although having declared the independence and existence of the Caspian Clique, Sham Dawkins, newly-proclaimed leader of this once, and seemingly still, lawless land, still has a tall order ahead of him. Forces loyal to Dawkins have been engaged in a series of heavy firefights north of Kandahar over the past twenty-four hours, with gunfire echoing through the hills here. The forward operating base for forces loyal to Dawkins in this area, Forward Base Kandahar or as the troops call it 'Camp Apache', is the furthest journalists, both domestic and foreign are escorted or encouraged to go, at least with the troops.

Although local military commanders are saying they will not inhibit journalists from traveling north into the hills, they are strongly urging journalists to stay put. The military will not be responsible for journalists, and say that correspondents are, at this time, a liability to the troops.

Despite the haphazard appearance of Caspian forces at this time, a ragtag group of soldiers, with various uniforms, and weapons, the forces that have pledged their allegiance to Dawkins appear to have strong cohesion, and discipline has been kept. We were able to get an interview with one Sergeant, who had drawn his stripes on the side of his khaki overcoat with a permanent marker, who was upbeat.

"The only order we remember came from Sham's father fifteen years ago, and what he did for this country, it was stable, that is, until the month leading up to his death," the Sergeant said, only giving his name as 'Anatoly'. "Since then, we have only known disorder and strife, and bloodstained ground, warlords fought other warlords, but no one could gain an upper hand. The days of those warlords are over, we will hunt them for what they have done to this nation, and we will send them to their graves as they have sent so many others."

Despite the dangerous and rough nature of this country, sentiments like these run deep with many of the soldiers we've spoken with here today. Recent mortar attacks in the past day on this forward base have been responded to with vigor, as the few artillery pieces available here, return fire for these nuisance attacks. Despite some heavy mortar shelling, troops remain disciplined, and respond accordingly, treating these attacks as if they were an everyday occurrence in their lives.

Local military commanders have not reported on casualties, but the bits and pieces we have been able to gather do paint a bloody portrait of the running gun battles that have been occurring over the past twenty four hours. We have seen at least twenty to thirty wounded return from battles in the hills near this area, but no definite number is actually available. Local military commanders, however, have released information that at least fifty to sixty insurgents have been captured and detained, and we have seen a number of them pass through here recently, escorted by smiling pro-government soldiers.

Control of these hills is vital to the administration of this area, if anti-government forces are able to maintain a toehold in this area, they can threaten the main highway into Kandahar and points south. Presence of insurgent forces can also threaten direct aerial routes from points northeast, and force aircraft to loop to the southwest before flying on Kandahar, increasing flight times. There are more reports of fighting in the northeast corner of the country as well, but local military leaders say that Kandahar is Dawkin's main focus at this time.

While Dawkins might have a long road of establishing total stability in this land, it appears for, at the moment, he has the right people following him.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/DisputedAreas.png[/IMG]

[i]Map of Kandahar Area of Operations[/i]
[b]CANA, 2011[/b][/quote]

Edited February 12, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/helmand-operation_999653c.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Caspian Artillery in action at "Camp Apache".[/i]

[size="6"][b]Caspian Forces turn up the Heat on Anti-Government Forces[/b][/size]

[i]Reginald Burke, Field Reporter
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Kandahar, CC[/b] - Military Commanders in the Kandahar district are putting further pressure on insurgent forces after the arrival of further troops and heavy equipment over the past forty-eight hours. Reinforcements from Turkmen Province have been seen pouring down the main northwest road, Transnational Route 3, in ever increasing numbers since Tuesday. Caspian government officials say they expect to clear the hills north of Kandahar by the end of the week, and should have full control of this area by the middle of next week.

"Camp Apache", or the Kandahar Forward Operating Base, of the Caspian Army, has increasingly become busy, as more command and control is established, and more troops arrive. Although the appearance of the Caspian Army, with its motley collection of differing uniforms, and weapons, has yet to improve, discipline and unit structure appears strong and unwavering. Sustained gunfire and explosions can be heard from the hills north of the Camp, throughout both day and night, echoing down through the narrow gullies and valleys that pockmark this land.

Military commanders are still refusing to allow journalists into the warzone, insisting they stay at Camp Apache at this time. We have learned they are now actively stopping journalists, who are trying to venture into the battlefield on their own. This is following the reported death of a foreign journalist in the war zone, the military says it will be evacuating his body to Camp Apache as soon as it is possible. We were able to talk to Major Muhammad Gheit, commanding two companies of infantry that were preparing to march into the fray.

"Journalists have no place in the battles north of here, I mean that inoffensively to you, of course, but they just don't belong up there. The Caspian military is imposing these limitations for a reason, your personal safety. What would the world say if we allowed another journalist to be killed?"

Although some human rights groups have voiced their concern over the Caspian military keeping journalists out to hide possible war crimes, local military commanders say that international and national laws regarding treatment of enemy fighters are being stringently observed. We have seen captured insurgent troops being tended to at Camp Apache, and given ample food and water, and any wounds treated. It appears, for the moment, at least, that Caspian forces are conducting this war by the book.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/26_69357_6834a6de5a45f70.jpg[/IMG]

[i]The first Caspian tanks move up into the combat zone upon leaving "Camp Apache".[/i]

The Caspian military has also deployed its first armored units into the battle, with a platoon of six armored vehicles rolling north to give heavy support to embattled infantry units. The arrival of armored units in the battle is putting increasing pressure on the insurgent forces, who have no armor of their own. The military is reportedly planning to use the tanks against a key position which has held up Caspian forces trying to eliminate enemy resistance directly north of "Camp Apache".

