ECOWAS is the primary way France is able to influence its former colonies in west Africa.

Currency, Economics control and exploitation

ECOWAS countries use the CFA France, A currency pegged to the euro and controlled by France.
The CFA franc was created in December 1945 when the French government ratified the Bretton Woods Agreement and became the currency of les colonies françaises de l’Afrique or the CFA (“French Colonies of Africa”). The French Treasury guaranteed the currency under a fixed exchange rate dependent on the deposit of 50% of CFA franc reserves into the French central bank.
In 1994, France devalued the CFA franc, raising the parity rate from 50 CFA francs per French franc to 100 CFA francs per French franc. CFA member countries’ governments imposed wage freezes and layoffs in the wake of the CFA devaluation, leading to widespread unrest over inaccessible goods for consumers and unmanageable price controls for suppliers.
Even the so-called advantages of using the CFA Franc are also not grounded in reality
Monetary policies that were effective in achieving real exchange rate depreciation also resulted in a reduction in government expenditures and a decline in investment. As a positive effect, the unlimited convertibility of the CFA franc to the euro has generally reduced the risk of foreign investment in CFA countries. However, foreign investment in CFA countries remains low relative to other emerging economies, such as the BRICS economies that include South Africa.
The CFA France also hugely benefits Europe and not west African countries.
Without tackling issues of sovereignty, the system cannot work efficiently. The monetary zone limits industrialization and economic development and discourages trade among member states. The credit-to-GDP ratio rests between 10 and 25 percent for CFA countries, but is approximately 60+ percent for other states in sub-Saharan Africa. The CFA franc stimulates huge capital outflows and, due to the fixed exchange rate regime, pushes that money towards Europe, often France.
source: True Sovereignty? The CFA Franc and French Influence in West and Central Africa (harvard.edu)
Even the recent Macron promises of reforms to the Franc benefit France.
The reserve requirement will also evolve when the reform goes into effect. Instead of member countries storing 50 percent of their reserves in the French Treasury, ECOWAS states will now exercise control over their own reserves. France, however, will continue its role as guarantor. This change allows France to wield power over the reserves, but rids it of the obligation to bail out former CFA member states in the event of a crisis. Instead, countries will be referred to the IMF. France and former CFA countries will operate under a new set of rules that continue to benefit France and place African countries at a disadvantage.

Meddling in elections and orchestrating coups

Burkina Faso, Thomas Sankara
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On 15 October 1987, Sankara was killed by an armed group with twelve other officials in a coup d'état organized by his former colleague Blaise Compaoré. When accounting for his overthrow, Compaoré stated that Sankara jeopardized foreign relations with former colonial power France and neighbouring Ivory Coast
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Ivory coast
Relations between the two countries are such that “political debate is idealized" and "it seems almost impossible for a leader to reach the supreme magistracy or to stay in power if he is not endorsed by France,".
"France builds or deconstructs” by using the media to deal with the leaders “it intends to praise or demonize. So having France’s support is like a blank check for Ivorian politicians in their steps, however iniquitous they may be,".
He cited some incidents to illustrate his point. In 1995, the adoption of a tailor-made electoral code prevented Alassane Ouattara, a former prime minister and the country’s current president, from seeking office.
“The Rally for the Republic, the political party of then-French President Jacques Chirac, gave its full support to Henri Konan Bedie, leader of the Democratic Party of Ivory Coast-African Democratic Rally and former president, whose party refused to allow transparent ballot boxes on the grounds that Ivory Coast is a wood producer,” said Deroux.
He also cited the intervention of the French military under "cover of UN mandate" in the bombing of the residence of Laurent Gbagbo and his arrest during an electoral dispute in 2010.
"France is striving to maintain its hegemony in its former colonies,"
Decades after independence, French influence still lingers in Ivory Coast (aa.com.tr)
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Guinea
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On Sept. 28, 1958, Guinea rejected a constitution that would have relegated it to junior partnership in a new French Community. Casting a “no” vote in an empire-wide referendum, the people of Guinea claimed immediate independence instead. The outcome was the culmination of a decade-long struggle by a broad-based ethnic, class and gender alliance composed of grass-roots activists — notably, trade unionists, teachers, women and youths. Guinea was the only French territory to contest continued French control.
France retaliated with a vengeance, isolating Guinea diplomatically, economically and militarily. Paris suspended bank credits, development assistance and cooperative endeavors. It diverted incoming ships with food and medicines. Departing personnel cut telephone wires and stripped hospitals and military camps of equipment and supplies. French businesses transferred large sums of money out of the country, while the government’s secret services peppered Guinea with counterfeit currency.
The denial of bank credit and the deprivation of vital goods and services provoked economic panic, political discontent and civil unrest. Following Paris’s lead, the United States, the United Kingdom and West Germany delayed official recognition and declined to provide economic, technical or military aid to the new nation.
Throughout the 1960s, France engaged in successive plots to overthrow the Guinean president — sometimes with the assistance of espionage services from Portugal, West Germany and the United States, which sought to protect Western interests in the global Cold War. Menaced by political and economic isolation, multiple coup and assassination attempts, and, finally, a Portuguese invasion, the Guinean state, led by President Sékou Touré, increasingly repressed dissent as a manifestation of imperialist aggression.
Following an assassination attempt in December 2009, Camara stepped aside, and in 2010, elections were held. Alpha Condé, a longtime opposition leader and human rights activist, was elected president. He, too, promised to restore democracy, stamp out corruption and promote ethnic reconciliation.
However, the “resource curse” persisted. While mining production increased, Western banks, corporations, lawyers, accountants and public relations firms continued to take the lion’s share. Among Guineans, only the wealthy and well-connected prospered, while mineworkers were paid only five dollars a day and pollution by foreign companies destroyed local farming and fishing enterprises.
Source: The historical roots of Guinea’s latest coup - The Washington Post
U.S. counterterrorism programs have also played a role. Coups in several African countries have been spearheaded by graduates of U.S. military programs. In Guinea, Green Berets have been training a 100-man elite special forces unit. Its commander, Col. Mamady Doumbouya, led his men from the camp to stage the latest coup.
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Gambia, Germain Léon M’ba
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From the night of 17 February to the early morning of 18 February 1964, 150 Gabonese military personnel, headed by Lieutenant Jacques Mombo and Valére Essone, arrested President of the National Assembly Louis Bigmann,French commanders Claude Haulin and Major Royer
But in Paris, de Gaulle decided otherwise. M'ba was one of the most loyal allies to France in Africa. While visiting France in 1961, M'ba said: "All Gabonese have two fatherlands: France and Gabon." Moreover, under his regime, Europeans enjoyed particularly friendly treatment. The French authorities therefore decided, in accordance with signed Franco-Gabon agreements, to restore the legitimate government.
M'ba was instructed to broadcast a speech acknowledging his defeat. "The D-Day is here, the injustices are beyond measure, these people are patient, but their patience has limits", he said. "It came to a boil."
French troops stationed in Dakar and Brazzaville landed in Libreville and restored M'ba back into power.
After he was reinstated into power, M'ba refused to consider the coup was directed against him and his regime. He believed it was a conspiracy against the state. Soon, however, anti-government demonstrations sprang up, with slogans such as "Léon M'ba, président des Français!". His French friends constantly surrounded him, protecting or providing him with counsel. A presidential guard was created by Bob Maloubier, a former French secret agent, and co-financed by French oil groups.
From 1965, the French began looking for a successor for M'ba, who was aging and sick.They found the perfect candidate in Albert Bernard Bongo (later known as Alhaji Omar Bongo Ondimba), a young leader in the President's cabinet. Bongo was personally "tested" by General de Gaulle in 1965, during a visit to the Élysée Palace. Confirmed as M'ba's successor, Bongo was appointed on 24 September 1965 as Presidential Representative and placed in charge of defence and coordination.
There are numerous examples of French interference in elections and coups, I could list so many more examples.

Language

ECOWAS operates in three co-official languages—French, English, and Portuguese
Nice, Not a single African language.
ECOWAS countries also continue to favor their colonizers' languages, Take for example Nigeria
English remains the official language and is the major language of communication in government, business and education. Furthermore, the national anthem, constitution and pledge are written in English. Almost all mass media transmit information in English. English became the official language when Nigeria was created from diverse national groups by the British Empire.
Many Nigerians struggle with English, evidenced by the 60 percent fail rate of the WASSCE in English (May/June 2015), an important exam certificate. Nevertheless, many Nigerians hold negative social attitudes towards the country's native languages, combining to lead to the neglect of Nigeria's many native languages. As such, there are fears from prominent linguists that Nigerian native languages are endangered and face eventual extinction.
Compare this treatment of indigenous languages to that of Mali, A country that broke away from ECOWAS recently.
Mali drops French as official language Africanews
According to reports, under the new constitution passed overwhelmingly with 96.91% of the vote in a June 18 referendum, French is no longer the official language. Although French will be the working language, 13 other national languages spoken in the country will receive official language status.

"Concern" over Niger's nascent democracy

Official statements by France and the US show concern over Niger's democracy, This is merely a veil that both countries are using to hide their real intentions, Which are exploitation of natural resources and furthering their influence in west Africa.
I've already shown that France will happily overthrow elected leaders if they so dare as to oppose its interests in Africa. The US also does not care at all about elections and democracy, This is evident by the fact that the US supported operation car wash and the undemocratic, illegal and systemic destruction of Brazil's workers' party
Cable: 09BRASILIA177_a (wikileaks.org)
Secret History of U.S. Involvement in Brazil’s Operation Car Wash (theintercept.com)
And its support of the 2019 white minority coup in Bolivia
The wheels of justice grind much too slowly in the aftermath of US-backed coups. And the Trump administration’s support has been overt: the White House promoted the “fraud” narrative, and its Orwellian statement following the coup praised it: “Morales’s departure preserves democracy and paves the way for the Bolivian people to have their voices heard.” According to the Los Angeles Times: “Carlos Trujillo, the US ambassador to the OAS, had steered the group’s election-monitoring team to report widespread fraud and pushed the Trump administration to support the ouster of Morales.”
Meanwhile, Bolivia has a de facto president, Jeanine Áñez, who has called indigenous religious practices “satanic”; in January she warned voters against “allowing the return of ‘savages’ to power, an apparent reference to the indigenous heritage of Morales and many of his supporters”, according to the Washington Post. Hers was supposed to be a “caretaker” government, but new elections – now scheduled for 18 October – have already been postponed three times because of the pandemic, according to the authorities.
source: Silence reigns on the US-backed coup against Evo Morales in Bolivia Mark Weisbrot The Guardian
There's the Venezuelan coup too but honestly I'm not going to discuss that because the post is too long as it is.

