Learn all sorts of facts about the countries of the world in the World Atlas section. Each entry contains information about different aspects of the country, such as its climate, population, religion, and natural resources.
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"Afghanistan (Atlas)",2,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, north of \JPakistan\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 33 00 N, 65 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 647,500 sq km
\Iland area:\i 647,500 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,529 km
\Iborder countries:\i China 76 km, \JIran\j 936 km, \JPakistan\j 2,430 km, Tajikistan 1,206 km, Turkmenistan 744 km, Uzbekistan 137 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b periodic disputes with \JIran\j over Helmand water rights; \JIran\j supports clients in country, private Pakistani and Saudi sources also are active; power struggles among various groups for control of Kabul, regional rivalries among emerging warlords, traditional tribal disputes continue; support to Islamic fighters in Tajikistan's civil war; border dispute with \JPakistan\j (Durand Line); support to Islamic militants worldwide by some factions
\BClimate:\b arid to semiarid; cold winters and hot summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged mountains; plains in north and southwest
\Ilowest point:\i Amu Darya 258 m
\Ihighest point:\i Nowshak 7,485 m
\BNatural resources:\b natural gas, \Jpetroleum\j, coal, copper, talc, barites, sulfur, lead, zinc, iron ore, salt, precious and semiprecious stones
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 12%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 46%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 3%
\Iother:\i 39%
\BIrrigated land:\b 26,600 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil degradation; overgrazing; deforestation (much of the remaining forests are being cut down for fuel and building materials); \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i damaging earthquakes occur in Hindu \JKush\j mountains; flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 325,808; female 286,774) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 4.78% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 43.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 18.16 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 22.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.14 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 149.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 45.85 years
\Imale:\i 46.43 years
\Ifemale:\i 45.24 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.14 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Afghan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Afghan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Pashtun 38%, Tajik 25%, Uzbek 6%, Hazara 19%, minor ethnic groups (Chahar Aimaks, Turkmen, Baloch, and others)
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 84%, Shi'a Muslim 15%, other 1%
\BLanguages:\b Pashtu 35%, Afghan Persian (Dari) 50%, Turkic languages (primarily Uzbek and Turkmen) 11%, 30 minor languages (primarily Balochi and Pashai) 4%, much bilingualism
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 31.5%
\Imale:\i 47.2%
\Ifemale:\i 15%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Islamic State of \JAfghanistan\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAfghanistan\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Dowlat-e Eslami-ye Afghanestan
\Bnote:\b there may be two new provinces of Nurestan (Nuristan) and Khowst
\BIndependence:\b 19 August 1919 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Victory of the Muslim Nation, 28 April; Remembrance Day for Martyrs and Disabled, 4 May; Independence Day, 19 August
\BConstitution:\b none
\BLegal system:\b a new legal system has not been adopted but the transitional government has declared it will follow Islamic law (Shari'a)
\BSuffrage:\b undetermined; previously males 15-50 years of age
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Burhanuddin RABBANI (interim president July-December 1992, president since 2 January 1993) was elected to a two-year term (later amended by multi-party agreement to 18 months) by a national shura (council); election last held 31 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; Vice President Mohammad NABI MOHAMMADI (since NA) was appointed by the president; note - in June 1994 failure to agree on a transfer mechanism resulted in RABBANI's extending his term to 28 December 1994; following the expiration of the term and while negotiations on the formation of a new government go on, RABBANI continues in office
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ahmad Shah AHMADZAI (since NA) was appointed by President RABBANI as de facto prime minister, but does not have any real authority; First Deputy Prime Minister Qutbuddin HELAL (since 17 March 1993) and Deputy Prime Minister Arsala RAHMANI (since 17 March 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; note - term of present government expired 28 December 1994; factional fighting since 1 January 1994 has kept government officers from actually occupying ministries and discharging government responsibilities; the government's authority to remove cabinet members, including the prime minister, following the expiration of their term is questionable
\BLegislative branch:\b a unicameral parliament consisting of 205 members was chosen by a national shura (council) in January 1993; non-functioning as of June 1993
\BJudicial branch:\b an interim Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has been appointed by the president in consultation with the prime minister, but a new court system has not yet been organized
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b current political organizations include Jamiat-i-Islami (Islamic Society), Burhanuddin RABBANI, Ahmad Shah MASOOD; Hizbi Islami-Gulbuddin (Islamic Party), Gulbuddin HIKMATYAR faction; Hizbi Islami-Khalis (Islamic Party), Yunis KHALIS faction; Ittihad-i-Islami Barai Azadi \JAfghanistan\j (Islamic Union for the Liberation of Afghanistan), Abdul Rasul SAYYAF; Harakat-Inqilab-i-Islami (Islamic Revolutionary Movement), Mohammad Nabi MOHAMMADI; Jabha-i-Najat-i-Milli \JAfghanistan\j (Afghanistan National Liberation Front), Sibghatullah MOJADDEDI; Mahaz-i-Milli-Islami (National Islamic Front), Sayed Ahamad GAILANI; Hizbi Wahdat-Khalili faction (Islamic Unity Party), Abdul Karim KHALILI; Hizbi Wahdat-Akbari faction (Islamic Unity Party), Mohammad Akbar AKBARI; Harakat-i-Islami (Islamic Movement), Mohammed Asif MOHSENI; Jumbesh-i-Milli Islami (National Islamic Movement), Abdul Rashid DOSTAM; Taliban (Religious Students Movement), Mohammad OMAR
\Bnote:\b the former ruling Watan Party has been disbanded
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b the former resistance commanders are the major power brokers in the countryside and their shuras (councils) are now administering most cities outside Kabul; tribal elders and religious students are trying to wrest control from them; ulema (religious scholars); tribal elders; religious students (talib)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Abdul RAHIM
\Ichancery:\i 2341 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-3770, 3771
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-3516
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\Iconsulate(s):\i Washington, DC
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JAfghanistan\j (embassy closed January 1989)
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a gold emblem centered on the three bands; the emblem features a temple-like structure with Islamic inscriptions above and below, encircled by a wreath on the left and right and by a bolder Islamic inscription above, all of which are encircled by two crossed scimitars
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JAfghanistan\j is an extremely poor, landlocked country, highly dependent on farming (wheat especially) and livestock raising (sheep and goats). Economic considerations have played second fiddle to political and military upheavals during more than 16 years of war, including the nearly 10-year Soviet military occupation (which ended 15 February 1989). Over the past decade, one-third of the population fled the country, with \JPakistan\j and \JIran\j sheltering more than 6 million refugees. Now, only 1.0 million Afghan refugees remain in \JPakistan\j and about 1.3 million in \JIran\j. Another 1 million probably moved into and around urban areas within \JAfghanistan\j. Gross domestic product has fallen substantially over the past 15 years because of the loss of labor and capital and the disruption of trade and transport. Millions of people continue to suffer from insufficient food, clothing, housing, and lack of medical care. Numerical data are extremely shaky.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $12.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $600 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 65%
\Iindustry:\i 15%
\Iservices:\i 20%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 4.98 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and animal husbandry 67.8%, industry 10.2%, construction 6.3%, commerce 5.0%, services and other 10.7% (1980 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b small-scale production of textiles, soap, furniture, shoes, \Jfertilizer\j, and cement; handwoven carpets; natural gas, oil, coal, copper
\BIllicit drugs:\b an illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug trade; world's second-largest opium producer after \JBurma\j (1,250 metric tons in 1995) and a major source of hashish
\BExports:\b $188.2 million (f.o.b., 1991)
\Icommodities:\i fruits and nuts, handwoven carpets, wool, cotton, hides and pelts, precious and semi-precious gems
\Icommodities:\i food and \Jpetroleum\j products; most consumer goods
\Ipartners:\i FSU countries, \JPakistan\j, \JIran\j, \JJapan\j, \JSingapore\j, India, South Korea, \JGermany\j
\BExternal debt:\b $2.3 billion (March 1991 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b US provided $450 million assistance (1985-93); the UN provides assistance in the form of food aid, \Jimmunization\j, land mine removal, and a wide range of aid to refugees and displaced persons
\BCurrency:\b 1 afghani (AF) = 100 puls
\BExchange rates:\b afghanis (Af) per US$1 - 7,000 (January 1995), 1,900 (January 1994), 1,019 (March 1993), 850 (1991); note - these rates reflect the free market exchange rates rather than the official exchange rate, which is a fixed rate of 50.600 afghanis to the dollar
\BFiscal year:\b 21 March - 20 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 24.6 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 9.6 km 1.524-m gauge from Gushgy (Turkmenistan) to Towraghondi; 15 km 1,524-m gauge from Termiz (Uzbekistan) to Kheyrabad transshipment point on south bank of Amu Darya
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 21,000 km
\Ipaved:\i 2,800 km
\Iunpaved:\i 18,200 km (1984 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,200 km; chiefly Amu Darya, which handles vessels up to about 500 DWT
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products - Uzbekistan to Bagram and Turkmenistan to Shindand; natural gas 180 km
\BPorts:\b Kheyrabad, Shir Khan
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 35
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 4
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 31,200 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i very limited \Jtelephone\j and telegraph service; 1 public \Jtelephone\j in Kabul
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) linked only to \JIran\j and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 0, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\Bnote:\b several \Jtelevision\j stations run by factions and local councils which provide intermittent service
\BTelevisions:\b 100,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA; note - the military still does not exist on a national scale; some elements of the former Army, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, National Guard, Border Guard Forces, National Police Force (Sarandoi), and tribal militias still exist but are factionalized among the various mujahedin and former regime leaders
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,549,602
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,976,741
\Imales reach military age (22) annually:\i 220,532 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Albania (Atlas)",3,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between \JGreece\j and \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 41 00 N, 20 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 28,750 sq km
\Iland area:\i 27,400 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 720 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGreece\j 282 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 151 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 287 km (114 km with \JSerbia\j, 173 km with Montenegro)
\BCoastline:\b 362 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b the \JAlbanian\j Government supports protection of the rights of ethnic Albanians outside of its borders; \JAlbanian\j majority in \JKosovo\j seeks independence from Serbian Republic; Albanians in Macedonia claim discrimination in education, access to public-sector jobs and representation in government; \JAlbania\j is involved in negotiations with \JGreece\j over border demarcation, the treatment of \JAlbania\j's ethnic Greek minority, and migrant \JAlbanian\j workers in \JGreece\j
\BClimate:\b mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior is cooler and wetter
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains and hills; small plains along coast
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 77,799; female 110,677) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.34% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 22.21 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.87 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.92 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 49.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 67.92 years
\Imale:\i 64.91 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.17 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.65 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Albanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i \JAlbanian\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JAlbanian\j 95%, Greeks 3%, other 2% (Vlachs, Gypsies, Serbs, and Bulgarians) (1989 est.)
\Bnote:\b in 1989, other estimates of the Greek population ranged from 1% (official \JAlbanian\j statistics) to 12% (from a Greek organization)
\BReligions:\b Muslim 70%, \JAlbanian\j Orthodox 20%, Roman Catholic 10%
\Bnote:\b all mosques and churches were closed in 1967 and religious observances prohibited; in November 1990, \JAlbania\j began allowing private religious practice
\BLanguages:\b \JAlbanian\j (Tosk is the official dialect), Greek
\BLiteracy:\b age 9 and over can read and write (1955 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 72%
\Imale:\i 80%
\Ifemale:\i 63%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JAlbania\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAlbania\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republika e Shqiperise
\Ilocal short form:\i Shqiperia
\Iformer:\i People's Socialist Republic of \JAlbania\j
\BData code:\b AL
\BType of government:\b emerging democracy
\BCapital:\b Tirane
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 districts (rrethe, singular - rreth); Berat, Dibre, \JDurres\j, Elbasan, Fier, Gjirokaster, Gramsh, Kolonje, Korce, Kruje, Kukes, Lezhe, Librazhd, Lushnje, Mat, Mirdite, Permet, Pogradec, Puke, Sarande, Shkoder, Skrapar, Tepelene, Tirane, Tropoje, Vlore; note - some new administrative units may have been created
\BIndependence:\b 28 November 1912 (from Ottoman Empire)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 28 November (1912)
\BConstitution:\b an interim basic law was approved by the People's Assembly on 29 April 1991; a draft constitution was rejected by popular referendum in the fall of 1994 and a new draft is pending
\BLegal system:\b has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of the Republic Sali BERISHA (since 9 April 1992) was elected for a five-year term by the People's Assembly
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister of the Council of Ministers Aleksander Gabriel MEKSI (since 10 April 1992) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
People's Assembly (Kuvendi Popullor): elections last held 22 March 1992; results - DP 62.29%, ASP 25.57%, SDP 4.33%, RP 3.15%, UHP 2.92%, other 1.74%; seats - (140 total) DP 92, ASP 38, SDP 7, RP 1, UHP 2
\Bnote:\b six members of the Democratic Party defected, making the present seating in the Assembly DP 86, ASP 38, SDP 7, DAP 6, RP 1, UHP 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chairman of the Supreme Court is elected by the People's Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b there are at least 28 political parties; most prominent are the \JAlbanian\j Socialist Party (ASP; formerly the \JAlbania\j Workers Party), Fatos NANO, first secretary; Democratic Party (DP); \JAlbanian\j Republican Party (RP), Sabri GODO; Omonia (Greek minority party), Sotir QIRJAZATI, first secretary; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Skender GJINUSHI; Democratic Alliance Party (DAP), Neritan CEKA, chairman; Unity for Human Rights Party (UHP), Vasil MELO, chairman; \JEcology\j Party (EP), Namik HOTI, chairman
\Ichancery:\i Suite 1000, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 223-4942, 8187
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 628-7342
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Joseph E. LAKE
\Iembassy:\i Rruga E. Labinoti 103, Tirane
\Imailing address:\i PSC 59, Box 100 (A), APO AE 09624
\Itelephone:\i [355] (42) 328-75, 335-20
\IFAX:\i [355] (42) 322-22
\BFlag:\b red with a black two-headed eagle in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b An extremely poor country by European standards, \JAlbania\j is making the difficult transition to a more open-market economy. The economy rebounded in 1993-95 after a severe depression accompanying the collapse of the previous centrally planned system in 1990 and 1991. Stabilization policies - including a strict monetary policy, public sector layoffs, and reduced social services - have improved the government's fiscal situation and reduced \Jinflation\j. The recovery has been spurred by the remittances of some 20% of the labor force which works abroad, mostly in \JGreece\j and \JItaly\j. These remittances supplement GDP and help offset the large foreign trade deficit. Foreign assistance and humanitarian aid also supported the recovery. Most agricultural land was privatized in 1992, substantially improving peasant incomes. \JAlbania\j's industrial sector ended its five-year, 78% decline in 1995, recording roughly 6% growth. A sharp fall in \Jchromium\j prices has reduced hard currency receipts from the mining sector. Large segments of the population, especially those living in urban areas, continue to depend on humanitarian aid to meet basic food requirements. Unemployment remains a severe problem accounting for approximately one-fifth of the work force. Now that sanctions on \JSerbia\j have been suspended, the falloff in hard currency earnings from smuggling will aggravate unemployment problems. Growth is expected to continue in 1996, but could falter if workers' remittances from \JGreece\j are reduced or foreign assistance declines.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 1.692 million (1994 est.) (including 352,000 emigrant workers and 261,000 domestically unemployed)
by occupation (of those domestically employed): agriculture (nearly all private) 49.5%, private sector 22.2%, state (nonfarm) sector 28.3% (including state-owned industry 7.8%)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 19% (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $486.3 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $550.4 million, including capital expenditures of $124 million (1994)
\BAgriculture:\b wide range of temperate-zone crops and livestock
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route and \Jcocaine\j from South America destined for Western Europe; limited opium production
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 55,000
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i obsolete wire system; no longer provides a \Jtelephone\j for every village; in 1992, following the fall of the communist government, peasants cut the wire to about 1,000 villages and used it to build fences
\Iinternational:\i inadequate; international traffic carried by microwave radio relay from the Tirane exchange to \JItaly\j and \JGreece\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 17, FM 1, shortwave 0
males reach military age (19) annually: 29,340 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $45 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Algeria (Atlas)",4,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and \JTunisia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 28 00 N, 3 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,381,740 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,381,740 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than 3.5 times the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,343 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JLibya\j 982 km, Mali 1,376 km, \JMauritania\j 463 km, Morocco 1,559 km, \JNiger\j 956 km, \JTunisia\j 965 km, Western Sahara 42 km
\BCoastline:\b 998 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 32-52 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b part of southeastern region claimed by \JLibya\j; land boundary dispute with \JTunisia\j settled in 1993
\BClimate:\b arid to semiarid; mild, wet winters with hot, dry summers along coast; drier with cold winters and hot summers on high plateau; sirocco is a hot, dust/sand-laden wind especially common in summer
\BTerrain:\b mostly high plateau and desert; some mountains; narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion from overgrazing and other poor farming practices; \Jdesertification\j; dumping of raw sewage, \Jpetroleum\j refining wastes, and other industrial effluents is leading to the \Jpollution\j of rivers and coastal waters; Mediterranean Sea, in particular, becoming polluted from oil wastes, soil erosion, and \Jfertilizer\j runoff; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i mountainous areas subject to severe earthquakes; mud slides
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b second-largest country in Africa (after Sudan)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 61.6%
\Imale:\i 73.9%
\Ifemale:\i 49%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Democratic and Popular Republic of \JAlgeria\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAlgeria\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumhuriyah al Jaza'iriyah ad Dimuqratiyah ash Shabiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Jaza'ir
\BData code:\b AG
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JAlgiers\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 48 provinces (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Ain Defla, Ain Temouchent, Alger, Annaba, Batna, Bechar, Bejaia, Biskra, Blida, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Bouira, Boumerdes, Chlef, Constantine, Djelfa, El Bayadh, El Oued, El Tarf, Ghardaia, Guelma, Illizi, Jijel, Khenchela, Laghouat, Mascara, Medea, Mila, Mostaganem, M'Sila, Naama, Oran, Ouargla, Oum el Bouaghi, Relizane, Saida, Setif, Sidi Bel Abbes, Skikda, Souk Ahras, Tamanghasset, Tebessa, Tiaret, Tindouf, Tipaza, Tissemsilt, Tizi Ouzou, Tlemcen
\BIndependence:\b 5 July 1962 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 1 November (1954)
\BConstitution:\b 19 November 1976, effective 22 November 1976; revised 3 November 1988 and 23 February 1989
\BLegal system:\b socialist, based on French and Islamic law; judicial review of legislative acts in ad hoc Constitutional Council composed of various public officials, including several Supreme Court justices; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Liamine ZEROUAL (appointed president 31 January 1994, elected president 16 November 1995) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 16 November 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ahmed OUYAHIA (since 31 December 1995) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral; note - suspended since 1992
National People's Assembly (Al-Majlis Ech-Chaabi Al-Watani): first-round elections held 26 December 1991; second round canceled by the military after President BENDJEDID resigned 11 January 1992, effectively suspending the assembly (next election promised by late 1996 or early 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (281 total) the fundamentalist FIS won 188 of the 231 seats contested in the first round
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Islamic Salvation Front (FIS, outlawed April 1992), Ali BELHADJ, Dr. Abassi MADANI, Rabeh KEBIR (self-exile in Germany); National Liberation Front (FLN), Boualem BENHAMOUDA, secretary general; Socialist Forces Front (FFS), Hocine Ait AHMED, secretary general (self-exile in Switzerland); Hamas, Mahfoud NAHNAH, chairman; Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), Said SAADI, secretary general; Algerian Renewal Party (PRA), Noureddine BOUKROUH, chairman
\Bnote:\b the government established a multiparty system in September 1989 and, as of 31 December 1990, over 50 legal parties existed
\BFlag:\b two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and white with a red, five-pointed star within a red crescent; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j (the state religion)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The \Jhydrocarbons\j sector is the backbone of the economy, accounting for roughly 57% of government revenues, 25% of GDP, and almost all export earnings; \JAlgeria\j has the fifth-largest reserves of natural gas in the world and ranks fourteenth for oil. \JAlgiers\j' efforts to reform one of the most centrally planned economies in the Arab world began after the 1986 collapse of world oil prices plunged the country into a severe recession. In 1989, the government launched a comprehensive, IMF-supported program to achieve economic stabilization and to introduce market mechanisms into the economy. Despite substantial progress toward economic adjustment, in 1992 the reform drive stalled as \JAlgiers\j became embroiled in political turmoil. In September 1993, a new government was formed, and one priority was the resumption and acceleration of the structural adjustment process. Buffeted by the slump in world oil prices and burdened with a heavy foreign debt, \JAlgiers\j concluded a one-year standby arrangement with the IMF in April 1994. Following a Paris Club debt rescheduling in 1995 and a robust harvest, the economy experienced a strong recovery and key economic improvements.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $108.7 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i government 29.5%, agriculture 22%, construction and public works 16.2%, industry 13.6%, commerce and services 13.5%, transportation and communication 5.2% (1989)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 25% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $14.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $17.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 27, chemical tanker 7, liquefied gas tanker 10, oil tanker 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 119
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 8
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 24
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 4
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 17
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 19
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 31 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 862,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i excellent service in north but sparse in south; domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations (20 additional domestic earth stations are planned)
\Iinternational:\i 5 submarine cables; microwave radio relay to \JItaly\j, \JFrance\j, \JSpain\j, Morocco, and \JTunisia\j; coaxial cable to Morocco and \JTunisia\j; participant in Medarabtel; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 26, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 6 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 2 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National Popular Army, Navy, Air Force, Territorial Air Defense National Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 7,391,946
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,534,267
males reach military age (19) annually: 326,229 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.3 billion, 2.7% of GDP (1994)
#
"American Samoa (Atlas)",5,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 14 20 S, 170 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 199 sq km
\Iland area:\i 199 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Rose Island and Swains Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 116 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine, moderated by southeast trade winds; annual rainfall averages 124 inches; rainy season from November to April, dry season from May to October; little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b five volcanic islands with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains, two \Jcoral\j atolls (Rose Island, Swains Island)
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Lata 966 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpumice\j, pumicite
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 5%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 75%
\Iother:\i 10%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural fresh water resources; in many areas of the island, water supplies come from roof catchments
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons common from December to March
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b Pago Pago has one of the best natural deepwater harbors in the South Pacific Ocean, sheltered by shape from rough seas and protected by peripheral mountains from high winds; strategic location in the South Pacific Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 59,566 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.77% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 35.75 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 18.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.91 years
\Imale:\i 71.03 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.85 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.24 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BReligions:\b Christian Congregationalist 50%, Roman Catholic 20%, Protestant denominations and other 30%
\BLanguages:\b Samoan (closely related to Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages), English
\Bnote:\b most people are bilingual
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of American \JSamoa\j
\Iconventional short form:\i American \JSamoa\j
abbreviation: AS
\BData code:\b AQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated and unorganized territory of the US; administered by the US Department of Interior, Office of Territorial and International Affairs
\BCapital:\b Pago Pago
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of the US)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of the US)
\BNational holiday:\b Territorial Flag Day, 17 April (1900)
\BConstitution:\b ratified 1966, in effect 1967
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of the US) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993) and Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) are popularly elected by the citizens of the US
\Ihead of government:\i Governor A. P. LUTALI (since 3 January 1993) and Lieutenant Governor Tauese P. SUNIA (since 3 January 1993) were elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - A. P. LUTALI (Democrat) 53%, Peter Tali COLEMAN (Republican) 36%
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - representatives popularly elected from 17 house districts; percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total, 20 elected, and 1 nonvoting delegate from Swains Island); number of seats by party NA
Senate: elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - senators elected by village chiefs from 12 senate districts; percent of vote by party NA; seats - (18 total) number of seats by party NA
US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Eni R. F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA reelected as delegate
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, chief justice and associate justices are appointed by the US Secretary of the Interior
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of the US)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of the US)
\BFlag:\b blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the outer side and extends to the hoist side; a brown and white American bald eagle flying toward the hoist side is carrying two traditional Samoan symbols of authority, a staff and a war club
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is strongly linked to the US, with which American \JSamoa\j conducts 80%-90% of its foreign trade. \JTuna\j fishing and \Jtuna\j processing plants are the backbone of the private sector, with canned \Jtuna\j the primary export. The \Jtuna\j canneries and the government are by far the two largest employers. Other economic activities include a slowly developing tourist industry. Transfers from the US Government add substantially to American \JSamoa\j's economic well-being.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $128 million (1991 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,600 (1991 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA
\BLabor force:\b 14,400 (1990)
\Iby occupation:\i government 33%, \Jtuna\j canneries 34%, other 33% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 12% (1991)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $97 million ($43 million in local revenue and $54 million in grant revenue)
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91)
\Icommodities:\i materials for canneries 56%, food 8%, \Jpetroleum\j products 7%, machinery and parts 6%
\Ipartners:\i US 62%, \JJapan\j 9%, NZ 7%, \JAustralia\j 11%, \JFiji\j 4%, other 7%
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b $21 million in operational funds and $1.2 million in construction funds for capital improvement projects from the US Department of Interior (1991)
\BCurrency:\b 1 US dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b US currency is used
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 350 km
\Ipaved:\i 150 km
\Iunpaved:\i 200 km
\BPorts:\b Aanu'u (new construction), Auasi, Faleosao, Ofu, Pago Pago, Ta'u
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 2
\Bnote:\b small airstrips on Fituita and Ofu (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 8,399
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i good telex, telegraph, and facsimile services; domestic satellite system with 1 Comsat earth station
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 8,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Andorra (Atlas)",6,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Europe, between \JFrance\j and \JSpain\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 42 30 N, 1 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 450 sq km
\Iland area:\i 450 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 125 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JFrance\j 60 km, \JSpain\j 65 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; snowy, cold winters and warm, dry summers
\BTerrain:\b rugged mountains dissected by narrow valleys
\Ilowest point:\i Riu Valira 840 m
\Ihighest point:\i Coma Pedrosa 2,946 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydropower, mineral water, timber, iron ore, lead
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 56%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 22%
\Iother:\i 20%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; overgrazing of mountain meadows contributes to soil erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i snowslides, avalanches
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 72,766 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 16% (male 5,829; female 5,851)
\I15-64 years:\i 73% (male 28,724; female 24,757)
\I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 3,718; female 3,887) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.96% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.2 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 2.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 22.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.16 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.11 male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 2.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 90.94 years
\Imale:\i 86.47 years
\Ifemale:\i 95.2 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.14 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Andorran(s)
\Iadjective:\i Andorran
\BEthnic divisions:\b Spanish 61%, Andorran 30%, French 6%, other 3%
\Iconventional long form:\i Principality of \JAndorra\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAndorra\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Principat d'Andorra
\Ilocal short form:\i \JAndorra\j
\BData code:\b AN
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy (since March 1993) that retains as its heads of state a coprincipality; the two princes are the president of \JFrance\j and Spanish bishop of Seo de Urgel, who are represented locally by officials called veguers
\BCapital:\b \JAndorra\j la Vella
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 parishes (parroquies, singular - parroquia); \JAndorra\j, Canillo, Encamp, La Massana, Les Escaldes, Ordino, Sant Julia de Loria
\BIndependence:\b 1278
\BNational holiday:\b Mare de Deu de Meritxell, 8 September
\BConstitution:\b \JAndorra\j's first written constitution was drafted in 1991; adopted 14 March 1993
\BLegal system:\b based on French and Spanish civil codes; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chiefs of state: French Coprince Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) and Spanish Episcopal Coprince Monseigneur Juan MARTI Alanis (since 31 January 1971); each coprince is represented by a veguer (current names NA)
\Ihead of government:\i Executive Council President Marc FORNE Molne (since 21 December 1994) was elected by the General Council and formally appointed by the coprinces
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council was designated by the executive council president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
General Council of the Valleys (Consell General de las
Valls): elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) AND 8, UL 5, ND 5, CNA 2, IDN 2, other 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of \JAndorra\j at Perpignan (France) for civil cases, two civil judges appointed by the veguers, one appeals judge appointed by the co-princes alternately; Ecclesiastical Court of the Bishop of Seo de Urgel (Spain) for civil cases; Tribunal of the Courts (Tribunal des Cortes) for criminal cases, presided over by the two civil judges, one appeals judge, the veguers, and two members of the General Council
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Group (AND), Oscar RIBAS Reig and Jordi FARRAS; Liberal Union (UL), Francesc CERQUEDA; New Democracy (ND), Jaume BARTOMEU; Andorran National Coalition (CNA), Antoni CERQUEDA; National Democratic Initiative (IDN), Vincenc MATEU; Liberal Union (UL), Marc FORNE
\Bnote:\b there are two other small parties
\BInternational organization participation:\b CE, ECE, IFRCS, \JInterpol\j, IOC, ITU, UN, \JUNESCO\j, WIPO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Juli MINOVES-TRIQUELL (also Permanent Representative to the UN)
\Iembassy:\i 2 United Nations Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10017
\Itelephone:\i (212) 750-8064
\IFAX:\i (212) 750-6630
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JAndorra\j; US interests in \JAndorra\j are represented by the Consulate General's office in \JBarcelona\j (Spain); \Imailing address:\i Paseo Reina Elisenda, 23, 08034 \JBarcelona\j, \JSpain\j; \Itelephone:\i (343) 280-2227; \IFAX:\i (343) 205-7705; note - Consul General Maurice S. PARKER makes periodic visits to \JAndorra\j
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red with the national coat of arms centered in the yellow band; the coat of arms features a quartered shield; similar to the flags of Chad and \JRomania\j that do not have a national coat of arms in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tourism, the mainstay of \JAndorra\j's tiny, well-to-do economy, accounts for roughly 80% of GDP. An estimated 13 million tourists visit annually, attracted by \JAndorra\j's duty-free status and by its summer and winter resorts. \JAndorra\j's comparative advantage has recently eroded as the economies of neighboring \JFrance\j and \JSpain\j have been opened up, providing broader availability of goods and lower tariffs. The banking sector, with its "tax haven" status, also contributes substantially to the economy. Agricultural production is limited by a scarcity of arable land, and most food has to be imported. The principal livestock activity is sheep raising. Manufacturing consists mainly of cigarettes, cigars, and furniture. \JAndorra\j is a member of the EU Customs Union and is treated as an EU member for trade in manufactured goods (no tariffs) and as a non-EU member for agricultural products.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $16,200 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 0%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $138 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $177 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
\Idomestic:\i modern system with microwave radio relay connections between exchanges
\Iinternational:\i landline circuits to \JFrance\j and \JSpain\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 10,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 7,000 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j and \JSpain\j
#
"Angola (Atlas)",7,0,0,0
Note: Civil war has been the norm since independence from \JPortugal\j on 11 November 1975; a cease-fire lasted from 31 May 1991 until October 1992 when the insurgent National Union for the Total Independence of \JAngola\j (UNITA) refused to accept its defeat in internationally monitored elections and fighting resumed throughout much of the countryside. The two sides signed another peace accord on 20 November 1994; the cease-fire is generally holding, but most provisions of the accord remain to be implemented.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between \JNamibia\j and Zaire
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 30 S, 18 30 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,246,700 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,246,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,198 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCongo\j 201 km, \JNamibia\j 1,376 km, Zaire 2,511 km, \JZambia\j 1,110 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,600 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 20 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b semiarid in south and along coast to \JLuanda\j; north has cool, dry season (May to October) and hot, rainy season (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain rises abruptly to vast interior plateau
\Icurrent issues:\i population pressures contributing to overuse of pastures and subsequent soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j; deforestation of tropical rain forest attributable to the international demand for tropical timber and domestic use as a fuel; deforestation contributing to loss of \Jbiodiversity\j; soil erosion contributing to water \Jpollution\j and siltation of rivers and dams; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i locally heavy rainfall causes periodic flooding on the plateau
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b Cabinda is separated from rest of country by Zaire
\BIndependence:\b 11 November 1975 (from Portugal)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 11 November (1975)
\BConstitution:\b 11 November 1975; revised 7 January 1978, 11 August 1980, 6 March 1991, and 26 August 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law; recently modified to accommodate political pluralism and increased use of free markets
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jose Eduardo DOS \JSANTOS\j (since 21 September 1979) was originally elected without opposition under a one party system and stood for election in \JAngola\j's first multiparty elections on 29-30 September 1992; DOS \JSANTOS\j received 49.6% of the total vote, making a run-off election necessary between him and second-place Jonas SAVIMBI; the run-off was not held and SAVIMBI's National Union for the Total Independence of \JAngola\j (UNITA) disputed the results of the first election; the civil war was resumed
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Marcolino Jose Carlos MOCO (since 2 December 1992) was appointed by the president and is answerable to the Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional): elections last held 29-30 September 1992 (next to be held NA); results (disputed) - percentage of vote by party NA; seats (223 total) - seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Tribunal da Relacao), judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Popular Movement for the Liberation of \JAngola\j (MPLA), led by Jose Eduardo DOS \JSANTOS\j, is the ruling party and has been in power since 1975; National Union for the Total Independence of \JAngola\j (UNITA), led by Jonas SAVIMBI, is a legal party despite its history of armed resistance to the government; five minor parties have small numbers of seats in the National Assembly
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (FLEC), N'ZITA Tiago, leader of largest faction (FLEC-FAC)
\Bnote:\b FLEC is waging a small-scale, highly factionalized, armed struggle for the independence of Cabinda Province
\Imailing address:\i C.P. 6484, \JLuanda\j; American Embassy, \JLuanda\j, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-2550 (pouch)
\Itelephone:\i [244] (2) 345-481, 346-418
\IFAX:\i [244] (2) 346-924
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and black with a centered yellow emblem consisting of a five-pointed star within half a cogwheel crossed by a machete (in the style of a hammer and sickle)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JAngola\j is an economy in disarray. Despite its abundant natural resources, output per capita is among the world's lowest. Subsistence agriculture provides the main livelihood for 80%-90% of the population but accounts for less than 15% of GDP. Oil production and the supporting activities are vital to the economy, contributing about 50% to GDP. Despite the signing of a peace accord in November 1994 between the \JAngola\j Government and the UNITA insurgents, sporadic fighting continues and many farmers remain reluctant to return to their fields. As a result, much of the country's food must still be imported. To take advantage of its rich resources - notably gold, diamonds, extensive forests, Atlantic fisheries, and arable land, in addition to its large oil deposits - \JAngola\j will need to observe the cease-fire, implement the peace agreement, and reform government policies.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.4 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $700 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 12%
\Iindustry:\i 56%
\Iservices:\i 32% (1994 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 20% monthly average (1994 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 2.783 million economically active
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 85%, industry 15% (1985 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 24% with extensive underemployment (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $928 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $963 million (1992 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j; diamonds, iron ore, \Jphosphates\j, feldspar, \Jbauxite\j, uranium, and gold; fish processing; food processing; brewing; \Jtobacco\j; sugar; textiles; cement; basic metal products
\Icommodities:\i capital equipment (machinery and electrical equipment), food, vehicles and spare parts, textiles and clothing, medicines, substantial military deliveries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 17, FM 13, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 50,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, National Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,373,087
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,195,176
males reach military age (18) annually: 106,456 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.1 billion, 31% of GDP (1993)
#
"Anguilla (Atlas)",8,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 15 N, 63 10 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 91 sq km
\Iland area:\i 91 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about half the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 61 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds
\BTerrain:\b flat and low-lying island of \Jcoral\j and \Jlimestone\j
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Crocus Hill 65 m
\BNatural resources:\b salt, fish, lobster
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA% (mostly rock with sparse scrub oak, few trees, some commercial salt ponds)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i supplies of potable water sometimes cannot meet increasing demand largely because of poor distribution system
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent hurricanes and other tropical storms (July to October)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 10,424 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 28% (male 1,491; female 1,450)
\I15-64 years:\i 64% (male 3,418; female 3,275)
\I65 years and over:\i 8% (male 342; female 448) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.45% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.84 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 22.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 23 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 76.7 years
\Imale:\i 73.75 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.74 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.04 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Anguillan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Anguillan
\BEthnic divisions:\b black African
\BReligions:\b Anglican 40%, Methodist 33%, Seventh-Day Adventist 7%, Baptist 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, other 12%
\BLanguages:\b English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 12 and over can read and write (1984 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 95%
\Imale:\i 95%
\Ifemale:\i 95%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAnguilla\j
\BData code:\b AV
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b The Valley
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b \JAnguilla\j Day, 30 May
\BConstitution:\b \JAnguilla\j Constitutional Order 1 April 1982; amended 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; represented by Governor Alan HOOLE (since 1 November 1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Hubert HUGHES (since 16 March 1994) was appointed by the governor from members of the House of Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council was appointed by the governor from among the elected members of the House of Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 16 March 1994 (next to be held March 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (11 total, 7 elected) ANA 2, AUP 2, ADP 2, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, judge provided by Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JAnguilla\j National Alliance (ANA), David CARFY; \JAnguilla\j United Party (AUP), Hubert HUGHES; \JAnguilla\j Democratic Party (ADP), Victor BANKS
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Anguillan coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts three orange dolphins in an interlocking circular design on a white background with blue wavy water below
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JAnguilla\j has few natural resources, and the economy depends heavily on tourism, offshore banking, lobster fishing, and remittances from emigrants. Output growth has averaged about 7% in recent years, mainly as a result of boom in tourism thanks to economic expansion in North America and the UK. The economy, and especially the tourism sector, suffered a setback in late 1995 due to the effects of Hurricane Luis in September. Agricultural output had only just begun to recover from a \Jdrought\j in 1994 when Luis hit. Anguillan officials have put substantial effort into developing the offshore financing sector. A comprehensive package of financial services legislation was enacted in late 1994. In the medium term, prospects for the economy will depend on the tourism sector and, therefore, on continuing income growth in the industrialized nations.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $53 million (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 6.5% (1994 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $7,600 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 4% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 4,400 (1992)
\Iby occupation:\i commerce 36%, services 29%, construction 18%, transportation and utilities 10%, manufacturing 3%, agriculture/fishing/forestry/mining 4%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 7% (1992 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $13.5 million (1993)
\Iexpenditures:\i $17.6 million, including capital expenditures of $740,000 (1995 est.)