The Caspian military has vowed to eliminate all forms of hostile resistance to the new regime, and will ensure that stability in this region is assured. As one Colonel, who wanted to remain anonymous, told us, "the Caspian government is here to stay, and we are too. This insurgency promoting continued instability in this country will be reduced to ashes, and out of those ashes, our country will rise, this is a defining moment in our new history. An old book is being closed, and cast aside, we are writing a new history, that begins here, in the hills north of Kandahar."

[b]CJ, 2011.[/b][/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/afghanistan20a.jpg[/IMG]

[i]A group of Caspian soldiers regroup after a firefight with insurgent fighters near dusk.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Caspian Forces victorious in Kandahar![/b][/size]

[i]Mike Taillon, Central Asian News Agency[/i]

[b]Kandahar, CC[/b] - Caspian forces, after a week long battle with insurgent forces, have established control over the lawless Kandahar district. With the loss of key strongpoints in the hills, and ever increasing numbers of Caspian forces pouring into the region, many were forced to surrender, some fought last-ditch stands against Caspian military forces. Near the insurgent stronghold of Baghran, Caspian forces shelled the village for almost three straight hours with tanks and artillery before launching a final assault.

The fall of Baghran destroyed the last northern stronghold and also wiped out a large supply stockpile of insurgent weaponry, as well as a large insurgent unit holding the town. There are no reports from that area on casualties, however local military officials released the final total casualty figures on the main fighting in the region, which amounted to around four hundred Caspian soldiers and local volunteers. Insurgent casualties are considered to be in the thousands, as reports filter in from the field.

General Terry Lowell, commander of the local Caspian military forces, has reported that although this is not the end of the insurgency, the securing of the Kandahar district is an important step in the stability of this nation.

"Let me stress that this victory is not final victory, there will be a need to continue our efforts to secure this nation internally," said Lowell, in my interview with him. "We have won the battle, and we will win many more, victory is now not a question of if, but when at this point. Our soldiers have done amazing work here, and will continue to make this country proud, as we stabilize this nation, there will be more blood spilled before all is said and done."

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/Bercuson-09.jpg[/IMG]

[i]A Caspian tank fires on enemy positions in the hills of the Kandahar district, the armored behemoths have been a key cornerstone of the assault forces, particularly in reducing strongpoints.[/i]

Lowell is probably right in his assumption, as Caspian military officials report that insurgent forces are operating close to the border with Shambala. The Caspian military has vowed to not allow violence to spread over into neighboring countries, and as the battle winds down here, troops are already beginning to pack into trucks for the ride north. A convoy of at least four hundred soldiers was seen racing out of camp, after getting about an hour to rest and eat after returning from a combat patrol in the hills. We can expect to see these quick redeployments continue, if fighting begins to intensify.

"We will not allow our problem to become dumped on our neighbors, we will settle this score on our own," remarked Lowell, on the escalation of violence so close to the border.

Despite these new reports of escalating violence, we can certainly say that the Caspian Clique is here to stay, after this short, but particularly vicious. Although the troops here have bloodied themselves in the gullies and rocky hills of Kandahar, there is a strong national sentiment here. We have seen citizens of Kandahar come out in droves to hand out food to the troops moving north, calling their thanks out to them, and wishing them luck in their next challenge. The calls of "Hail Caspia" are ringing in the streets of Kandahar tonight, the people of this region have had little to cheer about for so long, the tears of joy are shared by all, as we even see newly battle-hardened soldiers share their joy with the citizenry.

[b]CANA, 2011[/b][/quote]

Edited February 11, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/godefroy-5.jpg[/IMG]

[i]General Terry Lowell, seen here after his arrival to the Kandahar forward operations base.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Lowell appointed as Caspian Defense Minister, as Troops Race North[/b][/size]

[i]Nataliya Konev, Staff Writer
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Kabul, CC[/b] - The Caspian Clique has appointed a Defense Minister last night, finally filling this important position, after Caspian General Terry Lowell had a video-phone conference with President Sham Dawkins. While Dawkins has left many positions unfilled as of yet, we believe that he is waiting for this insurgency to be defeated, before he appoints a full government. Lowell, called the "Lion of Kandahar" by some of his troops, has been a stalwart commander throughout the counter-insurgency campaign, which has now moved its focus north towards the border with Shambala.

"If anyone is fit for this job, its the 'Lion of Kandahar'," remarked Dawkins, in a phone interview with the [i]Caspian Journal[/i] after the appointment last night.