France's interest in Niger

France imports 20% of its uranium from Niger, while Euratom said in 2022, Niger delivered 2,975 tonnes of natural uranium, or 25.4 percent of the EU's supplies. Kazakhstan was the biggest supplier of the bloc with Canada coming in second. In total, Kazakhstan, Niger and Canada supplied 74 percent of the total uranium delivered to the EU
The natural resources of Niger include uranium, coal, gold, iron ore, tin, phosphates, petroleum, molybdenum, salt, and gypsum. Niger has some of the largest uranium reserves in the world. It also has a good amount of oil reserves Niger: Mining, Minerals and Fuel Resources (azomining.com)
military bases:
The US can’t use its $110 million drone base in Niger - Task & Purpose (taskandpurpose.com)
Known as “Nigerien Air Base 201,” the installation cost $110 million to build and it features a 6,200-foot runway for MQ-9 Reapers as well as manned aircraft. The U.S. military began conducting drone flights from the base in November 2019.
“Our economic and security partnership with Niger – which is significant, hundreds of millions of dollars – depends on the continuation of the democratic governance and constitutional order that has been disrupted by the actions in the last – in the last few days,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters on July 29. “So that assistance, that support, is in clear jeopardy as a result of these actions, which is another reason why they need to be immediately reversed.”
lol, So because they give aid to Niger they should have a say in how its governed that reminds me of sankara's quote 'he who feeds you, controls you'

Conclusion

Do not believe anything the US, France and Russia are saying about the situation in Niger, They all are looking to imperialize the country for their own benefit. However it is France that represents the most immediate danger to west Africa's real independence and de-colonization, Anyone stating that Russia is actually the most dangerous is simply not a leftist. This is not to say that Russia does not represent a danger, It does but the media is overstating it to the benefit of France and its allies.

Molybdenum Influenza - A song has become popular among dockworkers. Written by the young singer Luciano Beretta, Molybdenum Influenza tells the story of a sailor who travels the world. After nearly drowning when his boat capsizes, the sailor attempts to go into early retirement by striking it rich in the sale of industrial metals. However, he is scammed by his accountant, who manipulates him into buying an unprofitable spa. The sailor ultimately converts it into a hospice for the physically and mentally infirm. While he dies in poverty, his legacy is immortalized through the song. The bittersweet nature of the hymn is likely the source of its popularity, reflecting the unfortunately hard lives of so many in the nation.
Gives 1+ stability.
Etymological Throwdown - A debate is occurring among Italian cheesemakers. A new type of goat’s milk cheese called Pecorino Pirano is gradually establishing itself as a favorite among professional chefs. Aged for four months and gradually infused with hints of passion fruit, the taste is both intensely salty yet delightfully sweet. An expensive novelty, it has been spotted on cheese platters at several upscale events. Its creator has come under criticism, though. They claim it was commissioned before the war by a wealthy Illyrian bicycle merchant who wanted to serve it at the Palace Hotel in Portorož. Dairymen have dismissed the story as a marketing ploy. The unconventional ingredients of the cheese has led it to be called inauthentic and even offensive to the cheesemaking traditions of that region. Regardless of its questionable origin and polarizing name, it is likely to remain a fad in gastronomy for the time being.
The Day of Roses and Potpurri - A small airplane landed in Rome today, as Chairman Togliatti met with Burmese Prime Minister Aung San. The meeting signifies the beginning of diplomatic relations between the Italian Socialist Republic and the Union of Burma. Citizens across the capitol were encouraged to show their hospitality through spreading aromas. Occidental and oriental scents alike perforated the streets. Windows blowing smells out across the city could be found from the liberty style Palazzo del Tritone to the washerwoman’s abodes in the ghettoes. The revolutionary was treated to a walk through the Villa Celimontana, where he remarked on the similarly hot climates of both countries. The day ended at the Palazzo del Sindacati, where the two heads of governments signed a treaty of friendship.
Gives a +50 relations modifier to Italy and Burma.
A Lien on Gorgeousness - A horrific event has occurred at the Bari Fashion Gala. Hosted by the Textile Syndicate, the show was intended to explore the theme of utility and beauty convalescing. A day that was supposed to show how women’s work trousers could be glamorous ended in tragedy when one of the models was hellaciously assaulted. The attacker, a thirty-one year old woman, was pulled off the victim. Shocked onlookers witnessed the amputated apex of the victim fall from the mouth of the savage lady as she screamed incoherently. Police believe the crime was motivated by an alleged affair. When asked why she did it, the accused simply stated «I am keeping her nose until she returns my man».
Subtracts 1- stability.
Fanatic, Scilicet Heretic - Giovanni Papini’s new book has arrived. The Story of Marcello is about a a man born into a secret Catholic order. While devoted to his faith as a boy, he loses touch with God following his experiences in Libya during the First Weltkrieg. Although he denounces his prior convictions and becomes an antitheist, he is unable to really let go of his former beliefs. He finds gainful employment in the Ministry of Tourism but grows ever more ruthless as he climbs up the career ladder. He goes so far as to terminate an employee for praying during a break. The story ends with him faking his death and leaving for Al-Qoubaiyat with his pregnant mistress, believing he will father the next Pope. The author, who has stated he has no strong feelings about religion or non-belief, says he wrote the book to thoroughly explore both sides of the equation.
Innuendo - In what has been called one of the greatest media blunders of the decade, the Maestro Romagna has published a misprinted story. The paper wrote about a friendly Cane Corso that had become beloved by the children of Riccione. The name of the town was incorrectly written as «Ricchione». The unfortunate sentence that contained the misspelling came right after a description of the dog’s «strong body». The editor’s embarrassment is likely too great to put into words. It is expected they will hire a new proof reader.
Stones and Slogans - The recent unveiling of the INFOR Headquarters in Paris has sent shockwaves through the architectural community. The building’s ability to tell a story through its shape has inspired people across the socialist sphere. The reconstruction of Palazzo Mirto in Palermo following its war-time destruction has given two architects the ability to experiment with a similar concept. However, they disagree on what material to use. Travertine represents the rough-and-tumble lives of sulfur miners in the region. Marble, on the other hand, signifies the magnificent products of their labor. They are trying to resolve the issue by putting it to a vote amongst the workers themselves. With the polls closing, the winner has been revealed as…
Travertine gives political power, whereas marble gives stability.
The Cook-Off - Milan is hosting a pizzoccheri competition, with contestants from across the north participating. Five exceptional cooks are seeing who will be declared champion. Some of the recipes are traditional, others utterly creative. Included are a refulgent bowl of lemon pasta, a tomato-peppermint dish and noodles burned in a béchamel sauce. Moderated by the famed Luigi Boyardee, the contest has drawn the attention of much of Lombardy. Several newspapers have been reporting on the event, with Radio Norte providing live coverage. Whoever wins is sure to gain celebrity status in their community.
Gives 1+ stability.
Galaxy Brain - A short story has been highlighted in the National Literature Board’s June Edition. The Doyenne of Probability takes place in the far future, in an era where humanity tries to colonize Neptune. The leader of the expedition is kidnapped by a hideous woman while exploring the planet’s surface. This crone is revealed to be an omniscient android who feeds on the souls of mortals. Capable of foreseeing any plan, she appears to be an unstoppable threat. The ship’s co-captain, Rucifer, attempts to disable the evil robot regardless. Most of the tale is taken up by the epilogue, which intricately combines the theories of Olinto de Pretto with the Bayesian theorem to explain how an all-knowing machine could be created. The author’s knowledge of theoretical physics gives the tale a level of depth rarely seen in the growing science fiction subculture.
A Furtive Theocrat? - A Swiss refugee named Eugenio Corecco has published a controversial manifesto. He encourages leftists to immerse themselves in religion, his 'Crimson Charity Doctrine' being a modified form of christian socialism intended for all faiths. Its main axiom is the integration of clerical bodies into communism, with the goal of creating a worldwide democracy where socioeconomic issues are mediated by clergymen. While some social democratic, ba'thist and centre-right figures have expressed support for the idea, conservatives and marxists alike have been outspoken in their criticism of his ideology. The former view it as an attempt to co-opt popular sentiments, while the latter have labelled its creator a grifter. One reviewer called it «fervent enough to insult the intelligence; too desiccated to be entertaining».
Subtracts 3- stability.

