[War] World Alliances and Rivalries World Report Digest: Vol. 1

[Chazenesq2b at aol.com]

WAR: World Report


- For all actions since game start.

United Nations Security Council (Permanent Members): United States,
United Kingdom, France, China, Russia

United Nations Security Council (Non-Permanent Members):

Until June, 2007:  India, Egypt, Norway, Mexico, Venezuela
Until July, 2007:  Canada, Chile, Italy, South Africa, Japan

Pending UN Security Council Actions: None
Pending UN General Assembly Actions: None
United Nations Secretariat: No news.
==============
GM Babble:

We seem to be off to a good start.  We can use more policy posts, and more 
JPs.  Character development looks good.

- Chris
===============================================

WORLD NEWS (Please review the following topics for potential posting fodder):

*G8 Summit*

With the New Year starting with so many new leaders in power there is a push 
for the meeting to be held sooner rather than later in the year in order for 
everyone to get on the same page.

As for the agenda, Italy and Germany are both looking hard at immigration and 
international crime and terrorism as a major priority and as the UK is 
hosting the conference this year, piracy has also become a priority issue, along 
with the now usual suspects of energy and renewable resources, and from outside 
the group Mexico, India, Brazil and China have all been considered in the past 
for membership and there is some talk that keeping both India and China out of 
the G8 (or 10 as it would become) is foolish given their rise to prominence 
on the world stage. To that end Japanese Prime Minister Hiroshi Sakai has 
publicly pushed for this years meeting to be the G8+2.

*Missionaries Arrested Crossing into Sudan*

The now almost completely Muslim nation has detained five foreign nationals 
who were accused of being missionaries for the Christian faith. The group 
members were members of the Church of Later Day Saints, and including a guide from 
Chad, three American and one British citizen. There has been no indication 
from the Sudanese when there might be a trial and what the punishment might be, 
but given the nature of the Sudanese government, it doesn’t look good on either 
front.

*Protests over Spratly Islands*

Philippines President Fernando Poe, has declared the Sino-Russo agreement on 
the Spratly Islands, an outrageous show contempt for the Philippines and 
South-East Asia as a whole. “Who are they to decide what is ours?” he asked the 
press conference. This statement has been echoed by the other leaders with claim 
on the Islands though with slightly less vitriol. The Philippines navy has 
stepped up its patrols of the region, especially around Chinese held Taiping, 
increasing tensions in the region.

*Russian Security Forces Detain Illegal Chinese Immigrants*

Following an agreement between the Russians and Chinese to secure the border, 
Russian security forces have detained a large number of Chinese immigrants, 
smuggled by truck into Siberia. The details of how this truck evaded the 
increased Chinese border patrols is as yet unknown, but there is suspicion that it 
either crossed before the agreement came into effect, or border guards on both 
sides were bribed by the smugglers. More as the investigation continues.


ACTION RESPONSES
=============================

CHINA (PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF)

Population Approval: 55%
Government Approval: 57%
International Favor: 53% 
Economic Growth: 9.7% 
Inflation: 2.7% 
Unemployment: 10.1% 
----------------------------------------------------------

The rapid warming, then cooling, of Sino-Russian relations has heads 
spinning. Hardliners grumble at the "restriction of the rightful migration of the 
Chinese people", while the military dislikes the idea of not having Russian 
technology to build subs with. Industrial types do like the idea of building subs 
domestically, however.

The international community is blinking and shaking its head at recent 
events. Southeast Asia is buzzing like hornets that just had their nest disturbed at 
Chinese island claims, and there is some tut-tutting at the Sino-Russian 
border control agreement -then- being followed by the discovery of smuggled 
Chinese in Siberia. Evidence of bad faith on the Chinese part? Maybe, maybe not. Is 
it being used to mock China? Of course, especially in Russia.

=============================================

FRANCE

Population Approval: 57%
Government Approval: 53%
International Favor: 52%
Economic Growth: 2%
Inflation: 2.6%
Unemployment: 8%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----

With President Ampete focussing on immigration this week, things have been a 
bit expectantly hectic.  There has been some major protests that have gone by 
peacefully, mainly by internationalist French and Immigration organizations.  
At the same time, more militant factions and the notoriously riotous Arab 
populations in the major urban centers have resulted to incidents of violence.  
Cars have been burned, stores robbed, and the usual pandamonium insued... this 
time however French police were ready and waiting, stomping out the flames 
fairly quickly before they could spread in a repeat of things nearly a decade ago. 
 By all accounts the French police handled themselves extremely well, with 
great professionalism and respect for civil rights under French law.

Expectantly, there has been International backlash with protesting at French 
Embassies, particularly in North Africa and the Middle East which historically 
have sought French citizenship for better economic opportunity.   The French 
Defense officials are warning there may be attempted terrorist actions, and 
are requesting additional resources and liberties to thwart these efforts in 
advance.