This news comes amid preparations for another counterinsurgency campaign, centering around the Baghlan area, close to the Shambala border. Caspian forces are racing north from the Kandahar battlefield, into the area, to assure violence and instability does not spill over the border into Shambala. Lowell has vowed in earlier interviews, to not allow the Caspian insurgency to not spill over into other nations, and destabilize the region. Whether or not this appointment is interim, has yet to be seen, but for the moment, Lowell appears to be taking the appointment in stride, but has yet to relinquish his field command either, opting to direct the counterinsurgency operations himself.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/artconvoygi.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Caspian forces are disengaging from mopping-up operations in the Kandahar area, and racing northeast rapidly.[/i]

Dawkins has said that once insurgent forces are eliminated in this area, he will officially appoint his governmental ministers. As for what we have seen, with the appointment of Lowell, is Dawkins relying on a meritocratic structure on appointing his ministers, and we will probably see more of this style of government appointment once the insurgency is quashed. For the time being, however, we can only guess what the actual shape of this government looks like when the dust clears.

There appears to be a lot of anticipation across the country, as they await the end of this insurgency. Reports have filtered in that government inspection teams have been surveying factories and industrial sites, and that the country is readying to hit the ground running once the last shot is fired. Personnel attached to Dawkins' office, have said that amnesty may be given to insurgents, but there are no details on this development, if it is true, it would be an unprecedented amount of trust placed by Dawkin's government in the former anti-government forces.

[b]CJ, 2011[/b][/quote]

Edited February 11, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/afgan1.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Troops returning from battle from the hills east of Baghlan.[/i]

[b][size="6"]Caspian Government Appointments Announced as Insurgency Ends![/size][/b]

[i]Mike Taillon, Central Asian News Agency[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] - The Caspian Defense Minister, General Lowell, announced today that the Caspian Clique has stood its first test, having overwhelmingly defeated insurgent forces in the Baghlan area. The ending of the insurgency against Sham Dawkins' loyalist forces, confirms the legitimacy of his government of the Caspian Clique. Industries are starting to get moving with production again, as troops were seen celebrating with civilians across the country.

Although fought in more rugged terrain then the Kandahar campaign, the experience garnered in the latter campaign has given the Caspian Army a great proficiency in counterinsurgency operations. The employment of larger amounts of Viper Main Battle Tanks, as well as a trio of new "Banshee" airborne gunships, gave Caspian forces a huge edge over its opponents. Casualties for the Caspian Armed Forces were much lighter then the Kandahar campaign, and military officials give a prospective estimate of one hundred soldiers killed, wounded, and missing.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/cameron-5.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Caspian soldiers detaining a surrendering insurgent.[/i]

Dawkins' government confirmed rumors today that there will be an amnesty program initiated to help integrate former insurgent fighters back into the country. There are well over a thousand insurgents in prison camps throughout the country at the moment, and the program is said to be a top priority in the Dawkins government. The government has said that it will release details on the amnesty program in the coming week.

Along with the confirmation of an amnesty program, Dawkins announced his new government, which makes the following changes;

[b]Defense Minister[/b] - General Terry Lowell - The "Lion of Kandahar" retains his seat as defense minister for the time being.

[b]Foreign Minister[/b] - Dr. Vladimir Yakolev; PhD. International Relations, Caspia University

[b]Economic Minister[/b] - Anwar Fourak; President, Caspian Petroleum and Chemicals

[b]Health Services Adjutant[/b] - Dr. Maria Shaporova; Former Interim Director, Caspian National Military Hospital

[b]Interior Services Division Manager[/b] - Colonel Markus Boldin; Former Interim Inspector General, Caspian Armed Forces

[b]Special Note - Elections for Gubernatorial Candidates will be run in the next fortnight, to establish who will take governorships of the two states of the Caspian Clique.[/b]

While the appointment of the government is the first step in a long road to establishing the Caspian Clique fully on the world stage, the government of Sham Dawkins is off to a quick start. There are potential rumors that the Caspian nation might join the Trade Federation now that it has legitimized its rule over this land. Delegates from the Caspian Foreign Office were rumored to be observing the proceedings of recent Trade Federation summits, but there is no word on whether or no the Clique will join. With the stability of the nation however, the Caspian nation looks ahead to a bright economic future in Central Asia.

[b]CANA, 2011[/b][/quote]

Edited February 12, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/800px-_1348.jpg[/IMG]

[i]An evening view of Turkmenbasy, on the Caspian Sea.[/i]

[b][size="6"]Tourism Council Announced, as Government reports Industries up to Production Capacity.[/size][/b]

[i]Nataliya Konev, Staff Writer
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] - Economic Minister Anwar Fourak, in a large press conference today, announced that the Caspian government is encouraging foreign tourism, particularly along the Caspian Sea Coast. The victory over the insurgency has wiped out the threat to foreign tourists, and this part of the country had been devoid of anti-government insurgents from the beginning of Dawkin's reign as President. Fourak spoke notably of Turkmenbasy, the famous Caspian resort, saying that the city's airport was now open to all commercial flights, and would be running at full capacity.

"I am encouraging tourists from around the world to join us in Turkmenbasy, for glittering sandy beaches, and a traditional Central Asian atmosphere of hospitality and adventure," said Fourak. "All restaurants and hotels are open for business, and we are offering significant package deals through a number of international tour companies. Our Economic Ministry insist that families come and escape the cold of winter in our dry, warm climate, where water temperatures remain comfortable."

"We are also announcing the creation of a government tourist bureau, to expand our influence in the tourism industry, and give consultation to business that deal in this high-value lucrative trade."