BEST ENGINE OIL LIST [COMPOSITIONS]
Until now we were only guided by the recommendation of a forum member, a mechanic or friend, either based on their personal experience or by the information in their technical data sheets, many of them incomplete.
I have compiled information from different REAL laboratory analyses, this list is not influenced at all by slogans and commercial tips used by brands in their advertising or in the labeling of their product, or by "briefcases" to favor one brand or another, but in the characteristics of the oil, its specifications, the composition of its base and its additives
Some are marketed in our country, others can be purchased through Ebay or Amazon and unfortunately others are impossible to obtain. (I have removed some that are only sold in other continents)
The ideal is to choose, within the specifications required by your engine (Viscosity, ACEA, API) and within your budget, the oil model that is in one of the TOPs in which oils with the best bases are classified.
GROUP OF BASES ORDERED FROM WORST TO BEST
Group III HC
-It is a synthetic base of organic origin that is obtained from the hydrogenation (cleaning) of the mineral base through the hydrocracking process. It is the most used lubricant base by oil companies due to its low cost compared to other bases.
Paraffin isomerization processes are also used in which n-paraffins are transformed into iso-paraffins.
Bases of mineral origin are valid for the vast majority of applications for which they are required. However, when it is necessary to work in extreme conditions, these bases suffer some limits in their behavior. Some of these limitations are:
*At temperatures below -20º, most mineral oils, except when they have added freezing point depressant additives, begin to solidify.
*At temperatures above 180º, lower molecular weight components evaporate, causing an increase in oil viscosity and consequently altering most of its properties.
*When working at high temperatures, mineral oils react more easily with oxygen in the air, forming gums and residues that thicken the oil.
*The viscosity/temperature properties of some mineral oils mean that they are too fluid at high temperatures and too little at low temperatures.
*From an environmental point of view, base oils of mineral origin are not completely biodegradable.
Group III+ GTL
-"GAS TO LIQUID", synthetic base obtained from the liquefaction of natural gas.
Although they belong to the same group as HC of mineral origin, their obtaining/processing is more laborious and expensive, resulting in a better base than its "brother" HC.
Higher purity, higher thermal stability, higher viscosity index, lower volatility, higher oxidation resistance and better response to additives than HC.
They are mainly used by Shell (in most models of its Helix Ultra and Professional range) as well as Mobil (in its Mobil1 range)
Group IV - PAO "Polyalphaolefins"
Synthetic lubricants obtained from ethylene in a process in which a chemical compound is added at the molecular level called Poly-Alphaolefins that give it high temperature resistance and very little volatility (evaporation).
He takes only what interests him from the oil, only the molecules that lubricate, separates them and then uses them to formulate the base.
PAO-based or PAO "enhanced" motor oils (can be used either as a base or as an additive to enhance an HC or GTL) have a number of unique properties that cannot be obtained using conventional Group III base oils.
*Low evaporation (Noak). PAO oils have very low evaporation at high loads, so the oil level on the dipstick barely drops and prevents the oil viscosity from increasing over the miles.
*Without impurities. The use of the PAO base eliminates the addition of a polymeric thickener, which is the main cause of carbon formation in the engine.
* Preservation of properties. PAO-based oils retain their lubricating properties even under high load for longer, which allows the replacement interval to be increased.
*Does not freeze at -63°. PAO base oil has excellent low temperature properties.
Group V – Ester
Ester It is a synthetic compound that is not derived from petroleum but from the reaction of a fatty acid with an alcohol. It is also the most expensive to produce because in its manufacture by natural "cutting" 2 out of 5 productions are rejected.
It is mainly used in the aeronautics, aerospace industry and in automotive competition lubricants where its properties of resistance to extreme temperatures ranging from -68 ° to +325 °, high stickiness and polarity, allow the lubricant to adhere to metal parts.
This compound is the king of compounds in terms of liquid lubricants.
It provides greater lubricity, resistance to extreme temperatures and pressures, polarity (adheres to metals so that the upper parts of the engine do not remain "dry") and also provides detergency.
Approximate price of compounds per ton year 2019
HC up to $750
GTL up to 780$
PAO up to $2700
Ester up to 6000$
Additives
Traditionally, 3 additives are used in motor oils, which are common in all of them (Sota, Caballo and Rey), varying the proportion:
Phosphorus (P) + Zinc (Zn) "ZDDP" - This compound additive has anti-friction, anti-wear, anti-stick, antioxidant and anti-corrosion functions of anti-wear additives most used and most effective.
In some ACEA and API its use is limited/restricted since a higher concentration = a higher amount of ashes and a higher amount of sulfur.
In sports cut oils, their concentration is usually higher (double, triple and even quadruple) since for circuit use the ash/sulfur issue matters rather little.
Calcium (Ca) - Found in oils in the form of neutralizing additives and detergents.
Calcium sulfonate is used and a more modern version of detergents is calcium salicylate. They have the functions of neutralizing the acids formed in the oil during the burning of fuel, such as sulfuric acid (among others) and keeping the engine clean inside.
It also provides dispersing properties (ability to retain particles in suspension) as well as a corrosion inhibitor.
Additionallyin oils with more modern additive packages, we find additives that provide more and better properties to the oil and that not everyone uses, among them are:
Molybdenum (Mo) - Main function is to modify friction, as an anti-rust agent, and to reduce engine noise and consumption.
Molybdenum creates a wear-resistant coating between friction pairs, thus creating a low coefficient of friction between part surfaces.
In the past, molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) was used, it consists of solid microparticles of mineral origin, well known in commercial additives and some oils, but today it is almost obsolete.
It has recently been replaced by more modern and effective molybdenum compounds, such as organic molybdenum, which is infinitely more soluble and effective than the old MoS₂, while generating less waste.
The different types of organic molybdenum (the pata negra) are mainly MoDTC (molybdenum dithiocarbamate), MoDTP (molybdenum dithiophosphate) and various molybdenum complexes of single core, double core, trinuclear organic molybdenum.
Molybdenum is most often found in ILSAC (Norm, American Standard) and A5/B5/C2 (Fuel Saver) motor oils, but lately we are seeing it more and more in oils with other specifications where ZDDP It is restricted.
Boron (B) - It is a multipurpose additive that extends its properties depending on the type and its concentration:
In small amounts it acts as a dispersant capable of keeping combustion products in suspension and helps to better dissolve and distribute anti-wear and anti-friction additives in oils, improving their efficiency.
In larger quantities it also acts as a neutralizing detergent and in large quantities it also modifies friction, reducing noise and consumption.
It is increasingly found in modern additive packages in order to reduce/minimize the use of Calcium.
Boron is also found in commercial additives and some oils in the form of solid particles, known as hexagonal boron nitride (hBn), its main function is that of friction modifier.
Magnesium (Mg) - Neutralizes acids formed during fuel combustion, can improve other properties of oils, for example, keeping particles in suspension , detergency, resist corrosion, etc... an undoubted advantage of using such an additive in oils is a lower sulfur content and a lower ash content.
Both boron and magnesium are recommended for direct injection gasoline engines, which are quite prone to residue build-up on piston rings, piston heads and valves.
It is increasingly found in modern additive packages to reduce/minimize Calcium usage and mitigate a very unwanted phenomenon called LSPI (Low RPM Connecting Rod Knocking).
Magnesium is also widely used in oil formulations for use in heavy diesel vehicles, such as trucks, agricultural vehicles, earthmoving vehicles, etc.
Titanium (Ti) - Found in motor oils in the form of titanium oxide, it has an antioxidant function, reduces wear and friction.
Titanium oxides, chemically interacting with metal surfaces, create an anti-wear layer on it. Therefore, additives based on titanium compounds reduce wear, have anti-seize properties, reduce the coefficient of friction, are highly soluble in oils and are an effective antioxidant. Commonly used by Castrol in their "Titanium" range (although less and less lately)
Wolframium (W) - Also known as Tungsten, It is found in motor oils in the form of an organotungstate, it has an antioxidant function, reduces wear and friction..
Organotusngtate, which chemically interact with metal surfaces, create an anti-wear layer on it. Therefore, additives based on organotungstate compounds reduce wear, have anti-seize properties, reduce the coefficient of friction, are highly soluble in oils, and are an effective antioxidant. Commonly used by Ravenol in its high range and the new range of Liqui Moly Molygen "New Generation"
Note:
It is necessary to differentiate between [B]friction reducer[/B] and [B]friction modifier[/B], it seems the same but it is not.
Phosphorus / Zinc "ZDDP" - Reduces friction and prevents wear by avoiding contact and the parts rubbing against each other (metal vs metal) when there is no longer a hydrodynamic cushion (oil films), hence its use is necessary and mandatory in ALL motor oils.
Boron and Molybdenum - Modifies the friction by softening the friction of the pieces but to a certain extent, creates soft "layers" (like puff pastry) on the surface of the pieces, reduces the coefficient of friction, reduces fuel consumption, noise of the engine and in doses of "horse" it helps the engine to develop its maximum power, but when the friction is excessive this protective layer is insufficient, it does not prevent friction but it minimizes it, once those "layers" are overcome it is where it enters The ZDDP is at stake, hence its use is optional and it is not always present.
TOP VISCOSITIES
The specifications of the different oils have been structured as follows:
Brand and Model + Base Composition
TOP XW-16/20 PAO or GTL or HC
Amsoil Signature Series 0W-20 60% PAO + HC + 13% Ester API SP - ACEA A1/B1 ILSAC GF6 "https://youtu.be/dn_gUbx36kQ"
Amsoil Signature Series 5W-20 60% PAO + HC + 5% Ester API SN - ACEA A1/B1 ILSAC GF5
Amsoil Dominator 5W-20 HC + 60% PAO + 10% Ester
Extreme VR2 0w-20 GTE 70% PAO + 10% Ester API SP - ILSAC GF6 - ACEA C5 "https://youtu.be/OhEgAnnKazQ"
Mobil 1 ESP 0W-20 GTL + 20% PAO + 6% Ester API SN - ACEA A1/B1
Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20 40% PAO + HC API SN - ILSAC GF5
Motorex Concept B-XL 0w-20 HC + 20% PAO + 5% Ester ACEA A1/B1
Shell Helix Ultra 0W-20 GTL API SN - ACEA A1/B1 - ILSAC GF5
Shell Helix Ultra AF 5W-20 GTL API SN - ACEA A1/B1 - ILSAC GF5
Xenum Nippon Energy 0W-20 50% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA A1/B1
Motul Hybrid 0W-20 HC + 25% PAO API SN - ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/soGTPVUq7L4"
Motul Eco-lite 0W-20HC + 30% PAO + 3% Ester API SN - ILSAC GF5
Ravenol Eco Synth ECS SAE 0w-2040% PAO + HC API SN RC - ACEA A1/B1 - ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/ixx70RDoOjg"
Ravenol Extra Fuel Economy EFE SAE 0w-16 50% PAO + HC + API SN "https://youtu.be/BbokQZVA6ZI"
Ravenol SFE SAE 5w2050% PAO + HC API SN RC ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/C_5jKDaAXns"
Redline 0W-20 40%-60% Ester + PAO API SN - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/xZr8GNzsxNQ"
Redline 5W-20 40%-60% Ester + PAO API SN - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF5
TOP 0W-30 PAO + HC or HC + PAO
Amsoil Signature Series 0W-30 60% PAO + HC + 13% Ester API SP - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF6 "https://youtu.be/XYiSnm18u6k"
Castrol EDGE FST 0w30 A3/B4 HC + 30% PAO API SN - ACEA A3/B4 "https://youtu.be/M2sSXpdWDbw"
Castrol EDGE 0w30 C370% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA C3
Elf Evolution FT900 0w-30 50% PAO + HC API SL - ACEA A3/B4 "https://youtu.be/gWoH41rkFeo"
Eni I-Sint 0w30 40% PAO + 15% Ester *ACEA A5/B5 https://youtu.be/8VZUUY7bX8s"
Fuchs Titan Supersyn Longlife 0W-30 HC + 30% PAO + 10% Ester API SL - ACEA A3/B4
Motul 8100 X-lite 0W-30 HC + 30% PAO + 10% Ester API SL - ACEA A3/B4
Petronas Syntium 7000 DM 0W-30 40% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA C3 https://youtu.be/RF357EzBE20
Petronas Syntium 7000 E 0W-30 30% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA C2 ILSAC GF5 https://youtu.be/SOrRi2UqjAU
Ravenol FES 0w-30 55% PAO + 5% Ester ACEA C2 https://youtu.be/bNPoCP-0VGc
Ravenol VSW 0W-30 55% PAO + HC + 7% Ester API SN - ACEA C3 https://youtu.be/70gsvuDC9XE
Ravenol SSO 0W-30 50% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA A3/B4 https://youtu.be/bk-vv8HVMLM
Ravenol SSV 0W-30 50% PAO + HC API SL - ACEA A5/B5 https://youtu.be/ql0Q31f09uY
Redline 0W-30 40%-60% Ester + PAO API SN - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF5
Total Quartz Ineo Efficiency 0W-30 50% PAO + HC ACEA C2/C3
Total Quartz Ineo First 0W-30 HC + 30% PAO ACEA C1/C2 https://youtu.be/VT2kiyMPzjs
Texaco Havoline ProDS P 0W-30 60% PAO + HC ACEA C2 https://youtu.be/HmfL-XfKmjE