\BMaritime claims:\b none, but see entry on International disputes
\BInternational disputes:\b Antarctic Treaty defers claims (see Antarctic Treaty Summary below); sections (some overlapping) claimed by Argentina, \JAustralia\j, \JChile\j, \JFrance\j (Adelie Land), New Zealand (Ross Dependency), \JNorway\j (Queen Maud Land), and UK; the US and most other nations do not recognize the territorial claims of other nations and have made no claims themselves (the US reserves the right to do so); no formal claims have been made in the sector between 90 degrees west and 150 degrees west
\BClimate:\b severe low temperatures vary with latitude, elevation, and distance from the ocean; East \JAntarctica\j is colder than West \JAntarctica\j because of its higher elevation; Antarctic Peninsula has the most moderate climate; higher temperatures occur in January along the coast and average slightly below freezing
\BTerrain:\b about 98% thick continental ice sheet and 2% barren rock, with average elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters; mountain ranges up to about 5,000 meters; ice-free coastal areas include parts of southern Victoria Land, Wilkes Land, the Antarctic Peninsula area, and parts of Ross Island on McMurdo Sound; glaciers form ice shelves along about half of the coastline, and floating ice shelves constitute 11% of the area of the continent
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Vinson Massif 5,140 m
\BNatural resources:\b none presently exploited; iron ore, \Jchromium\j, copper, gold, nickel, \Jplatinum\j and other minerals, and coal and \Jhydrocarbons\j have been found in small, uncommercial quantities
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (ice 98%, barren rock 2%)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i in October 1991 it was reported that the ozone shield, which protects the Earth's surface from harmful ultraviolet radiation, had dwindled to the lowest level recorded over \JAntarctica\j since 1975 when measurements were first taken
\Inatural hazards:\i katabatic (gravity-driven) winds blow coastward from the high interior; frequent blizzards form near the foot of the plateau; cyclonic storms form over the ocean and move clockwise along the coast; volcanism on Deception Island and isolated areas of West \JAntarctica\j; other seismic activity rare and weak
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b the coldest, windiest, highest, and driest continent; during summer, more solar radiation reaches the surface at the South Pole than is received at the Equator in an equivalent period; mostly uninhabitable
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are seasonally staffed research stations
Summer (January) population: over 4,115 total; Argentina 207, \JAustralia\j 268, \JBelgium\j 13, \JBrazil\j 80, \JChile\j 256, China NA, \JEcuador\j NA, \JFinland\j 11, \JFrance\j 78, \JGermany\j 32, Greenpeace 12, India 60, \JItaly\j 210, \JJapan\j 59, South Korea 14, Netherlands 10, NZ 264, \JNorway\j 23, \JPeru\j 39, \JPoland\j NA, South Africa 79, \JSpain\j 43, Sweden 10, UK 116, Uruguay NA, US 1,666, former USSR 565 (1989-90)
Winter (July) population: over 1,046 total; Argentina 150, \JAustralia\j 71, \JBrazil\j 12, \JChile\j 73, China NA, \JFrance\j 33, \JGermany\j 19, Greenpeace 5, India 1, \JJapan\j 38, South Korea 14, NZ 11, \JPoland\j NA, South Africa 12, UK 69, Uruguay NA, US 225, former USSR 313 (1989-90)
Year-round stations: 42 total; Argentina 6, \JAustralia\j 3, \JBrazil\j 1, \JChile\j 3, China 2, \JFinland\j 1, \JFrance\j 1, \JGermany\j 1, India 1, \JJapan\j 2, South Korea 1, NZ 1, \JPoland\j 1, South Africa 3, UK 5, Uruguay 1, US 3, former USSR 6 (1990-91)
Summer-only stations: over 38 total; Argentina 7, \JAustralia\j 3, \JChile\j 5, \JGermany\j 3, India 1, \JItaly\j 1, \JJapan\j 4, NZ 2, \JNorway\j 1, \JPeru\j 1, South Africa 1, \JSpain\j 1, Sweden 2, UK 1, US numerous, former USSR 5 (1989-90); note - the disintegration of the former USSR has placed the status and future of its Antarctic facilities in doubt; stations may be subject to closings at any time because of ongoing economic difficulties
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAntarctica\j
\BData code:\b AY
\BType of government:\b
Antarctic Treaty Summary: The Antarctic Treaty, signed on 1 December 1959 and entered into force on 23 June 1961, establishes the legal framework for the management of \JAntarctica\j. Administration is carried out through consultative member meetings - the 18th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting was in \JJapan\j in April 1993. Currently, there are 42 treaty member nations: 26 consultative and 16 acceding. Consultative (voting) members include the seven nations that claim portions of \JAntarctica\j as national territory (some claims overlap) and 19 nonclaimant nations. The US and some other nations that have made no claims have reserved the right to do so. The US does not recognize the claims of others. The year in parentheses indicates when an acceding nation was voted to full consultative (voting) status, while no date indicates the country was an original 1959 treaty signatory. Claimant nations are - Argentina, \JAustralia\j, \JChile\j, \JFrance\j, New Zealand, \JNorway\j, and the UK. Nonclaimant consultative nations are - \JBelgium\j, \JBrazil\j (1983), China (1985), \JEcuador\j (1990), \JFinland\j (1989), \JGermany\j (1981), India (1983), \JItaly\j (1987), \JJapan\j, South Korea (1989), Netherlands (1990), \JPeru\j (1989), \JPoland\j (1977), South Africa, \JSpain\j (1988), Sweden (1988), Uruguay (1985), the US, and \JRussia\j. Acceding (nonvoting) members, with year of accession in parentheses, are - \JAustria\j (1987), \JBulgaria\j (1978), Canada (1988), \JColombia\j (1988), \JCuba\j (1984), Czech Republic (1993), Denmark (1965), \JGreece\j (1987), \JGuatemala\j (1991), \JHungary\j (1984), North Korea (1987), Papua New Guinea (1981), \JRomania\j (1971), \JSlovakia\j (1993), \JSwitzerland\j (1990), and \JUkraine\j (1992).
Article 1: area to be used for peaceful purposes only; military activity, such as weapons testing, is prohibited, but military personnel and equipment may be used for scientific research or any other peaceful purpose
Article 2: freedom of scientific investigation and cooperation shall continue
Article 3: free exchange of information and personnel in cooperation with the UN and other international agencies
Article 4: does not recognize, dispute, or establish territorial claims and no new claims shall be asserted while the treaty is in force
Article 5: prohibits nuclear explosions or disposal of radioactive wastes
Article 6: includes under the treaty all land and ice shelves south of 60 degrees 00 minutes south
Article 7: treaty-state observers have free access, including aerial observation, to any area and may inspect all stations, installations, and equipment; advance notice of all activities and of the introduction of military personnel must be given
Article 8: allows for \Jjurisdiction\j over observers and scientists by their own states
Article 9: frequent consultative meetings take place among member nations
Article 10: treaty states will discourage activities by any country in \JAntarctica\j that are contrary to the treaty
Article 11: disputes to be settled peacefully by the parties concerned or, ultimately, by the ICJ
Articles 12, 13, 14: deal with upholding, interpreting, and amending the treaty among involved nations
Other agreements: more than 170 recommendations adopted at treaty consultative meetings and ratified by governments include - Agreed Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora (1964); Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Seals (1972); Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (1980); a mineral resources agreement was signed in 1988 but was subsequently rejected; in 1991 the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty was signed and awaits ratification; this agreement provides for the protection of the Antarctic environment through five specific annexes on marine \Jpollution\j, fauna, and flora, environmental impact assessments, waste management, and protected areas; it also prohibits all activities relating to mineral resources except scientific research; 21 parties have ratified Protocol as of April 1996
\BLegal system:\b US law, including certain criminal offenses by or against US nationals, such as murder, may apply to areas not under \Jjurisdiction\j of other countries. Some US laws directly apply to \JAntarctica\j. For example, the Antarctic Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. section 2401 et seq., provides civil and criminal penalties for the following activities, unless authorized by regulation of statute: The taking of native mammals or birds; the introduction of nonindigenous plants and animals; entry into specially protected or scientific areas; the discharge or disposal of pollutants; and the importation into the US of certain items from \JAntarctica\j. Violation of the Antarctic Conservation Act carries penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and 1 year in prison. The Departments of Treasury, Commerce, Transportation and Interior share enforcement responsibilities. Public Law 95-541, the US Antarctic Conservation Act of 1978, requires expeditions from the US to \JAntarctica\j to notify, in advance, the Office of Oceans and Polar Affairs, Room 5801, Department of State, Washington, DC 20520, which reports such plans to other nations as required by the Antarctic Treaty. For more information contact Permit Office, Office of Polar Programs, National Science Foundation, Arlington, Virginia 22230 (703) 306-1031.
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b No economic activity at present except for fishing off the coast and small-scale tourism, both based abroad.
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j
\BAirports:\b 50 landing facilities at different locations operated by 16 national governments party to the Treaty; one additional air facility operated by commercial (nongovernmental) tourist organization; \Jhelicopter\j pads at 25 of these locations; runways at 13 locations are gravel, sea ice, \Jglacier\j ice, or compacted snow surface suitable for wheeled fixed-wing \Jaircraft\j; no paved runways; 12 locations have snow-surface skiways limited to use by ski-equipped planes - 8 runways/skiways greater than 3,000 m,10 runways/skiways 1,000 to 3,000 m, 3 runways/skiways less than 1,000 m, and 4 of unspecified or variable length; airports generally subject to severe restrictions and limitations resulting from extreme seasonal and geographic conditions; airports do not meet ICAO standards; advance approval from the respective governmental or non-governmental operating organization required for landing (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i the Antarctic Treaty prohibits any measures of a military nature, such as the establishment of military bases and fortifications, the carrying out of military maneuvers, or the testing of any type of weapon; it permits the use of military personnel or equipment for scientific research or for any other peaceful purposes
#
"Antigua and Barbuda (Atlas)",10,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 03 N, 61 48 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 440 sq km
\Iland area:\i 440 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Redonda
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 153 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly low-lying \Jlimestone\j and \Jcoral\j islands with some higher volcanic areas
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Boggy Peak 402 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible; pleasant climate fosters tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 18%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 7%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 16%
\Iother:\i 59%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water management - a major concern because of limited natural fresh water resources - is further hampered by the clearing of trees to increase crop production, causing rainfall to run off quickly
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October); periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 65,647 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 25% (male 8,386; female 8,043)
\I15-64 years:\i 69% (male 22,589; female 22,548)
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 1,820; female 2,261) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.76% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 16.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.32 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -3.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 17.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.64 years
\Imale:\i 71.55 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.84 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.68 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BReligions:\b Anglican (predominant), other Protestant sects, some Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b English (official), local dialects
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has completed five or more years of schooling (1960 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 89%
\Imale:\i 90%
\Ifemale:\i 88%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Antigua and Barbuda
\BData code:\b AC
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Saint John's
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 parishes and 2 dependencies*; Barbuda*, Redonda*, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mary, Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Saint Philip
\BIndependence:\b 1 November 1981 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 November (1981)
\BConstitution:\b 1 November 1981
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General James B. \JCARLISLE\j (since NA 1993) who was chosen by the queen on advice from the prime minister
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Lester Bryant BIRD (since 8 March 1994) was appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: 17- member body appointed by the governor general
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (17 total) ALP 11, UPP 5, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia), one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the islands and presides over the Court of Summary \JJurisdiction\j
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Antigua Labor Party (ALP), Lester Bryant BIRD; United Progressive Party (UPP), headed by Baldwin SPENCER, a coalition of three opposition political parties-the United National Democratic Party (UNDP); the Antigua Caribbean Liberation Movement (ACLM); and the Progressive Labor Movement (PLM)
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Antigua Trades and Labor Union (ATLU), William ROBINSON; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Hugh MARSHALL
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lionel Alexander HURST
\Ichancery:\i 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 362-5211, 5166, 5122
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 362-5225
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Antigua and Barbuda (embassy closed 30 June 1994); the US Ambassador to \JBarbados\j is accredited to Antigua and Barbuda
\BFlag:\b red with an inverted isosceles triangle based on the top edge of the flag; the triangle contains three horizontal bands of black (top), light blue, and white with a yellow rising sun in the black band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tourism continues to be by far the dominant activity in the economy but the combined share in GDP of transport and communications, trade, and public utilities has increased markedly in recent years. Tourism's direct contribution to output in 1994 was about 20%. In addition, increased tourist arrivals helped spur growth in the construction and transport sectors. The dual island nation's agricultural production is mainly directed to the domestic market; the sector is constrained by the limited water supply and labor shortages that reflect the pull of higher wages in tourism and construction. Manufacturing - which accounts for 3.5% of GDP - comprises enclave-type assembly for export with major products being bedding, handicrafts, and electronic components. Prospects for economic growth in the medium term will continue to depend on income growth in the industrialized world, especially in the US, which accounts for about half of all tourist arrivals.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $425 million (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 4.2% (1994 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $6,600 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 3.5%
\Iindustry:\i 19.3%
\Iservices:\i 77.2% (1994 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 3.5% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 30,000
\Iby occupation:\i commerce and services 82%, agriculture 11%, industry 7% (1983)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 5%-10%(1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $134 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $135.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\BIllicit drugs:\b a long-time but relatively minor transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe and recent transshipment point for heroin from Europe to the US; more significant as a drug money laundering center
\BExports:\b $40.9 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i \Jpetroleum\j products 48%, manufactures 23%, food and live animals 4%, machinery and transport equipment 17%
\Ipartners:\i OECS 26%, \JBarbados\j 15%, \JGuyana\j 4%, Trinidad and Tobago 2%, US 0.3%
\BImports:\b $443.8 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food and live animals, machinery and transport equipment, manufactures, chemicals, oil
\Ipartners:\i US 27%, UK 16%, Canada 4%, OECS 3%, other 50%
\BExternal debt:\b $377 million (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 77 km
narrow gauge: 64 km 0.760-m gauge; 13 km 0.610-m gauge (used almost exclusively for handling sugarcane)
ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 247, chemical tanker 6, combination bulk 1, container 72, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 3, refrigerated cargo 14, roll-on/roll-off cargo 16
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry: \JGermany\j owns 12 ships, \JSlovenia\j 3, \JCroatia\j 2, Cyprus 1, and US 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 6,700
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i good automatic \Jtelephone\j system
\Iinternational:\i 1 coaxial submarine cable; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Saba (Netherlands Antilles) and \JGuadeloupe\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 2, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 28,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal Antigua and Barbuda
\BDefense:\b Force, Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force (includes the Coast Guard)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.4 million, 1% of GDP (FY90/91)
#
"Arctic Ocean (Atlas)",11,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b body of water mostly north of the \JArctic\j Circle
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 90 00 N, 0 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JArctic\j Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 14.056 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than 1.5 times the size of the US; smallest of the world's four oceans (after Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Indian Ocean)
\Bnote:\b includes Baffin Bay, Barents Sea, Beaufort Sea, Chukchi Sea, East Siberian Sea, \JGreenland\j Sea, Hudson Bay, Hudson Strait, Kara Sea, Laptev Sea, Northwest Passage, and other tributary water bodies
\BCoastline:\b 45,389 km
\BInternational disputes:\b some maritime disputes (see littoral states); Svalbard is the focus of a maritime boundary dispute between \JNorway\j and \JRussia\j
\BClimate:\b polar climate characterized by persistent cold and relatively narrow annual temperature ranges; winters characterized by continuous darkness, cold and stable weather conditions, and clear skies; summers characterized by continuous daylight, damp and foggy weather, and weak cyclones with rain or snow
\BTerrain:\b central surface covered by a perennial drifting polar icepack that averages about 3 meters in thickness, although pressure ridges may be three times that size; clockwise drift pattern in the Beaufort Gyral Stream, but nearly straight line movement from the New Siberian Islands (Russia) to Denmark Strait (between \JGreenland\j and Iceland); the icepack is surrounded by open seas during the summer, but more than doubles in size during the winter and extends to the encircling land masses; the ocean floor is about 50% continental shelf (highest percentage of any ocean) with the remainder a central basin interrupted by three submarine ridges (Alpha Cordillera, Nansen Cordillera, and Lomonsov Ridge)
\Ilowest point:\i Fram Basin -4,665 m
\Ihighest point:\i sea level 0 m
\BNatural resources:\b sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i endangered marine species include walruses and whales; fragile \Jecosystem\j slow to change and slow to recover from disruptions or damage
\Inatural hazards:\i ice islands occasionally break away from northern Ellesmere Island; icebergs calved from glaciers in western \JGreenland\j and extreme northeastern Canada; \Jpermafrost\j in islands; virtually icelocked from October to June; ships subject to superstructure icing from October to May
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b major chokepoint is the southern Chukchi Sea (northern access to the Pacific Ocean via the Bering Strait); strategic location between North America and \JRussia\j; shortest marine link between the extremes of eastern and western \JRussia\j, floating research stations operated by the US and \JRussia\j; maximum snow cover in March or April about 20 to 50 centimeters over the frozen ocean; snow cover lasts about 10 months
\BGovernment:\b
\BData code:\b none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is limited to the exploitation of natural resources, including \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas, fish, and seals.
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b Churchill (Canada), \JMurmansk\j (Russia), Prudhoe Bay (US)
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b sparse network of air, ocean, river, and land routes; the Northwest Passage (North America) and Northern Sea Route (Eurasia) are important seasonal waterways
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Iinternational:\i no submarine cables
#
"Argentina (Atlas)",12,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between \JChile\j and Uruguay
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 34 00 S, 64 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,766,890 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,736,690 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three-tenths the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 9,665 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBolivia\j 832 km, \JBrazil\j 1,224 km, \JChile\j 5,150 km, \JParaguay\j 1,880 km, Uruguay 579 km
\BCoastline:\b 4,989 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of the boundary with Uruguay is in dispute; short section of the boundary with \JChile\j is indefinite; claims British-administered Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas); claims British-administered South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands; territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j
\BClimate:\b mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest
\BTerrain:\b rich plains of the Pampas in northern half, flat to rolling plateau of \JPatagonia\j in south, rugged \JAndes\j along western border
\Ilowest point:\i Salinas Chicas -40 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m
\BNatural resources:\b fertile plains of the pampas, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, \Jpetroleum\j, uranium
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 52%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 22%
\Iother:\i 13%
\BIrrigated land:\b 17,600 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i erosion results from inadequate flood controls and improper land use practices; irrigated soil degradation; \Jdesertification\j; air \Jpollution\j in Buenos Aires and other major cities; water \Jpollution\j in urban areas; rivers becoming polluted due to increased \Jpesticide\j and \Jfertilizer\j use
\Inatural hazards:\i \JTucuman\j and \JMendoza\j areas in the \JAndes\j subject to earthquakes; pamperos are violent windstorms that can strike the Pampas and northeast; heavy flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b second-largest country in South America (after Brazil); strategic location relative to sea lanes between South Atlantic and South Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage)
\I65 years and over:\i 9% (male 1,414,412; female 1,961,315) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.1% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 19.41 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.62 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.72 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 28.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.66 years
\Imale:\i 68.37 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.12 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.62 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Argentine(s)
\Iadjective:\i Argentine
\BEthnic divisions:\b white 85%, mestizo, Indian, or other nonwhite groups 15%
\BReligions:\b nominally Roman Catholic 90% (less than 20% practicing), Protestant 2%, Jewish 2%, other 6%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), English, Italian, German, French
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 96.2%
\Imale:\i 96.2%
\Ifemale:\i 96.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Argentine Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i Argentina
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Argentina
\Ilocal short form:\i Argentina
\BData code:\b AR
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Buenos Aires
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 23 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia), and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Buenos Aires; Catamarca; Chaco; Chubut; Cordoba; Corrientes; Distrito Federal*; Entre Rios; Formosa; Jujuy; La Pampa; La \JRioja\j; \JMendoza\j; Misiones; Neuquen; Rio Negro; \JSalta\j; San Juan; San Luis; Santa Cruz; Santa Fe; Santiago del Estero; Tierra del Fuego, Antartida e Islas del Atlantico Sur; \JTucuman\j
\Bnote:\b the US does not recognize any claims to \JAntarctica\j or Argentina's claims to the Falkland Islands
\BIndependence:\b 9 July 1816 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Revolution Day, 25 May (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 1 May 1853; revised August 1994
\BLegal system:\b mixture of US and West European legal systems; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Carlos Saul MENEM (since 8 July 1989) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 May 1995 (next to be held May 1999); results - Carlos Saul MENEM was reelected; Vice President Carlos RUCKAUF
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Senate: elections last held NA May 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) PJ 38, others 34
Chamber of Deputies: one-half of the members elected every two years to four-year terms; elections last held 14 May 1995; (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (257 total) PJ 132, UCR 68, Frepaso 26, other 31
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), the nine Supreme Court judges are appointed by the president with approval of the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Justicialist Party (PJ), Carlos Saul MENEM, Peronist umbrella political organization; Radical Civic Union (UCR), Rodolfo TERRAGNO, moderately left-of-center party; Union of the Democratic Center (UCD), conservative party; Dignity and Independence Political Party (MODIN), Aldo RICO, right-wing party; Grand Front (Frente Grande), Carlos ALVAREZ, center-left coalition; Front for a Country in Solidarity (Frepaso, a four party coalition), leader Jose Octavio BORDON; several provincial parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Peronist-dominated labor movement; General Confederation of Labor (CGT), Peronist-leaning umbrella labor organization; Argentine Industrial Union (manufacturers' association); Argentine Rural Society (large landowners' association); business organizations; students; the Roman Catholic Church; the Armed Forces
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Raul Enrique GRANILLO OCAMPO
\Ichancery:\i 1600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-6400 through 6403
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador James R. CHEEK
\Iembassy:\i 4300 \JColombia\j, 1425 Buenos Aires
\Imailing address:\i Unit 4334, APO AA 34034
\Itelephone:\i [54] (1) 777-4533, 4534
\IFAX:\i [54] (1) 777-0197
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of light blue (top), white, and light blue; centered in the white band is a radiant yellow sun with a human face known as the Sun of May
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Argentina, rich in natural resources, benefits also from a highly literate population, an export-oriented agricultural sector, and a diversified industrial base. Nevertheless, following decades of mismanagement and statist policies, the economy in the late 1980s was plagued with huge external debts and recurring bouts of hyperinflation. Elected in 1989, in the depths of recession, President MENEM has implemented a comprehensive economic restructuring program that shows signs of putting Argentina on a path of stable, sustainable growth. Argentina's currency has traded at par with the US dollar since April 1991, and \Jinflation\j has fallen to its lowest level in 20 years. Argentines have responded to the relative price stability by repatriating flight capital and investing in domestic industry. After registering impressive 7.4% growth in 1994, based largely on inflows of foreign capital and strong domestic consumption, the Argentine economy stumbled in 1995 as financial pressures fueled by the Mexican peso crisis and political squabbling within the MENEM administration undermined investor confidence and triggered capital outflows. By yearend, GDP had contracted 4.4%, unemployment reached 16%, and Buenos Aires struggled to meet fiscal targets. On the trade front, exports soared during the first half of 1995 - largely because of strong demand in \JBrazil\j and high commodity prices - while anemic domestic consumption lowered imports; the resulting yearend trade surplus was about $1.2 billion. However, because exports contribute only 7.5% to GDP, increased foreign sales had little impact on aggregate growth. High unemployment will continue to plague the MENEM administration for the next several years as provincial entities are readied for privatization and more public sector employees are laid off.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $278.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Ibroad gauge:\i 24,124 km 1.676-m gauge (142 km electrified)
standard gauge: 2,765 km 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 11,021 km 1.000-m gauge (26 km electrified)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 215,578 km
\Ipaved:\i 61,440 km
\Iunpaved:\i 154,138 km
\BWaterways:\b 11,000 km navigable
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 4,090 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 2,900 km; natural gas 9,918 km
\BPorts:\b \JBahia\j Blanca, Buenos Aires, Comodoro Rivadavia, Concepcion del Uruguay, La Plata, Mar del Plata, Necochea, Rio Gallegos, Rosario, Santa Fe, Ushuaia
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 549 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2.7 million (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b 12,000 public telephones; extensive modern system but many families do not have telephones; despite extensive use of microwave radio relay, the \Jtelephone\j system frequently grounds out during rainstorms, even in Buenos Aires
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay and a domestic satellite system with 40 earth stations serve the trunk network
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 171, FM 0, shortwave 13
\BRadios:\b 22.3 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 231
\BTelevisions:\b 7.165 million (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Argentine Army, Navy of the Argentine Republic, Argentine Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Argentine Naval Prefecture (Coast Guard only), National Aeronautical Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 8,707,014
\Imales fit for military service:\i 7,063,304
males reach military age (20) annually: 310,107 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $4.7 billion, 1.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Armenia (Atlas)",13,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 00 N, 45 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 29,800 sq km
\Iland area:\i 28,400 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,254 km
\Iborder countries:\i Azerbaijan-proper 566 km, Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave 221 km, Georgia 164 km, \JIran\j 35 km, Turkey 268 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b supports ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh in their separatist conflict against the Azerbaijani Government; traditional demands on former Armenian lands in Turkey have subsided
\BClimate:\b highland continental, hot summers, cold winters
\BTerrain:\b high Armenian Plateau with mountains; little forest land; fast flowing rivers; good soil in Aras River valley
\Ilowest point:\i Debed River 400 m
\Ihighest point:\i Aragats Lerr 4,095 m
\BNatural resources:\b small deposits of gold, copper, molybdenum, zinc, \Jalumina\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 17%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 20%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 60%
\BIrrigated land:\b 3,050 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil \Jpollution\j from toxic chemicals such as DDT; energy blockade, the result of conflict with \JAzerbaijan\j, has led to deforestation as citizens scavenge for firewood; \Jpollution\j of Hrazdan (Razdan) and Aras Rivers; the draining of Sevana Lich, a result of its use as a source for hydropower, threatens drinking water supplies; restart of Metsamor nuclear power plant without adequate (IAEA-recommended) safety and backup systems
\Inatural hazards:\i occasionally severe earthquakes; droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\Bnote:\b with the adoption of the new constitution of 5 July 1995, the country was divided into 10 provinces plus the capital: Aragatsotn, Ararat, Armavir, Gegharkunik, Gugark, Kotayk, Shirak, Syunk, Uak, Vayots Dzor, and the capital city of Yerevan
\BIndependence:\b 28 May 1918 (First Armenian Republic); 23 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Referendum Day, 21 September
\BConstitution:\b adopted by nationwide referendum 5 July 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Levon Akopovich TER-PETROSSIAN (since NA October 1991) was elected Chairman of the Armenian Supreme Soviet 4 August 1990 before being elected president by popular vote; election last held 16 October 1991 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - Levon Akopovich TER-PETROSSIAN 86%, radical nationalists 7% (est.)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Hrant BAGRATYAN (since 16 February 1993) was appointed by the president; First Deputy Prime Minister Vigen CHITECHYAN (since 16 February 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 5 July 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (190 total) Republican Bloc 159 (ANM 63, DLP-Hanrapetutyun Bloc 6, Republic Party 4, CDU 3, Intellectual Armenia 3, Social Democratic Party 2, independents 78), SWM 8, ACP 7, NDU 5, NSDU 3, DLP 1, ARF 1, other 4, vacant 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
Republic Bloc (Hanrapetoutioun): Armenian National Movement (ANM), Husik LAZARIAN, chairman; Democratic Liberal Party (split away from the opposition party); Republican Party, Ashot NAVARSARDIAN, chairman; Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Azat ARSHAKIAN, chairman; Intellectual Armenia, H. TOKMAJIAN; Social Democratic (Hnchakian) Party, Yeghia NAJARIAN
opposition parties: Shamiram Women's Movement (SWM), Nadezhda SARKISIAN; Armenian Communist Party (ACP), Sergey BADALYAN; National Democratic Union (NDU), Davit VARDANIAN and Vasken MANUKIAN; Union of National Self-Determination (NSDU), Paruir HAIRIKIAN, chairman; Democratic Liberal Party (DLP), Rouben MIRZAKHANIAN, chairman; Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF), Rouben HAKOBIAN, chairman
\Ichancery:\i 11th floor, 1660 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 628-5766
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 628-5769
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter TOMSEN
\Iembassy:\i 18 Gen Bagramian, Yerevan
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [7] (3742) 151-144, 524-661
\IFAX:\i [7] (3742) 151-138
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, and gold
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Under the old Soviet central planning system, Armenia had developed a modern industrial sector, supplying machine building tools, textiles, and other manufactured goods to sister republics in exchange for raw materials and energy. Armenia is a food importer and its mineral deposits (gold, bauxite) are small. The economic decline in recent years (1991-94) has been particularly severe due to the ongoing conflict over the ethnic Armenian-dominated region of Nagorno-Karabakh in \JAzerbaijan\j. \JAzerbaijan\j and Turkey have blockaded pipeline and railroad traffic to Armenia for its support of the Karabakh Armenians. This has left Armenia with chronic energy shortages because of a lack of capacity and frequent disruptions of natural gas deliveries through unstable Georgia, as well as difficulties in obtaining other types of fuel. Nevertheless, the economy appears to have bottomed out due largely to the government's strong reform program. GDP grew by about 5% in 1995. \JInflation\j fell from an average 40% per month in early 1994 to an average 2.4% per month in 1995. A full economic recovery, however, cannot be expected until the conflict is settled and the blockade lifted.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $9.1 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Icommodities:\i grain, other foods, fuel, other energy
\Ipartners:\i \JIran\j, \JRussia\j, Turkmenistan, Georgia, US, EU
\BExternal debt:\b $850 million (of which $75 million to Russia) (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $30 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b commitments (excluding Russia), $1,385 million ($675 million in disbursements) (1992-95)
\BCurrency:\b 1 dram = 100 luma (introduced new currency in November 1993)
\BExchange rates:\b dram per US$1 - 401.8 (end December 1995), 406 (end December 1994)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 825 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 825 km 1.520-m gauge (1992)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,300 km
\Ipaved:\i 10,500 km (including graveled)
\Iunpaved:\i 800 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA km
\BPipelines:\b natural gas 900 km (1991)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 11
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 1 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 650,000
\BTelephone system:\b joint venture agreement to install fiber-optic cable and construct facilities for cellular \Jtelephone\j service remains in the negotiation phase
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i international connections to other former Soviet republics are by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries by satellite and by leased connection through the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 10, FM 3, shortwave NA (1991)
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\Bnote:\b 100% of population receives Armenian and Russian TV programs
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 901,974
\Imales fit for military service:\i 719,212
males reach military age (18) annually: 29,988 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $75 million, NA% of GDP (1992)
#
"Aruba (Atlas)",14,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (part of the Dutch realm)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 30 N, 69 58 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 193 sq km
\Iland area:\i 193 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 68.5 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b flat with a few hills; scant vegetation
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Jamanota 188 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible; white sandy beaches
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 67,794 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 22% (male 7,850; female 7,155)
\I15-64 years:\i 69% (male 22,499; female 24,596)
\I65 years and over:\i 9% (male 2,353; female 3,341) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.31% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.62 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.24 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -5.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.92 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.93 male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 76.68 years
\Imale:\i 73 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.55 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Aruban(s)
\Iadjective:\i Aruban
\BEthnic divisions:\b mixed European/Caribbean Indian 80%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 82%, Protestant 8%, Hindu, Muslim, Confucian, Jewish
\BLanguages:\b Dutch (official), Papiamento (a Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English dialect), English (widely spoken), Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAruba\j
\BData code:\b AA
\BType of government:\b part of the Dutch realm; full autonomy in internal affairs obtained in 1986 upon separation from the Netherlands \JAntilles\j
\BCapital:\b Oranjestad
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
\BIndependence:\b none (part of the Dutch realm; in 1990, \JAruba\j requested and received from the Netherlands cancellation of the agreement to automatically give independence to the island in 1996)
\BNational holiday:\b Flag Day, 18 March
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1986
\BLegal system:\b based on Dutch civil law system, with some English common law influence
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen \JBEATRIX\j Wilhelmina Armgard (of the Netherlands since 30 April 1980), a constitutional monarch, is represented by Governor General Olindo KOOLMAN (since 1 January 1992) who was appointed for a six-year term by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jan (Henny) H. EMAN (since 29 July 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister Glenbert F. CROES were appointed by the legislature
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the legislature
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislature (Staten): elections last held 29 July 1994 (next to be held by NA July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total) AVP 10, MEP 9, OLA 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Joint High Court of Justice
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Electoral Movement Party (MEP), Nelson ODUBER; Aruban People's Party (AVP), Jan (Henny) H. EMAN; National Democratic Action (ADN), Pedro Charro KELLY; New Patriotic Party (PPN), Eddy WERLEMEN; Aruban Patriotic Party (PPA), Benny NISBET; Aruban Democratic Party (PDA), Leo BERLINSKI; Democratic Action '86 (AD '86), Arturo ODUBER; Aruban Liberal Party (OLA), Glenbert CROES
\Bnote:\b governing coalition includes the AVP and OLA
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
\BFlag:\b blue with two narrow horizontal yellow stripes across the lower portion and a red, four-pointed star outlined in white in the upper hoist-side corner
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tourism is the mainstay of the Aruban economy, although offshore banking and oil refining and storage are also important. The rapid growth of the tourism sector over the last decade has resulted in a substantial expansion of other activities. Construction has boomed, with hotel capacity five times the 1985 level. In addition, the reopening of the country's oil refinery in 1993, a major source of employment and foreign exchange earnings, has further spurred growth. \JAruba\j's small labor force and less than 1% unemployment rate have led to a large number of unfilled job vacancies despite sharp rises in wage rates in recent years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.2 billion (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 6.1% (1994 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $18,000 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 6.1% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i most employment is in the tourist industry (1995)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 0.5% (1994)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $145 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $185 million, including capital expenditures of $42 million (1988)
\Icommodities:\i food, consumer goods, manufactures, \Jpetroleum\j products, crude oil for refining and reexport
\Ipartners:\i US 8%, EU
\BExternal debt:\b $669 million (December 1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Aruban florin (Af.) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Aruban florins (Af.) per US$1 - 1.7900 (fixed rate since 1986)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Barcadera, Oranjestad, Sint Nicolaas
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Bnote:\b government-owned airport east of Oranjestad accepts transatlantic flights (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 22,922 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i more than adequate
\Iinternational:\i 1 submarine cable to Sint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles); extensive interisland microwave radio relay links
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 19,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the Netherlands
#
"Ashmore and Cartier Islands (Atlas)",15,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Australia)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 14 S, 123 05 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 5 sq km
\Iland area:\i 5 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about eight times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Ashmore Reef (West, Middle, and East Islets) and Cartier Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 74.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 12 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b low with sand and \Jcoral\j
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 3 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all grass and sand)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i surrounded by shoals and reefs that can pose maritime hazards
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve established in August 1983
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are only seasonal caretakers
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Ashmore and Cartier Islands
\BData code:\b AT
\BType of government:\b territory of \JAustralia\j administered by the Australian Ministry for the Environment, Sport, and Territories
\BCapital:\b none; administered from \JCanberra\j, \JAustralia\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BLegal system:\b relevant laws of the Northern Territory of \JAustralia\j
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of Australia)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of Australia)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j; periodic visits by the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force
#
"Atlantic Ocean (Atlas)",16,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b body of water between Africa, Europe, \JAntarctica\j, and the Western Hemisphere
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 00 N, 25 00 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 82.217 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than nine times the size of the US; second-largest of the world's four oceans (after the Pacific Ocean, but larger than Indian Ocean or \JArctic\j Ocean)
\Bnote:\b includes Baltic Sea, Black Sea, Caribbean Sea, Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, Drake Passage, Gulf of Mexico, Mediterranean Sea, North Sea, Norwegian Sea, Scotia Sea, Weddell Sea, and other tributary water bodies
\BCoastline:\b 111,866 km
\BInternational disputes:\b some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
\BClimate:\b tropical cyclones (hurricanes) develop off the coast of Africa near Cape Verde and move westward into the Caribbean Sea; hurricanes can occur from May to December, but are most frequent from August to November
\BTerrain:\b surface usually covered with sea ice in Labrador Sea, Denmark Strait, and Baltic Sea from October to June; clockwise warm water gyre (broad, circular system of currents) in the northern Atlantic, counterclockwise warm water gyre in the southern Atlantic; the ocean floor is dominated by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a rugged north-south centerline for the entire Atlantic basin
\Ilowest point:\i Puerto Rico Trench -8,605 m
\Ihighest point:\i sea level 0 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales), sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, precious stones
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i endangered marine species include the \Jmanatee\j, seals, sea lions, turtles, and whales; drift net fishing is hastening the decline of fish stocks and contributing to international disputes; municipal sludge \Jpollution\j off eastern US, southern \JBrazil\j, and eastern Argentina; oil \Jpollution\j in Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Lake \JMaracaibo\j, Mediterranean Sea, and North Sea; industrial waste and municipal sewage \Jpollution\j in Baltic Sea, North Sea, and Mediterranean Sea
\Inatural hazards:\i icebergs common in Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, and the northwestern Atlantic Ocean from February to August and have been spotted as far south as \JBermuda\j and the Madeira Islands; icebergs from \JAntarctica\j occur in the extreme southern Atlantic Ocean; ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme northern Atlantic from October to May and extreme southern Atlantic from May to October; persistent fog can be a maritime hazard from May to September
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b major choke points include the Dardanelles, Strait of \JGibraltar\j, access to the Panama and Suez Canals; strategic straits include the Strait of Dover, Straits of \JFlorida\j, Mona Passage, The Sound (Oresund), and Windward Passage; the Equator divides the Atlantic Ocean into the North Atlantic Ocean and South Atlantic Ocean
\BGovernment:\b
\BData code:\b none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Atlantic Ocean provides some of the world's most heavily trafficked sea routes, between and within the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Other economic activity includes the exploitation of natural resources, e.g., fishing, the dredging of \Jaragonite\j sands (The Bahamas), and production of crude oil and natural gas (Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and North Sea).