Following this appeal to worldwide tourists, Fourak also happily reported that factories and industries, Clique-wide, reported that production was at peak capacity. He indicated that other corporations are asking for licenses, and applying for them through the Economic Ministry. "We have seen numerous licensing bids arrive at the doorstep of my ministry. There have been a number of licensing for telecommunications, as well as requests for drilling and mining licenses. We are hoping to soon have these corporations up and running, and providing jobs for our people."

[IMG]http://www.corbisimages.com/images/67/88714AFD-C755-456F-97B6-314D9C2F83FF/OW003771.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Amid the positive economic news coming from the Caspian Government, heavy aircraft producer CAA has been the target of lucrative government and corporate deals with both the Caspian military, and Dawkins International Logistics.[/i]

Fourak noted that both civilian and military products from Caspian corporations will soon be available for sale on the open world market, with some restrictions on high-tech, top-of-the-line, military equipment. He did not reveal any set date, but rumors and leaks from the Economic Ministry do point to open sale of military products within the month. Recent combat experience in the Kandahar and Baghlan campaigns suggest that the military will be providing feedback on products, that could produce some impressive modifications and changes in Caspian military products.

Kandahar Aviation and Rocketry has announced that all production lines are filled at the moment, and the government could see a fulfillment of its orders within the next three weeks. Dr. Katya Petrovich, the President of the aircraft manufacturer and design bureau, said she was "impressed" in her staff's "can-do" attitude. "We are working at peak capacity at the moment, and the production lines are filled, and the employees doing their jobs diligently, what more can I ask of them?"

[b]CJ, 2011[/b][/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/800px-Ertugrul_Gazi_Mosque_in_Ashgabat_Turkmenistan.jpg[/IMG]

[i]The Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, in Ashgabat.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Cultural Division Announced, as Ertugrul Gazi Mosque to be Restored![/b][/size]

[i]Imar Duzghul, Central Asian News Agency[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] - The Caspian government announced in a news conference outside the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque today, that it would begin restoring this historic Islamic temple to its former glory. Decades of neglect, with the country being in the grip of lawlessness, has left the once gleaming gem a shadow of itself. President Sham Dawkins himself, speaking at the open-air news conference, was pleased to announce to restoration effort.

"This monument of architecture and religion is an important cultural icon to the Caspian nation, and it is in the best interests of this nation to preserve such relics. This is part of this nation's past, and it will be treated as such, as an iconic symbol of our proud past," said Dawkins, as he made sweeping gestures to the humongous mosque.

While there has been no word from members of the Islamic faith worldwide, Dawkins and his government gave assurances that the holy building's sanctity would be respected during restoration. The process of this restoration is going to cost the Caspian nation well over a hundred million dollars, this cost being deferred somewhat by charity donations that will assist the government. In his first meetings with the government the Imam of Ashgabat thanked Sham Dawkins for the pledge made by the government, and was seen standing with the President during the press conference.

The government released a comprehensive list of who would be involved in the restoration efforts, to make sure it was undertaken with the greatest of care.

[list]
[*] The Religious Studies, Architectural Engineering, Art History, and Historical Faculties of Caspia University

[*] Caspian Construction (CASCON) Engineering Experts

[*] Office of the Imam of Ashgabat

[*] Caspian Central Bank

[*] NEM

[*] Economic Ministry - Caspian Clique Cultural Division (CCCD)
[/list]

Anwar Fourak, Economic Minister, announced at the press conference that his Ministry, upon formation of this Cultural Division, would be taking steps to employ experts in both the fields of actual restoration and restoration planning, to assist in this endeavor. Fourak noted that the cultural history of the Caspian Clique had to be preserved for future generations to reflect on their past as a nation.

"We in the Economic Ministry believe that the Ertugral Gazi Mosque, and sites like it, have to be preserved, not only for the sake of their religious value, but for the value of this nation as a whole. What nation would allow its past to crumble in the sands of time, and left it forgotten?"

[b]CANA, 2011[/b][/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/r212758_819442.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Members of "Task Force Caspia" in combat in Communist Australia.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Caspian Armed Forces puts more troops on Standby Status, as Combat Rages in Communist Australia[/b][/size]

[i]Reginald Burke, Field Reporter
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] - With "Task Force Caspia" engaged in heavy combat near Norman, in Communist Australia, Defense Minister General Terry Lowell, issued further standby orders for Caspian military units. As the bulk of the Task Force arrived in Norman, the military base came under sustained attack from rebel forces. The military has no word on casualties as of yet, but it is said that the task force, along with forces from Communist Australia and the Australian Free State, were able to halt the attack.

"Task Force Caspia, and other members of the International Peacekeeping Force came under a heavy assault from rebel forces against the Norman military base. The attack was repulsed, and losses appear to be heavy amongst rebel forces, could be fairly substantial amongst friendly forces," reported Lowell, speaking at a press conference.