Until now we were only guided by the recommendation of a forum member, a mechanic or friend, either based on their personal experience or by the information in their technical data sheets, many of them incomplete.
I have compiled information from different REAL laboratory analyses, this list is not influenced at all by slogans and commercial tips used by brands in their advertising or in the labeling of their product, or by "briefcases" to favor one brand or another, but in the characteristics of the oil, its specifications, the composition of its base and its additives
Some are marketed in our country, others can be purchased through Ebay or Amazon and unfortunately others are impossible to obtain. (I have removed some that are only sold in other continents)
The ideal is to choose, within the specifications required by your engine (Viscosity, ACEA, API) and within your budget, the oil model that is in one of the TOPs in which oils with the best bases are classified.
GROUP OF BASES ORDERED FROM WORST TO BEST
Group III HC
-It is a synthetic base of organic origin that is obtained from the hydrogenation (cleaning) of the mineral base through the hydrocracking process. It is the most used lubricant base by oil companies due to its low cost compared to other bases.
Paraffin isomerization processes are also used in which n-paraffins are transformed into iso-paraffins.
Bases of mineral origin are valid for the vast majority of applications for which they are required. However, when it is necessary to work in extreme conditions, these bases suffer some limits in their behavior. Some of these limitations are:
*At temperatures below -20º, most mineral oils, except when they have added freezing point depressant additives, begin to solidify.
*At temperatures above 180º, lower molecular weight components evaporate, causing an increase in oil viscosity and consequently altering most of its properties.
*When working at high temperatures, mineral oils react more easily with oxygen in the air, forming gums and residues that thicken the oil.
*The viscosity/temperature properties of some mineral oils mean that they are too fluid at high temperatures and too little at low temperatures.
*From an environmental point of view, base oils of mineral origin are not completely biodegradable.
Group III+ GTL
-"GAS TO LIQUID", synthetic base obtained from the liquefaction of natural gas.
Although they belong to the same group as HC of mineral origin, their obtaining/processing is more laborious and expensive, resulting in a better base than its "brother" HC.
Higher purity, higher thermal stability, higher viscosity index, lower volatility, higher oxidation resistance and better response to additives than HC.
They are mainly used by Shell (in most models of its Helix Ultra and Professional range) as well as Mobil (in its Mobil1 range)
Group IV - PAO "Polyalphaolefins"
Synthetic lubricants obtained from ethylene in a process in which a chemical compound is added at the molecular level called Poly-Alphaolefins that give it high temperature resistance and very little volatility (evaporation).
He takes only what interests him from the oil, only the molecules that lubricate, separates them and then uses them to formulate the base.
PAO-based or PAO "enhanced" motor oils (can be used either as a base or as an additive to enhance an HC or GTL) have a number of unique properties that cannot be obtained using conventional Group III base oils.
*Low evaporation (Noak). PAO oils have very low evaporation at high loads, so the oil level on the dipstick barely drops and prevents the oil viscosity from increasing over the miles.
*Without impurities. The use of the PAO base eliminates the addition of a polymeric thickener, which is the main cause of carbon formation in the engine.
* Preservation of properties. PAO-based oils retain their lubricating properties even under high load for longer, which allows the replacement interval to be increased.
*Does not freeze at -63°. PAO base oil has excellent low temperature properties.
Group V – Ester
Ester It is a synthetic compound that is not derived from petroleum but from the reaction of a fatty acid with an alcohol. It is also the most expensive to produce because in its manufacture by natural "cutting" 2 out of 5 productions are rejected.
It is mainly used in the aeronautics, aerospace industry and in automotive competition lubricants where its properties of resistance to extreme temperatures ranging from -68 ° to +325 °, high stickiness and polarity, allow the lubricant to adhere to metal parts.
This compound is the king of compounds in terms of liquid lubricants.
It provides greater lubricity, resistance to extreme temperatures and pressures, polarity (adheres to metals so that the upper parts of the engine do not remain "dry") and also provides detergency.
Approximate price of compounds per ton year 2019
HC up to $750
GTL up to 780$
PAO up to $2700
Ester up to 6000$
Additives
Traditionally, 3 additives are used in motor oils, which are common in all of them (Sota, Caballo and Rey), varying the proportion:
Phosphorus (P) + Zinc (Zn) "ZDDP" - This compound additive has anti-friction, anti-wear, anti-stick, antioxidant and anti-corrosion functions of anti-wear additives most used and most effective.
In some ACEA and API its use is limited/restricted since a higher concentration = a higher amount of ashes and a higher amount of sulfur.
In sports cut oils, their concentration is usually higher (double, triple and even quadruple) since for circuit use the ash/sulfur issue matters rather little.
Calcium (Ca) - Found in oils in the form of neutralizing additives and detergents.
Calcium sulfonate is used and a more modern version of detergents is calcium salicylate. They have the functions of neutralizing the acids formed in the oil during the burning of fuel, such as sulfuric acid (among others) and keeping the engine clean inside.
It also provides dispersing properties (ability to retain particles in suspension) as well as a corrosion inhibitor.
Additionallyin oils with more modern additive packages, we find additives that provide more and better properties to the oil and that not everyone uses, among them are:
Molybdenum (Mo) - Main function is to modify friction, as an anti-rust agent, and to reduce engine noise and consumption.
Molybdenum creates a wear-resistant coating between friction pairs, thus creating a low coefficient of friction between part surfaces.
In the past, molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) was used, it consists of solid microparticles of mineral origin, well known in commercial additives and some oils, but today it is almost obsolete.
It has recently been replaced by more modern and effective molybdenum compounds, such as organic molybdenum, which is infinitely more soluble and effective than the old MoS₂, while generating less waste.
The different types of organic molybdenum (the pata negra) are mainly MoDTC (molybdenum dithiocarbamate), MoDTP (molybdenum dithiophosphate) and various molybdenum complexes of single core, double core, trinuclear organic molybdenum.
Molybdenum is most often found in ILSAC (Norm, American Standard) and A5/B5/C2 (Fuel Saver) motor oils, but lately we are seeing it more and more in oils with other specifications where ZDDP It is restricted.
Boron (B) - It is a multipurpose additive that extends its properties depending on the type and its concentration:
In small amounts it acts as a dispersant capable of keeping combustion products in suspension and helps to better dissolve and distribute anti-wear and anti-friction additives in oils, improving their efficiency.
In larger quantities it also acts as a neutralizing detergent and in large quantities it also modifies friction, reducing noise and consumption.
It is increasingly found in modern additive packages in order to reduce/minimize the use of Calcium.
Boron is also found in commercial additives and some oils in the form of solid particles, known as hexagonal boron nitride (hBn), its main function is that of friction modifier.
Magnesium (Mg) - Neutralizes acids formed during fuel combustion, can improve other properties of oils, for example, keeping particles in suspension , detergency, resist corrosion, etc... an undoubted advantage of using such an additive in oils is a lower sulfur content and a lower ash content.
Both boron and magnesium are recommended for direct injection gasoline engines, which are quite prone to residue build-up on piston rings, piston heads and valves.
It is increasingly found in modern additive packages to reduce/minimize Calcium usage and mitigate a very unwanted phenomenon called LSPI (Low RPM Connecting Rod Knocking).
Magnesium is also widely used in oil formulations for use in heavy diesel vehicles, such as trucks, agricultural vehicles, earthmoving vehicles, etc.
Titanium (Ti) - Found in motor oils in the form of titanium oxide, it has an antioxidant function, reduces wear and friction.
Titanium oxides, chemically interacting with metal surfaces, create an anti-wear layer on it. Therefore, additives based on titanium compounds reduce wear, have anti-seize properties, reduce the coefficient of friction, are highly soluble in oils and are an effective antioxidant. Commonly used by Castrol in their "Titanium" range (although less and less lately)
Wolframium (W) - Also known as Tungsten, It is found in motor oils in the form of an organotungstate, it has an antioxidant function, reduces wear and friction..
Organotusngtate, which chemically interact with metal surfaces, create an anti-wear layer on it. Therefore, additives based on organotungstate compounds reduce wear, have anti-seize properties, reduce the coefficient of friction, are highly soluble in oils, and are an effective antioxidant. Commonly used by Ravenol in its high range and the new range of Liqui Moly Molygen "New Generation"
Note:
It is necessary to differentiate between [B]friction reducer[/B] and [B]friction modifier[/B], it seems the same but it is not.
Phosphorus / Zinc "ZDDP" - Reduces friction and prevents wear by avoiding contact and the parts rubbing against each other (metal vs metal) when there is no longer a hydrodynamic cushion (oil films), hence its use is necessary and mandatory in ALL motor oils.
Boron and Molybdenum - Modifies the friction by softening the friction of the pieces but to a certain extent, creates soft "layers" (like puff pastry) on the surface of the pieces, reduces the coefficient of friction, reduces fuel consumption, noise of the engine and in doses of "horse" it helps the engine to develop its maximum power, but when the friction is excessive this protective layer is insufficient, it does not prevent friction but it minimizes it, once those "layers" are overcome it is where it enters The ZDDP is at stake, hence its use is optional and it is not always present.
TOP VISCOSITIES
The specifications of the different oils have been structured as follows:
Brand and Model + Base Composition
TOP XW-16/20 PAO or GTL or HC
Amsoil Signature Series 0W-20 60% PAO + HC + 13% Ester API SP - ACEA A1/B1 ILSAC GF6 "https://youtu.be/dn_gUbx36kQ"
Amsoil Signature Series 5W-20 60% PAO + HC + 5% Ester API SN - ACEA A1/B1 ILSAC GF5
Amsoil Dominator 5W-20 HC + 60% PAO + 10% Ester
Extreme VR2 0w-20 GTE 70% PAO + 10% Ester API SP - ILSAC GF6 - ACEA C5 "https://youtu.be/OhEgAnnKazQ"
Mobil 1 ESP 0W-20 GTL + 20% PAO + 6% Ester API SN - ACEA A1/B1
Mobil 1 Advanced Fuel Economy 0W-20 40% PAO + HC API SN - ILSAC GF5
Motorex Concept B-XL 0w-20 HC + 20% PAO + 5% Ester ACEA A1/B1
Shell Helix Ultra 0W-20 GTL API SN - ACEA A1/B1 - ILSAC GF5
Shell Helix Ultra AF 5W-20 GTL API SN - ACEA A1/B1 - ILSAC GF5
Xenum Nippon Energy 0W-20 50% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA A1/B1
Motul Hybrid 0W-20 HC + 25% PAO API SN - ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/soGTPVUq7L4"
Motul Eco-lite 0W-20HC + 30% PAO + 3% Ester API SN - ILSAC GF5
Ravenol Eco Synth ECS SAE 0w-2040% PAO + HC API SN RC - ACEA A1/B1 - ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/ixx70RDoOjg"
Ravenol Extra Fuel Economy EFE SAE 0w-16 50% PAO + HC + API SN "https://youtu.be/BbokQZVA6ZI"
Ravenol SFE SAE 5w2050% PAO + HC API SN RC ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/C_5jKDaAXns"
Redline 0W-20 40%-60% Ester + PAO API SN - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF5 "https://youtu.be/xZr8GNzsxNQ"
Redline 5W-20 40%-60% Ester + PAO API SN - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF5
​
TOP 0W-30 PAO + HC or HC + PAO
Amsoil Signature Series 0W-30 60% PAO + HC + 13% Ester API SP - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF6 "https://youtu.be/XYiSnm18u6k"
Castrol EDGE FST 0w30 A3/B4 HC + 30% PAO API SN - ACEA A3/B4 "https://youtu.be/M2sSXpdWDbw"
Castrol EDGE 0w30 C370% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA C3
Elf Evolution FT900 0w-30 50% PAO + HC API SL - ACEA A3/B4 "https://youtu.be/gWoH41rkFeo"
Eni I-Sint 0w30 40% PAO + 15% Ester *ACEA A5/B5 https://youtu.be/8VZUUY7bX8s"
Fuchs Titan Supersyn Longlife 0W-30 HC + 30% PAO + 10% Ester API SL - ACEA A3/B4
Motul 8100 X-lite 0W-30 HC + 30% PAO + 10% Ester API SL - ACEA A3/B4
Petronas Syntium 7000 DM 0W-30 40% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA C3 https://youtu.be/RF357EzBE20
Petronas Syntium 7000 E 0W-30 30% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA C2 ILSAC GF5 https://youtu.be/SOrRi2UqjAU
Ravenol FES 0w-30 55% PAO + 5% Ester ACEA C2 https://youtu.be/bNPoCP-0VGc
Ravenol VSW 0W-30 55% PAO + HC + 7% Ester API SN - ACEA C3 https://youtu.be/70gsvuDC9XE
Ravenol SSO 0W-30 50% PAO + HC API SN - ACEA A3/B4 https://youtu.be/bk-vv8HVMLM
Ravenol SSV 0W-30 50% PAO + HC API SL - ACEA A5/B5 https://youtu.be/ql0Q31f09uY
Redline 0W-30 40%-60% Ester + PAO API SN - ACEA A5/B5 ILSAC GF5
Total Quartz Ineo Efficiency 0W-30 50% PAO + HC ACEA C2/C3
Total Quartz Ineo First 0W-30 HC + 30% PAO ACEA C1/C2 https://youtu.be/VT2kiyMPzjs
Texaco Havoline ProDS P 0W-30[/URL][/B] 60% PAO + HC ACEA C2 https://youtu.be/HmfL-XfKmjE
​