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b Alexandria (Egypt), \JAlgiers\j (Algeria), Antwerp (Belgium), \JBarcelona\j (Spain), Buenos Aires (Argentina), \JCasablanca\j (Morocco), Colon (Panama), \JCopenhagen\j (Denmark), \JDakar\j (Senegal), Gdansk (Poland), \JHamburg\j (Germany), \JHelsinki\j (Finland), Las Palmas (Canary Islands, Spain), Le Havre (France), \JLisbon\j (Portugal), London (UK), \JMarseille\j (France), \JMontevideo\j (Uruguay), Montreal (Canada), Naples (Italy), New Orleans (US), New York (US), Oran (Algeria), Oslo (Norway), \JPiraeus\j (Greece), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Rotterdam (Netherlands), Saint Petersburg (Russia), Stockholm (Sweden)
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b Kiel Canal and Saint Lawrence Seaway are two important waterways
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Iinternational:\i numerous submarine cables with most between continental Europe and the UK, between North America and the UK, and in the Mediterranean; numerous direct links across Atlantic via satellite networks
#
"Australia (Atlas)",17,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 27 00 S, 133 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 7,686,850 sq km
\Iland area:\i 7,617,930 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than the US
\Bnote:\b includes Macquarie Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 25,760 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Australian Antarctic Territory)
\BClimate:\b generally arid to semiarid; temperate in south and east; tropical in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly low plateau with deserts; fertile plain in southeast
\Ilowest point:\i Lake Eyre -15 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Kosciusko 2,229 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, coal, iron ore, copper, tin, silver, uranium, nickel, \Jtungsten\j, mineral sands, lead, zinc, diamonds, natural gas, \Jpetroleum\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 58%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 14%
\Iother:\i 22%
\BIrrigated land:\b 18,800 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion from overgrazing, industrial development, urbanization, and poor farming practices; soil \Jsalinity\j rising due to the use of poor quality water; \Jdesertification\j; clearing for agricultural purposes threatens the natural habitat of many unique animal and plant species; the Great Barrier Reef off the northeast coast, the largest \Jcoral\j reef in the world, is threatened by increased shipping and its popularity as a tourist site; limited natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclones along the coast; severe droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b world's smallest continent but sixth-largest country; population concentrated along the eastern and southeastern coasts; regular, tropical, invigorating, sea breeze known as "the Doctor" occurs along the west coast in the summer
\I65 years and over:\i 13% (male 967,291; female 1,261,452) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.99% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 13.99 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.88 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 2.74 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.77 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 79.39 years
\Imale:\i 76.44 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.5 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.84 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Australian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Australian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Caucasian 95%, Asian 4%, aboriginal and other 1%
\BReligions:\b Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%
\BLanguages:\b English, native languages
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 100%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of \JAustralia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAustralia\j
\BData code:\b AS
\BType of government:\b federal parliamentary state
\BCapital:\b \JCanberra\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 states and 2 territories*; Australian Capital Territory*, New South Wales, Northern Territory*, \JQueensland\j, South \JAustralia\j, \JTasmania\j, Victoria, Western \JAustralia\j
Dependent areas: Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, \JCoral\j Sea Islands, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1901 (federation of UK colonies)
\BNational holiday:\b \JAustralia\j Day, 26 January (1788)
\BConstitution:\b 9 July 1900, effective 1 January 1901
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir William DEANE (since 16 February 1996) who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister John Winston HOWARD (since 11 March 1996) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Timothy Andrew FISCHER (since 11 March 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was selected from among the members of Federal Parliament by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Parliament
Senate: elections last held 2 March 1996 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) Liberal-National 37, Labor 29, Australian Democrats 8, Greens 1, independent 1
House of Representatives: elections last held 2 March 1996 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (148 total) Liberal-National 94, Labor 49, independent 5
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, the Chief Justice and six other justices are appointed by the governor general
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
government: coalition of Liberal Party, John Winston HOWARD and National Party, Timothy Andrew FISCHER
opposition: Australian Labor Party, Kim BEAZLEY; Australian Democratic Party, Absent at time of publication; Green Party, Bob BROWN
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Australian Democratic Labor Party (anti-Communist Labor Party splinter group); Peace and Nuclear Disarmament Action (Nuclear Disarmament Party splinter group)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John Phillip MCCARTHY
\Ichancery:\i 1601 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-3000
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 797-3168
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JHonolulu\j, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Pago Pago (American Samoa), and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward J. PERKINS
\Iembassy:\i Moonah Place, Yarralumla, \JCanberra\j, Australian Capital Territory 2600
\Imailing address:\i APO AP 96549
\Itelephone:\i [61] (6) 270-5000
\IFAX:\i [61] (6) 270-5970
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney
\Iconsulate(s):\i Brisbane
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large seven-pointed star in the lower hoist-side quadrant; the remaining half is a representation of the Southern Cross \Jconstellation\j in white with one small five-pointed star and four, larger, seven-pointed stars
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JAustralia\j has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy, with a per capita GDP comparable to levels in highly industrialized West European countries. Rich in natural resources, \JAustralia\j is a major exporter of agricultural products, minerals, metals, and fossil fuels. Commodities account for more than 80% of the value of total exports, so that, as in 1983-84, a downturn in world commodity prices can have a big impact on the economy. The government is pushing for increased exports of manufactured goods, but competition in international markets continues to be severe. \JAustralia\j has suffered from the low growth and high unemployment characterizing the OECD countries in the early 1990s. In 1992-93 the economy recovered slowly from the prolonged recession of 1990-91, a major restraining factor being weak world demand for \JAustralia\j's exports. Growth picked up so strongly in 1994 that the government felt the need for fiscal and monetary tightening by yearend. \JAustralia\j's GDP grew 6.4% in 1994, largely due to increases in industrial output and business investment. A severe \Jdrought\j in 1994 reduced the value of \JAustralia\j's net farm production, but rising world commodity prices are likely to boost commodity exports by 15% to $42.4 billion in 1995/96, according to government statistics. Short-term economic problems include a balancing of output growth and inflationary pressures and the stimulation of exports to offset rising imports.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $405.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i finance and services 33.8%, public and community services 22.3%, wholesale and retail trade 20.1%, manufacturing and industry 16.2%, agriculture 6.1% (1987)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8.1% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $95.69 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $95.15 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.)
\BIndustries:\b mining, industrial and transportation equipment, food processing, chemicals, steel
\BIllicit drugs:\b \JTasmania\j is one of the world's major suppliers of licit opiate products; government maintains strict controls over areas of opium poppy cultivation and output of poppy straw concentrate
\BExports:\b $51.57 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i coal, gold, meat, wool, \Jalumina\j, wheat, machinery and transport equipment
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 25%, US 11%, South Korea 6%, NZ 5.7%, UK, \JTaiwan\j, \JSingapore\j, Hong Kong (1992)
\BImports:\b $57.41 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, computers and office machines, crude oil and \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i US 23%, \JJapan\j 18%, UK 6%, \JGermany\j 5.7%, NZ 4% (1992)
\BExternal debt:\b $147.2 billion (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
donor: ODA, $953 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
ships by type: bulk 30, cargo 4, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 1, container 6, liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 18, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 442
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 9
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 13
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 106
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 116
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 30
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 22
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 146 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 8.7 million (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b good domestic and international service
\Idomestic:\i domestic satellite system
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and \JIndonesia\j; satellite earth stations - 10 Intelsat (4 Indian Ocean and 6 Pacific Ocean), 2 Inmarsat (Indian and Pacific Ocean Regions)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 258, FM 67, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 4,848,777
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,192,250
males reach military age (17) annually: 127,569 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $7.3 billion, 2.0% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Austria (Atlas)",18,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, north of \JItaly\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 47 20 N, 13 20 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 83,850 sq km
\Iland area:\i 82,730 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Maine
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,558 km
\Iborder countries:\i Czech Republic 362 km, \JGermany\j 784 km, \JHungary\j 366 km, \JItaly\j 430 km, \JLiechtenstein\j 37 km, \JSlovakia\j 91 km, \JSlovenia\j 324 km, \JSwitzerland\j 164 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; continental, cloudy; cold winters with frequent rain in lowlands and snow in mountains; cool summers with occasional showers
\BTerrain:\b in the west and south mostly mountains (Alps); along the eastern and northern margins mostly flat or gently sloping
\Icurrent issues:\i some forest degradation caused by air and soil \Jpollution\j; soil \Jpollution\j results from the use of agricultural chemicals; air \Jpollution\j results from emissions by coal- and oil-fired power stations and industrial plants and from trucks transiting \JAustria\j between northern and southern Europe
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; strategic location at the crossroads of central Europe with many easily traversable \JAlpine\j passes and valleys; major river is the Danube; population is concentrated on eastern lowlands because of steep slopes, poor soils, and low temperatures elsewhere
\I65 years and over:\i 15% (male 451,231; female 780,854) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.41% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 11.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.43 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 3.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.58 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 76.53 years
\Imale:\i 73.38 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.84 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.49 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Austrian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Austrian
\BEthnic divisions:\b German 99.4%, Croatian 0.3%, Slovene 0.2%, other 0.1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 6%, other 9%
\BLanguages:\b German
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1974 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JAustria\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JAustria\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republik Oesterreich
\Ilocal short form:\i Oesterreich
\BData code:\b AU
\BType of government:\b federal republic
\BCapital:\b Vienna
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 states (bundeslaender, singular - bundesland); Burgenland, Kaernten, Niederoesterreich, Oberoesterreich, \JSalzburg\j, Steiermark, Tirol, Vorarlberg, Wien
\BIndependence:\b 12 November 1918 (from Austro-Hungarian Empire)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 26 October (1955)
\BConstitution:\b 1920; revised 1929 (reinstated 1 May 1945)
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with Roman law origin; judicial review of legislative acts by the Constitutional Court; separate administrative and civil/penal supreme courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal; compulsory for presidential elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Thomas KLESTIL (since 8 July 1992) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held 1998); results of second ballot - Thomas KLESTIL 57%, Rudolf STREICHER 43%
\Ihead of government:\i Chancellor Franz VRANITZKY (since 16 June 1986) was chosen by the president from the majority party in the National Council; Vice Chancellor Wolfgang SCHUESSEL (since 22 April 1995) was chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Assembly (Bundesversammlung)
Federal Council (Bundesrat): consists of 63 members representing each of the provinces on the basis of population, but with each province having at least three representatives
National Council (Nationalrat): elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held Fall 1999); results - SPOE 38.3%, OEVP 28.3%, FPOE 22.1%, Greens 4.6%, LF 5.3%, other 1.4%; seats - (183 total) SPOE 71, OEVP 53, FPOE 40, Greens 9, LF 10
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Judicial Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for civil and criminal cases; Administrative Court (Verwaltungsgerichtshof) for bureaucratic cases; Constitutional Court (Verfassungsgerichtshof) for constitutional cases
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party of \JAustria\j (SPOE), Franz VRANITZKY, chairman; Austrian People's Party (OEVP), Wolfgang SCHUESSEL, chairman; Freedom Movement (F, formerly the Freedom Party of \JAustria\j or FPOE), Joerg HAIDER, chairman; Communist Party (KPOE), Walter SILBERMAYER, chairman; The Greens, Madeleine PETROVIC; Liberal Forum (LF), Heide SCHMIDT
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Federal Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Austrian Trade Union Federation (primarily Socialist); three composite leagues of the Austrian People's Party (OEVP) representing business, labor, and farmers; OEVP-oriented League of Austrian Industrialists; Roman Catholic Church, including its chief lay organization, Catholic Action
\Ichancery:\i 3524 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008-3035
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 895-6700
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 895-6750
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Swanee G. HUNT
\Ichancery:\i Boltzmanngasse 16, A-1091, Vienna
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [43] (1) 313-39
\IFAX:\i [43] (1) 310-0682
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JAustria\j has a well-developed market economy with a sizable - but falling - proportion of nationalized industry, an extensive social system, and a high standard of living. \JAustria\j's economy is closely integrated with \JGermany\j and other EU members - \JAustria\j joined the EU on 1 January 1995. Since the early 1980s, the Austrian economy has experienced stable growth. Following a mild recession in 1993, \JAustria\j's economy - driven by strong exports, investment, and private consumption - expanded 2.7% in 1994 and about 2.4% in 1995. The slowdown in 1995 was largely due to an appreciation of the Austrian schilling and its negative effect on exports and tourism. EU membership has had a positive impact on foreign investment and has helped to lower \Jinflation\j. Despite \JAustria\j's generally favorable economic prospects, the government faces a number of economic challenges, especially budget consolidation. Smaller than expected revenues and rising welfare payments caused the budget deficit to climb to 7.1% of GDP in 1995. \JAustria\j also faces a growing unemployment problem. Although low by European standards, \JAustria\j's unemployment rate has risen gradually during the 1990s as companies restructured to meet competition from the EU single market and Eastern Europe.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $152 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 56.4%, industry and crafts 35.4%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 8.1%
\Bnote:\b an estimated 200,000 Austrians are employed in other European countries; foreign laborers in \JAustria\j number 177,840, about 5% of labor force (1988)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 4.6% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $65 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $75.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b food, iron and steel, machines, textiles, chemicals, electrical, paper and pulp, tourism, mining, motor vehicles
Industrial production growth rate: 7.7% (first half 1995)
males reach military age (19) annually: 45,628 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $2.1 billion, 1.0% of GDP (1995)
#
"Azerbaijan (Atlas)",19,0,0,0
Note: \JAzerbaijan\j continues to be plagued by an unresolved eight-year-old conflict with Armenian separatists over its Nagorno-Karabakh region. The Karabakh Armenians have declared independence and seized almost 20% of the country's territory, creating almost 1 million Azeri refugees in the process. Both sides have generally observed a Russian-mediated cease-fire in place since May 1994, and support the OSCE-mediated peace process, now entering its fifth year. Nevertheless, \JBaku\j and Xankandi (Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh region) remain far apart on most substantive issues from the placement and composition of a peacekeeping force to the enclave's ultimate political status, and prospects for a negotiated settlement remain dim.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between \JIran\j and \JRussia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 30 N, 47 30 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 86,600 sq km
\Iland area:\i 86,100 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maine
\Bnote:\b includes the exclave of Naxcivan Autonomous Republic and the Nagorno-Karabakh region; the region's autonomy was abolished by Azerbaijani Supreme Soviet on 26 November 1991
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,013 km
\Iborder countries:\i Armenia (with Azerbaijan-proper) 566 km, Armenia (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 221 km, Georgia 322 km, \JIran\j (with Azerbaijan-proper) 432 km, \JIran\j (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 179 km, \JRussia\j 284 km, Turkey 9 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\Bnote:\b \JAzerbaijan\j borders the Caspian Sea (800 km, est.)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b violent and longstanding dispute with ethnic Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh over its status; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
\BClimate:\b dry, semiarid steppe
\BTerrain:\b large, flat Kur-Araz Lowland (much of it below sea level) with Great Caucasus Mountains to the north, Qarabag (Karabakh) Upland in west; \JBaku\j lies on Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula that juts into Caspian Sea
\Ilowest point:\i Caspian Sea -28 m
\Ihighest point:\i Bazarduzu Dagi 4,485 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas, iron ore, nonferrous metals, \Jalumina\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 18%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 25%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 53%
\BIrrigated land:\b 14,010 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i local scientists consider the Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula (including \JBaku\j and Sumqayit) and the Caspian Sea to be the ecologically most devastated area in the world because of severe air, water, and soil \Jpollution\j; soil \Jpollution\j results from the use of DDT as a \Jpesticide\j and also from toxic defoliants used in the production of cotton
\Inatural hazards:\i droughts; some lowland areas threatened by rising levels of the Caspian Sea
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 59 rayons (rayonlar; rayon - singular), 11 cities* (saharlar; sahar - singular), 1 autonomous republic** (muxtar respublika); Abscron Rayonu, Agcabadi Rayonu, Agdam Rayonu, Agdas Rayonu, Agstafa Rayonu, Agsu Rayonu, AliBayramli Sahari*, Astara Rayonu, Baki Sahari*, Balakan Rayonu, Barda Rayonu, Beylaqan Rayonu, Bilasuvar Rayonu, Cabrayil Rayonu, Calilabad Rayonu, Daskasan Rayonu, Davaci Rayonu, Fuzuli Rayonu, Gadabay Rayonu, Ganca Sahari*, Goranboy Rayonu, Goycay Rayonu, Haciqabul Rayonu, Imisli Rayonu, Ismayilli Rayonu, Kalbacar Rayonu, Kurdamir Rayonu, Lacin Rayonu, Lankaran Rayonu, Lankaran Sahari*, Lerik Rayonu, Masalli Rayonu, Mingacevir Sahari*, Naftalan Sahari*, Naxcivan Muxtar Respublikasi**, Neftcala Rayonu, Oguz Rayonu, Qabala Rayonu, Qax Rayonu, Qazax Rayonu, Qobustan Rayonu, Quba Rayonu, Qubadli Rayonu, Qusar Rayonu, Saatli Rayonu, Sabirabad Rayonu, \JSaki\j Rayonu, \JSaki\j Sahari*, Salyan Rayonu, Samaxi Rayonu, Samkir Rayonu, Samux Rayonu, Siyazan Rayonu, Sumqayit Sahari*, \JSusa\j Rayonu, \JSusa\j Sahari*, \JTartar\j Rayonu, Tovuz Rayonu, Ucar Rayonu, Xacmaz Rayonu, Xankandi Sahari*, Xanlar Rayonu, Xizi Rayonu, Xocali Rayonu, Xocavand Rayonu, Yardimb Rayonu, Yevlax Rayonu, Yevlax Sahari*, Zangilan Rayonu, Zaqatala Rayonu, Zardab Rayonu
\BIndependence:\b 30 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 28 May
\BConstitution:\b adopted 12 November 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Heydar ALIYEV (since 18 June 1993) was elected by popular vote; election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held 1997 or 1998); results - Heydar ALIYEV won 97% of vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Fuad QULIYEV (since 9 October 1994), First Deputy Prime Ministers \JAbbas\j ABBASOV (since NA), Samed SADYKOV (since NA), Vahid AKHMEDOV (since NA), Elchin EFENDIYEV (since NA) were appointed by the president and confirmed by the Milli Mejlis
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president and confirmed by the Mejlis
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Milli Mejlis): elections last held 12 and 26 November 1995 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (125 total) number of seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JAzerbaijan\j Popular Front (APF), Ebulfez ELCIBEY, chairman; Musavat Party, Isa GAMBAR, chairman; National Independence Party, Etibar MAMEDOV, chairman; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Araz ALIZADE, chairman; Communist Party, Ramiz AKHMEDOV, chairman; People's Freedom Party, Yunus OGUZ, chairman; Independent Social Democratic Party, Arif YUNUSOV and Leila YUNOSOVA, cochairmen; New \JAzerbaijan\j Party, Heydar ALIYEV, chairman; Boz Gurd Party, Iskander HAMIDOV, chairman; \JAzerbaijan\j Democratic Independence Party, Qabil HUSEYNLI, chairman; Islamic Party of \JAzerbaijan\j, Ali Akram, chairman; Ana Veten Party, Fazail AGAMALIYEV; \JAzerbaijan\j Democratic Party, Sardar Jalaloglu MAMEDOV; \JAzerbaijan\j Democratic Party of Proprietors (DPOP), Makhmud MAMEDOV; \JAzerbaijan\j Patriotic Solidarity Party, Sabir RUSTAMHANLI; \JAzerbaijan\j Republic Reform Party, Fuad ASADOV; Communist Party of \JAzerbaijan\j (unregistered), Sayad SAYADOV; Equality of the Peoples Party, Faukhraddin AYDAYEV; Independent \JAzerbaijan\j Party, Nizami SULEYMANOV; Labor Party of \JAzerbaijan\j, Sabutai HAJIYEV; Liberal-Democratic Party of \JAzerbaijan\j, Lyudmila NIKOLAYEVNA; National Enlightenment Party, Hajy Osman EFENDIYEV; National Liberation Party, Panak SHAKHSEVEV; Peasant Party, Firuz MUSTAFAYEV; Radical Party of \JAzerbaijan\j, Malik SHARIFOV; United \JAzerbaijan\j Party, Kerrar ABILOV; Vetan Adzhagy Party, Zakir TAGIYEV
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b self-proclaimed Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh Republic; Talysh independence movement
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a crescent and eight-pointed star in white are centered in red band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JAzerbaijan\j is less developed industrially than either Armenia or Georgia, the other Transcaucasian states. It resembles the Central Asian states in its majority nominally Muslim population, high structural unemployment, and low standard of living. The economy's most prominent products are oil, cotton, and gas. Production from the Caspian oil and gas field has been in decline for several years, but the November 1994 ratification of the $7.5 billion oil deal with a consortium of Western companies should generate the funds needed to spur future industrial development. \JAzerbaijan\j shares all the formidable problems of the ex-Soviet republics in making the transition from a command to a market economy, but its considerable energy resources brighten its long-term prospects. \JBaku\j has only recently begun making progress on economic reform, and old economic ties and structures have yet to be replaced. Whereas the economies of most of the former Soviet republics had begun to bottom out in 1995, \JAzerbaijan\j's economy continued to plummet because of its late start on economic reform.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $11.5 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 32%, industry and construction 26%, other 42% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 2.3% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $465 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $488 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j and natural gas, \Jpetroleum\j products, oilfield equipment; steel, iron ore, cement; chemicals and \Jpetrochemicals\j; textiles
Industrial production growth rate: -21% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy, mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; limited government eradication program; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $549.9 million (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i oil and gas, chemicals, oilfield equipment, textiles, cotton
\Ipartners:\i mostly \JCIS\j and European countries
\BImports:\b $681.5 million (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and parts, consumer durables, foodstuffs, textiles
\Ipartners:\i European countries
\BExternal debt:\b $100 million (of which $75 million to Russia)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $14 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b commitments, 1992-95, $1,000 million ($185 million in disbursements); wheat from Turkey
\BCurrency:\b 1 manat = 100 gopik
\BExchange rates:\b manats per US$1 - 4,375 (April 1996), 4,500 (April 1995), 4,168 (end of December 1994)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,125 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 2,125 km 1.520-m gauge (1,278 km electrified) (1993)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 36,700 km
\Ipaved:\i 31,800 km (includes graveled)
\Iunpaved:\i 4,900 km (1990 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,130 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 630 km; natural gas 1,240 km
\Idomestic:\i \Jtelephone\j service is of poor quality and inadequate; a joint venture to establish a cellular \Jtelephone\j system in the \JBaku\j area was supposed to become operational in 1994
\Iinternational:\i cable and microwave radio relay connections to former Soviet republics; connection through Moscow international gateway switch to other countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and 1 Intersputnik (Intelsat provides service to Turkey and through Turkey to 200 more countries; Intersputnik provides direct service to New York)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA (1 state-owned radio broadcast station)
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\Bnote:\b domestic and Russian TV programs are received locally and Turkish and Iranian TV is received from an Intelsat satellite through a receive-only earth station
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Maritime Border Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,952,390
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,574,813
males reach military age (18) annually: 68,006 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 33.5 billion manats, NA% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Bahrain (Atlas)",20,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi \JArabia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 26 00 N, 50 33 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 620 sq km
\Iland area:\i 620 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 161 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: extending to boundaries to be determined
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b territorial dispute with \JQatar\j over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary with \JQatar\j
\BClimate:\b arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly low desert plain rising gently to low central escarpment
\Ilowest point:\i Persian Gulf 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal ad Dukhan 122 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil, associated and nonassociated natural gas, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 6%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 90%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jdesertification\j resulting from the degradation of limited arable land, periods of \Jdrought\j, and dust storms; coastal degradation (damage to coastlines, \Jcoral\j reefs, and sea vegetation) resulting from oil spills and other discharges from large tankers, oil refineries, and distribution stations; no natural fresh water resources so that \Jgroundwater\j and sea water are the only sources for all water needs
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j
\BGeographic note:\b close to primary Middle Eastern \Jpetroleum\j sources; strategic location in Persian Gulf which much of Western world's \Jpetroleum\j must transit to reach open ocean
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 85.2%
\Imale:\i 89.1%
\Ifemale:\i 79.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i State of \JBahrain\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBahrain\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Dawlat al Bahrayn
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Bahrayn
\BData code:\b BA
\BType of government:\b traditional monarchy
\BCapital:\b \JManama\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 12 municipalites (manatiq, singular - mintaqah); Al Hadd, Al Manamah, Al Mintaqah al Gharbiyah, Al Mintaqah al Wusta, Al Mintaqah ash Shamaliyah, Al Muharraq, Ar Rifa'wa al Mintaqah al Janubiyah, Jidd Hafs, Madinat Hamad, Madinat 'Isa, Juzur Hawar, Sitrah; note - all municipalities administered from \JManama\j
\BIndependence:\b 15 August 1971 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 16 December (1971)
\BConstitution:\b 26 May 1973, effective 6 December 1973
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law and English common law
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Amir ISA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 2 November 1961) is a traditional Arab monarch; Heir Apparent HAMAD bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (son of the Amir, born 28 January 1949)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 19 January 1970) was appointed by the amir
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the amir
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly was dissolved 26 August 1975 and legislative powers were assumed by the Cabinet; appointed Advisory Council established 16 December 1992
\BJudicial branch:\b High Civil Appeals Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b political parties prohibited
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b several small, clandestine leftist and Islamic fundamentalist groups are active; following the arrest of a popular Shi'a cleric, Shi'a activists fomented unrest sporadically from late 1994 to September 1995, demanding the return of an elected National Assembly and an end to unemployment
\BFlag:\b red with a white serrated band (eight white points) on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b In \JBahrain\j, \Jpetroleum\j production and processing account for about 80% of export receipts, 60% of government revenues, and 30% of GDP. Economic conditions have fluctuated with the changing fortunes of oil since 1985, for example, during and following the Gulf crisis of 1990-91. With its highly developed communication and transport facilities, \JBahrain\j is home to numerous multinational firms with business in the Gulf. A large share of exports consists of \Jpetroleum\j products made from imported crude. Unemployment, especially among the young, and the depletion of both oil and underground water resources are major long-term economic problems.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.3 billion (1995 est.)
ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 3, chemical tanker 1, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 73,552 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern system; good domestic services and excellent international connections
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter to \JQatar\j and UAE; microwave radio relay to Saudi \JArabia\j; submarine cable to \JQatar\j, UAE, and Saudi \JArabia\j; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 320,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 270,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Coast Guard, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 213,792
\Imales fit for military service:\i 118,702 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $247 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994)
#
"Baker Island (Atlas)",21,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, \Jatoll\j in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 13 N, 176 31 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.4 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1.4 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 2.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 4.8 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
\BTerrain:\b low, nearly level \Jcoral\j island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 8 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j (deposits worked until 1891)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b treeless, sparse, and scattered vegetation consisting of grasses, prostrate vines, and low growing shrubs; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited; note - American civilians evacuated in 1942 after Japanese air and naval attacks during World War II; occupied by US military during World War II, but abandoned after the war; public entry is by special-use permit only and generally restricted to scientists and educators; a cemetery and cemetery ruins are located near the middle of the west coast
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Baker Island
\BData code:\b FQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge system
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only; note - there is one boat landing area along the middle of the west coast
\BAirports:\b 1 abandoned World War II runway of 1,665 m
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b there is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard
#
"Bangladesh (Atlas)",22,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between \JBurma\j and India
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 24 00 N, 90 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 144,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 133,910 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JWisconsin\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,246 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBurma\j 193 km, India 4,053 km
\BCoastline:\b 580 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 18 nm
continental shelf: up to the outer limits of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b a portion of the boundary with India in dispute; water-sharing problems with upstream riparian India over the Ganges
\BClimate:\b tropical; cool, dry winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); cool, rainy monsoon (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat alluvial plain; hilly in southeast
\Icurrent issues:\i many people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone land; limited access to potable water; water-borne diseases prevalent; water \Jpollution\j especially of fishing areas results from the use of commercial pesticides; intermittent water shortages because of falling water tables in the northern and central parts of the country; soil degradation; deforestation; severe overpopulation
\Inatural hazards:\i droughts, cyclones; much of the country routinely flooded during the summer monsoon season
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\Bnote:\b there may be two new divisions named Barisal and Sylhet
\BIndependence:\b 16 December 1971 (from Pakistan)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 March (1971)
\BConstitution:\b 4 November 1972, effective 16 December 1972, suspended following coup of 24 March 1982, restored 10 November 1986, amended many times
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Abdur Rahman BISWAS (since 8 October 1991) was elected for a five-year term by National Parliament; election last held 8 October 1991 (next to be held by NA October 1996); results - Abdur Rahman BISWAS received 52.1% of parliamentary vote
\Ihead of government:\i Caretaker Prime Minister Muhammad Habibur RAHMAN (since 31 March 1996) was appointed by the president (see note under Legislative branch entry)
\Icabinet:\i Advisory Council was appointed by the president on 3 April 1996
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Parliament (Jatiya Sangsad): elections last held 15 February 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (330 total, 300 elected and 30 seats reserved for women) seats by party NA; note - the election was held despite the fact that it was boycotted by the major opposition parties; Prime Minister Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN's party won a landslide victory, but, under continuing pressure from the opposition, who called for an annulment of the results, National Parliament passed a bill that established a caretaker government to oversee new elections on a date yet to be determined; President BISWAS then dissolved Parliament and named a caretaker prime minister to replace Prime Minister ZIAur RAHMAN
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, the Chief Justices and other judges are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JBangladesh\j Nationalist Party (BNP), Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN; Awami League (AL), Sheikh Hasina WAJED; Jatiyo Party (JP), Hussain Mohammad ERSHAD (in jail); Jamaat-E-Islami (JI), Motiur Rahman NIZAMI; \JBangladesh\j Communist Party (BCP), Saifuddin Ahmed MANIK; National Awami Party (Muzaffar); Workers Party, Rashid Khan MENON; Jatiyo Samajtantik Dal (JSD), Serajul ALAM KHAN; Ganotantri Party, leader NA; Islami Oikya Jote, leader NA; National Democratic Party (NDP), leader NA; Muslim League, Khan A. SABUR; Democratic League, Khondakar MUSHTAQUE Ahmed; United People's Party, Kazi ZAFAR Ahmed
\BFlag:\b green with a large red disk slightly to the hoist side of center; green is the traditional color of \JIslam\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Despite sustained domestic and international efforts to improve economic and demographic prospects, \JBangladesh\j remains one of the world's poorest, most densely populated, and least developed nations. Annual GDP growth has averaged over 4% in recent years from a low base. Its economy is overwhelmingly agricultural, with the cultivation of rice the single most important activity in the economy. Major impediments to growth include frequent cyclones and floods, the inefficiency of state-owned enterprises, a rapidly growing labor force that cannot be absorbed by agriculture, delays in exploiting energy resources (natural gas), inadequate power supplies, and, most recently, political disturbances. In 1995, progress on \JBangladesh\j's development agenda has been slowed by frequent political unrest before and after national elections in early 1996. Opposition parties have challenged the government's authority by resigning from Parliament and sponsoring numerous countrywide strikes that have crippled transport, hindered business activity, and threatened to slow economic growth in 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $144.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); international radiotelephone communications and landline service to neighboring countries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 11
\BTelevisions:\b 350,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces (includes \JBangladesh\j Rifles, \JBangladesh\j Ansars, Armed Police Reserve, Village
\BDefense:\b Parties, National Cadet Corps)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 31,795,848
\Imales fit for military service:\i 18,814,818 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $481 million, 1.7% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Barbados (Atlas)",23,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 10 N, 59 32 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 430 sq km
\Iland area:\i 430 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 97 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b relatively flat; rises gently to central highland region
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Hillaby 336 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, fish, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 77%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 9%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 14%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jpollution\j of coastal waters from waste disposal by ships; soil erosion; illegal solid waste disposal threatens contamination of aquifers
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes (especially June to October); periodic landslides
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Hazardous Wastes
\BGeographic note:\b easternmost Caribbean island
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 257,030 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 24% (male 31,263; female 29,822)
\I15-64 years:\i 66% (male 83,565; female 86,697)
\I65 years and over:\i 10% (male 9,929; female 15,754) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.26% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.29 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -4.49 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.63 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 18.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 74.35 years
\Imale:\i 71.65 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.25 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.78 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Barbadian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Barbadian
\BEthnic divisions:\b African 80%, European 4%, other 16%
\BReligions:\b Protestant 67% (Anglican 40%, Pentecostal 8%, Methodist 7%, other 12%), Roman Catholic 4%, none 17%, unknown 3%, other 9% (1980)
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97.4%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 96.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBarbados\j
\BData code:\b BB
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JBridgetown\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 11 parishes; Christ Church, Saint Andrew, Saint George, Saint James, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Lucy, Saint Michael, Saint Peter, Saint Philip, Saint Thomas
\Bnote:\b the city of \JBridgetown\j may be given parish status
\BIndependence:\b 30 November 1966 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 30 November (1966)
\BConstitution:\b 30 November 1966
\BLegal system:\b English common law; no judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Acting Governor General Denys WILLIAMS (since 21 December 1995) who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Owen Seymour ARTHUR (since 6 September 1994) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Billie MILLER (since 6 September 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 21-member body appointed by the governor general
House of Assembly: election last held 6 September 1994 (next to be held by January 1999); results - percentage vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) BLP 19, DLP 8,NDP 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Judicature, judges are appointed by the Service Commissions for the Judicial and Legal Service
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Labor Party (DLP), David THOMPSON; \JBarbados\j Labor Party (BLP), Owen ARTHUR; National Democratic Party (NDP), Richard HAYNES
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b \JBarbados\j Workers Union, Leroy TROTMAN; People's Progressive Movement, Eric SEALY; Workers' Party of \JBarbados\j, Dr. George BELLE; Clement Payne Labor Union, David COMMISSIONG
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Courtney N. BLACKMAN
\Ichancery:\i 2144 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-9218, 9219
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-7467
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami and New York
\Iconsulate(s):\i Los Angeles
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jeanette W. HYDE
\Iembassy:\i Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Building, Broad Street, \JBridgetown\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 302, \JBridgetown\j; FPO AA 34055
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 436-4950
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 429-5246
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold, and blue with the head of a black trident centered on the gold band; the trident head represents independence and a break with the past (the colonial coat of arms contained a complete trident)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Historically, the Barbadian economy has been dependent on sugarcane cultivation and related activities, but in recent years the production has diversified into manufacturing and tourism. Sluggish performances in the sugar and tourism sectors - which declined by 25% and 8% respectively - tempered economic expansion in 1995; output increased by 2% for the year, down from nearly 4% in 1994. Improved weather conditions in 1995 are expected to boost agriculture output in 1996. Since taking office in 1994, Prime Minister ARTHUR has aggressively moved to promote foreign direct investment as part of a policy designed to reduce nagging unemployment. The government has also been active in promoting regional \Jintegration\j initiatives.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services and government 41%, commerce 15%, manufacturing and construction 18%, transportation, storage, communications, and financial institutions 8%, agriculture 6%, utilities 2% (1992 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 19.9% (September 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $550 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $710 million, including capital expenditures of $86 million (FY95/96 est.)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, sugar, light manufacturing, component assembly for export
Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 152,100 kW
\Iproduction:\i 510 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 1,841 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b sugarcane, vegetables, cotton
\BIllicit drugs:\b one of many Caribbean transshipment points for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe
\BExports:\b $158.6 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i sugar and molasses, rum, other foods and beverages, chemicals, electrical components, clothing
\Ipartners:\i US 13%, UK 10%, Trinidad and Tobago 9%, Windward Islands 8%
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 87,343 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i island wide automatic \Jtelephone\j system
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Trinidad and Saint Lucia
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1 pay)
\BTelevisions:\b 69,350 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal \JBarbados\j
\BDefense:\b Force (includes Ground Forces and Coast Guard), Royal \JBarbados\j Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 71,667
\Imales fit for military service:\i 49,726 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Bassas da India (Atlas)",24,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (possession of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, islands in the southern \JMozambique\j Channel, about one-half of the way from Madagascar to \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 30 S, 39 50 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 0.2 sq km
\Iland area:\i 0.2 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about one-third the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 35.2 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by Madagascar
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b a volcanic rock 2.4 meters high
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 3 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all rock)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i maritime hazard since it is usually under water during high tide and surrounded by reefs; subject to periodic cyclones
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Bassas da India
\BData code:\b BS
\BType of government:\b French possession administered by a Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
\BCapital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Belarus (Atlas)",25,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, east of \JPoland\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 53 00 N, 28 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 207,600 sq km
\Iland area:\i 207,600 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Kansas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,098 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JLatvia\j 141 km, \JLithuania\j 502 km, \JPoland\j 605 km, \JRussia\j 959 km, \JUkraine\j 891 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b cold winters, cool and moist summers; transitional between continental and maritime
\BTerrain:\b generally flat and contains much marshland
\Ilowest point:\i Nyoman River 90 m
\Ihighest point:\i Dzyarzhynskaya Hara 346 m
\BNatural resources:\b forests, peat deposits, small quantities of oil and natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 29%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 15%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 55%
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,490 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil \Jpollution\j from \Jpesticide\j use; southern part of the country contaminated with fallout from 1986 nuclear reactor accident at Chornobyl'
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, \JBiodiversity\j, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\Bnote:\b the administrative centers of the voblastsi are included in parentheses
\BIndependence:\b 25 August 1991 (from Soviet Union); the Belarussian Supreme Soviet issued a proclamation of independence; on 17 July 1990 \JBelarus\j issued a declaration of sovereignty
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 July (1990)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 15 March 1994; replaces constitution of April 1978
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Aleksandr LUKASHENKO (since 20 July 1994) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 24 June and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Aleksandr LUKASHENKO 85%, Vyacheslav KEBICH 15%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Mikhail CHIGIR (since NA July 1994) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Vladimir GARKUN (since NA), Sergey LING (since NA), Leonid SINITSYN (since NA), Valeriy KOKAREV (since NA), Vladimir RUSAKEVICH (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\Bnote:\b first presidential elections took place in June-July 1994
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Supreme Soviet: elections last held May, Nov-Dec 1995 (two rounds, each with a run-off; next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (260 total) KPB 42, Agrarian 33, CAB 9, Party of People's Concord 8, UPNAZ 2, SDPB 2, BPR 1, Green Party 1, Republican Party of Labor and Justice 1, BSP 1, NFB 1, Social and Sports Party 1, Ecological Party 1, independents 95, vacant 62
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Belarusian Communist Party (KPB), Vasiliy NOVIKOV, Viktor CHIKIN, chairmen; Agrarian Party, Semen SHARETSKIY; Civic Accord Bloc (CAB); Party of People's Concord, Gennadiy KARPENKO; Party of All-Belarusian Unity and Concord (UPNAZ), Dmitriy BULAKOV; Belarusian Social-Democrat Hramada (SDBP), Alex TRUSOV; Belarusian Patriotic Movement (BPR), Anatol BARANKEVICH; Green Party of \JBelarus\j, Mikalay KARTASH; Republican Party of Labor and Justice, Anatol NETSILKIN; \JBelarus\j Peasants (BSP), Yevgeniy LUGIN, chairman; Belarusian Popular Front (NFB), Zenon POZNYAK, chairman; Belarusian Social Sports Party, Vladimir ALEKSANDROVICH; Ecological Party, Aleksiy MIKULICH; National Democratic Party of \JBelarus\j (NDPB), Victor NAVUMENKA; United Democratic Party of \JBelarus\j (ADPB), Aleksandr DOBROVOLSKIY; Belarusian Socialist Party (SPB), Vyacheslav KUZNETSOV; Slavic Assembly (SAB), Nikolai SYARECHEV; Liberal-Democratic Party (LDPB), Vasil KRIVENKA; Belarusian Christian-Democratic Unity (BKDZ), Petr SILKO; Polish Democratic Union (PDZ), Konstantin TARASEVICH; Party of Beer Lovers, Yuriy GONCHAR; Belarusian Labor Party (BPP), Aleksandr BUKHVOSTOV
\BInternational organization participation:\b CCC, CE (guest), \JCIS\j, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sergey Nikolayevich MARTYNOV
\Ichancery:\i 1619 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 986-1604
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 986-1805
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kenneth Spencer YALOWITZ
\Iembassy:\i Starovilenskaya #46-220002, Minsk
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [375] (172) 31-50-00
\IFAX:\i [375] (172) 34-78-53
\BFlag:\b red horizontal band (top) and green horizontal band one-half the width of the red band; a white vertical stripe of white on the hoist side bears in red the Belarusian national ornament
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b At the time of independence in late 1991, \JBelarus\j was one of the most developed of the former Soviet states, inheriting a modern - by Soviet standards - machine building sector and robust agricultural sector. However, the breakup of the Soviet Union and its traditional trade ties, as well as the government's failure to embrace market reforms, has resulted in a sharp economic decline. Privatization is virtually nonexistent and the system of state orders and distribution persists. Although President LUKASHENKO pronounces his 1995 macro stabilization policies a success - annual \Jinflation\j dropped from 2,220% in 1994 to 244% in 1995 - the IMF has criticized his insistence on maintaining the steady exchange rate for Belarusian rubel, which has traded at 11,500 to the dollar since late 1994. The IMF suspended Minsk's $300 million standby program in November 1995 until the government would agree to a \Jdevaluation\j of the rubel. The overvalued rubel has especially hurt Belarusian exporters, most of which now operate at a loss. In addition, the January 1995 Customs Union agreement with \JRussia\j - which required Minsk to adjust its foreign trade practices to mirror Moscow's - has resulted in higher import tariffs for Belarusian consumers; tariffs have risen from 5%-20% to 20%-40%.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $49.2 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 40%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 21%, other 39% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 2.6% officially registered unemployed (December 1994); large numbers of underemployed workers
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $4.95 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $5.47 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b tractors, metal-cutting machine tools, off-highway dump trucks up to 110-metric-ton load capacity, wheel-type earth movers for construction and mining, eight-wheel-drive, high-flotation trucks with cargo capacity of 25 metric tons for use in \Jtundra\j and roadless areas, equipment for animal husbandry and livestock feeding, motorcycles, \Jtelevision\j sets, chemical fibers, \Jfertilizer\j, linen fabric, wool fabric, radios, refrigerators, other consumer goods
Industrial production growth rate: -11% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for the domestic market; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $4.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs
\Ibroad gauge:\i 5,488 km 1.520-m gauge (873 km electrified) (1993)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 92,200 km
\Ipaved:\i 61,000 km (including graveled)
\Iunpaved:\i 31,200 km (1994 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA km; note - \JBelarus\j has extensive and widely used canal and river systems
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,470 km; refined products 1,100 km; natural gas 1,980 km (1992)
\BPorts:\b Mazyr
\BMerchant Marine:\b
\Bnote:\b claims 5% of former Soviet fleet (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 118
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 18
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 11
with unpaved runways over 3,047 m: 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 6
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 62 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.849 million (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j service inadequate for the purposes of either business or the population; about 70% of the telephones are in homes; over 750,000 applications from households for telephones remain unsatisfied (1992 est.); new investment centers on international connections and business needs
\Idomestic:\i the new NMT-450 analog cellular system is now operating in Minsk
\Iinternational:\i international traffic is carried by the Moscow international gateway switch and also by satellite; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (through Canada) and 1 Eutelsat (through the UK)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 35, FM 18, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.17 million (1991 est.) (5,615,000 with multiple speaker systems for program diffusion)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (one national and one private; the license of the private station was suspended during the parliamentary elections of 1994)
\BTelevisions:\b 3.5 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air Force, Air
\BDefense:\b Force, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,635,570
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,067,676
males reach military age (18) annually: 76,006 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 892 billion rubels, 1% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Belgium (Atlas)",26,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between \JFrance\j and the Netherlands
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 50 50 N, 4 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 30,510 sq km
\Iland area:\i 30,230 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,385 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JFrance\j 620 km, \JGermany\j 167 km, Luxembourg 148 km, Netherlands 450 km
\BCoastline:\b 64 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: median line with neighbors
exclusive fishing zone: median line with neighbors (extends about 68 km from coast)
\BTerrain:\b flat coastal plains in northwest, central rolling hills, rugged mountains of Ardennes Forest in southeast
\Ilowest point:\i North Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Signal de Botrange 694 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 24%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 20%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 21%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i Meuse River, a major source of drinking water, polluted from steel production wastes; other rivers polluted by animal wastes and fertilizers; industrial air \Jpollution\j contributes to acid rain in neighboring countries
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding is a threat in areas of reclaimed coastal land, protected from the sea by concrete dikes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b crossroads of Western Europe; majority of West European capitals within 1,000 km of Brussels which is the seat of the EU
\Bnote:\b constitutional reforms passed by Parliament in 1993 increased the number of provinces to 10 by splitting the province of Brabant into two new provinces, Flemish Brabant and \JWalloon\j Brabant
\BIndependence:\b 4 October 1830 (from the Netherlands)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 21 July (ascension of King LEOPOLD to the throne in 1831)
\BConstitution:\b 7 February 1831, last revised 14 July 1993; parliament approved a constitutional package creating a federal state
\BLegal system:\b civil law system influenced by English constitutional theory; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King ALBERT II (since 9 August 1993) is a constitutional monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jean-Luc DEHAENE (since 6 March 1992) was appointed by the king and then approved by Parliament
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet is appointed by the king and approved by Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate (Flemish - Senaat, French - Senat): elections last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (71 total, 40 directly elected; 31 will be indirectly elected at a later date) CVP 7, SP 6, VLD 6, VU 2, AGALEV 1, VB 3, PS 5, PRL 5, PSC 3, ECOLO 2; note - before the 1995 elections, there were 184 seats
Chamber of Deputies(Flemish - Kamer van
Volksvertegenwoordigers, French - Chambre des
Representants): elections last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999); results - CVP 17.2%, PS 11.9%, SP 12.6%, VLD 13.1%, PRL 10.3%, PSC 7.7%, VB 7.8%, VU 4.7%, ECOLO 4.0%, AGALEV 4.4%, FN 2.3%; seats - (150 total) CVP 29, PS 21, SP 20, VLD 21, PRL 18, PSC 12, VB 11, VU 5, ECOLO 6, AGALEV 5, FN 2; note - before the 1995 elections, there were 212 seats
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Flemish - Hof van Cassatie, French - Cour de Cassation), judges are appointed for life by the Belgian monarch
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Flemish Christian Democrats (CVP - Christian People's Party), Johan VAN HECKE, president; Francophone Christian Democrats (PSC - Social Christian Party), Gerard DEPREZ, president; Flemish Socialist Party (SP), Louis TOBBACK, president; Francophone Socialist Party (PS), Philippe BUSQUIN, president; Flemish Liberal Democrats (VLD), Herman DE CROO, president; Francophone Liberal Reformation Party (PRL), Louis MICHEL, president; Francophone Democratic Front (FDF), Olivier MAINGAIN, president; Volksunie (VU), Bert ANCIAUX, president; Vlaams Blok (VB), Karel DILLEN, chairman; National Front (FN), Daniel FERET, president; AGALEV (Flemish Greens), no president; ECOLO (Francophone Greens), no president; other minor parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Christian and Socialist Trade Unions; Federation of Belgian Industries; numerous other associations representing bankers, manufacturers, middle-class artisans, and the legal and medical professions; various organizations represent the cultural interests of Flanders and Wallonia; various peace groups such as the Flemish Action Committee Against Nuclear Weapons and Pax Christi
\Ichancery:\i 3330 Garfield Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 333-6900
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 333-3079
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alan J. BLINKEN
\Iembassy:\i 27 Boulevard du Regent, B-1000 Brussels
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09724, PSC 82, Box 002, Brussels
\Itelephone:\i [32] (2) 508-2111
\IFAX:\i [32] (2) 511-2725
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of black (hoist side), yellow, and red; the design was based on the flag of \JFrance\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This small private enterprise economy has capitalized on its central geographic location, highly developed transport network, and diversified industrial and commercial base. Industry is concentrated mainly in the populous Flemish area in the north, although the government is encouraging reinvestment in the southern region of \JWalloon\j. With few natural resources, \JBelgium\j must import substantial quantities of raw materials and export a large volume of manufactures, making its economy unusually dependent on the state of world markets. Two-thirds of its trade is with other EU countries. The economy grew at a strong 4% annual pace during the period 1988-90, slowed to 1% in 1991-92, dropped by 1.5% in 1993, and recovered with moderate 2.3% growth in 1994 and 1995. \JBelgium\j's public debt has risen to 140% of GDP, and the government is trying to control its expenditures to bring the figure more into line with other industrialized countries.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $197 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 63.6%, industry 28%, construction 6.1%, agriculture 2.3% (1988)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 14% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b \Jengineering\j and metal products, motor vehicle assembly, processed food and beverages, chemicals, basic metals, textiles, glass, \Jpetroleum\j, coal
\BIllicit drugs:\b source of precursor chemicals for South American \Jcocaine\j processors; transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j entering the European market
\BExports:\b $108 billion (f.o.b., 1994) Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union (BLEU)
\Icommodities:\i iron and steel, transportation equipment, tractors, diamonds, \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i EU 67.2% (Germany 19%), US 5.8%, former Communist countries 1.4% (1994)
\BImports:\b $140 billion (c.i.f., 1994) Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union
ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 8, chemical tanker 5, liquefied gas tanker 3, oil tanker 6 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 42
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 6
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 9
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 21
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5.691 million (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b highly developed, technologically advanced, and completely automated domestic and international \Jtelephone\j and telegraph facilities
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 39, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 100,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 32 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 3,315,662 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,571,588
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,135,375
males reach military age (19) annually: 61,986 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $4.6 billion, 1.7% of GDP (1995)
#
"Belize (Atlas)",27,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between \JGuatemala\j and Mexico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 15 N, 88 45 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 22,960 sq km
\Iland area:\i 22,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JMassachusetts\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 516 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGuatemala\j 266 km, Mexico 250 km
\BCoastline:\b 386 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm in the north, 3 nm in the south; note - from the mouth of the Sarstoon River to Ranguana Cay, \JBelize\j's territorial sea is 3 nm; according to \JBelize\j's Maritime Areas Act, 1992, the purpose of this limitation is to provide a framework for the negotiation of a definitive agreement on territorial differences with \JGuatemala\j
\BInternational disputes:\b border with \JGuatemala\j in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are stalled
\BClimate:\b tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season (May to February)
\BTerrain:\b flat, swampy coastal plain; low mountains in south
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Victoria Peak 1,160 m
\BNatural resources:\b arable land potential, timber, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 2%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 44%
\Iother:\i 52%
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; water \Jpollution\j from sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent, devastating hurricanes (September to December) and coastal flooding (especially in south)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b national capital moved 80 km inland from \JBelize\j City to Belmopan because of hurricanes; only country in Central America without a coastline on the North Pacific Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 219,296 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 43% (male 48,291; female 46,451)
\I15-64 years:\i 53% (male 59,132; female 57,498)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 3,881; female 4,043) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.42% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 32.8 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.73 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.89 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 33.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 68.53 years
\Imale:\i 66.58 years
\Ifemale:\i 70.58 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.12 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 21 September (1981)
\BConstitution:\b 21 September 1981
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Colville YOUNG (since 17 November 1993), who, according to the constitution, must be a Belizean; was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Manuel ESQUIVEL (since July 1993) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Dean BARROW (since NA 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly
Senate: consists of an eight-member appointed body; five members are appointed on the advice of the prime minister, two on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and one after consultation with the \JBelize\j Advisory Council (this council serves as an independent body to advise the governor general with respect to difficult decisions such as granting pardons, commutations, stays of execution, the removal of justices of appeal who appear to be incompetent, etc.)
National Assembly: elections last held 30 June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) PUP 13 UDP 15
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, the chief justice is appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's United Party (PUP), George PRICE, Florencio MARIN, Said MUSA; United Democratic Party (UDP), Manuel ESQUIVEL, Dean LINDO, Dean BARROW; National Alliance for Belizean Rights, Philip GOLDSON
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Society for the Promotion of Education and Research (SPEAR), Assad SHOMAN; United Workers Front, leader NA
\Ichancery:\i 2535 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-9636
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-6888
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador George Charles BRUNO
\Iembassy:\i Gabourel Lane and Hutson Street, \JBelize\j City
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 286, \JBelize\j City; APO: Unit 7401, APO AA 34025
\Itelephone:\i [501] (2) 77161 through 77163
\IFAX:\i [501] (2) 30802
\BFlag:\b blue with a narrow red stripe along the top and the bottom edges; centered is a large white disk bearing the coat of arms; the coat of arms features a shield flanked by two workers in front of a mahogany tree with the related motto SUB \JUMBRA\j FLOREO (I Flourish in the Shade) on a scroll at the bottom, all encircled by a green garland
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The small, essentially private enterprise economy is based primarily on agriculture, agro-based industry, and merchandising, with tourism and construction assuming increasing importance. Agriculture accounts for about 30% of GDP and provides 75% of export earnings, while sugar, the chief crop, accounts for almost 40% of hard currency earnings. The US, \JBelize\j's main trading partner, is assisting in efforts to reduce dependency on sugar with an agricultural diversification program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $575 million (1994 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j; an illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; minor money-laundering center
\BExports:\b $115 million (f.o.b., 1993)
\Icommodities:\i sugar, \Jcitrus\j fruits, bananas, clothing, fish products, molasses, wood
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 8 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 15,917 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b above-average system
\Idomestic:\i trunk network depends primarily on microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 5, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 27,048 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b \JBelize\j
\BDefense:\b Force (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Volunteer Guard), \JBelize\j National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 52,290
\Imales fit for military service:\i 31,086
males reach military age (18) annually: 2,390 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $8.1 million, NA% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Benin (Atlas)",28,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JNigeria\j and \JTogo\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 9 30 N, 2 15 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 112,620 sq km
\Iland area:\i 110,620 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JPennsylvania\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,989 km
\Iborder countries:\i Burkina Faso 306 km, \JNiger\j 266 km, \JNigeria\j 773 km, \JTogo\j 644 km
\BCoastline:\b 121 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to undulating plain; some hills and low mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Tanekas 641 m
\BNatural resources:\b small offshore oil deposits, \Jlimestone\j, marble, timber
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 12%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 4%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 35%
\Iother:\i 45%
\BIrrigated land:\b 60 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i recent droughts have severely affected marginal agriculture in north; inadequate supplies of potable water; poaching threatens wildlife populations; deforestation; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dusty \Jharmattan\j wind may affect north in winter
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 60,030; female 75,937) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.32% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 46.76 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 13.53 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.91 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.79 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 105.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 52.69 years
\Imale:\i 50.74 years
\Ifemale:\i 54.7 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.64 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Beninese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Beninese
\BEthnic divisions:\b African 99% (42 ethnic groups, most important being Fon, Adja, \JYoruba\j, Bariba), Europeans 5,500
\BReligions:\b indigenous beliefs 70%, Muslim 15%, Christian 15%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Fon and \JYoruba\j (most common vernaculars in south), tribal languages (at least six major ones in north)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 37%
\Imale:\i 48.7%
\Ifemale:\i 25.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Benin
\Iconventional short form:\i Benin
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique du Benin
\Ilocal short form:\i Benin
\Iformer:\i Dahomey
\BData code:\b BN
\BType of government:\b republic under multiparty democratic rule dropped Marxism-Leninism December 1989; democratic reforms adopted February 1990; transition to multiparty system completed 4 April 1991
\BCapital:\b Porto-Novo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 provinces; Atakora, Atlantique, Borgou, Mono, Oueme, Zou
\BIndependence:\b 1 August 1960 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 August (1990)
\BConstitution:\b 2 December 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Mathieu KEREKOU (since 4 April 1996) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 18 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001); results - Mathieu KEREKOU 52.49%, Nicephore SOGLO 47.51%
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council, appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 28 March 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (83 total) Renaissance Party and allies 20, PRD 19, FARD-ALAFIA 10, PSD 7, NCC 3, RDL-VIVOTEN 3, Communist Party 2, Alliance Chameleon 1, RDP 1, ADP 1, other 16
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b as of February 1996, more than 80 political parties were officially recognized; the following are represented in the National Assembly: Alliance of the National Party for Democracy and Development (PNDD) and the Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), Pascal Chabi KAO; Action for Renewal and Development (FARD-ALAFIA), Mathieu KEREKOU; Alliance of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the National Union for Solidarity and Progress (UNSP), Bruno AMOUSSOU; Alliance Chameleon; Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP), Adekpedjon AKINDES; Alliance for Social Democracy (ASD), Robert DOSSOU; Assembly of Liberal Democrats for National Reconstruction (RDL), Severin ADJOVI; Communist Party of Benin, Pascal FATONDJI, First Secretary; Our Common Cause (NCC), Albert TEVOEDJRE; Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP); The Renaissance Party, Nicephore SOGLO
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lucien Edgar TONOUKOUIN
\Ichancery:\i 2737 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 232-6656, 6657, 6658
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-1996
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John M. YATES
\Iembassy:\i Rue Caporal Bernard Anani, \JCotonou\j
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 2012, \JCotonou\j
\Itelephone:\i [229] 30-06-50, 30-05-13, 30-17-92
\IFAX:\i [229] 30-14-39, 30-19-74
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and red with a vertical green band on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence agriculture, cotton production, and regional trade. Growth in real output, which had averaged a sound 4% in 1990-94, rose to 6% in 1995. Rapid population growth, now 3.3% per year, offset much of this growth in output. \JInflation\j jumped to 55% in 1994 (compared to 3% in 1993) following the 50% currency \Jdevaluation\j in January 1994, but subsided gradually in 1995. Commercial and transport activities, which make up 37% of GDP, are extremely vulnerable to developments in \JNigeria\j as evidenced by decreased reexport trade in 1994 due to a severe contraction in Nigerian demand. Support by the Paris Club and official bilateral creditors has eased the external debt situation in recent years. The government, still burdened with money-losing state enterprises and a bloated civil service, has been gradually implementing a World Bank supported structural adjustment program since 1991.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j associated with Nigerian trafficking organizations and most commonly destined for Western Europe and the US
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 20,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Armed Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), National Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,212,440
fe\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,290,773
\Imales fit for military service:\i 620,923
fe\Imales fit for military service:\i 653,094
males reach military age (18) annually: 62,526
females reach military age (18) annually: 60,968 (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b both sexes are liable for military service
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $33 million, 3.2% of GDP (1994)
#
"Bermuda (Atlas)",29,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of North Carolina (US)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 32 20 N, 64 45 W
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 50 sq km
\Iland area:\i 50 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 103 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b subtropical; mild, humid; gales, strong winds common in winter
\BTerrain:\b low hills separated by fertile depressions
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Town Hill 76 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jlimestone\j, pleasant climate fostering tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 20%
\Iother:\i 80%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes (June to November)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b consists of about 360 small \Jcoral\j islands with ample rainfall, but no rivers or freshwater lakes; some reclaimed land leased by US Government
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 62,099 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.76% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.3 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.16 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.03 years
\Imale:\i 73.36 years
\Ifemale:\i 76.97 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.8 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bermudian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bermudian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 61%, white and other 39%
\BReligions:\b Anglican 37%, Roman Catholic 14%, African Methodist Episcopal (Zion) 10%, Methodist 6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5%, other 28%
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBermuda\j
\BData code:\b BD
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Hamilton
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 parishes and 2 municipalities*; Devonshire, Hamilton, Hamilton*, Paget, Pembroke, Saint George*, Saint Georges, Sandys, Smiths, \JSouthampton\j, Warwick
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b \JBermuda\j Day, 24 May
\BConstitution:\b 8 June 1968
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor Lord David WADDINGTON (since 25 August 1992), who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Premier David \JSAUL\j (since 25 August 1995) was appointed by the governor; Deputy Premier Jerome DILL (since 1 September 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was nominated by the premier, appointed by the governor
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of an 11-member body appointed by the governor
House of Assembly: elections last held 5 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1998); results - UBP 50%, PLP 46%, independents 4%; seats - (40 total) UBP 22, PLP 18
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b United \JBermuda\j Party (UBP), David \JSAUL\j; Progressive Labor Party (PLP), Frederick WADE; National Liberal Party (NLP), Gilbert DARRELL
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b \JBermuda\j Industrial Union (BIU), Ottiwell SIMMONS
\BInternational organization participation:\b Caricom (observer), CCC, ICFTU, \JInterpol\j (subbureau), IOC
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Robert A. FARMER
consulate general(s): Crown Hill, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire, Hamilton
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box HM325, Hamilton HMBX; American Consulate General Hamilton, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-5300
\Itelephone:\i [1] (441) 295-1342
\IFAX:\i [1] (441) 295-1592
\BFlag:\b red with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Bermudian coat of arms (white and blue shield with a red lion holding a scrolled shield showing the sinking of the ship Sea Venture off \JBermuda\j in 1609) centered on the outer half of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JBermuda\j enjoys one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, having successfully exploited its location by providing luxury tourist facilities and financial services. The tourist industry attracts more than 90% of its business from North America. The industrial sector is small, and agriculture is severely limited by a lack of suitable land. About 80% of food needs are imported. International business contributes over 60% of \JBermuda\j's economic output; a failed independence vote in late 1995 can be partially attributed to Bermudian's fear of scaring away foreign firms. Hurricane Felix, which hit \JBermuda\j twice over three days, caused an estimated $2.5 million in damages in August of 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.7 billion (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 11 countries among which are UK 17, US 13, Canada 10, \JNorway\j 9, \JNigeria\j 4, Sweden 3, Hong Kong 2, \JSyria\j 2, Mexico 1, and NZ 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 54,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i modern, fully automatic \Jtelephone\j system
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion; limited access to potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i violent storms coming down from the \JHimalayas\j are the source of the country's name which translates as Land of the Thunder Dragon; frequent landslides during the rainy season
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; strategic location between China and India; controls several key Himalayan mountain passes
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 17 December (1907) (Ugyen Wangchuck became first hereditary king)
\BConstitution:\b no written constitution or bill of rights
\Bnote:\b \JBhutan\j uses 1953 Royal decree for the Constitution of the National Assembly
\BLegal system:\b based on Indian law and English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b each family has one vote in village-level elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
Chief of State and Head of Government (Druk Gyalpo): King Jigme Singye WANGCHUCK (since 24 July 1972) is a hereditary monarch
Royal Advisory Council (Lodoi Tsokde): was nominated by the king
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers (Lhengye Shungtsog) was appointed by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Tshogdu): members serve for three years; seats - (150 total, 105 elected from village constituencies, 12 represent religious bodies, and 33 designated by the king to represent government and other secular interests)
\BJudicial branch:\b the Supreme Court of Appeal is the king; High Court, judges appointed by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b no legal parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Buddhist \Jclergy\j; Indian merchant community; ethnic Nepalese organizations leading militant antigovernment campaign
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none; note - \JBhutan\j has a Permanent Mission to the UN, headed by Ugyen TSERING; address: 2 United Nations Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10017; \Jtelephone\j [1] (212) 826-1919; the Bhutanese mission to the UN has consular \Jjurisdiction\j in the US
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
honorary \Iconsulate(s):\i San Francisco; Washington, DC
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US and \JBhutan\j have no formal diplomatic relations, although informal contact is maintained between the Bhutanese and US Embassy in New Delhi (India)
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper triangle is yellow and the lower triangle is orange; centered along the dividing line is a large black and white dragon facing away from the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy, one of the world's smallest and least developed, is based on agriculture and \Jforestry\j, which provide the main livelihood for 90% of the population and account for about half of GDP. Agriculture consists largely of subsistence farming and animal husbandry. Rugged mountains dominate the terrain and make the building of roads and other \Jinfrastructure\j difficult and expensive. The economy is closely aligned with India's through strong trade and monetary links. The industrial sector is small and technologically backward, with most production of the cottage industry type. Most development projects, such as road construction, rely on Indian migrant labor. \JBhutan\j's hydropower potential and its attraction for tourists are key resources; however, the government limits the number of tourists to 4,000 per year to minimize foreign influence. The Bhutanese Government has made some progress in expanding the nation's productive base and improving social welfare but growth continues to be constrained by the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions. Growth picked up in 1995 and the country's balance of payments remained strong with comfortable reserves. The cautious fiscal stance planned for FY95/96 suggests continued economic stability in 1996. However, excessive controls and uncertain policies in areas like industrial licensing, trade, labor, and finance continue to hamper foreign investment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BImports:\b $113.6 million (c.i.f., FY94/95 est.)
\Icommodities:\i fuel and lubricants, grain, machinery and parts, vehicles, fabrics, rice
\Ipartners:\i India 77%, \JJapan\j, UK, \JGermany\j, US
\BExternal debt:\b $141 million (October 1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 ngultrum (Nu) = 100 chetrum; note - Indian currency is also legal tender
\BExchange rates:\b ngultrum (Nu) per US$1 - 35.766 (January 1996), 32.427 (1995), 31.374 (1994), 30.493 (1993), 25.918 (1992), 22.742 (1991); note - the Bhutanese ngultrum is at par with the Indian rupee
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,296 km
\Ipaved:\i 416 km
\Iunpaved:\i 880 km (1988 est.)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 4,620 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i domestic \Jtelephone\j service is very poor with very few telephones in use
\Iinternational:\i international \Jtelephone\j and telegraph service is by landline through India; a satellite earth station was planned (1990)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1990)
\BRadios:\b 23,000 (1989 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1990 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 200 (1985 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal \JBhutan\j Army, Palace Guard, Militia
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 444,875
\Imales fit for military service:\i 237,529
males reach military age (18) annually: 17,634 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Bolivia (Atlas)",31,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central South America, southwest of \JBrazil\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 00 S, 65 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,098,580 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,084,390 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three times the size of Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,743 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 832 km, \JBrazil\j 3,400 km, \JChile\j 861 km, \JParaguay\j 750 km, \JPeru\j 900 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South Pacific Ocean since the Atacama area was lost to \JChile\j in 1884; dispute with \JChile\j over Rio Lauca water rights
\BClimate:\b varies with altitude; humid and tropical to cold and semiarid
\BTerrain:\b rugged \JAndes\j Mountains with a highland plateau (Altiplano), hills, lowland plains of the Amazon Basin
\Icurrent issues:\i the clearing of land for agricultural purposes and the international demand for tropical timber are contributing to deforestation; soil erosion from overgrazing and poor cultivation methods (including slash-and-burn agriculture); \Jdesertification\j; loss of \Jbiodiversity\j; industrial \Jpollution\j of water supplies used for drinking and irrigation
\Inatural hazards:\i cold, thin air of high plateau is obstacle to efficient fuel combustion, as well as to physical activity by those unaccustomed to it from birth; flooding in the northeast (March-April)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; shares control of Lago Titicaca, world's highest navigable lake (elevation 3,805 m), with \JPeru\j
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 153,111; female 196,824) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.82% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 32.37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -3.41 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.78 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 67.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 59.81 years
\Imale:\i 56.94 years
\Ifemale:\i 62.82 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.25 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bolivian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bolivian
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JQuechua\j 30%, Aymara 25%, mestizo (mixed European and Indian ancestry) 25%-30%, European 5%-15%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant (Evangelical Methodist)
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), \JQuechua\j (official), Aymara (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 83.1%
\Imale:\i 90.5%
\Ifemale:\i 76%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JBolivia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBolivia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JBolivia\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JBolivia\j
\BData code:\b BL
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b La Paz (seat of government); Sucre (legal capital and seat of judiciary)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, Beni, La Paz, Oruro, Pando, \JPotosi\j, Santa Cruz, Tarija
\BIndependence:\b 6 August 1825 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 August (1825)
\BConstitution:\b 2 February 1967
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish law and Napoleonic Code; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age, universal and compulsory (married); 21 years of age, universal and compulsory (single)
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA Bustamente (since 6 August 1993) and Vice President Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde (since 6 August 1993) were elected for four-year terms by popular vote; election last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA (MNR) 34%, Hugo BANZER Suarez (ADN/MIR alliance) 20%, Carlos \JPALENQUE\j Aviles (CONDEPA) 14%, Max FERNANDEZ Rojas (UCS) 13%, Antonio ARANIBAR Quiroga (MBL) 5%; no candidate received a majority of the popular vote; Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA won a congressional runoff election on 4 August 1993 after forming a coalition with Max FERNANDEZ and Antonio ARANIBAR; FERNANDEZ died in a plane crash 26 November 1995
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president from panel of candidates proposed by the Senate
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (130 total) MNR 52, UCS 20, ADN 17, MIR 17, CONDEPA 13, MBL 7, ARBOL 1, ASD 1, EJE 1, PCD 1
Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (27 total) MNR 17, ADN 4, MIR 4, CONDEPA 1, UCS 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges appointed for a 10-year term by National Congress
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
Left parties: Free \JBolivia\j Movement (MBL), Antonio ARANIBAR; April 9 Revolutionary Vanguard (VR-9), Carlos SERRATE; Alternative of Democratic \JSocialism\j (ASD), Jerjes JUSTINIANO; Revolutionary Front of the Left (FRI), Oscar ZAMORA; Bolivian Socialist \JFalange\j (FSB); Socialist Unzaguista Movement (MAS); Socialist Party One (PS-1); Bolivian Communist Party (PCB)
Center-Left parties: Nationalist Revolutionary Movement (MNR), Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA; Movement of the Revolutionary Left (MIR), Jaime PAZ Zamora, Oscar EID; Christian Democrat (PCD), Jorge AGREDA
Center-Right party: Nationalist Democratic Action (ADN), Jorge LANDIVAR, Hugo BANZER
Populist parties: Civic Solidarity Union (UCS), Johnny FERNANDEZ; Conscience of the Fatherland (CONDEPA), Carlos \JPALENQUE\j Aviles; Popular Patriotic Movement (MPP), Julio MANTILLA; Unity and Progress Movement (MUP), Ivo KULJIS
Evangelical: Bolivian Renovating Alliance (ARBOL), Hugo VILLEGAS
indigenous: Tupac Katari Revolutionary Liberation Movement (MRTK-L), Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde; Patriotic Axis of Convergence (EJE-P), Ramiro BARRANCHEA; National Katarista Movement (MKN), Fernando UNTOJA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Fernando Alvaro COSSIO
\Ichancery:\i 3014 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-4410 through 4412
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-3712
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Curtis Warren KAMMAN
\Iembassy:\i Avenida Arce 2780, San Jorge, La Paz
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 425, La Paz; APO AA 34032
\Itelephone:\i [591] (2) 430251
\IFAX:\i [591] (2) 433900
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with the coat of arms centered on the yellow band; similar to the flag of \JGhana\j, which has a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b With its long history of semifeudal social controls, dependence on volatile prices for its mineral exports, and bouts of hyperinflation, \JBolivia\j has remained one of the poorest and least developed Latin American countries. However, \JBolivia\j has experienced generally improving economic conditions since the PAZ Estenssoro administration (1985-89) introduced market-oriented policies which reduced \Jinflation\j from 11,700% in 1985 to about 20% in 1988. PAZ Estenssoro was followed as president by Jaime PAZ Zamora (1989-93) who continued the free-market policies of his predecessor, despite opposition from his own party and from \JBolivia\j's once powerful labor movement. By maintaining fiscal discipline, PAZ Zamora helped reduce \Jinflation\j to 9.3% in 1993, while GDP grew by an annual average of 3.25% during his tenure. Inaugurated in August 1993, President SANCHEZ DE LOZADA has vowed to advance the market-oriented economic reforms he helped launch as PAZ Estenssoro's planning minister. His successes so far have included the signing of a free trade agreement with Mexico and progress on his unique privatization plan. The main privatization bill was passed by the Bolivian legislature in late March 1994. Since that time, the administration has privatized the electric power generation sector, the state airline, the state \Jtelephone\j company, and the national railroad. The state mining and \Jpetroleum\j companies are expected to be privatized in 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $20 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b world's third-largest cultivator of \Jcoca\j (after \JPeru\j and Colombia) with an estimated 48,600 hectares under cultivation in 1995, a one percent increase in overall cultivation of \Jcoca\j over 1994 levels; \JBolivia\j, however, is the second-largest producer of harvested \Jcoca\j leaf; even so, voluntary and forced eradication programs resulted in leaf production dropping from 89,800 metric tons in 1994 to 85,000 tons in 1995; government considers all but 12,000 hectares illicit; intermediate \Jcoca\j products and \Jcocaine\j exported to or through \JColombia\j and \JBrazil\j to the US and other international drug markets; alternative crop program aims to reduce illicit \Jcoca\j cultivation
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 186 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 144,300 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b new subscribers face bureaucratic difficulties; most telephones are concentrated in La Paz and other cities
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay system being expanded
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 129, FM 0, shortwave 68
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 43
\BTelevisions:\b 500,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (Ejercito Boliviano), Navy (Fuerza Naval Boliviana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Boliviana), National Police Force (Policia Nacional de Bolivia)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,685,572
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,098,948
males reach military age (19) annually: 76,035 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $145 million; 1.9% of GDP (1996)
#
"Bosnia and Herzegovina (Atlas)",32,0,0,0
Note: On 21 November 1995, in Dayton, Ohio, the former Yugoslavia's three warring parties signed a peace agreement that brought to a halt over three years of interethnic civil strife in Bosnia and Herzegovina (the final agreement was signed in Paris on 14 December 1995). The Dayton Agreement, signed by Bosnian President IZETBEGOVIC, Croatian President TUDJMAN, and Serbian President MILOSEVIC, divides Bosnia and Herzegovina roughly equally between the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Bosnian Serbs while maintaining Bosnia's currently recognized borders. An international peacekeeping force (IFOR) of 60,000 troops began to enter Bosnia in late 1995 to implement and monitor the military aspects of the agreement and is scheduled to depart the country within one year. A High Representative appointed by the UN Security Council is responsible for civilian implementation of the accord, including monitoring implementation, facilitating any difficulties arising in connection with civilian implementation, and coordinating activities of the civilian organizations and agencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Bosnian conflict began in the spring of 1992 when the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina held a referendum on independence and the Bosnian Serbs - supported by neighboring \JSerbia\j - responded with armed resistance aimed at partitioning the republic along ethnic lines and joining Serb-held areas to form a "greater Serbia." In March 1994, Bosnia's Muslims and Croats reduced the number of warring factions from three to two by signing an agreement in Washington creating their joint Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and \JCroatia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 44 00 N, 18 00 E
\BMap references:\b Bosnia and Herzegovina, Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 51,233 sq km
\Iland area:\i 51,233 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,459 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCroatia\j 932 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 527 km (312 km with \JSerbia\j, 215 km with Montenegro)
\BCoastline:\b 20 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b hot summers and cold winters; areas of high elevation have short, cool summers and long, severe winters; mild, rainy winters along coast
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from metallurgical plants; sites for disposing of urban waste are limited; widespread casualties, water shortages, and destruction of \Jinfrastructure\j because of civil strife
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent and destructive earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
\BGeographic note:\b as of January 1996, Bosnian Serb leaders continued to demand revisions to the territorial aspects of the Dayton Agreement, especially in \JSarajevo\j - designated to be under Federation control - and the Brcko/Posavina corridor area; members of the Bosnian Croat community also reject several territorial aspects of the agreement, citing that historically Bosnian Croat lands are to be transferred to Bosnian Serb control; despite disagreements, initial implementation of the agreement as of January 1996 appeared on course with the warring parties meeting the deadline for withdrawal of forces from the front lines in \JSarajevo\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,656,240 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b all data dealing with population is subject to considerable error because of the dislocations caused by military action and ethnic cleansing
\I65 years and over:\i 12% (male 133,081; female 189,617) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -2.84% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 6.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 15.92 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -18.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.11 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 43.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 56.11 years
\Imale:\i 51.16 years
\Ifemale:\i 61.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bosnian(s), Herzegovinian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bosnian, Herzegovinian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Serb 40%, Muslim 38%, Croat 22% (est.)