Lowell said that the insurgency was substantial, and could require the further deployment of Caspian military forces to assist in its defeat. For that reason, Lowell had put the entirety of the Turkmen Hussars Regiment on alert and to ready for deployment to Communist Australia. The Regiment already has two platoons of its number engaged in the country, and Lowell said that field commanders commended the unit for its continued stellar performance. The Turkmen Hussars were particularly effective in the field against the insurgency around Baghlan, where the Regiment earned its nickname "Azrael", another name for the "Angel of Death" in Islamic theology, which has connections also to Sikhism and Hebrew lore, from insurgent forces facing it.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/Azrael.png[/IMG]

[i]A soldier from the Turkmen Hussars Regiment, or "Azrael" Regiment, displaying the units' signature balaclava.[/i]

While the military does not recognize the nickname officially, many of the soldiers in the regiment do, and a number have begun to wear skull balaclavas into battle. They take their name seriously, and have established the tradition on their own. The unit's combat record reflects its nickname, as it was the most heavily engaged unit in the Baghlan counterinsurgency campaign, and recorded more then half of the insurgent casualties during the subsequent battles.

Lowell noted that the standby status did not implicitly mean that any forces would be deployed, however, he said the likelihood of their movement was "rather likely". The deployment to Communist Australia marks the first international deployment of Caspian forces abroad, and Lowell hopes that the efforts of the stabilization force will, in the long run, establish firm contacts with other countries for the Caspian nation.

"I believe that this deployment, and others that may occur in the future, will show the nations of the world that the Caspian Clique is a dependable and trustworthy friend whose assistance other nations can count on in their times of need."

[b]CJ, 2011.[/b][/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/s.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Some municipal elections for mayoral positions in cities have already taken place, but the governor elections or "the big kahuna" as President Dawkins calls it, will occur in a fortnight.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Caspian State Gubernatorial Candidates Announced[/b]
[/size]
[i]Mike Taillon, Central Asian News Agency[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] – President Sham Dawkins has announced the new candidates for the governors of the Afghan and Turkmen States today, during a press conference regarding the progress of the government. As Dawkins announced at the beginning of his presidency the governors would be elected by the people, but the candidates would be selected by his office and cabinet. As it seems, Dawkins appears to be holding true to his claim that his government would follow along the lines of what he has dubbed a “Meritocratic Oligarchy”.

There have been three governor candidates for each state announced; all of them prominent and talented individuals of their respected states. All six of these candidates have given the Central Asian News Agency their biographies and platforms that they hope to accomplish during their annual term in office.

[list]
[*] [b]Rasheed al-Falawi (Afghan)[/b] – Afghan Development Office, Infrastructure; looking to continue infrastructure improvement of Afghanistan, especially in ensuring outlying villages are electrified and given clean sewer and water systems, and improving travel times between cities through expansion of roads and rail lines, as well as building of more municipal airports

[*] [b]Colonel Omar Kazeem (Afghan)[/b] - Caspian Army, Currently Assigned to "Task Force Caspia" in Communist Australia, hero of the Baghlan Counterinsurgency Campaign; looking to focus on improving security throughout the countryside to ensure the insurgency does not continue, as well as reforming internal security and police efficiency in the Afghan state

[*] [b]Dr. Nicole Evers, MD (Afghan)[/b] – Manager, Afghan State Hospital, Kabul; hoping to focus on improvement of health care across the Afghan state during her time if elected, particularly nutrition in household as well as introducing medical programs and nutrition in the educational system, that is still being reformed

[*] [b]Vladimir Kozlov (Turkmen)[/b] - Board Member, Caspian Petroleum and Chemicals; hoping to expand infrastructure for further economic development of Turkmen state, including increased exploration for rare earths materials, as well as petroleum/natural gas reserves that have not been fully explored along the Caspian coast as well as surveying and planning for future national pipelines

[*] [b]Muhammad Sadat (Turkmen)[/b] - Economic Ministry, Educational Division; hoping to improve educational programs of the Turkmen state, as well as championing the creation of a Ministry of Education and Labor for the Caspian national government, so as to bring the Educational Division out from under the yoke of the Economic Ministry and give it more independence, away from an economic aspect

[*] [b]Dr. Kamal Habib (Turkmen)[/b] – Professor of Islamic Studies at Caspia University, Ashgabat; hoping to focus on cultural development and preservation during his time as governor, believes it will have a positive economic impact for tourism and improve international relations
[/list]

Barring any mishaps, the elections will take place two weeks from this very day, as Sham Dawkins is hoping to get his government completed as soon as possible.[/quote]

Edited February 14, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/gallgitmofence0112gi.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Interior perimeter zone of an insurgent detainment center near Kabul.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Rehabilitation Program for Former Insurgents Announced[/b][/size]

[i]Nataliya Konev, Staff Writer
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Kabul, CC[/b] - Interior Services Division Manager Colonel Markus Boldin announced the government's plan today for the rehabilitation of former insurgent fighters that were captured during the stabilization of the Caspian Clique. The Interior Services Division confirmed today that it has 2,394 insurgents in custody at various camps, mostly in the Afghan State. Boldin said during a press conference today that the insurgents were being treated well, and their basic needs seen to as the government developed this comprehensive plan.

Most of the insurgents, most being paid for their work as mercenaries, will be interned in work camps, that are in the process of being constructed. These work camps will offer amenities to these former fighters, and see to their basic needs, as they go through a process of technical education, as well as working on projects for the state-owned infrastructure construction company, CASCON. The rehabilitating insurgents would have a weekly schedule that put them in the classroom for basic technical skills for at least twenty hours a week, including heavy engine repair and maintenance, basic construction and masonry skills, welding techniques, metallurgy, and other meaningful technical skills.