Your 13-minute Saturday-Monday recap in 3387 words.

government raises taxes on copper and molybdenum miners-exporters / "Sovereign Wealth" Fund" to be formed / copper processing

Economy Minister Qerobyan: considering the fact that the Republic of Armenia's entrails is state property, and the value of copper and molybdenum have jumped in the past year, the existing royalty system is outdated and does not ensure a fair distribution of profits between Armenian citizens and miners.
Besides that, our state is facing serious challenges and we need more resources to address them. The additional taxation will generate ֏30b throughout 2021. [talks about Russia enacting similar measures instructed by Premier Mishustin] //
Government report: beginning in April 2020, the copper prices increased to $7.5k and then $9.2k. The majority of Armenia's copper mines are profitable at $5.3k. Even after the additional taxation, they will remain very profitable. Molybdenum has been stable at $24k since 2018. The proposed tax increase will work only when the global prices are high.
The revenues from additional taxation will be used to develop the processing industry and the strategic assets in the mining sector.
More specifically, we plan to deepen the value chain of copper processing and establish a high-purity cathode copper production, followed by the development of an adjacent copper ecosystem.
We also plan to invest in technologies to make mining more efficient while being more eco-friendly.
This tax policy is a temporary solution before the entire field can undergo an in-depth review with the participation of various agencies.
Long-term, we plan to review the taxation policies and to create a "Sovereign Wealth Fund" investment foundation, which will receive the revenues deriving from the aforementioned reforms. Many countries already have such Funds that manage the revenues collected from mining. //
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057962.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057985.html https://youtu.be/ulvdagBkJHw?t=21
Tags: #CopperTax #tax #miner

national hero & benefactor Eduardo Eurnekian discusses large scale investments in Armenia

Pashinyan hosted the Armenian-Argentinian businessman Eduardo Eurnekian today.
Pashinyan: Welcome. Glad to see you again. Such visits are important because you're one of the most prominent diasporan investors in Armenia. Your moves always predict the overall investment attitude in Armenia.
We recently won the elections with "There is Future" slogan, and I hope your visit is also aimed at restoring optimism. We value your personal role a lot.
Eduardo Eurnekian: congrats on the victory. I am very moved by your words. I did not want to delay this trip [COVID delay]. I wanted to come quickly and congratulate you on the victory. It's important. We have wanted your victory from the beginning [at least that's how his translator said it].
We're to invest in multiple fields in Armenia. We're currently negotiating with a bank. We see a great tourism opportunity. We will soon present airport construction projects.
My cousin Martin, who managed it all, will soon visit Armenia to meet the person appointed by you for the investment discussions. [praises their successful wine investments and Armenian wine being sold in Europe] //
Pashinyan and Eurnekian then discussed the programs by Armenia International Airports, the manager of Yerevan and Gyumri airports. They discussed upcoming investment programs by Eurnekian's other businesses.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057990.html https://youtu.be/mDDEbdUlLnY

average nominal salaries

+7.9% from last year.
-0.1% from last month (-1% private, +1.7% public)
֏197.3k ($398) average. ֏169.9k ($343) public. ֏210.2 ($424) private.
https://factor.am/392777.html

government expects annual 7% economic growth between 2022-2026

Today the executive branch discussed state finances and a 2022-2026 program to reduce the debt burden.
Government said: to achieve 7% growth we need an efficient investment strategy and to direct the investments to the export sector of the economy, towards technologies and infrastructure, ensuring high productivity of capital.
To achieve the 7% growth, we need a 12.5% real average annual growth in հիմնական միջոցներ (fixed assets?). This will raise the share of fixed assets in GDP by 5.4%, in 2026 vs 2019.
We need to increase the productivity of capital with the help of technologies, improvements in the business and investment field, raising workforce quality, and education. For this, we need an average of 5.3% increase in ընդհանուր գործոնային արտադրողականություն (total-factor productivity?).
With strong economic growth, we will be able to reduce the debt burden below 60%.
The economic growth and taxation policies will improve the revenue/GDP ratio, allow for the collection of additional revenues, thus giving an opportunity for more long-term investments for future economic growth. We expect a continuous increase in capital expenditures, the share of which will reach 6% by 2026.
[more in the link below]
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057985.html

Armenia joins scientific GLOBE initiative

Armenia becomes the 126th state to join the educational, scientific, and environmental GLOBE program. Armenian students and scientists will work with international colleagues from the US-based GIO and Czechia-based GLOBE office.
The U.S. ambassador Tracey and USAID representative met the Education Minister Dumanyan to discuss a partnership with NASA and GLOBE, to allow Armenians to better study the global environment.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057944.html

Constitutional Court will not summon president Sarkissian to explain why he chose June 20 as election day / Court hears other arguments

One of the election complaints filed by Kocharyan and Serj (K&S) stated that Sarkissian had a window with several weeks for choosing the election day and that he picked a day that he knew would be beneficial for Pashinyan, claim K&S.
The ruling QP party and several judges opposed summing Sarkissian, while judge Hrayr Tovmasyan wanted him to appear and answer the questions.
The panel of judges ended up voting against summoning Sarkissian after finding that he doesn't have a status of a party in this trial.
Judge Tovmasyan again asked his fellow judges to summon Sarkissian, stating that he made an error in his first petition. The court rejected his second petition, too.
Kocharyan wants the court to either schedule a second round of elections or to change how the MP mandates are distributed in Parliament. They read their arguments and presented what they believe is sufficient evidence of "widespread abuse".
The head of the Electoral Commission disagreed with K&S, saying the recorded violations were not widespread and not serious enough to influence the outcome of elections. Foreign and local observers gave a similar verdict earlier.
The court heard arguments about the election day incident during which the electricity was briefly cut off in some polling stations because of an outage in Georgia. At the time, observers said it had no impact on the vote. The boxes were protected and observed by representatives of each party, said others. One of Kocharyan's allies, who leads a smaller party, claimed that they themselves did not have observers in those polling stations [they were mainly small] so they could not have known whether violations were committed or not. Prosecutors said 13 polling stations lost power, 7 of which took place during the voting process, but it "did not affect the process because backup batteries were used".
Another topic that was discussed was the heated rhetoric during the campaign. Each side brought examples of "hate speech". The court summoned a prosecutor for Q&A. The latter said neither side "incited violence" with their words.
Kocharyan's ally claimed that some diasporan Armenians were allowed to vote "illegally".
The court summoned the head of public TV regulator to answer questions about how TV outlets handled the coverage during the campaign.
The Justice Minister accused Kocharyan and allies of abusing the trial process to use it as a platform for "political statements".
Kocharyan's ally cited a rumor circulated by a media outlet claiming that a physical fight took place between Pashinyan and the Electoral Commission chief Mukuchyan. The latter called it fake news and said he has never spoken with Pashinyan.
Judges asked the Electoral Commission whether they believe Pashinyan violated the silent day rules [the existing rules, before they get stricter beginning next elections] on the election eve when he went on Facebook Live and asked people to "do their duties and vote". The Commission chief said they found the video violated the rules, but the court later said it wasn't.
During the hearing, Kocharyan's ally claimed that the number of disabled individuals increased by 15,000 after the war. The actual number is 1,267, says a fact-checker.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057878.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057882.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057887.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057890.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057914.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057920.html https://factor.am/392328.html https://factor.am/392346.html https://youtu.be/yseUbagywig https://factor.am/392424.html https://factor.am/392441.html https://factor.am/392447.html https://factor.am/392453.html https://factor.am/392672.html https://factor.am/392716.html https://factor.am/392804.html https://factor.am/392898.html https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/218329 https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/218337 https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/218381 https://fip.am/16460

update: alleged voter bribery involving provincial mayors and Kocharyan-ARF alliance

The court has agreed to jail Qajaran (Syunik) mayor Manvel Paramazyan for two months before his trial. He is accused of committing voter bribery and large-scale fraud as part of a group.
Paramazyan is among several mayors allied with the former regime who have been charged before and after the elections with voter bribery, including for allegedly abusing municipal resources meant for low-income residents to bribe the voters. Another mayor, from Vorota, was also arrested.
In Goris, several residents implicated in the bribery investigation complained that they were pressured by investigators to confess that they received the aid in exchange for a vote. The group said they did not take bribes. [accepting a bribe during elections is also a felony in Armenia]
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057885.html https://www.arlis.am/documentview.aspx?docid=69646 https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057947.html

election fraud & voter bribery: 110 people were detained before and during the elections

20 were representatives of the Kocharyan-ARF alliance. 39 from Serj-Vanetsyan alliance. 51 were other [non-member] individuals who participated in the elections or other party members.
29 locations were raided, including 7 belonging to Kocharyan-ARF, 20 belonging to Serj-Vanetsyan, 2 others.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057972.html