At home however the moves are met with exhuberant support.  Pro-French forces 
rally in support of the President, and for every protest there's a 
counter-protest.  The appointment of an Ombudsman to reign it Government agencies and 
insure equal opportunities helps mellow out some of the protests against Zoe, 
and further cement support among her base... at the expense of worried 
beuracrats who are afraid they may be penalized for honest mistakes or chance 
happenings which could be construed to seem biast.

==============================================
JAPAN

Population Approval: 57%
Government Approval: 55%
International Favor: 55%
Economic Growth: 2.5%
Inflation: 0.6%
Unemployment: 4%
----------------------------------------------------------

The decision to reduce salaries of government ministers, although popular in 
most general circles, draws some criticism from academics.  They worry that 
the reduced salaries mean that 'only' those who have accumulated enough wealth 
to live well on those salaries will be considered for the positions.  They're 
the only ones worried at the moment however, as others give an approving nod on 
this form of leadership.

Problems facing Japan however will likely resurface, and the glitter from 
this momentary kudos will fade unless followed up upon.  Access to raw materials, 
new markets, and other economic concerns are still a peripheral worry, as are 
international and military concerns.
=============================================

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Population Approval: 60%
Government Approval: 57%
International Favor: 55%
Economic Growth: 2.5%
Inflation: 5.6%
Unemployment: 6.2%
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------

A lot has happened under the current President in a short amount of time, and 
most of it is seen as a very good start in dealing with some of the nations 
most entrenched problems.

The retraining of the Police force causes some aches for the beuracracy, but 
is very widely accepted by the population.  Fearful Russian mafia families 
have made threats against the President, his family, and his associates resulting 
in higher security measures and precautions.  The hard stance on crime earns 
the respect of many of the general populace, all too willing to put behind 
them the days of the KGB 'and' wanting peace and security from the latest 
criminal threats.  In honor, rumor has it the Duma is considering pressing for the 
construction of a new, high-tech central training center for Federal Russian law 
enforcement agents... to be named according to one reporter the 'Leonid 
Nemerenko Center for Justice and Law Enforcement'.  These are, ofcourse, rumors at 
the moment... and it would be distasteful for them to construct and name such 
an area 'while' Nemerenko was in office, but sufficing to say the President 
will be remembered when he leaves.

The Russian Navy takes pride in being tasked to work alongside the US Coast 
Guard in the Bearing Strait.  'Flying the flag' has always been a traditional 
role for the Naval forces of a nation, and being away from Russia is what these 
sailors were trained and bred for.  Actually being of some use on an 
International stage generally lifts spirits, although the announcement of canceling 
joint work on a new class of submarine with the Chinese deflates some of the 
Admirality.

Relations with China, having started off on a high note have become 
increasingly complicated.  Russia's tactical nuclear forces stand by and are ready... 
having done so as discretely as possible given the capacity these weapons 
presented.  It is likely American sattelites have detected some movement, but 
China's capabilities are far less pervasive and commanders remain confident changes 
have been made secretly.  The GRU reports no unusual activity around the 
border, other than a substantial increase in apparent border security forces.  
Intelligence officials would remind the Kremlin however that the Chinese possess 
an extremely professional and proficient military force, that has proven to be 
adept at camouflage and concealment and having substantial, in depth 
assymetrical warfare skills.  There is serious concern that even if an invasion was 
about to take place, that China could hit quickly enough to smother most early 
warning forces before an alert could be sounded.  As a result, Air Force 
officials are asking for permission to have increased overflights over the border 
area, pointing out that any Chinese advance might be foreshadowed by air attack.

The commitment to not sell weapons to North Korea or defend the DPRK has 
improved Russia's prestige with NATO nations, if only slightly, and allowed 
Congress to swallow the President's aid promise.  However continued souring 
relations with China, a growing trade partner and important customer has soured 
businessmen.
======================================================

UNITED KINGDOM OF GREAT BRITAIN AND NORTHERN IRELAND

Population Approval: 55%
Government Approval: 55%
International Favor: 55%
Economic Growth: 3.2%, Average.
Inflation: 2.5%
Unemployment: 5.4%
----------------------------------------------------------

No News to report.

=============================================

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Population Approval: 55%  
Government Approval: 52%  
International Favor: 59%  
Economic Growth: 2.8%
Inflation: 3.1%
Unemployment: 4.6%
----------------------

The debate over the Secretary of Defense nominee Julius Abbot continues, much 
to the internal embarassment of both parties and the President himself.   It 
is an indication that this Congress will not be in any way a rubber stamp for 
the President, particularly as the President comes off to many as 
condescending and patronizing in his relations with the legislative branch.  This 
reputation has been earned through the tone used in trying to get the President's 
other legislation through, such as his 'bet'.