"This education will give these former fighters a wide assortment of skills in preparing them for a two to four year probationary contract, which will make them work with CASCON. Once that probation, which will be monitored by our division, is up, they will be set free, but are expected to be monitored, and they are not to possess any firearm of any kind. We hope that this training and experience will reintegrate them into society, and give them a penchant for building things, instead of destroying them," said Boldin, during his statement at the press conference.

He added further, "This plan is a blueprint, it is flexible, and if this government does not think it is working, it will make new plans."

Boldin also announced at the same press conference, that rumors of one insurgent prisoner disappearing or even escaping overnight were untrue. [url=http://forums.cybernations.net/index.php?showtopic=98697]He assured the media at the press conference that the prisoner, Eric Turner, had been transferred to a solitary unit for causing mischief at supper two nights ago, and was considered to be a problem for the general population.[/url] Anonymous sources within the insurgent detention center near Kabul, however, have told the Caspian Journal that no such incident had taken place.

Eric Turner, in his late 40s, is a prominent warlord whose militia fought in the battles against Caspian forces near Kandahar, and was captured there during the final days of the campaign. Turner was the ringleader of a group of militia leaders who led a bloody coup against Sham Dawkins' father, John, almost fifteen years ago. The warlord self-proclaimed himself to be the end of the government at that time, and is thought to have been in the presidents' office when the leader was executed. The coup ultimately led to the last fifteen years of bloody strife and ungoverned state of this land, before Sham Dawkins returned to take his fathers' place.

When pressed about the disappearance of Turner from his cell by one journalist at the press conference, Boldin said simply, "The connection is but coincidence only," and moved on from the subject.[/quote]

Edited February 15, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/_517621_soldiers300.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Soldiers on patrol at dusk in the Baghlan Area.[/i]

[size="6"][b]Ministry of Defense Announces Military Enlargement[/b][/size]

[i]Nataliya Konev, Staff Writer
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] - General Terry Lowell, in a press conference today announced a reorganization of the armed forces today, that includes an expansion of the air force. Recent experience in Communist Australia, as well the counterinsurgency campaigns has pointed to small deficiencies in the organization of the military as a whole, that need to be addressed. Lowell also acknowledged the seemingly small air force that will need to expand to be able to both defend the country, as well as support the nation's forces abroad.

Lowell announced that upgrading ground vehicles is part of this plan, and this comprehensive measure will increase the effectiveness of the military "substantially". Lowell also announced at the press conference that with the insurgency almost over with in Communist Australia, this plan will be introduced incrementally over the next few weeks. Aircraft producers KAR and CAA have announced that they are ramping up production of aircraft, and the supply of aircraft to the Air Force is steady and unchanging.

The plans are outlined as is follows:

[list]
[*] Tripling the Amount of Total Planes in the Air Force

[*] Reorganizing the Ground Forces based upon a Brigade-Sized Combat Team System

[*] Instituting a Military District System

[*] Expanding and Improving Ground and Air Force Bases

[*] Improving Communications Systems

[*] Implementing New Tactical Doctrines

[*] Reorganizing Armored Formations
[/list]

There have been rumors that the military is to receive significantly upgraded equipment, however these rumors have not been confirmed, nor have they specified what equipment is due to be upgraded.

[b]CJ, 2011[/b][/quote]

Edited February 17, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/article-1304438-0AD8267E000005DC-76_634x286.jpg[/IMG]

[i]A Caspian military convoy races north at dawn to secure the newly ceded state of Uzbek.[/i]

[b][size="6"]UFE Cedes portions of Central Asian Protectorate to Caspia[/size][/b]

[b]Shanghai, UFE[/b] - President Sham Dawkins and UFE leadership yesterday confirmed a deal that ceded portions of their protectorate, formerly portions of the GNED, to the Caspian Clique, while also signing new strategic alliance accords that will draw the two countries closer together. The Caspian Military of Defense has hailed the new warm relations with our Far East neighbors as an important step in the continued stability of the Asian continent.

"The securing of this amiable relationship with the UFE will ensure stability in Central Asia, and allow for our forces to project their power abroad, should the need arise," said Defense Minister Lowell, at a press conference early this morning. "Not only that, the expansion of the Caspian Clique into Uzbekistan will allow for our nation to thrive and continue to develop economically in the world. We have civilian teams moving north with our troops to ensure that this is a joint civil-military operation that means only for stable governance in the state's future. We have made sure to take precautions to ensure the Uzbek people that we are a country that openly welcomes them as brothers and sisters and to ensure their prosperity and welfare."

Interior Services Division Manager Boldin asserted, "We have also sent state police detachments north with the military, to help ensure that civilian law enforcement personnel can work with the military in establishing a more civilian like control in this operation. This will ensure that the Uzbek people will see us as a new government, not a military occupation force, we are doing everything in our power to assure them of that."

