Brikvania Declares Independence

Brikvania is officially an independent Kingdom as of 12 midnight last night. The NARTO Military command handed over power to the Royal Government of Brikvania in a ceremony at Brown Castle, the seat of the new Brikvanian Government. 

King Brik II is the Head of State and Head of Government. He chairs the Royal Brikvania Council, the highest decision making body in the kingdom.  There is no Prime Minister or Parliament, but the kingdom is divided into 5 provinces to be run by Governor-Generals appointed by the King.

Two eastern provinces have large ethnic Malatians minority, and thus pose a security threats. However, the border areas are now guarded by NARTO troops, who will withdraw in about a month.

"We have built fortifications along the newly created border with Malatia, and some 500 United Nations troops will be deployed soon to manage this border," claimed a NARTO's spokesman.

The Brikvanian economy is mostly based on farming and fishing. With a population of only 4 million people, the Kingdom has decided to set up a small army of some 30,000 to 50,000 full time soldiers in order to manage the budget.

"We will not spend too much money on defence, but on healthcare, education and welfare. The income tax will be set at 20% to 40% but there will be low cost health care benefits and free education for all Brikvanians. Foreign companies investing in Brikvania will contribute some taxes to support our healthcare system, " announced Prince Brikcash, the Minister for Finance. 

As part of the defence plan, Brikvania will receive a squadron of BIF-21 warplanes, six gunboats for the navy and 150 BV-2000 armoured vehicles donated from the Kingdom of Lego. A total of 12 infantry battalions divided into 3 Divisions will be created. Brikvania is also looking at creating an elite force of commandos and royal guards. However, all these plans will depend on the government revenue and budget.

Brikvania's independence has been recognised by many countries. However, Malatia has not formally recognised Brikvania's sovereign status. 

"NARTO annexed Brikvania from Malatia. Brikvania does not exist. It is an imperialistic creation by NARTO. One day that pathetic country will crawl back into the arms of the fatherland, Malatia, " said a statement released by the Malatian Radio. This spells trouble in the future.