\BReligions:\b Muslim 40%, Orthodox 31%, Catholic 15%, Protestant 4%, other 10%
\BLanguages:\b Serbo-Croatian 99%
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
Government \Bnote:\b The US recognizes the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, formed by the Muslims and Croats in March 1994, remains in the implementation stages.
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina
\Iconventional short form:\i Bosnia and Herzegovina
\Ilocal long form:\i Republika Bosna i Hercegovina
\Ilocal short form:\i Bosna i Hercegovina
\Bnote:\b under the new constitution initialed in Dayton, Ohio, on 21 November 1995, the name of the country will be changed from Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina to simply Bosnia and Herzegovina and will be made up of the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Bosnian Serb entity now called Republika Srpska
\BData code:\b BK
\BType of government:\b emerging democracy
\BCapital:\b \JSarajevo\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 109 districts (opstinas, singular - opstina) Banovici, Banja Luka, Bihac, Bijeljina, Bileca, Bosanska Dubica, Bosanska Gradiska, Bosanska Krupa, Bosanski Brod, Bosanski Novi, Bosanski Petrovac, Bosanski Samac, Bosansko Grahovo, Bratunac, Brcko, Breza, Bugojno, Busovaca, Cazin, Cajnice, Capljina, Celinac, Citluk, Derventa, Doboj, Donji Vakuf, Foca, Fojnica, Gacko, Glamoc, Gorazde, Gornji Vakuf, Gracanica, Gradacac, Grude, Han Pijesak, Jablanica, Jajce, Kakanj, Kalesija, Kalinovik, Kiseljak, Kladanj, Kljuc, Konjic, \JKotor\j Varos, Kresevo, Kupres, Laktasi, Listica, Livno, Lopare, Lukavac, Ljubinje, Ljubuski, Maglaj, Modrica, Mostar, Mrkonjic-Grad, Neum, Nevesinje, Odzak, Olovo, Orasje, Posusje, Prijedor, Prnjavor, Prozor, (Pucarevo) Novi Travnik, Rogatica, Rudo, Sanski Most, Sarajevo-Centar, Sarajevo-Hadzici, Sarajevo-Ilidza, Sarajevo-Ilijas, Sarajevo-Novi Grad, Sarajevo-Novo, Sarajevo-Pale, Sarajevo-Stari Grad, Sarajevo-Trnovo, Sarajevo-Vogosca, Skender Vakuf, Sokolac, Srbac, Srebrenica, Srebrenik, Stolac, Sekovici, Sipovo, Teslic, Tesanj, Drvar, Duvno, Travnik, Trebinje, Tuzla, Ugljevik, Vares, Velika Kladusa, Visoko, Visegrad, Vitez, Vlasenica, Zavidovici, Zenica, Zvornik, Zepce, Zivinice
\Bnote:\b administrative reorganization is currently under negotiation with the assistance of international mediators; spellings not yet approved by the US Board on Geographic Names
\BIndependence:\b NA April 1992 (from Yugoslavia)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BConstitution:\b first promulgated in 1974 (under the Communists), amended 1989, 1990, and 1991; constitution of Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina ratified April 1994; under the Dayton Agreement signed 21 November 1995, the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Serb republic government agreed to accept new basic principles in their constitutions
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 16 years of age, if employed; 18 years of age, universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Alija IZETBEGOVIC (since 20 December 1990) was elected by a collective (seven-member) presidency (of which he is a member); other members of the collective presidency are: Ejup GANIC (since NA November 1990), Nijaz DURAKOVIC (since NA October 1993), Stjepan KLJUJIC (since NA October 1993), Ivo KOMSIC (since NA October 1993), Mirko PEJANOVIC (since NA June 1992), Tatjana LJUJIC-MIJATOVIC (since NA December 1992); the collective presidency is elected from among the National Assembly with at least two members drawn from each of the three main ethnic groups
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Hasan MURATOVIC (since 30 January 1996) was elected by the collective presidency and the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i there is an executive body of ministers with no formal name who are members of, and responsible to, the National Assembly
\Bnote:\b the president of the Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is Kresimir ZUBAK (since 31 May 1994); Vice President Ejup GANIC (since 31 May 1994); elections for the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Presidency of the Republika Srpska will take place between six and nine months after the entry into force of the Dayton Agreement (14 December 1995)
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly
Chamber of Municipalities (Vijece Opeina): elections last held November-December 1990 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (110 total) SDA 43, SDS BiH 38, HDZ BiH 23, Party of Democratic Changes 4, DSS 1, SPO 1
Chamber of Citizens (Vijece Gradanstvo): elections last held November-December 1990 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (130 total) SDA 43, SDS BiH 34, HDZ BiH 21, Party of Democratic Changes 15, SRSJ BiH 12, LBO 2, DSS 1, DSZ 1, LS 1
\Bnote:\b the new constitution signed as part of the Dayton agreement on 21 November 1995 provides for a new bicameral Parliamentary assembly which will consist of a House of Peoples with 15 delegates, two-thirds from the Muslim/Croat Federation and one-third from the Serbian republic, and a House of Representatives with 42 members, two-thirds from the Muslim/Croat Federation and one-third from the Serbian republic; elections are scheduled to be held six to nine months after the entry into force of the Dayton Agreement
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Civic Democratic Party (GDS), Ibrahim SPAHIC; Party for Bosnia, Haris SILAJDZIC; Croatian Democratic Union of BiH (HDZ), Bozo RAJIC; Croatian Peasants' Party of BiH (HSS), Stanko STISKOVIC; Independent Serbian Democratic Party (NSDS), Petar DODIK; Liberal Bosniak Organization (LBO), Muhamed FILIPOVIC; Liberal Party (LS), Rasim KADIC, president; Muslim-Bosniac Organization (MBO), Adil ZULFIKARPASIC; Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Alija IZETBEGOVIC; Republican Party of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Stjepan KLUJIC; Serb Democratic Party (SDS), Radovan KARADZIC, president; Serbian Civic Council (SGV), Mirko PEJANOVIC; Serbian Consultative Council, Ljubomir BERBEROVIC; Social Democratic Party (SDP - formerly the Democratic Party of Socialists (DSS)), Nijaz DURAKOVIC, president; Socialist Party of Republika Srpska, Zivko RADISIC; Union of Social Democrats (SSDB), Salim BESLAGIC; United Left of the Bosnian Serb Republic (ULRS), Mile IVOSEVIC; Serbian Renewal Movement (SPO), Milan TRIVUNCIC, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Party of Democratic Changes, leader NA, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Alliance of Reform Forces of Yugoslavia for Bosnia and Herzegovina (SRSJ BiH), Dr. Nenad KECMANOVIC, president, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Democratic League of Greens (DSZ), Drazen PETROVIC, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Yugoslav United Left (JUL), CAREVIC; Serb Liberal Party, Miodrag ZIVANOVIC; Serb Radical Party; Serb Patriotic Party, Slavko ZUPLJANIN; Serb Homeland Party
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b NA
\BInternational organization participation:\b CE (guest), CEI, ECE, FAO, ICAO, IFAD, ILO, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sven ALKALAJ
\Ichancery:\i Suite 760, 1707 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
\BFlag:\b white with a large blue shield; the shield contains white fleurs-de-lis with a white diagonal band running from the upper hoist corner to the lower outer side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Bosnia and Herzegovina ranked next to The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia as the poorest republic in the old Yugoslav federation. Although agriculture has been almost all in private hands, farms have been small and inefficient, and the republic traditionally has been a net importer of food. Industry has been greatly overstaffed, one reflection of the rigidities of communist central planning and management. TITO had pushed the development of military industries in the republic with the result that Bosnia hosted a large share of Yugoslavia's defense plants. The bitter interethnic warfare in Bosnia caused production to plummet, unemployment and \Jinflation\j to soar, and human misery to multiply. No economic statistics for 1992-95 are available, although output clearly has fallen substantially below the levels of earlier years and almost certainly is well below $1,000 per head. The country receives substantial amounts of humanitarian aid from the international community.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 1,026,254
\Iby occupation:\i NA%
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b steel, coal, iron ore, lead, zinc, \Jmanganese\j, \Jbauxite\j, vehicle assembly, textiles, \Jtobacco\j products, wooden furniture, tank and \Jaircraft\j assembly, domestic appliances, oil refining; much of capacity damaged or shut down (1995)
\BCurrency:\b 1 dinar = 100 para; Croatian dinar used in Croat-held area, presumably to be replaced by new Croatian kuna; old and new Serbian dinars used in Serb-held area; hard currencies probably supplanting local currencies in areas held by Bosnian Government
\BExchange rates:\b NA
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,021 km (electrified 795 km)
standard gauge: 1,021 km 1.435-m gauge (1991)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 21,168 km
\Ipaved:\i 11,436 km
\Iunpaved:\i 9,732 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA km
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 174 km; natural gas 90 km (1992); note - pipelines now disrupted
\BPorts:\b Bosanski Brod
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 24
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 727,000
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j and telegraph network is in need of modernization and expansion; many urban areas are below average when compared with services in other former Yugoslav republics
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i no satellite earth stations
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 840,000
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 1,012,094
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 654,326
\Imales fit for military service:\i 524,963
males reach military age (19) annually: 22,902 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Botswana (Atlas)",33,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, north of South Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 22 00 S, 24 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 600,370 sq km
\Iland area:\i 585,370 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,013 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JNamibia\j 1,360 km, South Africa 1,840 km, Zimbabwe 813 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of boundary with \JNamibia\j is indefinite; quadripoint with \JNamibia\j, \JZambia\j, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with \JNamibia\j over uninhabited Kasikili (Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River remained unresolved in January 1996 and the parties have agreed to refer the matter to the ICJ
\BClimate:\b semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
\BTerrain:\b predominately flat to gently rolling tableland; \JKalahari\j Desert in southwest
\Ilowest point:\i junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m
\Ihighest point:\i Tsodilo Hill 1,489 m
\BNatural resources:\b diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, \Jpotash\j, coal, iron ore, silver
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 75%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 2%
\Iother:\i 21%
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i overgrazing, primarily as a result of the expansion of the \Jcattle\j population; \Jdesertification\j; limited natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying sand and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country
\BEthnic divisions:\b Batswana 95%, Kalanga, Basarwa, and Kgalagadi 4%, white 1%
\BReligions:\b indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Setswana
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 69.8%
\Imale:\i 80.5%
\Ifemale:\i 59.9%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JBotswana\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBotswana\j
\Iformer:\i Bechuanaland
\BData code:\b BC
\BType of government:\b parliamentary republic
\BCapital:\b \JGaborone\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 districts and four town councils*; Central, Chobe, Francistown*, Gaborone*,Ghanzi, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Lobatse*, Ngamiland, North-East, Selebi-Phikwe*, South-East, Southern,
\BIndependence:\b 30 September 1966 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 30 September (1966)
\BConstitution:\b March 1965, effective 30 September 1966
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman-Dutch law and local customary law; judicial review limited to matters of interpretation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Sir Ketumile MASIRE (since 13 July 1980) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly; election last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999); Vice President Festus MOGAE (since 9 March 1992) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
House of Chiefs: is a largely advisory 15-member body consisting of the chiefs of the eight principal tribes, four elected subchiefs, and three members selected by the other 12
National Assembly: elections last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total, 40 elected and 4 appointed by the majority party) BDP 27, BNF 13
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court; Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JBotswana\j Democratic Party (BDP), Sir Ketumile MASIRE; \JBotswana\j National Front (BNF), Kenneth KOMA; \JBotswana\j People's Party (BPP), Knight MARIPE; \JBotswana\j Independence Party (BIP), Motsamai MPHO
\Ichancery:\i Suite 7M, 3400 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 244-4990, 4991
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 244-4164
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Howard F. JETER
\Iembassy:\i address NA, \JGaborone\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 90, \JGaborone\j
\Itelephone:\i [267] 353982
\IFAX:\i [267] 356947
\BFlag:\b light blue with a horizontal white-edged black stripe in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy has historically been based on \Jcattle\j raising and crops. Agriculture today provides a livelihood for more than 80% of the population but supplies only about 50% of food needs and accounts for only 5% of GDP. Subsistence farming and \Jcattle\j raising predominate. The sector is plagued by erratic rainfall and poor soils. The driving force behind the rapid economic growth of the 1970s and 1980s has been the mining industry. This sector, mostly on the strength of diamonds, has gone from generating 25% of GDP in 1980 to 39% in 1994. The unemployment rate remains a problem at 21%. Hampered by a still sluggish diamond market in 1994 and 1995, GDP grew by only 1% in both years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i 220,000 formal sector employees; 14,300 are employed in various mines in South Africa; most others are engaged in \Jcattle\j raising and subsistence agriculture (1992 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 21% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.7 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.99 billion, including capital expenditures of $652 million (FY93/94)
\Icommodities:\i diamonds 78%, copper and nickel 6%, meat 5%
\Ipartners:\i \JSwitzerland\j, UK, Southern African Customs Union (SACU),
\BImports:\b $1.8 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
\Icommodities:\i foodstuffs, vehicles and transport equipment, textiles, \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i \JSwitzerland\j, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), UK, US
\BExternal debt:\b $691 million (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $189 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 pula (P) = 100 thebe
\BExchange rates:\b pula (P) per US$1 - 2.8305 (January 1996), 2.7716 (1995), 2.6831 (1994), 2.4190 (1993), 2.1327 (1992), 2.0173 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 971 km
narrow gauge: 971 km 1.067-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,448 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,590 km
\Iunpaved:\i 9,858 km (1988 est.)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 81
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 9
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 22
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 44 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 19,109 (1985 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b sparse system
\Idomestic:\i small system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and a few radiotelephone communication stations
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay links to \JZambia\j, Zimbabwe and South Africa; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 7, FM 13, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 13,800 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b \JBotswana\j
\BDefense:\b Force (includes Army and Air Wing), \JBotswana\j National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 334,177
\Imales fit for military service:\i 175,471
males reach military age (18) annually: 17,088 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $199 million, 5.2% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Bouvet Island (Atlas)",34,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Norway)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, south-southwest of the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 54 26 S, 3 24 E
\BMap references:\b Antarctic Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 58 sq km
\Iland area:\i 58 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 29.6 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 4 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b antarctic
\BTerrain:\b volcanic; maximum elevation about 800 meters; coast is mostly inaccessible
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 780 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all ice)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b covered by glacial ice
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Bouvet Island
\BData code:\b BV
\BType of government:\b territory of \JNorway\j
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Oslo, \JNorway\j
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Norway)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JNorway\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BCommunications:\b
\ICommunications note:\i automatic meteorological station
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JNorway\j
#
"Brazil (Atlas)",35,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 00 S, 55 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 8,511,965 sq km
\Iland area:\i 8,456,510 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than the US
\Bnote:\b includes Arquipelago de Fernando de Noronha, Atol das Rocas, Ilha da Trindade, Ilhas Martin Vaz, and Penedos de Sao Pedro e Sao Paulo
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,691 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 1,224 km, \JBolivia\j 3,400 km, \JColombia\j 1,643 km, French Guiana 673 km, \JGuyana\j 1,119 km, \JParaguay\j 1,290 km, \JPeru\j 1,560 km, Suriname 597 km, Uruguay 985 km, Venezuela 2,200 km
\BCoastline:\b 7,491 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of the boundary with \JParaguay\j, just west of Salto das Sete Quedas (Guaira Falls) on the Rio Parana, is in dispute; two short sections of boundary with Uruguay are in dispute - Arroio Invernada (Arroyo de la Invernada) area of the Rio Quarai (Rio Cuareim) and the islands at the confluence of the Rio Quarai and the Uruguay River
\BClimate:\b mostly tropical, but temperate in south
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to rolling lowlands in north; some plains, hills, mountains, and narrow coastal belt
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation in Amazon Basin destroys the habitat and endangers the existence of a multitude of plant and animal species indigenous to the area; air and water \Jpollution\j in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and several other large cities; land degradation and water \Jpollution\j caused by improper mining activities
\Inatural hazards:\i recurring droughts in northeast; floods and occasional frost in south
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b largest country in South America; shares common boundaries with every South American country except \JChile\j and \JEcuador\j
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 3,072,720; female 4,552,160) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.16% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 20.8 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.19 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.68 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 55.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 61.62 years
\Imale:\i 56.67 years
\Ifemale:\i 66.81 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.34 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Brazilian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Brazilian
\BEthnic divisions:\b white (includes Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish) 55%, mixed white and African 38%, African 6%, other (includes Japanese, Arab, Amerindian) 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic (nominal) 70%
\BLanguages:\b Portuguese (official), Spanish, English, French
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 83.3%
\Imale:\i 83.3%
\Ifemale:\i 83.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federative Republic of \JBrazil\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBrazil\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Federativa do Brasil
\Ilocal short form:\i Brasil
\BData code:\b BR
\BType of government:\b federal republic
\BCapital:\b \JBrasilia\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Acre, Alagoas, Amapa, Amazonas, \JBahia\j, Ceara, Distrito Federal*, Espirito Santo, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Para, Paraiba, Parana, Pernambuco, Piaui, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondonia, Roraima, Santa Catarina, Sao Paulo, Sergipe, Tocantins
\BIndependence:\b 7 September 1822 (from Portugal)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 7 September (1822)
\BConstitution:\b 5 October 1988
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b voluntary between 16 and 18 years of age and over 70; compulsory over 18 and under 70 years of age
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Fernando Henrique CARDOSO (since 1 January 1995) was elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 3 October 1994; (next to be held October 1998); results - Fernando Henrique CARDOSO 53%, Luis Inacio LULA da Silva 26%, Eneas CARNEIRO 7%, Orestes QUERCIA 4%, Leonel BRIZOLA 3%, Espiridiao AMIN 3%; note - second direct presidential election since 1960; Vice President Marco MARCIEL (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress (Congresso Nacional)
Federal Senate (Senado Federal): election last held 3 October 1994 for two-thirds of Senate (next to be held October 1996 for one-third of the Senate); results - PMBD 28%, PFL 22%, PSDB 12%, PPR 7%, PDT 7%, PT 6%, PTB 6%, other 12%; seats - (81 total) seats by party NA
Chamber of Deputies (Camara dos Deputados): election last held 3 October 1994 (next to be held October 1998); results - PMDB 21%, PFL 18%, PDT 7%, PSDB 12%, PPR 10%, PTB 6%, PT 10%, other 16%; seats - (517 total) seats by party NA
\Bnote:\b party totals since Fall 1994 have changed considerably due to extensive party-switching
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Federal Tribunal, judges are appointed for life by the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Reconstruction Party (PRN), Daniel TOURINHO, president; Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), Paes DE ANDRADE, president; Liberal Front Party (PFL), Jorge BORNHAUSEN, president; Workers' Party (PT), Jose DIRCEU, president; Brazilian Workers' Party (PTB), Rodrigues PALMA, president; Democratic Labor Party (PDT), Leonel BRIZOLA, president; Brazilian Progressive Party (PPB), Espiridiao AMIN, president; Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), Artur DA TAVOLA, president; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Roberto FREIRE, president; Communist Party of \JBrazil\j (PCdoB), Joao AMAZONAS, chairman; Liberal Party (PL), Alvaro VALLE, president
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b left wing of the Catholic Church and labor unions allied to leftist Workers' Party are critical of government's social and economic policies
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Paulo Tarso FLECHA de LIMA
\Ichancery:\i 3006 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 745-2700
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 745-2827
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Juan (Puerto Rico), and San Francisco
\Iconsulate(s):\i Houston
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Melvyn LEVITSKY
\Iembassy:\i Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 3, \JBrasilia\j, Distrito Federal
\Imailing address:\i Unit 3500, APO AA 34030
\Itelephone:\i [55] (61) 321-7272
\IFAX:\i [55] (61) 225-9136
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo
\Iconsulate(s):\i Porto Alegre, \JRecife\j
\BFlag:\b green with a large yellow diamond in the center bearing a blue celestial globe with 27 white five-pointed stars (one for each state and the Federal District) arranged in the same pattern as the night sky over \JBrazil\j; the globe has a white equatorial band with the motto ORDEM E PROGRESSO (Order and Progress)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b With its large and well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and service sectors, \JBrazil\j has South America's largest GDP by far and has the potential to become a major player in the world economy. Prior to the institution of a stabilization plan in mid-1994, stratospheric \Jinflation\j rates had devastated the economy and discouraged foreign investment. Since then, tight monetary policy has apparently brought \Jinflation\j under control - consumer prices increased by 23% in 1995 compared to more than 1,000% in 1994. At the same time, GDP growth slowed from 5.7% to 4.2% as credit was tightened and the steadily appreciating real encouraged imports while depressing export growth. The increased stability of the Brazilian economy allowed it to weather the fallout from the Mexican peso crisis relatively well, with foreign funds flowing in during the second half of 1995 to swell official foreign exchange reserves past the $50 billion mark. Stock market indices in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, however, ended 26% lower in 1995. President CARDOSO remains committed to further reducing \Jinflation\j in 1996 while boosting growth, but he faces key challenges. Servicing domestic debt has become dramatically more burdensome for both public and private sector entities because of very high real interest rates which are contributing to growing budget deficits and a surge in bankruptcies. Fiscal reforms, many of which require constitutional amendments, are proceeding at a slow pace through the Brazilian legislature; in their absence, the government is maintaining its strict monetary policy. \JBrazil\j's natural resources remain a major, long-run economic strength.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $976.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 4.2% (1995)
\BGDP per capita:\b $6,100 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 16%
\Iindustry:\i 25%
\Iservices:\i 59% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 23% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 57 million (1989 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 42%, agriculture 31%, industry 27%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 5% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $58.7 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $54.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
\BIndustries:\b textiles, shoes, chemicals, cement, lumber, iron ore, tin, steel, \Jaircraft\j, motor vehicles and parts, other machinery and equipment
Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis, \Jcoca\j cultivation in the Amazon region has diminished in recent years because of its low alkaloid content, mostly for domestic consumption; government has a large-scale eradication program to control cannabis; important transshipment country for Bolivian and Colombian \Jcocaine\j headed for the US and Europe
\BExports:\b $46.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i iron ore, soybean bran, orange juice, footwear, \Jcoffee\j, motor vehicle parts
\Ipartners:\i EU 27.6%, Latin America 21.8%, US 17.4%, \JJapan\j 6.3% (1993)
\BImports:\b $49.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil, capital goods, chemical products, foodstuffs, coal
\Ipartners:\i US 23.3%, EU 22.5%, Middle East 13.0%, Latin America 11.8%, \JJapan\j 6.5% (1993)
\Bnote:\b on 1 August 1993 the cruzeiro real (CR$), equal to 1,000 cruzeiros, was introduced; another new currency, the real (R$) was introduced on 1 July 1994, equal to 2,750 cruzeiro reals
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 27,418 km (1,750 km electrified)
\Ibroad gauge:\i 5,730 km 1.600-m gauge
standard gauge: 194 km 1.440-m gauge
narrow gauge: 20,958 km 1.000-m gauge; 13 km 0.760-m gauge
dual gauge: 523 km 1.000-m and 1.600-m gauges
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,661,850 km
\Ipaved:\i 142,919 km
\Iunpaved:\i 1,518,931 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 50,000 km navigable
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 2,000 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 3,804 km; natural gas 1,095 km
\BPorts:\b Belem, \JFortaleza\j, Ilheus, Imbituba, Manaus, Paranagua, Porto Alegre, \JRecife\j, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande, Salvador, Santos, Vitoria
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1,223, FM 0, shortwave 151
\BRadios:\b 60 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 112
\Bnote:\b \JBrazil\j has the world's fourth largest \Jtelevision\j broadcasting system
\BTelevisions:\b 30 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Brazilian Army, Brazilian Navy (includes Marines), Brazilian Air Force, Federal Police (paramilitary)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 45,091,300
\Imales fit for military service:\i 30,330,711
males reach military age (18) annually: 1,734,981 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $6.736 billion, 1.1% of GDP (1994)
#
"British Indian Ocean Territory (Atlas)",36,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about one-half the way from Africa to \JIndonesia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 00 S, 71 30 E
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 60 sq km
\Iland area:\i 60 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes the entire Chagos Archipelago
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 698 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b the island of Diego Garcia is claimed by \JMauritius\j
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; hot, humid, moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b flat and low (up to four meters in elevation)
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Diego Garcia 15 m
\BNatural resources:\b coconuts, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b archipelago of 2,300 islands; Diego Garcia, largest and southernmost island, occupies strategic location in central Indian Ocean; island is site of joint US-UK military facility
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants
\Bnote:\b there are UK-US military personnel and civilian contractors; civilian inhabitants, known as the Ilois, evacuated to \JMauritius\j before construction of UK-US military facilities
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i British Indian Ocean Territory
\Iconventional short form:\i none
abbreviation: BIOT
\BData code:\b IO
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b none
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Commissioner David Ross MACLENNAN (since NA 1994); Administrator Don CAIRNS (since NA); note - both reside in the UK
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b white with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and six blue wavy horizontal stripes bearing a palm tree and yellow crown centered on the outer half of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b All economic activity is concentrated on the largest island of Diego Garcia, where joint UK-US defense facilities are located. Construction projects and various services needed to support the military installations are done by military and contract employees from the UK, \JMauritius\j, the \JPhilippines\j, and the US. There are no industrial or agricultural activities on the islands.
\BElectricity:\b provided by the US military
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i short stretch of paved road of NA km between port and airfield on Diego Garcia
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Diego Garcia
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b facilities for military needs only
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"British Virgin Islands (Atlas)",37,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 30 N, 64 30 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 150 sq km
\Iland area:\i 150 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.9 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes the island of Anegada
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 80 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b subtropical; humid; temperatures moderated by trade winds
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural fresh water resources (except for a few seasonal streams and springs on Tortola, most of the island's water supply comes from wells and rainwater catchment)
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strong ties to nearby US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 13,195 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.29% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 20.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.05 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 19.16 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.78 years
\Imale:\i 70.93 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.75 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.26 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i British Virgin Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i British Virgin Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 90%, white, Asian
\BReligions:\b Protestant 86% (Methodist 45%, Anglican 21%, Church of God 7%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5%, Baptist 4%, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses 2%, other 2%), Roman Catholic 6%, none 2%, other 6% (1981)
\BLanguages:\b English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1991 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97.8%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i British Virgin Islands
abbreviation: BVI
\BData code:\b VI
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Road Town
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Territory Day, 1 July
\BConstitution:\b 1 June 1977
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor David MACKILLIGIN (since NA June 1995) who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Ralph T. O'NEAL (since 15 May 1995; appointed after the death of former Chief Minister H. Lavity STOUTT) was appointed by the governor from among the members of the Legislative Council
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council is appointed by the governor
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council: election last held 20 February 1995 (next to be held NA February 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (13 total) VIP 6, CCM 2, UP 2, independents 3
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Virgin Islander coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts a woman flanked on either side by a vertical column of six oil lamps above a scroll bearing the Latin word VIGILATE (Be Watchful)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean, is highly dependent on tourism, which generates an estimated 45% of the national income. In 1985, the government began offering offshore registration to companies wishing to incorporate in the islands, and incorporation fees now generate substantial revenues. The adoption of a comprehensive insurance law in late 1994, which provides a blanket of confidentiality with regulated statutory gateways for investigation of criminal offenses, is expected to make the British Virgin Islands even more attractive to international business. Livestock raising is the most important agricultural activity; poor soils limit the islands' ability to meet domestic food requirements. Because of traditional close links with the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands have used the dollar as their currency since 1959.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $133 million (1991 est.)
\Ipartners:\i Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
\BImports:\b $11.5 million (c.i.f., 1988)
\Icommodities:\i building materials, automobiles, foodstuffs, machinery
\Ipartners:\i Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
\BExternal debt:\b $4.5 million (1985)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b US currency is used
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 106 km (1983 est.)
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Road Town
\BMerchant Marine:\b none (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 6,291 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b worldwide \Jtelephone\j service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i submarine cable to \JBermuda\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 9,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 4,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Brunei (Atlas)",38,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and \JMalaysia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 30 N, 114 40 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 5,770 sq km
\Iland area:\i 5,270 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JDelaware\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 381 km
border country: \JMalaysia\j 381 km
\BCoastline:\b 161 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm or to median line
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that divides the country; all of the Spratly Islands are claimed by China, \JTaiwan\j, and Vietnam; parts of them are claimed by \JMalaysia\j and the \JPhilippines\j; in 1984, \JBrunei\j established an exclusive fishing zone that encompasses Louisa Reef, but has not publicly claimed the island
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid, rainy
\BTerrain:\b flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east; hilly lowland in west
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are very rare
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea linking Indian and Pacific Oceans; two parts physically separated by \JMalaysia\j; almost an enclave of \JMalaysia\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 299,939 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 33% (male 51,266; female 49,194)
\I15-64 years:\i 62% (male 98,806; female 88,323)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 6,843; female 5,507) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.56% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 25.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.1 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 5.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.12 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.24 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 24.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.39 years
\Imale:\i 69.82 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.04 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.39 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bruneian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bruneian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Malay 64%, Chinese 20%, other 16%
\BReligions:\b Muslim (official) 63%, \JBuddhism\j 14%, Christian 8%, indigenous beliefs and other 15% (1981)
\BLanguages:\b Malay (official), English, Chinese
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 88.2%
\Imale:\i 92.6%
\Ifemale:\i 83.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Negara \JBrunei\j Darussalam
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 23 February (1984)
\BConstitution:\b 29 September 1959 (some provisions suspended under a State of Emergency since December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984)
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Sultan and Prime Minister His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji HASSANAL Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah (since 5 October 1967) is a traditional Islamic monarch
\Icabinet:\i Council of Cabinet Ministers is composed chiefly of members of the royal family, appointed and presided over by the sultan; deals with executive matters
Religious Council: is appointed by the sultan; advises on religious matters
Privy Council: is appointed by the sultan; deals with constitutional matters
the Council of Succession: is appointed by the sultan; determines the succession to the throne if the need arises
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council (Majlis Masyuarat Megeri): elections last held in March 1962; in 1970 the Council was changed to an appointive body by decree of the sultan; an elected Legislative Council is being considered as part of constitutional reform, but elections are unlikely for several years
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chief justice and judges are sworn in by the sultan for a three-year term
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JBrunei\j United National Party (inactive), Anak HASANUDDIN, chairman; \JBrunei\j National Solidarity Party (the first legal political party and now banned), leader NA; \JBrunei\j Peoples Party (banned), leader NA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador JAYA bin Abdul Latif
\Ichancery:\i \JWatergate\j, Suite 300, 3rd floor, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 342-0159
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 342-0158
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Theresa A. TULL
\Iembassy:\i Third Floor, Teck Guan Plaza, Jalan Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy Box B, Bandar Seri Begawan, APO AP 96440
\Itelephone:\i [673] (2) 229670
\IFAX:\i [673] (2) 225293
\BFlag:\b yellow with two diagonal bands of white (top, almost double width) and black starting from the upper hoist side; the national emblem in red is superimposed at the center; the emblem includes a swallow-tailed flag on top of a winged column within an upturned crescent above a scroll and flanked by two upraised hands
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is a mixture of foreign and domestic entrepreneurship, government regulation and welfare measures, and village tradition. It is almost totally supported by exports of crude oil and natural gas, with revenues from the \Jpetroleum\j sector accounting for more than 40% of GDP. Per capita GDP is among the highest in the Third World, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements domestic production. The government provides for all medical services and subsidizes food and housing.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 119,000 (1993 est.); note - includes members of the Army
\Iby occupation:\i government 47.5%, production of oil, natural gas, services, and construction 41.9%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 3.8% (1986)
\Bnote:\b 33% of labor force is foreign (1988)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 4.8% (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $2.1 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $427 million (1993)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jpetroleum\j refining, liquefied natural gas, construction
Industrial production growth rate: 12.9% (1987)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 380,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 1.2 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 3,971 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, \Jcassava\j (tapioca), bananas; water buffalo, pigs
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i \JSingapore\j 29%, UK 19%, US 13%, \JMalaysia\j 9%, \JJapan\j 5% (1994 est.)
\BExternal debt:\b $0
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Bruneian dollar (B$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Bruneian dollars (B$) per US$1 - 1.4214 (January 1996), 1.4174 (1995), 1.5274 (1994), 1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992), 1.7276 (1991); note - the Bruneian dollar is at par with the \JSingapore\j dollar
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 13 km private line
narrow gauge: 13 km 0.610-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,443 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,296 km
\Iunpaved:\i 1,147 km (1993)
\BWaterways:\b 209 km; navigable by craft drawing less than 1.2 m
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 135 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 418 km; natural gas 920 km
\BPorts:\b Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, Muara, Seria, Tutong
\BMerchant Marine:\b
\Itotal:\i 7 liquefied gas tankers (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 348,476 GRT/340,635 DWT (1994 est.)