Implementing the plans put forth by the President, many experts have studied, 
would return the United States to deficit spending if conducted 
simultaneously.  Opinions differ on the amount, but it would be safe to assume a 5 to 10 
Billion dollar deficit if all outlays and expenditures are taken into 
consideration.  This has resulted in some ridicule not only within party ranks but in 
the press as the President's success has been party placed on the mantle of 
fiscal responsibility.  All of them are needed, or understandable extensions of 
programs, but the Government was looking forward to a balanced budget.

The President 'does' get widespread accolades among veterans, soldiers, the 
general public, and the media for making the comparatively hard choice of 
supporting the oft underfunded VA and HHS.  60% of America's homeless are Veterans, 
and the wide variety of services necessary have been largely cut under 
successive administrations, ironically including the Bush Administration.  When a 
lot of other 'bread and butter' issues get in the way, these programs often see 
the deepest cuts, and their support now sends a clear and convincing message 
to the population at large that the President stands by what he believes is 
right.  A slogan of "Keeping America's Promise to it's Greatest."  It is a 
catchy, patriotic message that generally raises spirits.  Where as President Bush's 
bravado for such programs always seemed at best gilded, many vets and 
servicemen consider Williams to be the genuine article.

The fleet upgrade program for the Coast Guard also buys the President respect 
and credential among the Homeland Security and broader Department of Defense, 
the latter of which was a bit sore over the sidelining of new technology 
developments and fears a sidelining of new product development may lead to a Cold 
War era situation where American technology at least 'appeared' to always be 
second to Soviet ingenuity.  The re-evaluation of defense appropriations has 
lead to better values for the DOD, bringing a whole new meaning to the term 
'bang for your buck'.

Given the President's progress, it is unlikely Congress will stall much 
longer on his programs, but pundits and bloggers take note of the brakes Congress 
has hit.  Talks of rough edges between the Legislative and Executive branches, 
reminiscent of the Clinton years, are everywhere.

Internationally the new FSO requirements are well received, even if they 
anger State.  Foreign governments see this as an opportunity to deal comfortably 
with new players, players who may not be as experienced or talented as those 
they're replacing, which might bode well for them when it comes to negotiation.  
Likewise State officials have opined that although a common sense approach, 
the President's actions may have the unintended side effect of damaging 
relations.  Personal relationships aren't easily replaced, even if there is a 
language barrier, and the 'art' of Diplomacy, of negotiation, isn't something that 
can be easily taught.  It is a quality, many in the field say, that is more 
important in instances than language skills which can be solved via translators.  
None the less, it is an excellent idea for the lower staff members, and 
language requirements are being phased in even over murmuring complaints by the 
beuracrats.

American support materially for Russia's improvements gets generous nods 
abroad.  Even the Europeans consider an American style police force far superior 
to the one Russia currently has in terms of respect for human rights, and other 
nations currently recovering from dictatorships and civil downturns are 
seeking similar assistance from the White House.  There is some worry over the 
Bearing Strait issue, with a minor blow to Coast Guard pride coming at the 
realization they won't be the only service in the sea.  Still it's a necessity, and 
Williams' previous support for the new fleet initiative more than adequately 
makes up for the hurt feelings.

=============================================

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

NOTE: Initial indicators were gleaned from as recent sources as
possible, for the most recent term possible (annualized). In some
cases, the numbers used are published estimates, but the English-
speaking nations' data is more or less right from the source.

Depression: Economic forces retracting uncontrolably and at a
dangerous pace with little end in sight.

Recession: Economic forces retracting, but more shallow than
Depression and more controlably. Sometimes necessary and part of
regular economic trends, although prelonged.

Revision: Economic forces retracting slightly and short term,
associated with economic systems refitting to accomodate new
industries, concentrations, etc.

Zero: No movement one way or the other.
Low: Comparatively low Economic growth/activity. (miniscule to about
2%, depending)
Good: Average economic activity (ranging from 2%-5% normally)
High: Above average performance (Greater than 5%) Sometimes
dangerous if in excess of 8% continuously.

SITES OF INTEREST

WAR Website: http://war.dagarcia.net/
Nova Horizon Simulations: http://www.novahorizon.com
United Nations: http://www.un.org/
Central Intelligence Agency: http://www.cia.gov/
CIA World Factbook: https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/
Federation of American Scientists: http://www.fas.org/
GlobalSecurity.org: http://www.globalsecurity.org/
CNN: http://www.cnn.com/
BBC: http://www.bbc.com/
New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/



************************************** AOL now offers free email to everyone. 
 Find out more about what's free from AOL at http://www.aol.com.
-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: http://esteroic.com/pipermail/war_esteroic.com/attachments/20070325/4907d485/attachment-0001.html