Electoral Commission authorizes felony investigation against ex-mayor of Meghri

Learn more about Mkhitar Zakaryan here. He resigned last week to become an MP as part of the Kocharyan-ARF alliance. He was already under a felony investigation for being one of the alleged organizers of the Syunik riots during which Pashinyan's vehicle fleet was attacked. Earlier this year, his family's business was accused of violating rules while conducting business in a customs facility.
The Electoral Commission has authorized prosecutors to press charges against Zakaryan, who will soon become an MP and likely receive an MP's immunity [which can still be revoked]. According to media reports, Zakaryan is accused of embezzling municipal funds.
Zakaryan is one of many mayors of Syunik accused of corruption. The opponents of the former regime claim the province was plagued with "deep-rooted corruption" which got worse during the Serj-era Governor Liska, while the members of the former regime describe the arrests as "political persecution".
Zakaryan was arrested later today and charged under Articles 308.2 (abuse of power) and 314.1 (forgery).
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057913.html https://www.reddit.com/armenia/comments/oh3s8w/news_jul92021_constitutional_court_on_election/ https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057952.html

anti-corruption: investigators audit Goris (Syunik) municipal finances

Investigative Committee said: on 23 March 2021, the State Control Service audited the 2016-2021 documents to see if the municipality used truthful information to receive federal funding.
The audit revealed numerous violations in construction capital contracts, some projects being certified as being completed while they were not, intentional over-charging during construction works, waste of resources during construction.
Moreover, tax-related laws were violated during municipal property transactions.
Several Goris municipality officials were invited for questioning but they refused to appear. A felony investigation has been launched. //
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057967.html

anti-corruption: cops bust a fellow cop

Police report says: a traffic policeman promised to give a Class B drivers' license in exchange for a $200 bribe, and $300 from another resident.
A driver without insurance had an accident. The policeman took a bribe in exchange for changing the vehicles' positions and meddling with the scene in other ways to help the driver.
He stopped a vehicle with illegally tinted windows. The driver had no insurance. He agreed to pretend that the driver was another person.
A child drove the car and slammed it against a parked vehicle. The policeman agreed to ignore the incident if they repair the damaged car.
A felony case is launched against the policeman. //
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057992.html

cop is found not guilty of beating Sasna Tsrer members in jail

Sasna Tsrer group took a police station hostage in 2016. In 2017, four of its members claimed that a policeman beat them up behind the bars. The court found not enough evidence to convict the [now former] police battalion commander Armen Ghazaryan.
https://factor.am/392837.html

ex-NSS chief Argishti Qyaramyan appointed as the head of Investigative Committee

Last week he received a Medal of Courage for his service during the 2020 war.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057977.html

reforms in Competition Protection Commission

CPC official: before 31 May 2021, the law was not regulating the institute of accepting conclusions regarding the economic competition. The new law describes the procedures.
Q: What are the grounds for launching CPC investigation?
A petition from a relevant body, or we can initiate it ourselves. There are no fees for filing an application.
Q: who can ask CPC to launch an investigation?
State agencies, their officials, and private businesses.
Q: what do you investigate?
The signed agreement, certain actions, etc. We have a preventative power to investigate before an agreement is signed. The investigation takes 1-2 months.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057943.html

MOD denied Azeri claims that Armenians opened fire at Azeri positions on Gegharkunik borders

MOD: we did not open fire. As we said earlier, we perform actions if necessary only to counteract the opponent. //
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057895.html

ambassadors of U.S., France, and Russia did not join Aliyev's trip to Shushi

Aliyev invited 46 ambassadors and UN officials to visit the occupied Shushi over the weekend. The Minsk Co-chairs chose not to participate. Some Azeri media outlets describe it as a diplomatic démarche.
chief editor of Lebanese Azdak newspaper: the trio's refusal to visit Shushi was obviously coordinated. This indicates that the Minsk Group co-chairs believe the status of Shushi is still negotiable. They plan to resume the negotiations. I believe this is more than just Shushi, it's about the NKAO territories. //
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057921.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057957.html

another Azeri resident explodes on a landmine in Artsakh's occupied Varanda (Fizuli) region

https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057948.html

Russian peacekeepers accompany dozens of Artsakh residents to Amaras monastery near the borders

https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057942.html

Istanbul police detain two men for dancing on an Armenian church's walls

A Turkish ruling party MP condemned the "disrespectful behavior".
https://factor.am/392668.html https://factor.am/392615.html

Artsakh is building a new village to house IDPs

The residents of occupied Sghnakh and three other villages will be relocated to a new village that's being built near the Astghashen village (Askeran). This area was chosen because of its similarities with the occupied areas.
https://hetq.am/hy/article/133254

fundraising begins to build Armenia's first airport for drones

It will be named after Karen Vardanyan, a prominent tech expert who passed away last year. They need $110,000 to launch the project. $20,000 was collected on the first day.
They are building a runway for drones in Lori's Lernapat village.
https://www.panarmenian.net/arm/news/294246/

digitization in Migration Services

Beginning in 2022, Armenian businesses will be able to hire foreign workers in one month instead of the current two, thanks to the digitization of the system that handles documentation.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057987.html

Diaspora Commissioner Sinanyan met French Armenians

Sinanyan met Ara Toranyan, the editor of Nouvelles d'Arménie and the co-chair of the Coordinating Council of Armenian Organizations in France (CCAF).
They discussed CCAF's activities and the Armenian community. "CCAF will always stand by the Armenian state and people," said Toranyan.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057996.html

Armenia celebrates Vardavar holiday

Three Lake Sevan public beaches opened their doors sands ahead of Sunday's Vardavar holiday, in which Armenians splash water at each other (but mostly at pretty girls). The Nature Minister asked the beach visitors to pick up their trash from the beaches before leaving.
The Chuch marked the beginning of Պայծառակերպության տոն, one of the five major Apostolic holidays, which is the Christian version of pagan Vardavar.
The French ambassador was seen playing with water in the park.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057899.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057908.html

severe heatwave causes 80% drop in some river discharge, causes electricity issues

Infrastructure Minister Papikyan: the year started good but we began facing water shortage later. The water supply of rivers serving in different directions saw an 80% drop.
As a result, the existing water reserves deplete, in addition to causing electricity issues. You are aware that the Metsamor nuclear plant shut down recently for its lengthiest repair. Electricity cuts in various locations can negatively affect water pumps. We're trying to manage it.
A commission was formed tasked with ensuring access to water and more efficient management during the drought. There are objective complaints by farmers about lack of water in usually-irrigated, but also non-irrigated lands. //
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057939.html

two more residents of Isahakyan (Shirak) are hospitalized with skin anthrax

Context here.
Two more women came forward over the weekend. They purchased infected meat from the neighbor. They developed the signs early on but kept it secret until the wounds got worse. They thought they could treat themselves at home.
There are eight patients currently receiving care. Two others were discharged recently.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057883.html

UPSHIFT program was organized in Spitak

It promotes adolescent development and their involvement in their community. It was launched in 2019 in Gyumri and was held in Spitak this year.
The kids split into groups and work on various ideas (parks, architecture, libraries. etc). The best ones will be chosen and financed.
https://factor.am/392930.html

Yerevan municipality discusses garbage, elevators, transport, taco trucks

garbage
The city has been sealing the vertical garbage pathways in large apartment complex buildings so the residents will use the bins instead. It has been done in 860 buildings so far. This can help address the nasty smell, rat infestation, and other sanitary issues.
street food
Lately, the city has been removing the illegally parked "taco trucks" that sell random staff from trailers. The city began requiring permits. 40 units were towed away. Open-air food sellers will be found and removed by local administrators.
budkas
The city has demolished 47 illegally built shopping kiosks since June 22.
elevators
This year the new elevators will be installed in apartment buildings where wounded soldiers live. 54 buildings selected so far; the elevators have been purchased.
transport
The bus and microbus drivers are being closely watched to improve road safety. The city has vowed to respond to residents' complaints quickly and to prevent drivers from smoking behind the wheel.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057988.html

polls: would you call the police if you witnessed domestic violence?

26% yes, if I witness it on the streets
19% yes, if I witness it in my own or a relative's home
17% yes, if I witness it in my neighbor's home
 
26% of women think it's a good idea to report
74% of respondents said it's the family's personal issue
24% don't want to deal with police reports.
10% are ready to personally intervene and help the family
https://www.civilnet.am/news/625751/կնոջը-ծեծելը-ընտանիքի-ներքին-գո՞րծն-է/

COVID stats since Saturday

13,699 tested. 324 infected. 253 healed. 7 deaths. 3073 active.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057879.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057911.html https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057937.html

108,000 vaccinations so far

Among the vaccinated are legendary poet Yeghishe Charents's daughter Anahit and granddaughter Gohar.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057949.html

long line was formed to receive a COVID vaccine in Yerevan

People lined up in Northern Avenue to get a shot in the mobile booth. Many were tourists.
An Iranian-Armenian visitor said the Iranian public doesn't trust the vaccines in Iran; they think it could be counterfeit. He doesn't know how much it costs in Iran but he was happy to get it for free in Armenia. He plans to get the THIRD shot in a few months.
One reason for a long line might be the upcoming changes that bar foreign citizens (non-residents) from receiving a free vaccine unless they spend at least 10 days in Armenia. It's done to free up resources for locals. The rules go into effect soon.
https://youtu.be/MBtkBUmyIac?t=136 https://youtu.be/MBtkBUmyIac https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/218376

COVID tourism?

Iranian social media user shared a clip "Iranians flocking to Armenia to get covid vaccine celebrating like this:"
Economy Minister: we will have a 319% tourism growth despite what pessimists say. This is a good time to think seriously about medical tourism in Armenia.
https://factor.am/392222.html

video: Syunik and Vayots Dzor farmers organized a sheep-shearing festival in Tatev

Shinuhayr resident Arthur Vardazaryan was the winner of the 2021 competition.
https://youtu.be/GO9YL89Mg1w

legendary Greco-Roman wrestler Arsen Julfalakyan is retiring

Julfalakyan leaves with Olympic silver and the title of World and Euro champion. "All good things come to an end," said the athlete, who has been competing in the past 23 years. 👏👏👏
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/1057933.html

yesterday's news

https://www.reddit.com/armenia/comments/oh3s8w/news_jul92021_constitutional_court_on_election/
Перевод на русский by Impossible-Ad-
https://.com/ArmDailyReports_RUS_/comments/ohdarq/новости_армении_за_9_июля_2021/

end of report

The accused are innocent unless proven guilty in the court of law, even if they "appear" guilty.
News archive: http://www.armeniapedia.org/wiki/Daily_Anti-Corruption_Reports Donations: soldiers' families, humanitarian aid, US tax-deductible donation.

Here is an example program that the US will spend money on, as part of the "military aid to Azerbaijan".
$10mln is given to an American firm VSE Corporation. It'll provide anti-terror training and equipment to Azeri navy in Caspian sea, and help repair their ships. 88% of the work is done in US, 12% in Azerbaijan. Azeri Caspian soldiers will travel to US for training. A similar project was done in 2007.
This is part of the $101mln aid under a wide Section 333 package, which covers things such as aid against terrorism, narcos, etc. Such type of aid has been provided to Azerbaijan in past.
Under this program, US provided $4mln aid to Armenia in 2018. $2.8mln for 2019 and $2.1mln for 2020 are proposed. The situation around Iran has prompted the US govt to pay more attention to Azerbaijan, at least this year.
https://razm.info/138013
Today is Rob Kocharyan & his administration members' March 1st trial. The judge is Anna Danibekyan. The court will decide whether Rob should remain behind the bars. Rob's protesters and supporters gathered outside. March 1st victim family arrived. One protester was arrested for not following police orders. https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169249

The police arrested several Kocharyan supporters. One of them admitted to assaulting an anti-Kocharyan woman after the latter cursed at him. He is Aram Harutyunyan, the leader of Roboserj "Azgayin Hamadzaynuthyun" (National Consent) party. "I will stomp Pashinyan with my foot", said Harutyunyan while being detained by the police.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169299
https://factor.am/182994.html
https://factor.am/182991.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VimW8HNQwoo

Another anti-Kocharyan protester was beaten by a group of pizza-eating Kocharyan supporters, according to several witnesses. A witness says the police caught several of the perpetrators. The victim was transported with an ambulance.
https://youtu.be/D3tNLrJ_Id4?t=17 (video contains a massive buttcrack at 1:36, you're welcome)

Rob referred to the trial as the most shameful trial in the history of Armenia. He said he doesn't have a day job. Didn't want to discuss his health issues in the court. Kocharyan's alleged co-conspirators Seyran Ohanyan, Yuri Khachaturov and others were present in the court for the first time. They gave personal info.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169262
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpnY6oaziNo