\BAirports:\b 2
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 76,900 (1993)
\BTelephone system:\b service throughout country is adequate for present needs; international service good to adjacent \JMalaysia\j
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 115,000 (1993)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1984 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 78,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Royal \JBrunei\j Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 83,641
\Imales fit for military service:\i 48,559
males reach military age (18) annually: 2,918 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $312 million, 6.2% of GDP (1994)
#
"Bulgaria (Atlas)",39,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between \JRomania\j and Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 43 00 N, 25 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 110,910 sq km
\Iland area:\i 110,550 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JTennessee\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,808 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGreece\j 494 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 148 km, \JRomania\j 608 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 318 km (all with Serbia), Turkey 240 km
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with lowlands in north and southeast
\Ilowest point:\i Black Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Musala 2,925 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, copper, lead, zinc, coal, timber, arable land
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 34%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 18%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 35%
\Iother:\i 10%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from industrial emissions; rivers polluted from raw sewage, heavy metals, detergents; deforestation; forest damage from air \Jpollution\j and resulting acid rain; soil contamination from heavy metals from metallurgical plants and industrial wastes
\Inatural hazards:\i earthquakes, landslides
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JBiodiversity\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location near Turkish Straits; controls key land routes from Europe to Middle East and Asia
\I65 years and over:\i 15% (male 561,944; female 735,032) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.46% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 8.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 13.55 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 9.81 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 15.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71 years
\Imale:\i 67.07 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.12 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.17 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bulgarian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bulgarian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Bulgarian 85.3%, Turk 8.5%, Gypsy 2.6%, Macedonian 2.5%, Armenian 0.3%, Russian 0.2%, other 0.6%
\BReligions:\b Bulgarian Orthodox 85%, Muslim 13%, Jewish 0.8%, Roman Catholic 0.5%, Uniate Catholic 0.2%, Protestant, Gregorian-Armenian, and other 0.5%
\BLanguages:\b Bulgarian, secondary languages closely correspond to ethnic breakdown
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1992 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JBulgaria\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JBulgaria\j
\BData code:\b BU
\BType of government:\b emerging democracy
\BCapital:\b Sofia
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast); Burgas, Grad Sofiya, Khaskovo, Lovech, Montana, \JPlovdiv\j, Ruse, Sofiya, \JVarna\j
\BIndependence:\b 22 September 1908 (from Ottoman Empire)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 March (1878)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 12 July 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system with Soviet law influence; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Zhelyu Mitev ZHELEV (since 1 August 1990, when he was elected by the National Assembly); president and vice president elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held NA January 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Zhelyu ZHELEV elected by popular vote; Vice President (vacant)
\Ihead of government:\i Chairman of the Council of Ministers (Prime Minister) Zhan VIDENOV (since 25 January 1995) appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Doncho KONAKCHIEV (since 25 January 1995), Atanas PAPAKIZOV (since NA), Rumen GECHEV (since 25 January 1995), Svetoslav SHIVAROV (since 25 January 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers elected by the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Narodno Sobranie): last held 18 December 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results - BSP 43.5%, UDF 24.2%, PU 6.5%, MRF 5.4%, BBB 4.7%; seats - (240 total) BSP 125, UDF 69, PU 18, MRF 15, BBB 13
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chairman appointed for a seven-year term by the president; Constitutional Court, 12 justices appointed or elected for a nine-year term
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), Zhan VIDENOV, chairman; Union of Democratic Forces (UDF - an alliance of pro-Democratic parties), Ivan KOSTOV; People's Union (PU), Stefan SAVOV; Movement for Rights and Freedoms (mainly ethnic Turkish party) (MRF), Ahmed DOGAN; Bulgarian Business Bloc (BBB), George GANCHEV
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Democratic Alliance for the Republic (DAR); New Union for Democracy (NUD); Ecoglasnost; Podkrepa Labor Confederation; Fatherland Union; Bulgarian Communist Party (BCP); Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of \JBulgaria\j (KNSB); Bulgarian Agrarian National Union - United (BZNS); Bulgarian Democratic Center; "Nikola Petkov" Bulgarian Agrarian National Union; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Union of Macedonian Societies (IMRO-UMS); numerous regional, ethnic, and national interest groups with various agendas
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Snezhana Damianova BOTUSHAROVA
\Ichancery:\i 1621 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 387-7969
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 234-7973
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant)
\Iembassy:\i 1 Saborna Street, Sofia
\Imailing address:\i Unit 1335, APO AE 09213-1335
\Itelephone:\i [359] (2) 88-48-01 through 05
\IFAX:\i [359] (2) 80-19-77
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of white (top), green, and red; the national emblem formerly on the hoist side of the white stripe has been removed - it contained a rampant lion within a wreath of wheat ears below a red five-pointed star and above a ribbon bearing the dates 681 (first Bulgarian state established) and 1944 (liberation from Nazi control)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of the poorest countries of central Europe, \JBulgaria\j has continued the difficult process of moving from its old command economy to a modern, market-oriented economy. GDP rose a moderate 2.4% in 1995; \Jinflation\j was down sharply; and unemployment fell from an estimated 16% to 12%. Despite this progress, structural reforms necessary to underpin macroeconomic stabilization were not pursued vigorously. Mass privatization of state-owned industry continued to move slowly, although privatization of small-scale industry, particularly in the retail and service sectors, accelerated. The Bulgarian economy will continue to grow in 1996, but economic reforms will remain politically difficult as the population has become weary of the process.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $43.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,920 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 12%
\Iindustry:\i 36%
\Iservices:\i 52% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 35% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 3.1 million
\Iby occupation:\i industry 41%, agriculture 18%, other 41% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 11.9% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $3.8 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $4.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
\BIndustries:\b machine building and metal working, food processing, chemicals, textiles, construction materials, ferrous and nonferrous metals
\BIllicit drugs:\b important transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and, to a lesser degree, South American \Jcocaine\j transiting the Balkan route; limited producer of precursor chemicals
\BExports:\b $4.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment 12.8%; agriculture and food 21.9%; textiles and apparel 14%; metals and ores 19.7%; chemicals 16.9%; minerals and fuels 9.3%
\Ipartners:\i former CEMA countries 35.7%; OECD 46.6% (EU 33.5%); Arab countries 5.1%; other 12.6%
\BImports:\b $4 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i fuels, minerals, and raw materials 30.1%; machinery and equipment 23.6%; textiles and apparel 11.6%; agricultural products 10.8%; metals and ores 6.8%; chemicals 12.3%; other 4.8%
\Ipartners:\i former CEMA countries 40.3%; OECD 48.3% (EU 34.1%); Arab countries 1.7%; other 9.7%
\BExternal debt:\b $10.4 billion (1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $39 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b $700 million in balance of payments support from Western nations (1994)
\BCurrency:\b 1 lev (Lv) = 100 stotinki
\BExchange rates:\b leva (Lv) per US$1 - 70.5 (December 1995), 54.2 (1994), 27.1 (1993), 23.3 (1992), 18.4 (1991); note - floating exchange rate since February 1991
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,292 km
standard gauge: 4,047 km 1.435-m gauge (2,650 km electrified; 917 double track)
\Iother:\i 245 km 0.760-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 36,932 km
\Ipaved:\i 33,904 km (including 276 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 3,028 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 470 km (1987)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 193 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 525 km; natural gas 1,400 km (1992)
\Bnote:\b \JBulgaria\j owns an additional 7 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 135,016 DWT operating under the registries of \JLiberia\j and Malta (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 355
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 17
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 10
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 88
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 10
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 226 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,773,293 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b almost two-thirds of the lines are residential; 67% of Sofia households have telephones (November 1988 est.)
\Idomestic:\i extensive but antiquated transmission system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay; \Jtelephone\j service is available in most villages
\Iinternational:\i direct dialing to 36 countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region); Intelsat available through a Greek earth station
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 20, FM 15, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 29 (Russian repeater in Sofia 1)
males reach military age (19) annually: 64,568 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $352 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Burkina Faso (Atlas)",40,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, north of \JGhana\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 00 N, 2 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 274,200 sq km
\Iland area:\i 273,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JColorado\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,192 km
\Iborder countries:\i Benin 306 km, \JGhana\j 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 584 km, Mali 1,000 km, \JNiger\j 628 km, \JTogo\j 126 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b following mutual acceptance of an International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling in December 1986 on their international boundary dispute, Burkina Faso and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with \JNiger\j
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to dissected, undulating plains; hills in west and southeast
\Ilowest point:\i Black Volta River 200 m
\Ihighest point:\i Tena \JKourou\j 749 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jmanganese\j, \Jlimestone\j, marble; small deposits of gold, \Jantimony\j, copper, nickel, \Jbauxite\j, lead, \Jphosphates\j, zinc, silver
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 37%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 26%
\Iother:\i 27%
\BIrrigated land:\b 160 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i recent droughts and \Jdesertification\j severely affecting agricultural activities, population distribution, and the economy; overgrazing; soil degradation; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i recurring droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 4 August (1983)
\BConstitution:\b 2 June 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Captain Blaise COMPAORE (since 15 October 1987) elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held NA December 1991 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Roch KABORE (since NA March 1994) appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Assembly of People's Deputies: elections last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (107 total), ODP-MT 78, CNPP-PSD 12, RDA 6, ADF 4, other 7
\Bnote:\b the current law also provides for a second consultative chamber, which has not been formally constituted
\BJudicial branch:\b Appeals Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Organization for People's Democracy - Labor Movement (ODP-MT), ruling party, Secretary General Simon COMPAORE; National Convention of Progressive Patriots-Social Democratic Party (CNPP-PSD), Moussa BOLY; African Democratic Rally (RDA), Gerard Kango OUEDRAOGO; Alliance for Democracy and Federation (ADF), Amadou Michel NANA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b committees for the defense of the revolution; watchdog/political action groups throughout the country in both organizations and communities
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Gaetan R. OUEDRAOGO
\Ichancery:\i 2340 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-5577, 6895
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Donald J. MCCONNELL
\Iembassy:\i Avenue Raoul Follerau, Ouagadougou
\Imailing address:\i 01 B. P. 35, Ouagadougou
\Itelephone:\i [226] 306723 through 306725
\IFAX:\i [226] 303890
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a yellow five-pointed star in the center; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of the poorest countries in the world, Burkina Faso has a high population density and a high population growth rate, few natural resources, and a fragile soil. Economic development is hindered by a poor communications network within a landlocked country. Agriculture is mainly subsistence farming. Industry remains dominated by unprofitable government-controlled corporations. Following the Communaute Financiere Africaine currency \Jdevaluation\j on 12 January 1994, exports appear to have risen, but no official figures have been released yet. The upswing apparently continued in 1995, with growth perhaps at 4%. The government has updated its development program in conjunction with international agencies, yet even with the best of plans, the government faces formidable problems on all sides.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion as a result of overgrazing and the expansion of agriculture into marginal lands; deforestation (little forested land remains because of uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel); habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding, landslides
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; straddles crest of the Nile-Congo watershed
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 62,955; female 95,310) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.54% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 43.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 15.15 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -12.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b in a number of waves since October 1993, hundreds of thousands of refugees have fled the civil strife between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in \JBurundi\j and crossed into \JRwanda\j, \JTanzania\j, and Zaire; the refugee flows are continuing in 1996 as the ethnic violence persists
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.66 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 102.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 49.33 years
\Imale:\i 48.28 years
\Ifemale:\i 50.42 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.55 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Burundian(s)
\Iadjective:\i \JBurundi\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b
Africans: Hutu (Bantu) 85%, Tutsi (Hamitic) 14%, Twa (Pygmy) 1%
non-Africans: Europeans 3,000, South Asians 2,000
\BReligions:\b Christian 67% (Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 5%), indigenous beliefs 32%, Muslim 1%
\BLanguages:\b Kirundi (official), French (official), \JSwahili\j (along Lake Tanganyika and in the Bujumbura area)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 35.3%
\Imale:\i 49.3%
\Ifemale:\i 22.5%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JBurundi\j
\BIndependence:\b 1 July 1962 (from UN trusteeship under Belgian administration)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 13 March 1992; provides for establishment of a plural political system
\BLegal system:\b based on German and Belgian civil codes and customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Sylvestre NTIBANTUNGANYA (acting president from 8 April 1994 to 30 September 1994, president since 1 October 1994); note - NTIBANTUNGANYA, in his capacity as President of the National Assembly, became acting president upon the death of President Cyprien NTARYAMIRE in an airplane crash on 6 April 1994; NTIBANTUNGANYA was sworn in on 1 October 1994 as president by the "Convention on Government" to serve a four year transitional term
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Antoine NDUWAYO (since February 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; appointed by prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): election last held 29 June 1993 (next to be held NA); results - FRODEBU 71%, UPRONA 21.4%; seats - (81 total) FRODEBU 65, UPRONA 16; other parties won too small shares of the vote to win seats in the assembly
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Unity for National Progress (UPRONA); \JBurundi\j Democratic Front (FRODEBU); Organization of the People of \JBurundi\j (RBP); Socialist Party of \JBurundi\j (PSB); People's Reconciliation Party (PRP); opposition parties, legalized in March 1992, include \JBurundi\j African Alliance for the Salvation (ABASA); Rally for Democracy and Economic and Social Development (RADDES); and Party for National Redress (PARENA)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Severin NTAHOMVUKIYE
\Ichancery:\i Suite 212, 2233 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 342-2574
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Charles YELLIN
\Iembassy:\i Avenue des Etats-Unis, Bujumbura
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 1720, Bujumbura
\Itelephone:\i [257] (2) 23454
\IFAX:\i [257] (2) 22926
\BFlag:\b divided by a white diagonal cross into red panels (top and bottom) and green panels (hoist side and outer side) with a white disk superimposed at the center bearing three red six-pointed stars outlined in green arranged in a triangular design (one star above, two stars below)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JBurundi\j is a landlocked, resource-poor country in an early stage of economic development. The economy is predominately agricultural with roughly 90% of the population dependent on subsistence agriculture. Its economic health depends on the \Jcoffee\j crop, which accounts for 80% of foreign exchange earnings. The ability to pay for imports therefore rests largely on the vagaries of the climate and the international \Jcoffee\j market. As part of its economic reform agenda, launched in February 1991 with IMF and World Bank support, \JBurundi\j is trying to diversify its agricultural exports, attract foreign investment in industry, and modernize government budgetary practices. Since October 1993 the nation has suffered from massive ethnic-based violence which has resulted in the death of perhaps 100,000 persons and the displacement of a million others; production has fallen sharply, and an impoverished and disorganized government can hardly implement these needed reform programs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 7,200 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b primitive system
\Idomestic:\i sparse system of open wire, radiotelephone communications, and low-capacity microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 4,500 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (includes naval and air units), paramilitary Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,312,458
\Imales fit for military service:\i 683,073
males reach military age (16) annually: 67,990 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $25 million, 2.6% of GDP (1993)
#
"Cambodia (Atlas)",42,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of \JThailand\j, between \JThailand\j and Vietnam
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 00 N, 105 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 181,040 sq km
\Iland area:\i 176,520 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Oklahoma
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,572 km
\Iborder countries:\i Laos 541 km, \JThailand\j 803 km, Vietnam 1,228 km
\BCoastline:\b 443 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b offshore islands and sections of the boundary with Vietnam are in dispute; maritime boundary with Vietnam not defined; parts of border with \JThailand\j in dispute; maritime boundary with \JThailand\j not clearly defined
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy, monsoon season (May to November); dry season (December to April); little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north
\Ilowest point:\i Gulf of \JThailand\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Phnum Aoral 1,810 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, \Jgemstones\j, some iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, \Jphosphates\j, hydropower potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 16%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 3%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 76%
\Iother:\i 4%
\BIrrigated land:\b 920 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i logging activities throughout the country and strip mining for gems in the western region along the border with \JThailand\j are resulting in habitat loss and declining \Jbiodiversity\j (in particular, destruction of mangrove swamps threatens natural fisheries); deforestation; soil erosion; in rural areas, a majority of the population does not have access to potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i monsoonal rains (June to November); flooding; occasional droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Marine Life Conservation, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b a land of paddies and forests dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 143,759; female 191,017) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.77% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 43.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 15.78 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.75 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.93 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 107.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 49.86 years
\Imale:\i 48.39 years
\Ifemale:\i 51.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.81 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cambodian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cambodian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%
\BReligions:\b Theravada \JBuddhism\j 95%, other 5%
\BLanguages:\b Khmer (official), French
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 35%
\Imale:\i 48%
\Ifemale:\i 22%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of \JCambodia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JCambodia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Preahreacheanachakr \JKampuchea\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JKampuchea\j
\BData code:\b CB
\BType of government:\b A theoretical constitutional monarchy established in September 1993
\BCapital:\b Phnom Penh
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 21 provinces (khett, singular and plural); Banteay Mean Cheay, Batdambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Spoe, Kampong Thum, Kampot, Kandal, Kaoh Kong, Kracheh, Mondol Kiri, Phnum Penh, Pouthisat, Preah Seihanu (Sihanoukville), Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Rotanah Kiri, Siem Reab, Stoeng Treng, Svay Rieng, Takev
\Bnote:\b a new province of Otdar Mean Cheay may have been created from parts of Banteay Mean Cheay and Siem Reab
\BIndependence:\b 9 November 1949 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 9 November 1949
\BConstitution:\b promulgated 21 September 1993
\BLegal system:\b currently being defined
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King Norodom SIHANOUK (reinstated 24 September 1993) is a constitutional monarch in theory
\Ihead of government:\i Second Prime Minister HUN SEN (since NA 1993) who was appointed by the king. The First Prime Minister is Ung Huot.
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers theoretically appointed by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: members elected for five-year terms; elections last held 23 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) FUNCINPEC 58, CPP 51, Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party 10, Molinaka 1
\Bnote:\b the May 1993 elections were for the Constituent Assembly which became the National Assembly after the new constitution was promulgated in September 1993
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court provided for by the constitution has not yet been established and the future judicial system is yet to be defined by law
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National United Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful, and Cooperative \JCambodia\j (FUNCINPEC), Prince NORODOM RANARIDDH (ousted in 1997); Cambodian Pracheachon Party or Cambodian People's Party (CPP), CHEA SIM; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party, SON SANN faction; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party, IENG MOULY faction; Democratic \JKampuchea\j (DK, also known as the Khmer Rouge), KHIEU SAMPHAN; Molinaka, PROM NEAKAREACH
\Ichancery:\i 4500 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 726-7742
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 726-8381
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kenneth M. QUINN
\Iembassy:\i 27 EO Street 240, Phnom Penh
\Imailing address:\i Box P, APO AP 96546
\Itelephone:\i [855] (23) 426436, 426438
\IFAX:\i [855] (23) 426437
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (double width), and blue with a white three-towered temple representing Angkor Wat outlined in black in the center of the red band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Cambodian economy - virtually destroyed by decades of war - is slowly recovering. Government leaders are moving toward restoring fiscal and monetary discipline and have established good working relations with international financial institutions. Growth, starting from a low base, has been strong in 1991-95. Despite such positive developments, the reconstruction effort faces many tough challenges because of the persistence of internal political divisions and the related lack of confidence of foreign investors. Rural \JCambodia\j, where 90% of about 9.5 million Khmer live, remains mired in poverty. The almost total lack of basic \Jinfrastructure\j in the countryside will hinder development and will contribute to a growing imbalance in growth between urban and rural areas over the near term. Moreover, the government's lack of experience in administering economic and technical assistance programs and rampant corruption among officials will slow the growth of critical public sector investment. The decline of \Jinflation\j from the 1992 rate of more than 50% is one of the bright spots.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7 billion (1995 est.)
Industrial production growth rate: 7.9% (1993 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 40,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 160 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 14 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, rubber, corn, vegetables
\BIllicit drugs:\b key transshipment country for Golden Triangle heroin en route to West; possibly becoming money-laundering center; high-level narcotics-related corruption in government, military, and police; possible small-scale opium, heroin, and \Jamphetamine\j production; large producer of cannabis
\BExports:\b $240.7 million (1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i timber, rubber, soybeans, sesame
\Ipartners:\i \JSingapore\j, \JJapan\j, \JThailand\j, Hong Kong, \JIndonesia\j, \JMalaysia\j
\BImports:\b $630.5 million (1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i cigarettes, construction materials, \Jpetroleum\j products, machinery, motor vehicles
\Ipartners:\i \JSingapore\j, Vietnam, \JJapan\j, \JAustralia\j, Hong Kong, \JIndonesia\j
\BExternal debt:\b $383 million to OECD members (1993)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b IMF pledged $120 million in aid for 1995-98
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 7 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 7,000 (1981 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b service barely adequate for government requirements and virtually nonexistent for general public
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i landline international service limited to Vietnam and other adjacent countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1986 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 70,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b
Khmer Royal Armed Forces (KRAF): created in 1993 by the merger of the Cambodian People's Armed Forces and the two noncommunist resistance armies; note - the KRAF is also known as the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF)
Resistance forces: National Army of Democratic \JKampuchea\j (Khmer Rouge)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,336,606
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,302,234
males reach military age (18) annually: 79,514 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $85 million, 1.4% of GDP (1995)
#
"Cameroon (Atlas)",43,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Equatorial Guinea and \JNigeria\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 00 N, 12 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 475,440 sq km
\Iland area:\i 469,440 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,591 km
\Iborder countries:\i Central African Republic 797 km, Chad 1,094 km, \JCongo\j 523 km, Equatorial Guinea 189 km, \JGabon\j 298 km, \JNigeria\j 1,690 km
\BCoastline:\b 402 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 50 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by \JCameroon\j, Chad, \JNiger\j, and \JNigeria\j; dispute with \JNigeria\j over land and maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been referred to the International Court of Justice
\BClimate:\b varies with terrain, from tropical along coast to semiarid and hot in north
\BTerrain:\b diverse, with coastal plain in southwest, dissected plateau in center, mountains in west, plains in north
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Fako 4,095 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jbauxite\j, iron ore, timber, hydropower potential
\Inatural hazards:\i recent volcanic activity with release of poisonous gases
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Nuclear Test Ban, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b sometimes referred to as the hinge of Africa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 provinces; Adamaoua, Centre, Est, Extreme-Nord, Littoral, Nord, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, Sud, Sud-Ouest
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1960 (from UN trusteeship under French administration)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 20 May (1972)
\BConstitution:\b 20 May 1972
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system, with common law influence; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Paul BIYA (since 6 November 1982) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 11 October 1992 (next to be held NA October 1997); results - President Paul BIYA reelected with about 40% of the vote amid widespread allegations of \Jfraud\j; SDF candidate John FRU NDI got 36% of the vote; UNDP candidate Bello Bouba MAIGARI got 19% of the vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Simon ACHIDI ACHU (since 9 April 1992) appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 1 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (180 total) CPDM 88, UNDP 68, UPC 18, MDR 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JCameroon\j People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) (government-controlled and the only party until legalization of opposition parties in 1990), Paul BIYA, president
major opposition parties: National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP); Social Democratic Front (SDF); Cameroonian Democratic Union (UDC); Union of Cameroonian Populations (UPC); Movement for the Defense of the Republic (MDR)
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Alliance for Change (FAC), \JCameroon\j Anglophone Movement (CAM)
\Ichancery:\i 2349 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-8790 through 8794
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Charles H. TWINING
\Iembassy:\i Rue Nachtigal, Yaounde
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 817, Yaounde
\Itelephone:\i [237] 23-40-14, 23-05-12
\IFAX:\i [237] 23-07-53
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), red, and yellow with a yellow five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Because of its offshore oil resources and favorable agricultural conditions, \JCameroon\j has one of the best-endowed, most diversified primary commodity economies in sub-Saharan Africa. Still, it faces many of the serious problems facing other underdeveloped countries, such as political instability, a top-heavy civil service, and a generally unfavorable climate for business enterprise. The development of the oil sector led to rapid economic growth between 1970 and 1985. Growth came to an abrupt halt in 1986, precipitated by steep declines in the prices of major exports: \Jcoffee\j, \Jcocoa\j, and \Jpetroleum\j. Export earnings were cut by almost one-third, and inefficiencies in fiscal management were exposed. In 1990-93, with support from the IMF and World Bank, the government began to introduce reforms designed to spur business investment, increase efficiency in agriculture, and recapitalize the nation's banks. Political instability, following suspect elections in 1992, brought IMF/WB structural adjustment to a halt; currently \JCameroon\j receives only minimal assistance from those Bretton Woods institutions. Although the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the currency of 12 January 1994 improved the potential for export growth, mismanagement remains the main barrier to economic improvement. The \Jdevaluation\j led to a spurt in \Jinflation\j, to 48% in 1994, but \Jinflation\j moderated in 1995. Progress toward privatization of remaining state industry remains slow.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $16.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 1.8% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,200 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 29%
\Iindustry:\i 24%
\Iservices:\i 47% (1994 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 48% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 74.4%, industry and transport 11.4%, other services 14.2% (1983)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.6 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $226 million (FY92/93 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j production and refining, food processing, light consumer goods, textiles, lumber
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 11, FM 11, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1995)
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Naval Infantry), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,112,339
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,572,150
males reach military age (18) annually: 151,300 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $102 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Canada (Atlas)",44,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and North Pacific Ocean, north of the conterminous US
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 60 00 N, 95 00 W
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 9,976,140 sq km
\Iland area:\i 9,220,970 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 8,893 km
border country: US 8,893 km (includes 2,477 km with Alaska)
\BCoastline:\b 243,791 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary disputes with the US; Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and \JFrance\j
\BClimate:\b varies from temperate in south to subarctic and \Jarctic\j in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly plains with mountains in west and lowlands in southeast
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j and resulting acid rain severely affecting lakes and damaging forests; metal smelting, coal-burning utilities, and vehicle emissions impacting on agricultural and forest productivity; ocean waters becoming contaminated due to agricultural, industrial, mining, and \Jforestry\j activities
\Inatural hazards:\i continuous \Jpermafrost\j in north is a serious obstacle to development; cyclonic storms form east of the Rocky Mountains, a result of the mixing of air masses from the \JArctic\j, Pacific, and North American interior, and produce most of the country's rain and snow
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b second-largest country in world (after Russia); strategic location between \JRussia\j and US via north polar route; nearly 90% of the population is concentrated within 161 km of the US/Canada border
\I65 years and over:\i 12% (male 1,501,542; female 2,072,465) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.06% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 13.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.17 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 4.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.72 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 79.07 years
\Imale:\i 75.67 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.65 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Canadian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Canadian
\BEthnic divisions:\b British Isles origin 40%, French origin 27%, other European 20%, indigenous Indian and Eskimo 1.5%, other, mostly Asian 11.5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 45%, United Church 12%, Anglican 8%, other 35% (1991)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1986 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Canada
\BData code:\b CA
\BType of government:\b confederation with parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JOttawa\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 provinces and 2 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, \JManitoba\j, New \JBrunswick\j, Newfoundland, Northwest Territories*, Nova Scotia, \JOntario\j, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, \JYukon\j Territory*
\BIndependence:\b 1 July 1867 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Canada Day, 1 July (1867)
\BConstitution:\b amended British North America Act 1867 patriated to Canada 17 April 1982; charter of rights and unwritten customs
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law, except in Quebec, where civil law system based on French law prevails; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Romeo LeBLANC (since 8 February 1995), who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jean CHRETIEN (since 4 November 1993) was appointed by the governor general; on 25 October 1993; Deputy Prime Minister Sheila COPPS (since NA); note - the prime minister is the leader of the political party commanding a majority in the House of Commons
\Icabinet:\i Federal Ministry was chosen by the prime minister from members of his own party sitting in Parliament
Senate (Senat): consisting of a body whose members are appointed to serve until 75 years of age by the governor general and selected on the advice of the prime minister; its normal limit is 104 senators
House of Commons (Chambre des Communes): elections last held 25 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1998); results - percent of votes by party NA; seats - (295 total) Liberal Party 179, Bloc Quebecois 53, Reform Party 52, New Democratic Party 8, Progressive Conservative Party 2, independents 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Party, Jean CHRETIEN; Bloc Quebecois, Michel GAUTHIER; Reform Party, Preston MANNING; New Democratic Party, Alexa MCDONOUGH; Progressive Conservative Party, Jean CHAREST
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Raymond A. J. CHRETIEN
\Ichancery:\i 501 \JPennsylvania\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 682-1740
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 682-7726
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, Buffalo, \JChicago\j, \JDallas\j, \JDetroit\j, Los Angeles, \JMinneapolis\j, New York, and Seattle
\Iconsulate(s):\i \JCincinnati\j, Cleveland, Miami, Philadelphia, \JPittsburgh\j, Princeton, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 5000, Ogdensburg, NY 13669-0430
\Itelephone:\i [1] (613) 238-5335, 4470
\IFAX:\i [1] (613) 238-5720
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JCalgary\j, \JHalifax\j, Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, and Vancouver
\BFlag:\b three vertical bands of red (hoist side), white (double width, square), and red with a red maple leaf centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b As an affluent, high-tech industrial society, Canada today closely resembles the US in per capita output, market-oriented economic system, and pattern of production. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. Canada started the 1990s in recession, and real rates of growth have averaged only 1.1% so far this decade. Because of slower growth, Canada still faces high unemployment and a large public sector debt. With its great natural resources, skilled labor force, and modern capital plant, however, Canada will enjoy better economic prospects in the future. The continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking areas is raising the possibility of a split in the confederation, making foreign investors somewhat edgy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $694 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 75%, manufacturing 14%, agriculture 4%, construction 3%, other 4% (1988)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 9.5% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $90.4 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $114.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.)
\BIndustries:\b processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, transportation equipment, chemicals, fish products, \Jpetroleum\j and natural gas
Industrial production growth rate: 5.9% (1994)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 108,090,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 511 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 16,133 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b wheat, \Jbarley\j, oilseed, \Jtobacco\j, fruits, vegetables; dairy products; forest products; commercial fisheries provide annual catch of 1.5 million metric tons, of which 75% is exported
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic drug market; use of hydroponics technology permits growers to plant large quantities of high-quality marijuana indoors; growing role as a transit point for heroin and \Jcocaine\j entering the US market
\BExports:\b $185 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i newsprint, wood pulp, timber, crude \Jpetroleum\j, machinery, natural gas, aluminum, motor vehicles and parts; telecommunications equipment
\Ipartners:\i US, \JJapan\j, UK, \JGermany\j, South Korea, Netherlands, China
\BImports:\b $166.7 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil, chemicals, motor vehicles and parts, durable consumer goods, electronic computers; telecommunications equipment and parts
\Ipartners:\i US, \JJapan\j, UK, \JGermany\j, \JFrance\j, Mexico, \JTaiwan\j, South Korea
\BExternal debt:\b $233 billion (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
donor: ODA, $2.373 billion (1993)
\Bnote:\b ODA and OOF commitments, $10.1 billion (1986-91)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Canadian dollar (Can$) = 100 cents
\Itotal:\i 70,176 km; note - there are two major transcontinental freight railway systems: Canadian National (privatized November 1995) and Canadian Pacific Railway; passenger service provided by government-operated firm VIA, which has no trackage of its own
standard gauge: 70,000 km 1.435-m gauge (63 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 176 km 0.914-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 849,404 km
\Ipaved:\i 297,291 km (including 15,983 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 552,113 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,000 km, including Saint Lawrence Seaway
\BPipelines:\b crude and refined oil 23,564 km; natural gas 74,980 km
\BPorts:\b Becancour (Quebec), Churchill, \JHalifax\j, Montreal, New Westminister, Prince Rupert, Quebec, Saint John (New Brunswick), Saint John's (Newfoundland), Seven Islands, Sydney, Three Rivers, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Vancouver, Windsor
\BBranches:\b Canadian Armed Forces (includes Land Forces Command or LC, Maritime Command or MC, Air Command or AC,
\BCommunications:\b Command or CC, Training Command or TC), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 7,645,245
\Imales fit for military service:\i 6,575,057
males reach military age (17) annually: 197,688 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $9.0 billion, 1.6% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Cape Verde (Atlas)",45,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, group of Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of \JSenegal\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 00 N, 24 00 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 4,030 sq km
\Iland area:\i 4,030 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Rhode Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 965 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; warm, dry summer; precipitation meager and very erratic
\BTerrain:\b steep, rugged, rocky, volcanic
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pico 2,829 m
\BNatural resources:\b salt, \Jbasalt\j rock, pozzolana, \Jlimestone\j, \Jkaolin\j, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 6%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 85%
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i overgrazing of livestock and improper land use such as the cultivation of crops on steep slopes has led to soil erosion; demand for wood used as fuel has resulted in deforestation; \Jdesertification\j; environmental damage has threatened several indigenous species of birds and reptiles; overfishing
\Inatural hazards:\i prolonged droughts; \Jharmattan\j wind can obscure visibility; volcanically and seismically active
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location 500 km from west coast of Africa near major north-south sea routes; important communications station; important sea and air refueling site
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 6,450; female 10,056) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.93% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 44.31 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.29 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.68 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.77 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.64 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.89 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 54.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 63.39 years
\Imale:\i 61.47 years
\Ifemale:\i 65.41 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.12 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cape Verdean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cape Verdean
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JCreole\j (mulatto) 71%, African 28%, European 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholicism fused with indigenous beliefs
\BLanguages:\b Portuguese, Crioulo, a blend of Portuguese and West African words
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 71.6%
\Imale:\i 81.4%
\Ifemale:\i 63.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cape Verde
\Iconventional short form:\i Cape Verde
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Cabo Verde
\Ilocal short form:\i Cabo Verde
\BData code:\b CV
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JPraia\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); \JBoa\j Vista, Brava, Fogo, Maio, Paul, \JPraia\j, Porto Novo, Ribeira Grande, Sal, Santa Catarina, Santa Cruz, Sao Nicolau, Sao Vicente, Tarrafal
\BIndependence:\b 5 July 1975 (from Portugal)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 5 July (1975)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution came into force 25 September 1992
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Antonio MASCARENHAS Monteiro (since 22 March 1991) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 18 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2001); results - Antonio Monteiro MASCARENHAS (independent) received 80.1% of vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Carlos Alberto Wahnon de Carvalho VEIGA (since 13 January 1991) nominated by the People'sNational Assembly and appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by prime minister from members of the Peoples National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
People's National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional Popular): elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held NA); results - MPD 59%, PAICV 28%, PCD 6%; seats - (72 total) MPD 50, PAICV 21, PCD 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Tribunal of Justice (Supremo Tribunal de Justia)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Movement for Democracy (MPD), Prime Minister Carlos VEIGA, founder and chairman; African Party for Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), Pedro Verona Rodrigues PIRES, chairman; Party for Democratic Convergence (PCD)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alberto Santos SILVA-CARLOS
\Ichancery:\i 3415 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 965-6820
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 965-1207
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Joseph M. SEGARS
\Iembassy:\i Rua Abilio Macedo 81, \JPraia\j
\Imailing address:\i C. P. 201, \JPraia\j
\Itelephone:\i [238] 61 56 16
\IFAX:\i [238] 61 13 55
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of light blue (top, double width), white (with a horizontal red stripe in the middle third), and light blue; a circle of 10 yellow five-pointed stars is centered on the hoist end of the red stripe and extends into the upper and lower blue bands
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Cape Verde's low per capita GDP reflects a poor natural resource base, serious water shortages exacerbated by cycles of long-term \Jdrought\j, and a high birthrate. The economy is service oriented, with commerce, transport, and public services accounting for 60% of GDP. Although nearly 70% of the population lives in rural areas, the share of agriculture in GNP is only 13%, of which fishing accounts for 4%. About 90% of food must be imported. The fishing potential, mostly lobster and \Jtuna\j, is not fully exploited. Cape Verde annually runs a high trade deficit, financed by remittances from emigrants and foreign aid, which form important supplements to GDP. Economic reforms, launched by the new democratic government in 1991, are aimed at developing the private sector and attracting foreign investment to diversify the economy. Prospects for 1996 depend heavily on the maintenance of aid flows, remittances, and the momentum of the government's development program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $440 million (1994 est.)
\Itotal:\i 4 (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,632 GRT/8,872 DWT cargo 3, chemical tanker 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 6
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 5 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,740 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i interisland microwave radio relay system
\Iinternational:\i 2 coaxial submarine cables; HF radiotelephone to \JSenegal\j and Guinea-Bissau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 7,000 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b People's Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARP; includes Army and Navy), Security Service
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 84,003
\Imales fit for military service:\i 48,885 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.4 million, NA% of GDP (1994)
#
"Cayman Islands (Atlas)",46,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island group in Caribbean Sea, nearly one-half of the way from \JCuba\j to \JHonduras\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 30 N, 80 30 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 260 sq km
\Iland area:\i 260 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 160 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; warm, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, relatively dry winters (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b low-lying \Jlimestone\j base surrounded by \Jcoral\j reefs
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i The Bluff 43 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, climate and beaches that foster tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 8%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 23%
\Iother:\i 69%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no natural fresh water resources, drinking water supplies must be met by rainwater catchment
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes (July to November)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b important location between \JCuba\j and Central America
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 34,646 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 4.27% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.52 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.98 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 33.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b major destination for Cubans trying to migrate to the US
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.1 years
\Imale:\i 75.37 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.81 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.4 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Caymanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Caymanian
\BEthnic divisions:\b mixed 40%, white 20%, black 20%, expatriates of various ethnic groups 20%
\BReligions:\b United Church (Presbyterian and Congregational), Anglican, Baptist, Roman Catholic, Church of God, other Protestant denominations
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JCayman\j Islands
\BData code:\b CJ
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b George Town
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 districts; Creek, Eastern, Midland, South Town, Spot Bay, Stake Bay, West End, Western
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day (first Monday in July)
\BConstitution:\b 1959, revised 1972 and 1992
\BLegal system:\b British common law and local statutes
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Governor and President of the Executive Council John OWEN (since 15 September 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council - three members are appointed by the governor, four members are elected by the Legislative Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly: election last held 18 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total, 12 elected) independents 12
\BJudicial branch:\b Grand Court; \JCayman\j Islands Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b no formal political parties
\BInternational organization participation:\b Caricom (observer), CDB, \JInterpol\j (subbureau), IOC
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Caymanian coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms includes a \Jpineapple\j and turtle above a shield with three stars (representing the three islands) and a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b With no direct taxation, the Islands are a thriving offshore financial center. Tourism is also a mainstay, accounting for about 70% of GDP and 75% of foreign currency earnings. The tourist industry is aimed at the luxury market and caters mainly to visitors from North America. Total tourist arrivals exceeded one million visitors in 1995 for the first time. About 90% of the islands' food and consumer goods must be imported. The Caymanians enjoy one of the highest outputs per capita and one of the highest standards of living in the world.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $750 million (1994 est.)