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/fe44f70a.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Troops have been on the northern border with the UFE protectorate since the GNED fell, ensuring that if there is any localized violence, it will not spill over the border.[/i]

Lowell announced that while seven battalions would march north in military vehicle convoys, to secure their new prize, two battalions would be flown into Smarkand, and secure the airport and set up liaison with local officials. There has been no word on whether this new occupation has faced any opposition, but there have been a few reports of soldiers being greeted as they move through the first towns. Lowell noted that he felt that President Dawkins' visit to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization's first summit will bring even further positive results for the Caspian nation, and that the trip was already deemed an "overwhelming" success by the Caspian National Government.

"We think that President Dawkins has produced enormously positive results in talks with the UFE, and hope that the summit will increase Caspia's role economically in Asia as our country's economy heats up," noted Economic Minister Fourak, at the same conference.[/quote]

Edited February 19, 2011 by TheShammySocialist

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/Baikonur_Cosmodrome.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Launch pad and safety zone at the new Andhkoy Cosmodrome.[/i]

[b][size="6"]Government reveals finished Andhkoy Cosmodrome[/size][/b]

[i]Nataliya Konev, Staff Writer
Caspian Journal[/i]

[b]Andhkoy, CC[/b] - The Manager of CASCON today, along with the Ministry of Defense held a press conference to announce publicly the completion of the Andhkoy Cosmodrome, begun under President Dawkins' father, but never completed. The Cosmodrome was intended to assist the Caspian state at that time with launching military satellites as well as telecommunications satellites. The completion of the state-of-the-art facility comes almost a month after Dawkins became President. Inside information points that the Cosmodrome was a top priority for Dawkins upon assuming the presidency, it is unknown whether its priority was assigned due to the President's emotional connection to his father over the project, or for some alternative reason.

Whatever the reason, Omar Baradi, head of the state-owned CASCON Infrastructure Construction Giant, was upbeat about its early completion.

"We hope that the completion of Andhkoy will serve to assist the development of this nation, especially in the area of telecommunications. This new launch facility will assist the Caspian people in economic development of that sector of the economy, and allow us to be better connected with distant economic partners in this world," said Baradi, at the news conference.

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/p5568_51527ae3ac7eb80e0c110fa24619a63dsoyouz_novembre_t.jpg[/IMG]

[i]Snow falling at the recently completed launchpad number three.[/i]

Defense Minister Lowell echoed Baradi's optimistic assessment of the completion of Andhkoy, and said that it will also serve as an important tool for the military as well.

"This facility will be able to give our forces advanced communication, targeting, and reconnaissance abilities that it needs. The uses for satellites these days are next to endless, especially in the military realm, and we hail the CASCON company, as well as other major firms who partnered in bringing this dream to reality for giving us those new abilities," said Lowell, at the joint press conference. Lowell obviously did not go into specifics of the upcoming satellite projects, but his enthusiasm of the facility's completion was noticeable at the press conference.

[b]CJ, 2011[/b][/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[b]Presidential Address to the New Uzbek State at Smarkand[/b]

[i]"My Fellow Brothers and Sisters of Smarkand, of the new Uzbek State,

We of Caspia hail your resilience over the past few days, since the Nordic Empire fell into chaos, and was finally reformed. We understand that this land suffered instability since that fall of the Empire, and we in the Caspian Clique will ensure that the stability our government brings with it, will stay. The Caspian Clique has been growing in size and stature in this world, we have taken on efforts abroad and at home to ensure this nation and its economy, and its place in the world is secure.

It is our hope to involve you in a dream that was started by my father to establish this nation on the world stage, he was partway through that dream when he was killed tragically. But dreams are ideas, and you can kill a man, but you can never kill an idea that is planted in the heads of the people. You can suppress it, you can grind that dream into dust before their eyes, but it will always be there in the back of their minds. This country is building a name for itself, not only for its growing economy, but its power, its prestige, its tolerance of all religions, all genders, all races of mankind. It was built on a dream that everyone could prosper together, that not one race or religion is better then another, we are given the power to choose our fate.

When I came to power, my fate was in the hands of the Caspian people, they allowed me back, they brought me back to serve a purpose, to lead the Caspian nation to a brighter future. It had been trampled by warlords, by thugs who snuffed out the light of the dream so many years ago, now it is reborn, and it is not wavering. We shall bring to this land the prosperity that the Caspian people know, we welcome you as brothers and sisters in that dream that will continue to flower so long as there are people to believe in it. We are a country of equality, of opportunity, of stability, we bring that country to you, and sincerely hope that you embrace us, as well as that dream.

I am President Sham Dawkins, and I am here to serve you with respect and pride, the proud and resilient people of the newest state in this Clique, welcome."[/i]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b][size="6"]Caspia Votes![/size][/b]

[b]Caspian Press Agency (CPA)[/b]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] - Yesterday, the first elections for the position of governor, for the Afghan and Turkmen states were held, with another election scheduled for the Uzbek state in two weeks. The national government issued a statement last night, saying that they deemed the election an overwhelming success, with more then a seventy-four percent turnout rate for registered voters. With the official voting age set at sixteen, the government hopes to draw more younger people into politics and to be involved in such matters at an earlier age, and to give them a sense of responsibility to their community.

Turnout amongst younger people, aged sixteen to twenty, was reportedly strong, at close to sixty-eight percent of the registered voters in that age group turning out to vote.