March 1st murder victim's father blamed Rob for the events. Accused him of rewarding the former March 1st chief investigator Vahagn Harutyunyan (on the run) with a promotion for having him tamper with evidence (replacing fired bullet shells, etc) to cover up the crime. He accused the former general prosecutor Aghvan Hovsepyan of participating in the cover-up.
"Rob, you've said in past that you're a man. If you're really a man, take responsibility for your actions", said Sargis Qloyan. He says the govt positioned shooters on the roof of the Yerevan municipality building and later claimed that the shots fired by them were from the protesters.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169283
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Qw0HEUHXekw

A mother of a policeman who died in March 1st said her son was deployed in an area where there were no protesters. Sometime in the evening, Kocharyan gave a public statement saying "there are deaths on both sides". At the time, says the mother, there were no deaths in the police force. Mysteriously, her son was shot and killed with a sniper bullet in an area where there were no protesters. She is suspicious that the govt agents orchestrated the murder to justify a case against the protesters. She was then told by the officials that it was an "accidental bullet". She doesn't believe that a sniper bullet could have struck his son accidentally. "My son spent 40 days in the hospital and no one from president's or prosecutor's office went to visit him. Till this day I don't know who exactly shot my son", said the mother.
Seyran Ohanyan responded saying he doesn't remember the story told by the mother. "At the time when people were in the hospital, we paid them visits, they weren't ignored", added Ohanyan.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169298

Rob's lawyer asked the judge to free Rob because they believe the recently Constitutional Court verdict is on their favor. "As long as the Parliament hasn't fixed the law that was struck down, we ask that you free Kocharyan. The struck-down law did not envision a fair trial for a person who had immunity."
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169269

Prosecutor argued that the CC's verdict does not say Kocharyan should be freed. "Defense says that since CC found that the struck-down law wasn't properly regulating on what Rob could or couldn't do as a president to have immunity, there shouldn't be a case against him at all. This is a misinterpretation of the CC verdict. CC was asked to comment on Rob's case specifically, but refused, and instead made a general statement. On the other hand, Cassations Court set a precedence on deciding on what actions are within the presidential immunity boundaries. Moreover, an earlier CC verdict said that the Cassations Courts have the right to interpret the Constitution during their verdicts. CC did not say that no one can decide whether Rob can have an immunity in this case. CC said that a president's immunity can be debated in the court by using facts presented by prosecutors." [I wrote about this part in my other post. Looks like the prosecutors interpreted it in a similar way.].
Prosecutor continues: "Rob isn't charged with doing things that were within his legal rights protected by immunity. Therefor presidential immunity does not apply to him. The CC verdict doesn't say that Rob can't be detained for the felonies he is charged with."
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169282
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6-u6UkxnQQ

The judge left to prepare a verdict by September 17th.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169285
Kocharyan earlier sued Pashinyan, alleging defamation. Pashinyan said you can't murder someone then get away by using a presidential immunity. Pashinyan said it was a general statement, and he didn't directly say Kocharyan murdered people, thus there was no defamation. The court sided with Pashinyan and instructed Rob to pay 200k towards Pashinyan's legal expenses. Rob's team didn't like it an went to Appeals Court. Today the Appeals Court sided with Pashinyan again. Rob can escalate it to Cassations Court within 15 days.
https://factor.am/182701.html
Pashinyan about environmental activism:
In July, some had raised an alarm about a part of Teghut mine being unstable and on the brink of a collapse. If these concerns were true, that part would have collapsed after Tuesday's 4pt earthquake at the mining sight. The govt was pressured to shut down Teghut. This is what I mean when I say we must find the truth. The inspectors went and found that there was no risk of collapse. Had we caved to the pressure, 900 people would unnecessarily lose their jobs, and the abandoned mine would cause other environmental and safety issues.
The miner was then told to strengthen that part of the mine to guarantee long term safety. If these rules are followed, no matter how much I dislike it, the mine will continue to operate. Those who earlier insisted that Teghut would collapse and demanded it to shut down, aren't going to be held accountable for their inaccurate data, because they can always insist on their opinion. Meanwhile, if the govt listened to them and made a wrong decision, the government would face consequences, said Pashinyan.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169230
Update: PM says he gave wrong numbers earlier. The number of newly registered jobs since May-2018 is 65k. Total jobs are 606k and not 601k.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169257
1H19 mining exports are down. Ore down 9%. Aluminum foil down 9%. Cigar down 4%. Electricity down 37% (nuclear plant bloc has just resumed operations). Diamond down 33%. This has resulted in overall 0.5% export decline.
1H19vs18. Cigarette exports are up 26x (26 times); exports to Iraq rose 25x. Scrap of precious metal exports up 5x. Medical equipment export up 17x. Certain fruits down 2x. Chocolate, canned fruits, nuts, frozen fish are up. Molybdenum and gold items are up. More inside...
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987816.html
Foreign investments stats 1H19vs18.
Net inflow of foreign direct investment is down 5x (from $39 to $8 million), mostly because of the situation around Amulsar and Lydian miner. Lydian is registered in Jersey island. Investments from Jersey dried out in mid-2018 when the Amulsar roads were shut down by the environmental groups.
On the other hand, total investments (including direct and portfolio investments, loans and services) have seen a sharp rise. There was a $98 million positive investment. In 2018 period there was a $24 million loss.
http://panarmenian.net/m/arm/news/272671
Deputy PM Avinyan: So far this year we finished repairing 70km roads and another 300km will finish soon. Initially 330km was planned. By the end of 2023 we'll repair 2500km. (cars will finally replace helicopters)
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169259
Govt gave a tax waiver for ArmPower firm to invest 124bln to create a 254MW steam-gas power plant. 704 temporary jobs with 256k salary. 106 permanent jobs with 545k salary.
Govt gave tax waiver to Irina Kochoyan Inc. to invest 661mln on 20 clothing production jobs with 75k salary.
Aniplast Inc. received a waiver to invest 1.4bln on food packaging materials to create 20 jobs with 150k salary.
Ariko-Gor's waiver will allow a 457mln investment in footwear production. 9 jobs with 100k salary.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987806.html
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169246
Govt discussed the anti-smoking draft bill. It's meant to work with the public to reduce smoking, increase cigarette taxes, provide help with quitting smoking, ad restrictions (2021), etc. It's expected to save 7,000 lives within 15 years. It'll prevent 3.3k strokes and 3.6k heart problems. 36k collective years will be added to population's lives. Smoking in closed (2022) and semi-closed areas, in playgrounds, schools and other places will be restricted (some to be banned gradually after 2022).
Pashinyan ratted out NSS chief Vanetsyan saying he secretly smokes. 80% of govt staff and 100% of governors don't smoke. PM himself quit smoking a while ago.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169261
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169264
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169266

Govt approved the proposal to inject $117 million into the economy by paying back fees that IRS owed to various businesses, but for some reason wasn't legally required to give it back to them and the businesses didn't expect to see that money. Govt thinks the injection will improve the economy. Between 2018-2020, the govt is paying back $462 million (220bln).
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987775.html

Govt approved a measure to lower the cost of imported drugs. One of the proposals is to reduce the shelf life which could result in price reductions. The bill also regulates the certification and import of dietary supplements.
http://arka.am/en/news/business/armenian_government_simplifies_import_of_medicines/

Beginning 2020, Govt wants to help single pensionaires living in social housing units, by paying for their gas, electricity and water.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987801.html
Parliament also held a session. They approved the draft QP bill to modernize the property registration database and to increase the property taxes for luxury building owners.
QP voted in favor. LHK voted against (needs time). BHK said they'll vote in favor so you won't think that their rich boss Gagik Tsarukyan is abusing his powers to avoid property taxes. 95-15-2. Still needs another vote to pass.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987748.html

Parliament adopted the LHK bill to allow 1 person to be the sole owneoperatoemployee of LLC. 107-1-2.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987750.html

Parliament approved a draft LHK bill to ease the situation for prisoners by giving them 3 violation rights, instead of current 2, before it worsens the inmate's status.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987765.html

Parliament adopted a LHK bill to require prisons to create safer conditions for visitors so they won't contract diseases.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987766.html

Parliament is discussing a LHK bill to criminalize the act of deliberately giving a false information to notary.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987841.html

BHK MP Sergey Bagratyan: I think Amulsar miner Lydian is exaggerating their investments. Let's create a committee to investigate. We did our internal investigation while consulting Armenian experts, and think the real investments are $20mln, not upwards to $400mln.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987770.html
Yerevan municipality councilman recorded a video in which he claims that someone is sabotaging city's garbage collection. The video allegedly shows a truck and a driver who had just deliberately dumped a large amount of garbage on Arshakunyats street.
Sanitek had earlier stopped doing its garbage collecting duties. City is gradually taking over. Sanitek didn't pay wages to its workers, who blamed the city for it.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169234
Update: The investigation of hooliganism in Gndevaz is over. 3 environmental activists have been arrested for allegedly assaulting a local Jermuk resident who asked them not to disturb the peace at 22:30 PM by chanting loud "Amulsar is ours" slogans. The victim and his brother were beaten; he ended up in the hospital.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987821.html
Update: NSS rejected a petition by the former SOC chief David Sanasaryan to drop the abuse of power investigation against him.
https://armenpress.am/arm/news/987865.html
Investigators busted an army Captain and a Lieutenant with taking bribes in 2017-2918, in exchange for doing job favors for lower ranking officers in a military unit. Captain is charged with 5 felonies, Lieutenant with 1.
https://www.armtimes.com/hy/article/169279
Police says they busted a school director in Aygek with embezzling 10.9mln between 2009-2017 by falsifying employment records.
https://factor.am/182840.html
Weekend Read: The business empire of BHK boss Gagik Tsarukyan.
https://hetq.am/hy/article/106610
Disclaimer: All the accused are innocent until proven guilty by the court of law, even if they may sound as being guilty. Currency in Armenian Drams unless specified otherwise. Older posts can be found at: PART 1 ; PART 2 ; PART 3 ; PART 4 , credits to Idontknowmuch.

There is a race between China and South Korea to gain easy access to North Korean untapped resources, especially minerals. There are vast mineral reserves, including iron, gold, magnesite, zinc, copper, limestone, molybdenum, graphite, and more—all told about 200 kinds of minerals.
China currently imports coal and zinc from North Korea at far below the market rate. Fortunately or unfortunately a resolution in March 2016 bans the export of gold, vanadium, titanium, and rare earth metals.
The resolution

• https://www.sipri.org/sites/default/files/2016-03/UNSC_res_2270.pdf

It means that China has been unable to develop the mining of rare earth metals in North Korea and to take control of those ressources.
In 2010’s China spent some $10 billion on an infrastructure project near the border with North Korea, primarily to give it easier access to the mineral resources.
There is a shortage of mining equipment and North Korea is unable to purchase new equipment due to its dire economic situation, the energy shortage and the age and generally poor condition of the power grid.
Rare earth metals alone could pay for the reunification and develop both the North and the South Korean economy. North Korea's mineral wealth has for years been estimated to be worth trillions of dollars.
An estimate from 2012 by The Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources values the North’s mineral wealth at $10 trillion, 20-odd times larger than that of the South.