\Icurrent issues:\i tap water is not potable; poaching has diminished reputation as one of last great wildlife refuges; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dusty \Jharmattan\j winds affect northern areas; floods are common
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; almost the precise center of Africa
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 December (1958) (proclamation of the republic)
\BConstitution:\b passed by referendum 29 December 1994; adopted 7 January 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on French law
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ange PATASSE (since 22 October 1993) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - PATASSE received 52.45% of the votes and Abel GOUMBA received 45.62%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jean-Paul NGOUPANDE (since 6 June 1996); appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (85 total) MLPC 33, RDC 14, PLD 7, ADP 6, PSD 3, others 22
\Bnote:\b the National Assembly is advised by the Economic and Regional Council (Conseil Economique et Regional); when they sit together they are called the Congress (Congres)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), judges appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, judges appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP), Tchapka BREDE; Central African Democratic Assembly (RDC), Andre KOLINGBA; Civic Forum (FC), Gen. Timothee MALENDOMA; Liberal Democratic Party (PLD), Nestor KOMBO-NAGUEMON; Movement for the Liberation of the Central African
\BPeople:\b (MLPC), the party of the president, Ange Felix PATASSE; Movement for Democracy and Development (MDD), David DACKO; Marginal Movement for Democracy, Renaissance and Evolution (MDREC), Joseph BENDOUNGA; Patriotic Front for Progress (FFP), Abel GOUMBA; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Enoch Derant LAKOUE
\Ichancery:\i 1618 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-7800, 7801
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-9893
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mosina H. JORDAN
\Iembassy:\i Avenue David Dacko, Bangui
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 924, Bangui
\Itelephone:\i [236] 61 02 00, 61 25 78, 61 02 10
\IFAX:\i [236] 61 44 94
\BFlag:\b four equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, green, and yellow with a vertical red band in center; there is a yellow five-pointed star on the hoist side of the blue band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Subsistence agriculture, together with \Jforestry\j, remains the backbone of the economy of the Central African Republic (CAR), with more than 70% of the population living in outlying areas. The agricultural sector generates half of GDP. Timber has accounted for about 13% of export earnings and the diamond industry for nearly 80%. Important constraints to economic development include the CAR's landlocked position, a poor transportation system, a largely unskilled work force, and a legacy of misdirected macroeconomic policies. A major plus is the large forest reserves, which the government is moving to protect from overexploitation. The 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the currencies of 14 Francophone African nations on 12 January 1994 had mixed effects on the CAR's economy. While diamond, timber, \Jcoffee\j, and cotton exports increased - leading GDP to increase by 5.5% - \Jinflation\j rose to 45%, fueled by the rising prices of imports on which the economy depends; \Jinflation\j dropped back rapidly in 1995. The CAR's poor resource base and primitive \Jinfrastructure\j will keep it dependent on multilateral donors and \JFrance\j for the foreseeable future.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 23,738 km
\Ipaved:\i 427 km
\Iunpaved:\i 23,311 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 800 km; traditional trade carried on by means of shallow-draft dugouts; Oubangui is the most important river
\BPorts:\b Bangui, Nola
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 48
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 11
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 9
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 24 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 16,867 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair system
\Idomestic:\i network consists principally of microwave radio relay and low-capacity, low-powered radiotelephone communication
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 7,500 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Central African Army (includes Republican Guard), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 737,330
\Imales fit for military service:\i 384,134 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 2.3% of GDP (1994)
#
"Chad (Atlas)",48,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Africa, south of \JLibya\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 19 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.284 million sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,259,200 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than three times the size of \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,968 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 1,094 km, Central African Republic 1,197 km, \JLibya\j 1,055 km, \JNiger\j 1,175 km, \JNigeria\j 87 km, \JSudan\j 1,360 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in February 1994 that the 100,000 sq km Aozou Strip between Chad and \JLibya\j belongs to Chad and that \JLibya\j must withdraw from it by 31 May 1994; \JLibya\j has withdrawn some of its forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains part of the airfield and a small military presence at the airfield's water supply located in Chad; demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which has led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaiting ratification by \JCameroon\j, Chad, \JNiger\j, and \JNigeria\j
\BClimate:\b tropical in south, desert in north
\BTerrain:\b broad, arid plains in center, desert in north, mountains in northwest, lowlands in south
\Ilowest point:\i Djourab Depression 175 m
\Ihighest point:\i Emi Koussi 3,415 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j (unexploited but exploration under way), uranium, natron, \Jkaolin\j, fish (Lake Chad)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 36%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 11%
\Iother:\i 51%
\BIrrigated land:\b 100 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate supplies of potable water; improper waste disposal in rural areas contributes to soil and water \Jpollution\j; \Jdesertification\j
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; Lake Chad is the most significant water body in the Sahel
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 11 August (1960)
\BConstitution:\b 31 March 1995, passed by referendum
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and Chadian customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Lt. Gen. Idriss DEBY (since 4 December 1990, after seizing power on 3 December 1990); note - transitional government's mandate was scheduled to expire in May 1996; the first round of presidential elections was scheduled for 2 June 1996, with a runoff on 23 June if necessary
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Djimasta KOIBLA (since 9 April 1995) elected by the Sovereign National Conference
\Icabinet:\i Council of State appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Higher Transitional Council (Conseil Superieur de
Transition: popular elections to the former National Consultative Council (Conceil National Consultatif) were last held 8 July 1990; this body was disbanded on 3 December 1990 by President DEBY and on 8 March 1991 replaced with the Provisional Council of the Republic having 30 members whom he appointed; this body, in turn, was replaced on 6 April 1993 by a 57-member Higher Transitional Council (Conseil Superieur de Transition) elected by a specially convened Sovereign National Conference; popular elections, formerly scheduled for April 1995, were initially postponed by mutual agreement of the parties concerned until at least May 1996 and subsequently postponed until after the rainy season (as late as October 1996); note - the name of the anticipated new legislative body has not been announced
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), former dissident group, Idriss DEBY, chairman
\Bnote:\b President DEBY, who promised political pluralism, a new constitution, and free elections by April 1994, subsequently twice postponed these initiatives; there are numerous dissident groups and at least 45 opposition political parties
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; similar to the flag of \JRomania\j; also similar to the flag of \JAndorra\j, which has a national coat of arms featuring a quartered shield centered in the yellow band; design was based on the flag of \JFrance\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Climate, geographic remoteness, poor resource endowment, and lack of \Jinfrastructure\j make Chad one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world. Its economy is hobbled by political turmoil, \Jdrought\j, and food shortages. Consequently the economy has shown little progress in recent years in overcoming a severe setback brought on by civil war in the late 1980s. More than 80% of the work force is involved in subsistence farming and fishing. Cotton is the major cash crop, accounting for at least half of exports. Chad is highly dependent on foreign aid, especially food credits, given chronic shortages in several regions. Of all the Francophone countries in Africa, Chad has benefited the least from the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of their currencies on 12 January 1994. Despite an increase in external financial aid and favorable price increases for cotton - the primary source of foreign exchange - the corrupt and enfeebled government bureaucracy continues to postpone payment of public sector salaries and to dampen economic enterprise by neglecting payments to domestic suppliers. The \Jdevaluation\j resulted in stepped-up \Jinflation\j of 41% in 1994; in contrast to other Francophone countries, Chad continued to suffer high \Jinflation\j in 1995 because of the government's lack of financial discipline. Oil production in the Lake Chad area remains a distant prospect and the subsistence-driven economy probably will continue to limp along in the near term.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.3 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b beginning 12 January 1994 the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 31,141 km
\Ipaved:\i 32 km
\Iunpaved:\i 31,109 km (1987 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 2,000 km navigable
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 47
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 11
with unpaved runways over 3,047 m: 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 18 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b primitive system
\Idomestic:\i fair system of radiotelephone communication stations
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\Bnote:\b limited TV service; many facilities are inoperative
\BTelevisions:\b 7,000 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Armed Forces (includes Ground Force, Air Force, and Gendarmerie), Republican Guard, Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,562,052
\Imales fit for military service:\i 809,210
males reach military age (20) annually: 63,254 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $74 million, 11.1% of GDP (1994)
#
"Chile (Atlas)",49,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean and South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and \JPeru\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 30 00 S, 71 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 756,950 sq km
\Iland area:\i 748,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than twice the size of Montana
\Bnote:\b includes Isla de Pascua (Easter Island) and Isla Sala y Gomez
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,171 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 5,150 km, \JBolivia\j 861 km, \JPeru\j 160 km
\BCoastline:\b 6,435 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of the southern boundary with Argentina is indefinite; \JBolivia\j has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South Pacific Ocean since the Atacama area was lost to \JChile\j in 1884; dispute with \JBolivia\j over Rio Lauca water rights; territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Chilean Antarctic Territory) partially overlaps Argentine and British claims
\BClimate:\b temperate; desert in north; cool and damp in south
\BTerrain:\b low coastal mountains; fertile central valley; rugged \JAndes\j in east
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m
\BNatural resources:\b copper, timber, iron ore, nitrates, precious metals, molybdenum
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 7%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 16%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 21%
\Iother:\i 56%
\BIrrigated land:\b 12,650 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from industrial and vehicle emissions; water \Jpollution\j from raw sewage; deforestation contributing to loss of \Jbiodiversity\j; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamis
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location relative to sea lanes between Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage); Atacama Desert is one of world's driest regions
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 403,019; female 566,803) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.24% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 18.09 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.68 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.71 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 74.49 years
\Imale:\i 71.26 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.72 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.23 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chilean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Chilean
\BEthnic divisions:\b European and European-Indian 95%, Indian 3%, other 2%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 11%, Jewish
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 95.2%
\Imale:\i 95.4%
\Ifemale:\i 95%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JChile\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JChile\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JChile\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JChile\j
\BData code:\b CI
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Santiago
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 13 regions (regiones, singular - region); Aisen del General Carlos Ibanez del Campo, Antofagasta, Araucania, Atacama, Bio-Bio, Coquimbo, Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins, Los Lagos, Magallanes y de la Antartica Chilena, Maule, Region Metropolitana, Tarapaca, \JValparaiso\j
\Bnote:\b the US does not recognize claims to \JAntarctica\j
\BIndependence:\b 18 September 1810 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 18 September (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 11 September 1980, effective 11 March 1981; amended 30 July 1989
\BLegal system:\b based on Code of 1857 derived from Spanish law and subsequent codes influenced by French and Austrian law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (since 11 March 1994) elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (PDC) 58%, Arturo ALESSANDRI 24.4%, other 17.6%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Senate (Senado): election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total, 38 elected) Coalition of Parties for Democracy 21 (PDC 13, PS 4, PPD 3, PR 1), Union for the Progress of \JChile\j 15 (RN 11, UDI 3, UCC 1), right-wing independents 10
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - Coalition of Parties for Democracy 53.95% (PDC 27.16%, PS 12.01%, PPD 11.82%, PR 2.96%), Union for the Progress of \JChile\j 30.57% (RN 15.25%, UDI 12.13%, UCC 3.19%); seats - (120 total) Coalition of Parties for Democracy 70 (PDC 37, PPD 15, PR 2, PS 15, left-wing independent 1), Union for the Progress of \JChile\j 47 (RN 30, UDI 15, UCC 2), right-wing independents 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are appointed by the president, the president of the Supreme Court is elected by the 17-member court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Coalition of Parties for Democracy (CPD) consists mainly of: Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Alejandro FOXLEY; Socialist Party (PS), Camilo ESCALONA; Party for Democracy (PPD), Jorge SCHAULSOHN, Radical Party (PR); Union for the Progress of \JChile\j (UPP) consists mainly of three parties: National Renewal (RN), Andres ALLAMAND; Independent Democratic Union (UDI), Jovino NOVOA; Center Center Union (UCCP), Francisco Javier ERRAZURIZ
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b revitalized university student federations at all major universities; labor - United Labor Central (CUT) includes trade unionists from the country's five largest labor confederations; Roman Catholic Church
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John BIEHL del Rio
\Ichancery:\i 1732 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 785-1746
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 887-5579
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Gabriel GUERRA-MONDRAGON
\Iembassy:\i Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Santiago
\Imailing address:\i use street address
\Itelephone:\i [56] (2) 232-2600
\IFAX:\i [56] (2) 330-3710
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; there is a blue square the same height as the white band at the hoist-side end of the white band; the square bears a white five-pointed star in the center; design was based on the US flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JChile\j has a prosperous, essentially free market economy, with the degree of government intervention varying according to the philosophy of the different regimes. Under the center-left government of President AYLWIN, which took power in March 1990, spending on social welfare rose steadily. At the same time business investment, exports, and consumer spending also grew substantially. The new president, FREI, who took office in March 1994, has emphasized social spending even more. Growth in real GDP in 1991-95 has averaged more than 6.5% annually, with an estimated one million Chileans having moved out of poverty in the last four years. Copper remains vital to the health of the economy; \JChile\j is the world's largest producer and exporter of copper. Success in meeting the government's goal of sustained annual economic growth of 5% depends on world copper prices, the level of confidence of foreign investors and creditors, and the government's own ability to maintain a conservative fiscal stance.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $113.2 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 38.3% (includes government 12%), industry and commerce 33.8%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 19.2%, mining 2.3%, construction 6.4% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 5.4% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $17 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $17 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b copper, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles
Industrial production growth rate: 4.3% (1993 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 4,810,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 22 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 1,499 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b wheat, corn, grapes, beans, sugar beets, potatoes, fruit; beef, poultry, wool; timber; 1991 fish catch of 6.6 million metric tons
\BIllicit drugs:\b a minor transshipment country for \Jcocaine\j destined for the US and Europe; booming economy has made it more attractive to traffickers seeking to launder drug profits
\BExports:\b $15.9 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i copper 41%, other metals and minerals 8.7%, wood products 7.1%, fish and fishmeal 9.8%, fruits 8.4% (1991)
\Ipartners:\i EU 25%, US 15%, Asia 34%, Latin America 20% (1995 est.)
\BImports:\b $14.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i capital goods 25.2%, spare parts 24.8%, raw materials 15.4%, \Jpetroleum\j 10%, foodstuffs 5.7%
\Ipartners:\i EU 18%, US 25%, Asia 16%, Latin America 26% (1995 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 159, FM 0, shortwave 11
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 131
\BTelevisions:\b 2.85 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army of the Nation, National Navy (includes Naval Air, Coast Guard, and Marines), Air Force of the Nation, Carabineros of \JChile\j (National Police), Investigations Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,808,655
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,832,198
males reach military age (19) annually: 123,443 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $970 million, 2.0% of GDP (1994 est.)
#
"China (Atlas)",50,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (also see separate \JTaiwan\j entry)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 35 00 N, 105 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 9,596,960 sq km
\Iland area:\i 9,326,410 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 22,143.34 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 76 km, \JBhutan\j 470 km, \JBurma\j 2,185 km, Hong Kong 30 km, India 3,380 km, Kazakstan 1,533 km, North Korea 1,416 km, \JKyrgyzstan\j 858 km, Laos 423 km, Macau 0.34 km, \JMongolia\j 4,673 km, \JNepal\j 1,236 km, \JPakistan\j 523 km, \JRussia\j (northeast) 3,605 km, \JRussia\j (northwest) 40 km, Tajikistan 414 km, Vietnam 1,281 km
\BCoastline:\b 14,500 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: claim to shallow areas of East China Sea and Yellow Sea
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b boundary with India in dispute; disputed sections of the boundary with \JRussia\j remain to be settled; boundary with Tajikistan in dispute; short section of the boundary with North Korea is indefinite; involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with \JMalaysia\j, \JPhilippines\j, \JTaiwan\j, Vietnam, and possibly \JBrunei\j; maritime boundary dispute with Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin; Paracel Islands occupied by China, but claimed by Vietnam and \JTaiwan\j; claims Japanese-administered Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands/Diaoyu Tai), as does \JTaiwan\j
\BClimate:\b extremely diverse; tropical in south to subarctic in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains, high plateaus, deserts in west; plains, deltas, and hills in east
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from the overwhelming use of high-sulfur coal as a fuel, produces acid rain which is damaging forests; water shortages experienced throughout the country, particularly in urban areas; future growth in water usage threatens to outpace supplies; water \Jpollution\j from industrial effluents; much of the population does not have access to potable water; less than 10% of sewage receives treatment; deforestation; estimated loss of one-fifth of agricultural land since 1957 to soil erosion and economic development; \Jdesertification\j; trade in endangered species
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent typhoons (about five per year along southern and eastern coasts); damaging floods; tsunamis; earthquakes; droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b world's third-largest country (after \JRussia\j and Canada)
\I65 years and over:\i 7% (male 35,056,409; female 40,529,821) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.98% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.92 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.11 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 39.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.62 years
\Imale:\i 68.33 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.06 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chinese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Chinese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Han Chinese 91.9%, Zhuang, Uygur, Hui, Yi, Tibetan, Miao, Manchu, Mongol, Buyi, Korean, and other nationalities 8.1%
\BReligions:\b Daoism (Taoism), \JBuddhism\j, Muslim 2%-3%, Christian 1% (est.)
\Bnote:\b officially atheist, but traditionally pragmatic and eclectic
\BLanguages:\b Standard Chinese or Mandarin (Putonghua, based on the \JBeijing\j dialect), Yue (Cantonese), Wu (Shanghaiese), Minbei (Fuzhou), Minnan (Hokkien-Taiwanese), Xiang, Gan, \JHakka\j dialects, minority languages (see Ethnic divisions entry)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 81.5%
\Imale:\i 89.9%
\Ifemale:\i 72.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i People's Republic of China
\Iconventional short form:\i China
\Ilocal long form:\i Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo
\Ilocal short form:\i Zhong Guo
abbreviation: PRC
\BData code:\b CH
\BType of government:\b Communist state
\BCapital:\b \JBeijing\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 23 provinces (sheng, singular and plural), 5 autonomous regions* (zizhiqu, singular and plural), and 3 municipalities** (shi, singular and plural); Anhui, Beijing**, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi*, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Jilin, Liaoning, Nei Mongol*, Ningxia*, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanghai**, Shanxi, Sichuan, Tianjin**, Xinjiang*, Xizang* (Tibet), Yunnan, Zhejiang
\Bnote:\b China considers \JTaiwan\j its 23rd province
\BIndependence:\b 221 BC (unification under the Qin or Ch'in Dynasty 221 BC; Qing or Ch'ing Dynasty replaced by the Republic on 12 February 1912; People's Republic established 1 October 1949)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 October (1949)
\BConstitution:\b most recent promulgated 4 December 1982
\BLegal system:\b a complex amalgam of custom and statute, largely criminal law; rudimentary civil code in effect since 1 January 1987; new legal codes in effect since 1 January 1980; continuing efforts are being made to improve civil, administrative, criminal, and commercial law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President JIANG Zemin (since 27 March 1993) and Vice President RONG Yiren (since 27 March 1993) elected by the National People's Congress; election last held 27 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - JIANG Zemin was nominally elected by the Eighth National People's Congress
\Ihead of government:\i Premier LI Peng (Acting Premier since 24 November 1987, Premier since 9 April 1988) nominated by the president, decided by the National People's Congress; Vice Premiers ZHU Rongji (since 8 April 1991), ZOU Jiahua (since 8 April 1991), QIAN Qichen (since 29 March 1993), LI Lanqing (29 March 1993), WU Bangguo (since 17 March 1995), and JIANG Chunyun (since 17 March 1995) nominated by the president, decided by the National People's Congress
\Icabinet:\i State Council appointed by the National People's Congress (NPC)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National People's Congress (Quanguo Renmin Daibiao Dahui): elections last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - CCP is the only party but there are also independents; seats - (2,977 total) (elected at county or \Jxian\j level)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme People's Court, judges appointed by the National People's Congress
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Chinese Communist Party (CCP), JIANG Zemin, general secretary of the Central Committee; eight registered small parties controlled by CCP
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b such meaningful opposition as exists consists of loose coalitions, usually within the party and government organization, that vary by issue
\BFlag:\b red with a large yellow five-pointed star and four smaller yellow five-pointed stars (arranged in a vertical arc toward the middle of the flag) in the upper hoist-side corner
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Beginning in late 1978 the Chinese leadership has been trying to move the economy from a sluggish Soviet-style centrally planned economy to one that is more market-oriented, but still within a rigid political framework of Communist Party control. To this end the authorities switched to a system of household responsibility in agriculture in place of the old collectivization, increased the authority of local officials and plant managers in industry, permitted a wide variety of small-scale enterprise in services and light manufacturing, and opened the economy to increased foreign trade and investment. The result has been a strong surge in production. Agricultural output doubled in the 1980s, and industry also posted major gains, especially in coastal areas near Hong Kong and opposite \JTaiwan\j, where foreign investment and modern production methods helped spur output of both domestic and export goods. GDP has more than tripled since 1978. On the darker side, the leadership has often experienced in its hybrid system the worst results of \Jsocialism\j (bureaucracy, lassitude, corruption) and of \Jcapitalism\j (windfall gains and stepped-up inflation). \JBeijing\j thus has periodically backtracked, retightening central controls at intervals. In 1992-95 annual growth of GDP accelerated, particularly in the coastal areas - averaging more than 10% annually according to official figures. In late 1993 China's leadership approved additional long-term reforms aimed at giving still more play to market-oriented institutions and at strengthening the center's control over the financial system; state enterprises would continue to dominate many key industries in what was now termed "a socialist market economy." In 1995 \Jinflation\j dropped sharply, reflecting tighter monetary policies and stronger measures to control food prices. At the same time, the government struggled to (a) collect revenues due from provinces, businesses, and individuals; (b) reduce extortion and other economic crimes; and (c) keep afloat the large state-owned enterprises, most of which had not participated in the vigorous expansion of the economy. From 60 to 100 million surplus rural workers are adrift between the villages and the cities, many subsisting through part-time low-pay jobs. Popular resistance, changes in central policy, and loss of authority by rural cadres have weakened China's population control program, which is essential to the nation's long-term economic viability. One of the most dangerous long-term threats to continued rapid economic growth is the deterioration in the environment, notably air \Jpollution\j, soil erosion, and the steady fall of the water table especially in the north. The amount of arable land continues to decline because of erosion and economic development, the cumulative loss since the Communist takeover in 1949 being more than 15%. The next few years will witness increasing tensions between a highly centralized political system and an increasingly decentralized economic system.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.5 trillion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate with use of official Chinese growth figures for 1993-95; the result may overstate China's GDP by as much as 25%)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 10.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,900 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 19%
\Iindustry:\i 48%
\Iservices:\i 33% (1994 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 10.1% (December 1995 over December 1994)
\BLabor force:\b 583.6 million (1991)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 60%, industry and commerce 25%, construction and mining 5%, social services 5%, other 5% (1990 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 5.2% in urban areas (1995 est.); substantial underemployment
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b iron and steel, coal, machine building, armaments, textiles and apparel, \Jpetroleum\j, cement, chemical fertilizers, consumer durables, food processing, autos, consumer \Jelectronics\j, telecommunications
Industrial production growth rate: 13.4% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 162,000,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 746 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 593 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, potatoes, \Jsorghum\j, peanuts, tea, \Jmillet\j, \Jbarley\j, cotton, other fibers, oilseed; pork and other livestock products; fish
\BIllicit drugs:\b major transshipment point for heroin produced in the Golden Triangle; growing domestic drug abuse problem
\BExports:\b $148.8 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i garments, textiles, footwear, toys, machinery and equipment (1994)
\Ipartners:\i Hong Kong, \JJapan\j, US, \JGermany\j, South Korea, \JSingapore\j (1994)
\Bnote:\b beginning 1 January 1994, the People's Bank of China quotes the midpoint rate against the US dollar based on the previous day's prevailing rate in the interbank foreign exchange market
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 58,399 km
standard gauge: 54,799 km 1.435-m gauge (7,174 km electrified; more than 11,000 km double track)
narrow gauge: 3,600 km 0.762-m gauge local industrial lines (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1.029 million km
\Ipaved:\i 170,000 km
\Iunpaved:\i 859,000 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 138,600 km; about 109,800 km navigable
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 9,700 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 1,100 km; natural gas 6,200 km (1990)
\Bnote:\b China owns an additional 267 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 9,044,039 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Hong Kong, Malta, \JLiberia\j, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, The \JBahamas\j, Marshall Islands, and \JSingapore\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 204
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 17
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 69
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 89
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 9
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 3 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 20 million (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b domestic and international services are increasingly available for private use; unevenly distributed domestic system serves principal cities, industrial centers, and most townships
\Idomestic:\i \Jtelephone\j lines are being expanded; interprovincial fiber-optic trunk lines and cellular \Jtelephone\j systems have been installed; a domestic satellite system with 55 earth stations is in place
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); several international fiber-optic links to \JJapan\j, South Korea, and Hong Kong
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 274, FM NA, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b People's Liberation Army (PLA), which includes the Ground Forces, Navy (includes Marines and Naval Aviation), Air Force, Second Artillery Corps (the strategic missile force), People's Armed Police (internal security troops, nominally subordinate to Ministry of Public Security, but included by the Chinese as part of the "armed forces" and considered to be an adjunct to the PLA in wartime)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 352,506,948
\Imales fit for military service:\i 194,589,216
males reach military age (18) annually: 9,763,916 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i the officially announced but suspect figure is 70.2 billion yuan, NA% of GDP (1995 est.); note - conversion of the defense budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Christmas Island (Atlas)",51,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Australia)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of \JIndonesia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 30 S, 105 40 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 135 sq km
\Iland area:\i 135 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.7 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 138.9 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 12 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; heat and \Jhumidity\j moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b steep cliffs along coast rise abruptly to central plateau
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Murray Hill 361 m
\BNatural resources:\b phosphate
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b located along major sea lanes of Indian Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 813 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -8.98% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Christmas Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Christmas Island
\BEthnic divisions:\b Chinese 61%, Malay 25%, European 11%, other 3%, no indigenous population
\BReligions:\b Buddhist 55%, Christian 15%, Muslim 10%, other 20% (1991)
\BLanguages:\b English
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Christmas Island
\Iconventional short form:\i Christmas Island
\BData code:\b KT
\BType of government:\b territory of \JAustralia\j
\BCapital:\b The Settlement
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BConstitution:\b Christmas Island Act of 1958
\BLegal system:\b under the authority of the governor general of \JAustralia\j
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Administrator Danny Ambrose GILLESPIE (since NA) was appointed by the governor general of \JAustralia\j and represents the queen and \JAustralia\j
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of Australia)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of Australia)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Phosphate mining had been the only significant economic activity, but in December 1987 the Australian Government closed the mine as no longer economically viable. Private operators reopened the mine in 1990 under strict environmental controls, in particular to preserve the rain forest. A hotel and casino complex opened in 1993, and tourism is a likely growth sector.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i all workers are employees of the Phosphate Mining Company of Christmas Island, Ltd.
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996),1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704, (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2836 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 24 km to serve phosphate mines
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Flying Fish Cove
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 500 (1992)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 350 (1992)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j
#
"Clipperton Island (Atlas)",52,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (possession of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, \Jatoll\j in the North Pacific Ocean, 1,120 km southwest of Mexico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 17 N, 109 13 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 7 sq km
\Iland area:\i 7 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 12 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 11.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by Mexico
\BClimate:\b tropical, humid, average temperature 20-32 degrees C, rains May-October
\BTerrain:\b \Jcoral\j \Jatoll\j
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Rocher Clipperton 21 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all coral)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i subject to tornadoes
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b reef about 8 km in \Jcircumference\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Clipperton Island
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile Clipperton
\Iformer:\i sometimes called Ile de la Passion
\BData code:\b IP
\BType of government:\b French possession administered by \JFrance\j from French \JPolynesia\j by the High Commissioner of the Republic
\BCapital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from French \JPolynesia\j
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The only economic activity is a \Jtuna\j fishing station.
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Atlas)",53,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Australia)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, south of \JIndonesia\j, about one-half of the way from \JAustralia\j to Sri Lanka
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 30 S, 96 50 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 14 sq km
\Iland area:\i 14 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 24 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes the two main islands of West Island and Home Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 2.6 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b pleasant, modified by the southeast trade wind for about nine months of the year; moderate rainfall
\BTerrain:\b flat, low-lying \Jcoral\j atolls
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 5 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i fresh water resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclones may occur in the early months of the year
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b two \Jcoral\j atolls thickly covered with coconut palms and other vegetation
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 609 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.94% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cocos Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cocos Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b
West Island: Europeans
Home Island: Cocos Malays
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 57%, Christian 22%, other 21% (1981 est.)
\BLanguages:\b English
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Cocos (Keeling) Islands
\BData code:\b CK
\BType of government:\b territory of \JAustralia\j
\BCapital:\b West Island
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BConstitution:\b Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act of 1955
\BLegal system:\b based upon the laws of \JAustralia\j and local laws
\BSuffrage:\b NA
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Administrator John Bell READ (since NA) was appointed by the governor general of \JAustralia\j and represents the queen and \JAustralia\j
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council; President of the Islands Council Ronald GRANT (since NA)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BInternational organization participation:\b WMO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of Australia)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of Australia)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Grown throughout the islands, coconuts are the sole cash crop. Copra and fresh coconuts are the major export earners. Small local gardens and fishing contribute to the food supply, but additional food and most other necessities must be imported from \JAustralia\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i \Jtelephone\j, telex, and facsimile communications with \JAustralia\j via satellite; 1 satellite earth station of NA type
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 300 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\Bnote:\b intermittent \Jtelevision\j service via satellite
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j
#
"Colombia (Atlas)",54,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between \JEcuador\j and Panama
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 00 N, 72 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,138,910 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,038,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three times the size of Montana
\Bnote:\b includes Isla de Malpelo, Roncador Cay, Serrana Bank, and Serranilla Bank
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,408 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 1,643 km, \JEcuador\j 590 km, Panama 225 km, \JPeru\j 2,900 km, Venezuela 2,050 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,208 km (Caribbean Sea 1,760 km, North Pacific Ocean 1,448 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary dispute with Venezuela in the Gulf of Venezuela; territorial dispute with \JNicaragua\j over Archipelago de San Andres y \JProvidencia\j and Quita Sueno Bank
\BClimate:\b tropical along coast and eastern plains; cooler in highlands
\BTerrain:\b flat coastal lowlands, central highlands, high \JAndes\j Mountains, eastern lowland plains
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b only South American country with coastlines on both North Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 741,788; female 928,518) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.66% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 21.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.65 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 25.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.81 years
\Imale:\i 69.97 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.73 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.35 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Colombian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Colombian
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo 58%, white 20%, mulatto 14%, black 4%, mixed black-Indian 3%, Indian 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 91.3%
\Imale:\i 91.2%
\Ifemale:\i 91.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JColombia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JColombia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JColombia\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JColombia\j
\BData code:\b CO
\BType of government:\b republic; executive branch dominates government structure
\BCapital:\b Bogota
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 32 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 capital district* (distrito capital); Amazonas, Antioquia, Arauca, Atlantico, Bogota*, Bolivar, Boyaca, Caldas, Caqueta, Casanare, Cauca, Cesar, Choco, Cordoba, Cundinamarca, Guainia, Guaviare, Huila, La Guajira, Magdalena, Meta, Narino, Norte de Santander, Putumayo, Quindio, Risaralda, San Andres y \JProvidencia\j, Santander, Sucre, Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Vaupes, Vichada
\BIndependence:\b 20 July 1810 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 20 July (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 5 July 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish law; a new criminal code modeled after US procedures was enacted in 1992-93; judicial review of executive and legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Ernesto SAMPER Pizano (since 7 August 1994) elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998) results - no candidate received more than 50% of the total vote; a run-off election to select a president from the two leading candidates was held 19 June 1994; results - Ernesto SAMPER Pizano (Liberal Party) 50.4%, Andres PASTRANA Arango (Conservative Party) 48.6%, blank votes 1%; Humberto de la CALLE Lombana elected vice president for a four-year term by popular vote in a new procedure that replaces the traditional designation of vice presidents by newly elected presidents
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Congress (Congreso)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (102 total) Liberal Party 59, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 31, other 12
House of Representatives (Camara de Representantes): elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); seats - (161 total) Liberal Party 89, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 53, AD/M-19 2, other 17
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justical), highest court of criminal law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Council of State, highest court of administrative law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Constitutional Court, guards integrity and supremacy of the constitution, rules on constitutionality of laws, amendments to the constitution, and international treaties
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Party (PL), Luis Fernando JARAMILLO; Conservative Party (PC), Jaime ARIAS; New Democratic Force (NDF), Andres PASTRANA Arango; Democratic Alliance M-19 (AD/M-19) is a coalition of small leftist parties and dissident liberals and conservatives; Patriotic Union (UP) is a legal political party formed by Revolutionary Armed Forces of \JColombia\j (FARC) and Colombian Communist Party (PCC), Aida ABELLA; National Salvation Movement (MSN) Alvaro GOMEZ Hurtado
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b three insurgent groups are active in \JColombia\j - Revolutionary Armed Forces of \JColombia\j (FARC); National Liberation Army (ELN); and \Jdissidents\j of the recently demobilized People's Liberation Army (EPL/D)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Carlos LLERAS de la Fuente
\Ichancery:\i 2118 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 387-8338
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 232-8643
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Washington, DC
\Iconsulate(s):\i \JAtlanta\j and Tampa
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Myles R. R. FRECHETTE
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double-width), blue, and red; similar to the flag of \JEcuador\j, which is longer and bears the Ecuadorian coat of arms superimposed in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Boasting a diversified and stable economy, \JColombia\j has enjoyed Latin America's most consistent record of growth over the last several decades. Gross domestic product (GDP) has expanded every year for more than 25 years, and unlike many other South American countries, \JColombia\j did not default on any of its official debts during the "lost decade" of the 1980s. Since 1990, when Bogota introduced a comprehensive reform program that opened the economy to foreign trade and investment, GDP growth has averaged more than 4% annually. Growth has been fueled in recent years by the expansion of the construction and financial service industries and an influx of foreign capital. Some foreign investors have been deterred by an inadequate energy and transportation \Jinfrastructure\j and the violence stemming from drug trafficking and persistent rural guerrilla warfare, but direct foreign investment, especially in the oil industry, is still rising at a rapid rate. Although oil consequently is overtaking \Jcoffee\j as the main legal export, earnings from illicit drugs probably exceed those from any other export. Non-petroleum economic growth has been slowing, however, in part because the tight monetary policies adopted to offset the inflationary impact of high capital inflows and rising government spending have slowed local sales and investment. Business confidence also has been damaged by a political crisis stemming from allegations that senior government officials, including President SAMPER, solicited contributions from drug traffickers during the 1994 election campaign. The slowdown in the growth of labor-intensive industries such as manufacturing has caused a small rise in unemployment and interfered with President SAMPER'S plans to lower the country's poverty rate, which has remained at about 40% despite the expanding economy. Nevertheless, the booming oil sector, growing foreign investment, and the fundamental stability of the economy promise to keep growth positive for the foreseeable future, barring severe, unpredictable shocks from developments in the political or international arenas.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $192.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of \Jcoca\j, opium poppies, and cannabis; about 50,900 hectares of \Jcoca\j under cultivation in 1995; the world's largest processor of \Jcoca\j derivatives into \Jcocaine\j; supplier of \Jcocaine\j to the US and other international drug markets; active aerial eradication program seeks to virtually eliminate \Jcoca\j and opium crops by 1997
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 413 (licensed), FM 217 (licensed), shortwave 28
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 33
\BTelevisions:\b 5.5 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (Ejercito Nacional), Navy (Armada Nacional, includes Marines and Coast Guard), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Colombiana), National Police (Policia Nacional)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 10,067,538
\Imales fit for military service:\i 6,774,105
males reach military age (18) annually: 346,372 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $2 billion, 2.8% of GDP (1995)
#
"Comoros (Atlas)",55,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, group of islands in the \JMozambique\j Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 10 S, 44 15 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,170 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,170 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than 12 times the size of Washington, DC
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; rainy season (November to May)
\BTerrain:\b volcanic islands, interiors vary from steep mountains to low hills
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Kartala 2,360 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 35%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 8%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 7%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 16%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil degradation and erosion results from crop cultivation on slopes without proper terracing; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclones and tsunamis possible during rainy season (December to April); Mount Kartala on Grand Comore is an active \Jvolcano\j
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b important location at northern end of \JMozambique\j Channel
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 86%, Roman Catholic 14%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), French (official), Comoran (a blend of \JSwahili\j and Arabic)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 57.3%
\Imale:\i 64.2%
\Ifemale:\i 50.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Islamic Republic of the \JComoros\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JComoros\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique Federale Islamique des Comores
\Ilocal short form:\i Comores
\BData code:\b CN
\BType of government:\b independent republic
\BCapital:\b \JMoroni\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b three islands; Grand Comore (Njazidja), Anjouan (Nzwani), and Moheli (Mwali)
\Bnote:\b there are also four municipalities named Domoni, Fomboni, \JMoroni\j, and Mutsamudu
\BIndependence:\b 6 July 1975 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 July (1975)
\BConstitution:\b 7 June 1992
\BLegal system:\b French and Muslim law in a new consolidated code
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim (since 16 March 1996) was elected by popular vote; election last held 16 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister MASSOUNDI Tadjidine Ben Said (since March 1996) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Federal Assembly (Assemblee Federale): elections last held 12-20 December 1993 (next to be held by NA January 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (42 total) ruling coalition: RDR 15, UNDC 5, MWANGAZA 2; opposition: UDZIMA 8; other smaller parties: 10; two seats remained unfilled
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), two members are appointed by the president, two members are elected by the Federal Assembly, one by the Council of each island, plus all the former presidents of the republic
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Islands' Fraternity and Unity Party (CHUMA), Said Ali KEMAL; over 20 political parties are currently active, the most important of which are Comoran Union for Progress (UDZIMA), Omar TAMOU; Comoran Party for Democracy and Progress (PCDP), Ali MROUDJAE; Realizing Freedom's Capability (UWEZO), Mouazair ABDALLAH; Democratic Front of the \JComoros\j (FDR), Moustapha CHELKH; Dialogue Proposition Action (DPA/MWANGAZA), Said MCHAWGAMA; Rally for Change and Democracy (RACHADE), Hassan HACHIM; Union for Democracy and Decentralization (UNDC), Mohamed Taki Halidi IBRAHAM; Rally for Democracy and Renewal (RDR); Comoran Popular Front (FPC), Mohamed HASSANALI, Mohamed El Arif OUKACHA, Abdou MOUSTAKIM (Secretary General)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mohamed Ahamada DJIMBANAOU (ambassador to the US and Canada)
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) care of the Permanent Mission of the Federal and Islamic Republic of the \JComoros\j to the United Nations, 336 East 45th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017
\Itelephone:\i [1] (212) 972-8010
\IFAX:\i [1] (212) 983-4712
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JComoros\j; the ambassador to \JMauritius\j is accredited to \JComoros\j
\BFlag:\b green with a white crescent in the center of the field, its points facing downward; there are four white five-pointed stars placed in a line between the points of the crescent; the crescent, stars, and color green are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j; the four stars represent the four main islands of the archipelago - Mwali, Njazidja, Nzwani, and \JMayotte\j (a territorial collectivity of \JFrance\j, but claimed by Comoros); the design, the most recent of several, is described in the constitution approved by referendum on 7 June 1992
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of the world's poorest countries, \JComoros\j is made up of several islands that have poor transportation links, a young and rapidly increasing population, and few natural resources. The low educational level of the labor force contributes to a subsistence level of economic activity, high unemployment, and a heavy dependence on foreign grants and technical assistance. Agriculture, including fishing, hunting, and \Jforestry\j, is the leading sector of the economy. It contributes 40% to GDP, employs 80% of the labor force, and provides most of the exports. The country is not self-sufficient in food production; rice, the main staple, accounts for 90% of imports. The government is struggling to upgrade education and technical training, to privatize commercial and industrial enterprises, to improve health services, to diversify exports, and to reduce the high population growth rate. Continued foreign support is essential if the goal of 4% annual GDP growth is to be reached in the late 1990s.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $370 million (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b beginning 12 January 1994, the Comoran franc was devalued to 75 per French franc from 50 per French franc at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,104 km
\Ipaved:\i 400 km
\Iunpaved:\i 704 km (1988 est.)