The elected winners are as follows, with more then ninety-five precincts reporting, for the Afghan State, [b]Rasheed al-Falawi[/b], who plans to initiate a state-wide infrastructure development program, has won by a narrow margin over his opponents. Al-Falawi won with thirty-seven percent, with Dr. Nicole Evers coming in at thirty-three percent, and Army Colonel Omar Kazeem bringing up a relatively close thirty percent. For the Turkmen State, [b]Muhammad Sadat[/b], a champion of educational reforms, won a strong victory of forty-three percent, Sadat is hoping to expand the national government during his tenure, as well as increase the effectiveness of the educational systems in the Turkmen state. Falling to Sadat, Dr. Kamal Habib won thirty-one percent of the vote, with Vladimir Kozlov hauling in the remaining twenty-six percent.

In a sad turn of events, the Caspian Press Agency has to report the listing of Army Colonel Omar Kazeem as a casualty during the counterinsurgency operation that is ongoing in Communist Australia. Reports are sketchy as of this time, but it appears that Peacekeeping Forces are heavily engaged after a heavy Free Australian attack slammed into Brisbane. Brigadier General Andrei Konev, the commander of Task Force Caspia has released statements that after heavy action in Norman and the surrounding area, the Task Force had to be airlifted south to assist in the holding of the city. Konev has not given exact estimates on casualties, but has reported that the hero of the Baghlan Campaign, Kazeem, was wounded in heavy fighting near the city center. Details were not readily available, but a number of reports from scattered sources report Brisbane has become what one source called "Hell on Earth".

[b]CPA, 2011[/b][/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[quote][b]New Telecommunications Company Incorporated [/b]

[i]Caspian News Agency[/i]

[b]Ashgabat, CC[/b] – The Economic Ministry today announced that it has finalized the licensing of the private telecommunications company Central Asia Telecommunications or “CAT”, which applied for the license about two weeks ago. This newest company will work with the government, using both government subsidies and its own money to establish fiber-optic telephone and television lines to all populated areas of the company. The government will have some control over the company, and two Economic Ministry specialists will be appointed to sit on the company’s board of executives.

The spread of CAT across the country will give the company a monopoly over the communications waves, but of course under government supervision. The establishment of CAT, said the President of the company, Howard Rizatto, will give the people of the Caspian Clique access to reliable, relatively inexpensive service that will give a bundle service of phone access, television, and high-speed internet access.

“With the rise of the Caspian Clique on the global stage, we hope that CAT will provide the people of Caspia with access to that outside world. We believe that it will accelerate economic growth, and welcome the overseeing of Caspian government officials overseeing our operations, to ensure we are doing the best for the people of this state,” said Rizatto, speaking at a news conference outside the Economic Ministry building in Ashgabat.

The announcing of CAT comes directly following the release of a public schedule of launches at the Andhkoy Cosmodrome, which will be feverishly launching five satellites over the next five weeks. These do not include a schedule of military launches, which have been kept classified, and there have been reports that at least one rocket had been seen launching from Andhkoy last week. The Caspian Military has denied comment on the rumors and reports, but eyewitness reports have said at least one rocket has been launched successfully from Andhkoy.

The military has noted in the past that Andhkoy will not announce military launches, nor will disclose exactly what they are launching. The military has assured the public, that these launches will be used to ‘enhance’ the Caspian military and assist in the national defense of the country. If these reports are true, the establishment of satellite and navigational satellite feeds for the military will certainly give the military extra capabilities in the field of battle.

“We maintain that any military satellites launched are only for navigational purposes of our soldiers and for their relay of secure communications between both units on the battlefield, and with Central Command and Ashgabat. They will maintain standard high-altitude orbits, which mark them as such, and the Caspian Clique is willing to discuss any questions that foreign governments have, through both the defense ministry and foreign office,” noted Defense Minister Lowell, at a news conference two days ago, when asked about the military’s satellite program.

Lowell’s statement, whether trying to be reassuring to other nations of the world, or just making a routine answer to the question, comes at a rather coincidental time. Over the weekend, there was a reported downing of a Ottoman satellite, which the Ottoman government has reported was a spy satellite.[/quote]

[TheShammySocialist]

[b][size="6"]Caspian Clique Mobilization[/size][/b]

[b]Caspian Official Government Statement[/b]

"My brothers and sisters of Caspia, the past twenty-four hours have seen the world erupt in conflict, with wars in Africa erupting between us and some of our friends. We have seen unsettling reports come out of some certain countries of this continent for the past few days, and protocol has dictated us to respond. We will support our friends and allies, who have shown restraint until their hand was forced twenty-four hours ago, we stand by them now and forever.

The Caspian Clique acknowledges, at this moment, that we are a [b]nuclear-armed nation[/b], and will use these weapons should we be threatened with weapons of equal destruction. We also acknowledge the existence of an anti-strategic weapon system, that will be used on any missile launches which target our honorable nation. We apologize to our allies who were not informed of these weapon systems, and mean no harm by keeping such systems a secret.

The Caspian Government hereby mobilizes its military to full alert, it is with a heavy heart that we must make this necessary maneuver."

[IMG]http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa325/VictorDeltaRomeo/sigshamfinal.png[/IMG]

President, Caspian Clique