• http://mengnews.joins.com/view.aspx?aid=3050164

North Korea mineral resources in metric tons:

• Copper: 2.155 million MT (by comparison South Korea has 41,000 MT)
  
• Lead: 6 million MT (by comparison South Korea has 305,000 MT)
  
• Zinc: 20 million MT (by comparison, South Korea has 440,000 MT)
  
• Iron: 2~4 billion MT (by comparision, South Korea has 20 million MT)
  
• Tungsten: 300,000 MT (by comparison, South Korea has 100,000 MT)
  
• Nickel: 20,000 MT (by comparison, South Korea has 0 MT)
  
• Magnesite: 3~4 billion MT (by comparison, South Korea has 0 MT)
  

North Korea coal reserves in metric tons:

• Anthracite: 11.7 billion MT (by comparison, South Korea has 350 million MT)
  
• Bituminous coal: 3 billion MT (by comparison, South Korea has 0 MT)
  

North Korea also has extremely large amount of suspected reserves of crude oil:

• http://c.hani.co.khantoma/2395282
• https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-7b4a461183ae82899819ec4223d57ab9-c

Some third party estimates puts total of known North Korean crude oil reserves at 147 billion barrels.
RARE EARTH METALS
A recent geological study indicates North Korea could hold some 216 million tons of rare earths, minerals used in electronics such as smartphones and high definition televisions. If verified, the discovery would more than double global known sources and be six times the reserves in China, the market leader.
During the last unification summit, Lee In-woo, the director of the inter-Korean natural resource development team at KORES, said South Korea's demand for North Korea's minerals is estimated over 10 billion won (US$8.8 million) annually. Lee said South Korea should focus on five mineral resources -- magnesite, steel, zinc, limestone and anthracite -- due to their accessibility and strategic importance.
South Korea has advanced know-how in making memory chips, displays and rechargeable batteries and imports almost all raw materials from abroad. Lee suggested creating special industrial zones in mineral deposits to draw investment and facilitate development and operation.
The most ideal scenario for a slow Korean Peninsula reunification is for South Korea to quickly gain control or mining rights on those untapped ressources, before any third party competitor. It’s why the current government is literally rushing for a quick peace process without USA or China. He plans to secure those untapped ressources for South Korean mining companies, excluding foreign ones.
It’s smart, because I don’t imagine US or Chinese mining companies being honest with North Koreans or with United Koreans.
Korean minerals for United Koreans seems to be a nice slogan.

Aztechnology

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Corporate Status: AAA, private corporation
World Headquarters: Tenochtitlán, Aztlan
President/CEO: Flavia de la Rosa
Major Shareholders: Officially undisclosed. Though, here are some known major shareholders. Domingo Chavez, Oliver McClure, "Motechuzoma", Domingo "Ding" Ramos, Tsurunaga Shinoyama, Anna Villalobos, and J.J. Harvin Jr.
Major Divisions: Aztechnology North America, Aztechnology Latin America, Aztechnology Europe, Aztechnology Australasia, Aztechnology Asia, Aztechnology Africa
Notable Subsidiaries/Brands: Austrafarm (Agribusiness), CEI (Heavy Industry/Mining), Energia Viva (Energy), Maritech Enterprises (Aquaculture), Nature-Taste (Consumer Goods/Foodstuffs), Pemex (Oil/Chemicals), Productos Cultivatos (Agribusiness), Carlsberg-Heineken (Foodstuffs/Liquor),Líder (Megamarts), Natural Vat Technologies (Consumer Goods/Foodstuffs), Stuffer Shack (Convenience Store chain), Trés Chic Cosmetics (Cosmetics), Optical Dreams (Matrix/Simtech), Microtrónica Azteca (Matrix/Hardware), DhakaSoft (Matrix/Software), ComPac (Matrix/Software), Channel 12 (Media/Trid Network), Televisa (Media/Trideo & Simsense Producer), BANCOMEX (Banking/Finance), Corporación Clínica (Hospital Management), Cuerpos Radicales (Health Care/Clinics), Genetique (Biotech/Genetech), Medicarro (Medical Service Provider), Embraer (Aircraft/Miltech), Marine Technologies (Naval), Soluciones Orbitales Integradas (Aerospace), Mystics and Magicks (Arcane Service Provider), Pyramid Arcane Supplies (Magical Goods), Armamentos Murreta (Personal Armament), Dassault (Miltech/Aerospace), Esprit (Miltech/Armament), Hawker-Siddley (Aerospace/Drones), Air Montezuma (Airline), Free Transit Cartage (Shipping), Seguridad Primero (Insurance/Emergency Service Provider), Aztech Shuttle Service (Urban Transport)
Dominant Business Language: Aztlaner Spanish
Secondary Business Languages: English, Nuevo Nahuatl
The foundation of what eventually becomes Aztehchnology stretches back more than a hundred years before the Awakening with the advent of the drug trade in Central America. We're going to assume you know about said drug trade, and move up the timeline to 2007.
Unknown to everyone (at the time) the three largest drug cartels in Mexico (the Medellin, Masaya, and David) were working together behind the scenes. And they were working well together. The leaders of the three cartels came together in 2007 to form the ORO Corporation. Their name was somewhat of a double joke... Ortega (Medellín Cartel), Julio Ramos (David Cartel), and Diego Oriz (Masaya Cartel) were the three leaders of the cartels that formed the company, and oro means gold in Spanish.
By the end of the year the ORO Corporation was the one of the larger investors in almost every industry in Central America both legitimate and otherwise. On March 4th, 2008 the ORO Corporation announced that they had discovered a source of molybdenum worth tens of billions of dollars. This was an amazing win for ORO. They had been quietly buying up the developers and facilities required to exploit this find for months beforehand and with this sudden explosion of money they were able to expand their porfolio and become the largest investor in Central America.
This increased influence in the economic sector, of course, brought with it an expansion into the political arena, especially in Colombia, Panama, Nicaragua, and Honduras,. ORO either bought politicians, helped install their own, or a combination of both. They also swooped in to purchase outright, or invest in several national companies in the area by the end of the year pretty much all intellectual property (copyright) laws throughout all of Central America. This allowed ORO to expand into the new (and extremely profitable) market of digital piracy. It made them a mint and a half.
VITAS struck Mexico in 2010, and ORO was on the forefront of humanitarian aid. This continued throughout the chaos that the Awakening brought with it and the collapse of the Mexican government the next year in 2011. They used these chaotic years to expand into other nations in the area including; Costa Rica, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. And within months, these nations also repealed their copyright laws, further expanding ORO's pirate empire.
They used their profits wisely, and helped rebuild Mexico from the ground up. They helped install a democratic government, the world's first Matrix-based electoral process, and they helped Mexico become reborn as the nation of Aztlan.
By 2015, they were riding high on the good press these humanitarian acts provided. They helped push the Aztech Revival in the region to help the populace get in touch with their cultural heritage, thus providing them with a cultural identity that was separate from the chaos and turmoil that had rocked the region for centuries before hand.
In 2022 the ORO Corporation was a rising star in the megacoporation community. They moved their world headquarters to Tenochtitlán (formerly Mexico City) and underwent one of the most effecting re-branding campaigns in history, and became Aztechnology.
Over the next two decades, Aztechnology provided Aztlan with a basic infrastructure, an intelligence service, and helped beef up the Aztlan military. Which Aztlan turned around and used to conquer several of it's neighbors, most likely with the help of Aztechnology working from the inside since they already had so many corporate assets throughout the region. Aztlan also managed to take a piece of Texas including San Antonio and part of Austin.
In 2044, the Aztlan government nationalized all corporate assets in their country except for those that belonged to Aztechnology. Essentially they took control of these companies and gave them, lock stock and barrel to the Big A. The Coporate Court was understandably upset, and ordered the Big A to stop... But they didn't. Four year later in 2048, the Corporate Court began Operation: RECIPROCITY. The corporate court led several strikes against Azlan property. This forced Azlan (and the Big A) to sign the Veracruz Settlement which; forced Azlan (and the Big A) to repay the corporations for lost assets and opened the doors to foreign corporation (though only indirectly through Aztlan majority shareholdings).
Things calmed down for the Big A, until 2061 when a series of earthquakes destroyed "El Infierno", the walls that had sealed the worst portions of Los Angeles from the rest of the world. This was a lawless region where the only rights one had were the ones you could protect through force of arms. The Big A tried to move in and clean up the mess (and of course, gain a foothold in LA) but before they could Pueblo Corporate Council Forces moved into the region, ostensibly for the same reasons. Though, their other mission was to keep the Big A back to San Diego. Within months they had revoked all of the Big A's licenses, effectively barring them from Los Angeles as well as all PCC territory.
The next major blow to the Big A came on Christmas that same year when the Western Great Dragon Ghostwalker appeared in Denver and utterly destroyed the Aztlaner enclave there, and gifted the area to the Confederated American States.
In 2064 the Big A attempted to help Azlan get rid of the Yucatan Rebles that had been plaguing the region (and Big A's bottom line). Between the natural disasters in March, and the raging toxic spirits it ended up not going so well for them. By the end of it, Aztlan and the rebels had come to an agreement, but not before the Big A lost a huuuuuge portion of it's security forces. Then their CEO was killed in a terrorist bombing at the peace treaty signing. An attack led by the Feathered Serpent Great Dragon, Dzitbalchén. He was later convicted and executed for his crimes against metahumanity.
While they were busy, a small firm in Los Angeles made a bid for several markets that had long been dominated by the Big A, and by the end of 2065 Horizon had achieved a seat on the Corporate Council. The Big A was not happy about this, because Horizon was taking big bites out of their most profitable pie.
I hate to be brief about this, but I'm coming to the end of my character limit.
In early 2072 Aztlan and Amazonia went to war with one another. An Amazonia agent was caught spying on Aztlan, and they used this as justification to start the war. This was probably a move that hearkened back to ORO's expansion in the '20's. The Big A had better weapons and training... Amazonia had better magic, and a dragon.
That's right, a fraggin' dragon. in 2073, Sirrurg the Destroyer resurfaced. He lead an attack against an Azlaner military base in Cali, Columbia. This attack was composed of a half dozen feathered serpents, a dozen or so wyverns, and a large horde of drakes, spirits, lindworms, and various well-known members of the eco-terrorist groups GreenWar and mercenaries.
Aztlan (and the Big A by association) had egg on there face. And for the next year promised to use cutting edge weaponry to take down the Destroyer. And on October 3, 2074, after months of searching and preparation they managed to do just that. They had found one of Sirrurg's "mini-hordes" outside of Roswell and destroyed everything inside of it to enrage the dragon and lure him from hiding. Two hours later he was spotted flying along the east coast of Aztlan. He was shot down outside of Acapulco, but the fighting raged on for 98 more minutes. Finally, after much bloodshed and lose they managed to bring down the Destroyer. Then suddenly a storm came out of nowhere to obscure the battlefield were Sirrurg fell. Reports claim that two large shapes moved effortlessly through the fog, and once the storm passed Sirrurg's body was no where to be seen.
Remember, this is only the "official history" of the Big A. Now let's hear the scary bits!