\BPorts:\b Fomboni, \JMoroni\j, Mutsamudu
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 4
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,770 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b sparse system of microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone communication stations
\Idomestic:\i HF radiotelephone communications and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i HF radiotelephone communications to Madagascar and Reunion
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 200 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Comoran Security Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 121,854
\Imales fit for military service:\i 72,873 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Congo (Atlas)",56,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between \JAngola\j and \JGabon\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 S, 15 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 342,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 341,500 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,504 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAngola\j 201 km, \JCameroon\j 523 km, Central African Republic 467 km, \JGabon\j 1,903 km, Zaire 2,410 km
\BCoastline:\b 169 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b long segment of boundary with Zaire along the \JCongo\j River is indefinite (no division of the river or its islands has been made)
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (March to June); dry season (June to October); constantly high temperatures and \Jhumidity\j; particularly enervating climate astride the Equator
\BTerrain:\b coastal plain, southern basin, central plateau, northern basin
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from vehicle emissions; water \Jpollution\j from the dumping of raw sewage; tap water is not potable; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i seasonal flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b about 70% of the population lives in \JBrazzaville\j, Pointe Noire, or along the railroad between them
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 34,973; female 51,325) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.19% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 39.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 17.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.68 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 108.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 45.77 years
\Imale:\i 44.21 years
\Ifemale:\i 47.37 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.15 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Congolese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Congolese or \JCongo\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b
south: \JKongo\j 48%
north: Sangha 20%, M'Bochi 12%
center: Teke 17%, Europeans 8,500 (mostly French)
\BReligions:\b Christian 50%, animist 48%, Muslim 2%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), African languages (Lingala and Kikongo are the most widely used)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 74.9%
\Imale:\i 83.1%
\Ifemale:\i 67.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of the \JCongo\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JCongo\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique Populaire du \JCongo\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JCongo\j
\Iformer:\i Congo/Brazzaville
\BData code:\b CF
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JBrazzaville\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 regions (regions, singular - region) and 1 commune*; Bouenza, Brazzaville*, Cuvette, Kouilou, Lekoumou, Likouala, Niari, Plateaux, Pool, Sangha
\BIndependence:\b 15 August 1960 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b Congolese National Day, 15 August (1960)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution approved by referendum March 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Pascal LISSOUBA (since August 1992); elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held NA August 1992 (next to be held NA August 1997); results - President Pascal LISSOUBA won 61% of the vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jacques Joachim YHOMBI-OPANGO (since 23 June 1993) appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (125 total) UPADS 64, URD/PCT 58, others 3
Senate: election last held 26 July 1992 (next to be held NA July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) UPADS 23, MCDDI 14, RDD 8, RDPS 5, PCT 2, others 8
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b of \JCongo\j's many political parties, the most important are Congolese Labor Party (PCT), Denis SASSOU-NGUESSO, president; Association for Democracy and Development (RDD), Joachim Yhombi OPANGO, president; Association for Democracy and Social Progress (RDPS), Jean-Pierre Thystere TCHICAYA, president; Congolese Movement for Democracy and Integral Development (MCDDI), Bernard KOLELAS, leader; Pan-African Union for Social Development (UPADS), Pascal LISSOUBA, leader; Union of Democratic Forces (UFD), David Charles GANAO, leader; Union for Democratic Renewal (URD); Union for Development and Social Progress (UDPS), Jean-Michael BOKAMBA-YANGOUMA, leader
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Union of Congolese Socialist Youth (UJSC); Congolese Trade Union Congress (CSC); Revolutionary Union of Congolese Women (URFC); General Union of Congolese Pupils and Students (UGEEC)
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally from the lower hoist side by a yellow band; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is red; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JCongo\j's economy is a mixture of village agriculture and handicrafts, an industrial sector based largely on oil, support services, and a government characterized by budget problems and overstaffing. Oil has supplanted \Jforestry\j as the mainstay of the economy, providing about 90% of government revenues and exports. In the early 1980s, rapidly rising oil revenues enabled \JCongo\j to finance large-scale development projects with GDP growth averaging 5% annually, one of the highest rates in Africa. Subsequently, falling oil prices cut GDP growth by half. Moreover, the Congolese Government has mortgaged a substantial portion of its oil earnings, contributing to the government's shortage of revenues. The 12 January 1994 \Jdevaluation\j of Franc Zone currencies by 50% resulted in \Jinflation\j of 61% in 1994. Recent efforts to implement economic reforms have begun to show progress; the IMF has recommended approval of an Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility agreement in 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.7 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 795 km (1995 est.)
narrow gauge: 795 km 1.067-m gauge (includes 285 km that are privately owned)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,745 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,236 km
\Iunpaved:\i 11,509 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b the \JCongo\j and Ubangi (Oubangui) Rivers provide 1,120 km of commercially navigable water transport; other rivers are used for local traffic only
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 14 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 18,000 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b services adequate for government use; key exchanges are in \JBrazzaville\j, \JPointe-Noire\j, and Loubomo
\Idomestic:\i primary network consists of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 8,500 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 582,103
\Imales fit for military service:\i 296,602
males reach military age (20) annually: 25,247 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $110 million, 3.8% of GDP (1993)
#
"Cook Islands (Atlas)",57,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (free association with New Zealand)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 14 S, 159 46 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 240 sq km
\Iland area:\i 240 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than one times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 120 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b low \Jcoral\j atolls in north; volcanic, hilly islands in south
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Te Manga 652 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 4%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 22%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 74%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons (November to March)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 19,561 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.11% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 22.87 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.14 years
\Imale:\i 69.2 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.1 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.25 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cook Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cook Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b Polynesian (full blood) 81.3%, Polynesian and European 7.7%, Polynesian and non-European 7.7%, European 2.4%, other 0.9%
\BReligions:\b Christian (majority of populace members of Cook Islands Christian Church)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), \JMaori\j
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Cook Islands
\BData code:\b CW
\BType of government:\b self-governing parliamentary government in free association with New Zealand; Cook Islands is fully responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs, in consultation with the Cook Islands
\BCapital:\b Avarua
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none
\BIndependence:\b none (became self-governing in free association with New Zealand on 4 August 1965 and has the right at any time to move to full independence by unilateral action)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day, 4 August
\BConstitution:\b 4 August 1965
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Apenera SHORT (since NA); New Zealand High Commissioner Darryl DUNN (since NA 1994), representative of New Zealand was appointed by the New Zealand Government
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sir Geoffrey A. HENRY (since 1 February 1989); Deputy Prime Minister Inatio AKARURU (since 1 February 1989)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet; collectively responsible to Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 6 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (25 total) Cook Islands Party 20, Democratic Party 3, Democratic Alliance Party 2
\Bnote:\b the House of Arikis (chiefs) advises on traditional matters, but has no legislative powers
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Cook Islands Party, Geoffrey HENRY; Democratic Party, Sir Thomas DAVIS; Democratic Alliance Party, Norman GEORGE
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (self-governing in free association with New Zealand)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (self-governing in free association with New Zealand)
\BFlag:\b blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large circle of 15 white five-pointed stars (one for every island) centered in the outer half of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Agriculture provides the economic base. The major export earners are fruit, copra, and clothing. Manufacturing activities are limited to a fruit-processing plant and several clothing factories. Economic development is hindered by the isolation of the islands from foreign markets and a lack of natural resources and good transportation links. A large trade deficit is annually made up for by remittances from emigrants and by foreign aid, largely from New Zealand. Current economic development plans call for exploiting the tourism potential and expanding the mining and fishing industries. Despite these plans, the Cook Islands will continue to face severe financial problems.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $57 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $3,000 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 6.2% (1990)
\BLabor force:\b 5,810
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 29%, government 27%, services 25%, industry 15%, other 4% (1981)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\Ipartners:\i NZ 49%, \JJapan\j, \JAustralia\j, US
\BExternal debt:\b $160 million (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b in 1994, Cook Islands received $5.4 million in budget support and $3.3 million in project aid from New Zealand, the country's largest source of aid
\BCurrency:\b 1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 4,180 (1994)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i the individual islands are connected by a combination of satellite earth stations, microwave systems, and VHF and HF radiotelephone; within the islands, service is provided by small exchanges connected to subscribers by open wire, cable, and fiber-optic cable
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b 13,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 studio and 8 low-powered repeaters to achieve good coverage on the island of Rarotonga
\BTelevisions:\b 3,500 (1995 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of New Zealand
#
"Coral Sea Islands (Atlas)",58,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Australia)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, islands in the \JCoral\j Sea, northeast of \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 00 S, 152 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i less than 3 sq km
\Iland area:\i less than 3 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i NA
\Bnote:\b includes numerous small islands and reefs scattered over a sea area of about 1 million sq km, with Willis Islets the most important
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,095 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b sand and \Jcoral\j reefs and islands (or cays)
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Cato Island 6 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (mostly grass or scrub cover)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no permanent fresh water resources
\BGeographic note:\b important nesting area for birds and turtles
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are three meteorologists
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i \JCoral\j Sea Islands Territory
\Iconventional short form:\i \JCoral\j Sea Islands
\BData code:\b CR
\BType of government:\b territory of \JAustralia\j administered by the Ministry for Environment, Sport, and Territories
\BCapital:\b none; administered from \JCanberra\j, \JAustralia\j
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j; visited regularly by the Royal Australian Navy; \JAustralia\j has control over the activities of visitors
#
"Costa Rica (Atlas)",59,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between \JNicaragua\j and Panama
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 00 N, 84 00 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 51,100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 50,660 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than West Virginia
\Bnote:\b includes Isla del Coco
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 639 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JNicaragua\j 309 km, Panama 330 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,290 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November)
\BTerrain:\b coastal plains separated by rugged mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Chirripo 3,810 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydropower potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 7%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 45%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 34%
\Iother:\i 8%
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,180 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation, largely a result of the clearing of land for \Jcattle\j ranching; soil erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional earthquakes, hurricanes along Atlantic coast; frequent flooding of lowlands at onset of rainy season; active volcanoes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 77,773; female 90,014) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.06% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.84 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.14 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.92 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.72 years
\Imale:\i 73.31 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.24 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.9 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Costa Rican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Costa Rican
\BEthnic divisions:\b white (including mestizo) 96%, black 2%, Indian 1%, Chinese 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), English spoken around Puerto Limon
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 94.8%
\Imale:\i 94.7%
\Ifemale:\i 95%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Costa Rica
\Iconventional short form:\i Costa Rica
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Costa Rica
\Ilocal short form:\i Costa Rica
\BData code:\b CS
\BType of government:\b democratic republic
\BCapital:\b San Jose
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 9 November 1949
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (since 8 May 1994), First Vice President Rodrigo OREAMUNO Blanco (since 8 May 1994), Second Vice President Rebeca GRYNSPAN Mayufis (since 8 May 1994) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - President FIGUERES (PLN) 49.7%, Miquel Angel RODRIGUEZ (PUSC) 47.5%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet selected by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): elections last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (61 total) PLN 28, PUSC 29, minority parties 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), justices are elected for eight-year terms by the Legislative Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Liberation Party (PLN), Rolando ARAYA; Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC), Rafael Angel CALDERON Fournier; Marxist Popular Vanguard Party (PVP), Humberto VARGAS Carbonell; New Republic Movement (MNR), Sergio Erick ARDON Ramirez; People's Party of Costa Rica (PPC), Lenin CHACON Vargas; Radical Democratic Party (PRD), Juan Jose ECHEVERRIA Brealey; Democratic Force Party (FD), Isaac Felipe AZOFEIFA Bolanos
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Costa Rican Confederation of Democratic Workers (CCTD), Liberation Party affiliate; Confederated Union of Workers (CUT), Communist Party affiliate; Authentic Confederation of Democratic Workers (CATD), Communist Party affiliate; Chamber of \JCoffee\j Growers; National Association for Economic Development (ANFE); Free Costa Rica Movement (MCRL), rightwing militants; National Association of Educators (ANDE); Federation of Public Service Workers (FTSP)
\BInternational organization participation:\b AG (observer), BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sonia PICADO
\Ichancery:\i 2114 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-2945
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-4795
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Albuquerque, \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Durham, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\Iconsulate(s):\i Austin
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter Jon DE VOS
\Iembassy:\i Pavas Road, San Jose
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34020
\Itelephone:\i [506] 220-3939
\IFAX:\i [506] 220-2305
\BFlag:\b five horizontal bands of blue (top), white, red (double width), white, and blue, with the coat of arms in a white disk on the hoist side of the red band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Costa Rica's basically stable and progressive economy depends especially on tourism and the export of bananas, \Jcoffee\j, and other agricultural products. Recent trends have been disappointing. Economic growth slipped from 4.3% in 1994 to 2.5% in 1995, the lowest rate of growth since 1991's 2.1%. \JInflation\j rose dramatically to 22.5% from 13.5% in 1994, well above the government's own projection of 18%. Unemployment rose from 4.0% in 1994 to 5.2% in 1995, and substantial underemployment continues. These economic woes are likely to be exacerbated in 1996 by a standby arrangement reached with the IMF on 29 November 1995. To restore fiscal balance, the government agreed to curb \Jinflation\j, reduce the fiscal deficit, increase domestic savings, and improve public sector efficiency while increasing the role of the private sector. Costa Rica signed a free trade agreement with Mexico in 1994.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $18.4 billion (1995 est.)
narrow gauge: 950 km 1.067-m gauge (260 km electrified)
\Bnote:\b the entire system was scheduled to be shut down on 31 June !995 because of insolvency
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 35,560 km
\Ipaved:\i 5,608 km
\Iunpaved:\i 29,952 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b about 730 km, seasonally navigable
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products 176 km
\BPorts:\b Caldera, Golfito, Moin, Puerto Limon, Puerto Quepos, Puntarenas
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 145
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 16
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 97
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 29 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 281,042 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b very good domestic \Jtelephone\j service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i connected to Central American Microwave System; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 71, FM 0, shortwave 13
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 340,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Civil Guard, Coast Guard, Air Section, Rural Assistance Guard; note - the Constitution prohibits armed forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 917,566
\Imales fit for military service:\i 616,420
males reach military age (18) annually: 33,504 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $55 million, 2.0% of GDP (1995)
#
"Cote d'Ivoire (Atlas)",60,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (also known as Ivory Coast)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JGhana\j and \JLiberia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 5 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 322,460 sq km
\Iland area:\i 318,000 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,110 km
\Iborder countries:\i Burkina Faso 584 km, \JGhana\j 668 km, Guinea 610 km, \JLiberia\j 716 km, Mali 532 km
\BCoastline:\b 515 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical along coast, semiarid in far north; three seasons - warm and dry (November to March), hot and dry (March to May), hot and wet (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to undulating plains; mountains in northwest
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Nimba 1,752 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, diamonds, \Jmanganese\j, iron ore, \Jcobalt\j, \Jbauxite\j, copper
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 9%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 26%
\Iother:\i 52%
\BIrrigated land:\b 620 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation (most of the country's forests - once the largest in West Africa - have been cleared by the timber industry); water \Jpollution\j from sewage and industrial and agricultural effluents
\Inatural hazards:\i coast has heavy surf and no natural harbors; during the rainy season torrential flooding is possible
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 164,358; female 154,897) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.92% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 42.48 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 15.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 2.43 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b since 1989, over 350,000 refugees have fled to Cote d'Ivoire to escape the civil war in \JLiberia\j
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 82.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 46.73 years
\Imale:\i 46.23 years
\Ifemale:\i 47.25 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.15 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Ivorian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Ivorian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Baoule 23%, Bete 18%, Senoufou 15%, \JMalinke\j 11%, Agni, foreign Africans (mostly Burkinabe and Malians, about 3 million), non-Africans 130,000 to 330,000 (French 30,000 and Lebanese 100,000 to 300,000)
\BReligions:\b indigenous 25%, Muslim 60%, Christian 12%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), 60 native dialects with Dioula the most widely spoken
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 40.1%
\Imale:\i 49.9%
\Ifemale:\i 30%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cote d'Ivoire
\Iconventional short form:\i Cote d'Ivoire
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique de Cote d'Ivoire
\Ilocal short form:\i Cote d'Ivoire
\Iformer:\i Ivory Coast
\BData code:\b IV
\BType of government:\b republic; multiparty presidential regime established 1960
\BCapital:\b Yamoussoukro
\Bnote:\b although Yamoussoukro has been the capital since 1983, \JAbidjan\j remains the administrative center; foreign governments, including the US, maintain official presences in \JAbidjan\j
\BConstitution:\b 3 November 1960; has been amended numerous times, last time November 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review in the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Henri Konan BEDIE (since 7 December 1993) served the remainder of the term of former President Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY, who died in office after continuous service from November 1960; President BEDIE was elected with 96% of the vote at the last election on 22 October 1995 (next election October 2000); the president is elected for a five-year term by popular vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Daniel Kablan DUNCAN (since 10 December 1993), appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers, appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 27 November 1995 (next to be held November 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (175 total) PDCI 147, RDR 14, FPI 10, unfilled 4; note - of the unfilled seats, elections for 3 were postponed because of violence in the electoral districts and 1 seat remains contested
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party of the Cote d'Ivoire (PDCI), Henri Konan BEDIE; Rally of the Republicans (RDR), Djeny KOBINA; Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), Laurent GBAGBO; Ivorian Worker's Party (PIT), Francis WODIE; Ivorian Socialist Party (PSI), Morifere BAMBA; over 20 smaller parties
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Moise KOUMOUE-KOFFI
\Ichancery:\i 2424 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-0300
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lannon WALKER
\Iembassy:\i 5 Rue Jesse Owens, \JAbidjan\j
\Imailing address:\i 01 B. P. 1712, \JAbidjan\j
\Itelephone:\i [225] 21 09 79
\IFAX:\i [225] 22 32 59
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of orange (hoist side), white, and green; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and has the colors reversed - green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of \JItaly\j, which is green (hoist side), white, and red; design was based on the flag of \JFrance\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Cote d'Ivoire is among the world's largest producers and exporters of \Jcoffee\j, \Jcocoa\j beans, and palm-kernel oil. Consequently, the economy is highly sensitive to fluctuations in international prices for \Jcoffee\j and \Jcocoa\j and to weather conditions. Despite attempts by the government to diversify, the economy is still largely dependent on agriculture and related industries. After several years of lagging performance, the Ivorian economy began a comeback in 1994, due to improved prices for \Jcocoa\j and \Jcoffee\j, growth in nontraditional primary exports such as pineapples and rubber, trade and banking liberalization, offshore oil and gas discoveries, and generous external financing and debt rescheduling by multilateral lenders and \JFrance\j. The 50% \Jdevaluation\j of Franc Zone currencies on 12 January 1994 caused a one-time jump in the \Jinflation\j rate to 32% for 1994, but this rate fell to perhaps 10% in 1995, in part as the economy adjusted to the \Jdevaluation\j. Moreover, government adherence to donor-mandated reforms led to a budget surplus in 1994. Real growth of GDP in 1994 was 1.7%, a significant improvement following several years of negative growth. In 1995 growth picked up to 5%.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $21.9 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i over 85% of population engaged in agriculture, \Jforestry\j, livestock raising; about 11% of labor force are wage earners, nearly half in agriculture and the remainder in government, industry, commerce, and professions
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.9 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $3.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $408 million (1993)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis; mostly for local consumption; some international drug trade; transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin to Europe and occasionally to the US
ships by type: container 2, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 35
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 10
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 6
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 12 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 87,700 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b well-developed by African standards but operating well below capacity
\Idomestic:\i open-wire lines and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); 2 coaxial submarine cables
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 71, FM 0, shortwave 13
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 810,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,386,638
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,762,412
males reach military age (18) annually: 157,712 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $140 million, 1.4% of GDP (1993)
#
"Croatia (Atlas)",61,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Bosnia and Herzegovina and \JSlovenia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 45 10 N, 15 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 56,538 sq km
\Iland area:\i 56,410 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,073 km
\Iborder countries:\i Bosnia and Herzegovina 932 km, \JHungary\j 329 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 266 km (241 km with \JSerbia\j; 25 km with Montenego), \JSlovenia\j 546 km
\BCoastline:\b 5,790 km (mainland 1,778 km, islands 4,012 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\BInternational disputes:\b Eastern Slavonia, which was held by ethnic Serbs during the war, is currently being overseen by the UN Transitional Administration for Eastern Slavonia; reintegration of Eastern Slavonia into \JCroatia\j will occur in 1997; although \JCroatia\j does not recognize the "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia," both countries have agreed to open consular sections in each other's capitals; \JCroatia\j and \JItaly\j have not resolved a bilateral issue dating from WWII over property and ethnic minority rights; a border dispute with \JSlovenia\j is unresolved
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean and continental; continental climate predominant with hot summers and cold winters; mild winters, dry summers along coast
\BTerrain:\b geographically diverse; flat plains along Hungarian border, low mountains and highlands near Adriatic coast, coastline, and islands
\Ilowest point:\i Adriatic Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Dinara 1,830 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil, some coal, \Jbauxite\j, low-grade iron ore, \Jcalcium\j, natural \Jasphalt\j, \Jsilica\j, mica, clays, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 32%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 20%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 18%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 15%
\Iother:\i 15%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j (from metallurgical plants) and resulting acid rain is damaging the forests; coastal \Jpollution\j from industrial and domestic waste; widespread casualties and destruction of \Jinfrastructure\j in border areas affected by civil strife
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent and destructive earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b controls most land routes from Western Europe to Aegean Sea and Turkish Straits
\BNational holiday:\b Statehood Day, 30 May (1990)
\BConstitution:\b adopted on 22 December 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal (16 years of age, if employed)
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Franjo TUDJMAN (since 30 May 1990) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 4 August 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Franjo TUDJMAN reelected with about 56% of the vote; his opponent Dobroslav PARAGA received 5% of the vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Zlatko MATESA (since NA November 1995) and Deputy Prime Ministers Mate GRANIC (since 8 September 1992), Ivica KOSTOVIC (since 14 October 1993), Jure RADIC (since NA October 1994), Borislav SKEGRO (since 3 April 1993), and Ljerka MINTAS-HODAS (since November 1995) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
House of Districts (Zupanije Dom): elections last held 7 and 21 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (68 total; 63 elected, 5 presidentially appointed) HDZ 37, HSLS 16, HSS 5, Istrian Democratic Assembly 3, SPH-SDP 1, HNS 1
House of Representatives (Zastupnicki Dom): elections last held 29 October 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - HDZ 45.23%, HSS/IDS/HNS/HKDU/SBHS 18.26%, HSLS 11.55%, SDP 8.93%, HSP 5.01%; seats - (127 total) HDZ 75, HSLS 12, HSS 10, SDP 10, IDS 4, HSP 4, HNS 2, SNS 2, HND 1, ASH 1, HKDU 1, SBHS 1, independents 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the Chamber of Representatives; Constitutional Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the Chamber of Representatives
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), Franjo TUDJMAN, president; Croatian Democratic Independents (HND), Stjepan MESIC, president; Croatian Social Liberal Party (HSLS), Vlado GOTOVAC, president; Social Democratic Party of \JCroatia\j (SDP), Ivica RACAN; Croatian Party of Rights (HSP), Ante DAPIC; Croatian Peasants' Party (HSS), Josip PANKRETIC; Croatian People's Party (HNS), Radimir CACIC, president; Serbian National Party (SNS), Milan DJUKIC; Action of the Social Democrats of \JCroatia\j (ASH), Miko TRIPALO; Croatian Christian Democratic Union (HKDU), Marko VASELICA, president; Istrian Democratic Assembly (IDS), Ivan JACKOVIC; Slanvonsko-Baranja Croatian Party (SBHS)
\Ichancery:\i 2343 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 588-5899
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 588-8936
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter W. GALBRAITH
\Iembassy:\i Andrije Hebranga 2, \JZagreb\j
\Imailing address:\i US Embassy, \JZagreb\j, Unit 1345, APO AE 09213-1345
\Itelephone:\i [385] (41) 455-55-00
\IFAX:\i [385] (41) 455-85-85
\BFlag:\b red, white, and blue horizontal bands with Croatian coat of arms (red and white checkered)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Before the dissolution of Yugoslavia, the Republic of \JCroatia\j, after \JSlovenia\j, was the most prosperous and industrialized area, with a per capita output perhaps one-third above the Yugoslav average. \JCroatia\j faces considerable economic problems stemming from: the legacy of longtime communist mismanagement of the economy; large foreign debt; damage during the internecine fighting to bridges, factories, power lines, buildings, and houses; the large refugee population, both Croatian and Bosnian; and the disruption of economic ties to \JSerbia\j and the other former Yugoslav republics, as well as within its own territory. Western aid and investment, especially in the tourist and oil industries, would help restore the economy. The government has been successful in some reform efforts including stabilization policies and has normalized relations with creditors. Yet it still is struggling with privatization of large state enterprises and with bank reform. The draft 1996 budget, which had raised concerns about \Jinflation\j, capitalizes on the "peace dividend" to boost expenditures on the repair and upgrading of \Jinfrastructure\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $20.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 1.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 12.7%
\Iindustry:\i 30.6%
\Iservices:\i 56.7% (1993 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 3.7% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 1.444 million (1995)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and mining 31.1%, agriculture 4.3%, government 19.1% (including education and health), other 45.5% (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 18.1% (January 1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $3.86 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $3.72 billion, including capital expenditures of $320 million (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b chemicals and plastics, machine tools, fabricated metal, \Jelectronics\j, pig iron and rolled steel products, aluminum, paper, wood products, construction materials, textiles, shipbuilding, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j refining, food and beverages
Industrial production growth rate: 0.9% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit point for Southwest Asian heroin to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $4.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment 13.6%, miscellaneous manufactures 27.6%, chemicals 14.2%, food and live animals 12.2%, raw materials 6.1%, fuels and lubricants 9.4%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 2.7% (1993)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment 23.1%, fuels and lubricants 8.8%, food and live animals 9.0%, chemicals 14.2%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 16.0%, raw materials 3.5%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 1.4% (1993)
\Bnote:\b \JCroatia\j owns an additional 140 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,368,035 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, \JLiberia\j, Cyprus, Panama, Antigua and Barbuda, The \JBahamas\j, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 68
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 6
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 47
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 7 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.216 million (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i no satellite earth stations
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 14, FM 8, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Naval Forces, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Frontier Guard, Home Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,314,718
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,046,490
males reach military age (19) annually: 34,914 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 337 billion to 393 billion dinars, NA% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Cuba (Atlas)",62,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, south of \JFlorida\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 30 N, 80 00 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 110,860 sq km
\Iland area:\i 110,860 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JPennsylvania\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 29 km
border country: US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay 29 km
\Bnote:\b Guantanamo Naval Base is leased by the US and thus remains part of \JCuba\j
\BCoastline:\b 3,735 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay is leased to US and only mutual agreement or US abandonment of the area can terminate the lease
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to rolling plains with rugged hills and mountains in the southeast
\Inatural hazards:\i the east coast is subject to hurricanes from August to October (in general, the country averages about one hurricane every other year); droughts are common
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j, Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 10% (male 478,630; female 534,992) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.44% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 13.37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.39 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.54 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.9 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.05 years
\Imale:\i 72.71 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.54 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.52 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cuban(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cuban
\BEthnic divisions:\b mulatto 51%, white 37%, black 11%, Chinese 1%
\BReligions:\b nominally Roman Catholic 85% prior to CASTRO assuming power; Protestants, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses, Jews, and Santeria are also represented
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 95.7%
\Imale:\i 96.2%
\Ifemale:\i 95.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JCuba\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JCuba\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JCuba\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JCuba\j
\BData code:\b CU
\BType of government:\b Communist state
\BCapital:\b \JHavana\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 special municipality* (municipio especial); Camaguey, Ciego de Avila, \JCienfuegos\j, Ciudad de La Habana, Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin, Isla de la Juventud*, La Habana, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Pinar del Rio, Sancti Spiritus, Santiago de \JCuba\j, Villa Clara
\BIndependence:\b 20 May 1902 (from \JSpain\j 10 December 1898; administered by the US from 1898 to 1902)
\BNational holiday:\b Rebellion Day, 26 July (1953); Liberation Day, 1 January (1959)
\BConstitution:\b 24 February 1976
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish and American law, with large elements of Communist legal theory; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 16 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President of the Council of State and President of the Council of Ministers Fidel CASTRO Ruz (prime minister from February 1959 until 24 February 1976 when office was abolished; president since 2 December 1976) and First Vice President of the Council of State and First Vice President of the Council of Ministers Gen. Raul CASTRO Ruz (since 2 December 1976) were elected by the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers were proposed by the president of the Council of State, appointed by the National Assembly
Council of State: members elected by the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly of People's Power (Asemblea Nacional del
Poder Popular): elections last held NA February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); seats - 589 total, elected directly from slates approved by special candidacy commissions
\BJudicial branch:\b People's Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo Popular), president, vice president, and other judges are elected by the National Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b only party - Cuban Communist Party (PCC), Fidel CASTRO Ruz, first secretary
\BInternational organization participation:\b CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), \JInterpol\j, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS (excluded from formal participation since 1962), PCA, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none; note - \JCuba\j has an Interests Section in the Swiss Embassy, headed by Principal Officer Fernando REMIREZ DE ESTENOZ; address: Cuban Interests Section, Swiss Embassy, 2639 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009; \Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-8518 through 8520
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none; note - the US does have an Interests Section in the Swiss Embassy, headed by Principal Officer Joseph G. SULLIVAN; address: USINT, Swiss Embassy, Calzada Entre L Y M, Vedado Seccion, \JHavana\j; \Itelephone:\i 33-3551 through 3559, 33-3543 through 3547 (operator assistance required); \IFAX:\i 33-3700; protecting power in \JCuba\j is \JSwitzerland\j
\BFlag:\b five equal horizontal bands of blue (top and bottom) alternating with white; a red equilateral triangle based on the hoist side bears a white five-pointed star in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The state retains a primary role in the economy and controls practically all foreign trade. The government has undertaken several reforms in recent years designed to stem excess liquidity, raise labor incentives, and increase the availability of food, consumer goods, and services from depressed levels. The liberalized agricultural markets introduced in October 1994, where state and private farms are authorized to sell any above-quota production at unrestricted prices, have broadened legal consumption alternatives and reduced black market prices. The government's efforts to reduce subsidies to loss-making enterprises and shrink the money supply caused the black market exchange rate to move from a peak of 120 pesos to the dollar in the summer of 1994 to 25-30 pesos to the dollar at yearend 1995. The number of self-employed workers licensed by the government increased more slowly in 1995, from 160,000 at yearend 1994 to 190,000 in July 1995 and to about 210,000 in January 1996. Discussions continue within the leadership over the relative affluence of self-employed workers and the growing inequality of income in what has historically been a strictly egalitarian society. The government released new economic data in 1995 which showed a 35% decline in GDP during 1989-1993, a drop precipitated by the withdrawal of massive Soviet aid and prolonged by \JCuba\j's own economic inefficiencies. The decline in GDP apparently was halted in 1994, and government officials claim that GDP increased by 2.5% in 1995. Export earnings rose by 20% in 1995 to $1.6 billion, largely on the strength of higher world prices for key commodities and increased production of nickel through joint ventures with a Canadian firm. Higher export revenues and new credits from European firms and Mexico enabled \JHavana\j to increase its imports for the first time in six years. Imports rose 21% to almost $2.4 billion, or 30% of the 1989 level. Officials have sharply criticized provisions of legislation under consideration in the US Congress, which aims to curtail third-country investment in expropriated US properties in \JCuba\j and deny official assistance to \JHavana\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $14.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 7%
\Iindustry:\i 30%
\Iservices:\i 63% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 4.71 million economically active population (1989); 3,527,000 employed in state civilian sector (1989)
\Iby occupation:\i services and government 30%, industry 22%, agriculture 20%, commerce 11%, construction 10%, transportation and communications 7% (June 1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b sugar, \Jpetroleum\j, food, \Jtobacco\j, textiles, chemicals, paper and wood products, metals (particularly nickel), cement, fertilizers, consumer goods, agricultural machinery
Industrial production growth rate: 6% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 3,990,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 12 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 1,022 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b sugarcane, \Jtobacco\j, \Jcitrus\j, \Jcoffee\j, rice, potatoes and other tubers, beans; livestock
\BExports:\b $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i sugar, nickel, shellfish, \Jtobacco\j, medical products, \Jcitrus\j, \Jcoffee\j
\Ipartners:\i Canada 15%, China 15%, \JRussia\j 15% (1995 est.)
ships by type: cargo 17, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 9, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 9
\Bnote:\b \JCuba\j owns an additional 47 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 462,517 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Cyprus, Malta, \JBelize\j, and \JMauritius\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 156
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 7
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 7
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 14
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 9
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 87
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 31 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 430,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b among the world's least developed \Jtelephone\j systems
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 150, FM 5, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2.14 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 58
\BTelevisions:\b 2.5 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) includes ground forces, Revolutionary Navy (MGR), Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Force (DAAFAR), Territorial Troops Militia (MTT), and Youth Labor Army (EJT); Interior Ministry Border Guards (TGF)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,053,431
fe\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,009,852
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,898,644
fe\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,866,313
males reach military age (17) annually: 65,182
females reach military age (17) annually: 61,960 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $NA, roughly 4% of GDP (1995 est.)
\IDefense note:\i Moscow, for decades the key military supporter and supplier of \JCuba\j, cut off almost all military aid by 1993
#
"Cyprus (Atlas)",63,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 35 00 N, 33 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 9,250 sq km (note - 3,355 sq km are in the Turkish area)
\Iland area:\i 9,240 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.7 times the size of Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 648 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b 1974 hostilities divided the island into two de facto autonomous areas, a Greek area controlled by the Cypriot Government (59% of the island's land area) and a Turkish-Cypriot area (37% of the island), that are separated by a UN buffer zone (4% of the island); there are two UK sovereign base areas within the Greek Cypriot portion of the island
\BClimate:\b temperate, Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters
\BTerrain:\b central plain with mountains to north and south; scattered but significant plains along southern coast
\Icurrent issues:\i water resource problems (no natural reservoir catchments, seasonal disparity in rainfall, and most potable resources concentrated in the Turkish Cypriot area); water \Jpollution\j from sewage and industrial wastes; coastal degradation; loss of wildlife habitats from urbanization
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change
\I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 33,340; female 43,004) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.11% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 3.38 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.78 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 76.26 years
\Imale:\i 74.11 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.52 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.19 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cypriot(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cypriot
\BEthnic divisions:\b
\Itotal:\i Greek 78% (99.5% of the Greeks live in the Greek area; 0.5% of the Greeks live in the Turkish area), Turkish 18% (1.3% of the Turks live in the Greek area; 98.7% of the Turks live in the Turkish area), other 4% (99.2% of the other ethnic groups live in the Greek area; 0.8% of the other ethnic groups live in the Turkish area)
\BReligions:\b Greek Orthodox 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other 4%
\BLanguages:\b Greek, Turkish, English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1987 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 94%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 91%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cyprus
\Iconventional short form:\i Cyprus
\Bnote:\b the Turkish area refers to itself as the "Turkish Republic" or the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC)
\BData code:\b CY
\BType of government:\b republic
\Bnote:\b a disaggregation of the two ethnic communities inhabiting the island began after the outbreak of communal strife in 1963; this separation was further solidified following the Turkish invasion of the island in July 1974, which gave the Turkish Cypriots de facto control in the north; Greek Cypriots control the only internationally recognized government; on 15 November 1983 Turkish Cypriot "President" Rauf DENKTASH declared independence and the formation of a "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC), which has been recognized only by Turkey; both sides publicly call for the resolution of intercommunal differences and creation of a new federal system of government
\BCapital:\b \JNicosia\j
\Bnote:\b the Turkish area's capital is Lefkosa (Nicosia)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 districts; \JFamagusta\j, Kyrenia, \JLarnaca\j, \JLimassol\j, \JNicosia\j, \JPaphos\j; note - Turkish area administrative divisions include Kyrenia, all but a small part of \JFamagusta\j, and small parts of \JNicosia\j and \JLarnaca\j
\BIndependence:\b 16 August 1960 (from UK)
\Bnote:\b Turkish area proclaimed self-rule on NA February 1975 from Republic of Cyprus
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 October
\Bnote:\b Turkish area celebrates 15 November as Independence Day
\BConstitution:\b 16 August 1960; negotiations to create the basis for a new or revised constitution to govern the island and to better relations between Greek and Turkish Cypriots have been held intermittently; in 1975 Turkish Cypriots created their own constitution and governing bodies within the "Turkish Federated State of Cyprus," which was renamed the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" in 1983; a new constitution for the Turkish area passed by referendum on 5 May 1985
\BLegal system:\b based on common law, with civil law modifications
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Glafcos CLERIDES (since 28 February 1993) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - Glafcos CLERIDES 50.3%, Yeoryios VASSILIOU 49.7%
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed jointly by the president and vice president
\Bnote:\b Rauf R. DENKTASH has been "president" of the Turkish area since 13 February 1975 (president is elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage); Hakki ATUN has been "prime minister" of the Turkish area since 1 January 1994; there is a Council of Ministers (cabinet) in the Turkish area; elections last held 15 and 22 April 1995 (next to be held NA April 2000); results - Rauf R. DENKTASH 62.5%, Dervis EROGLU 37.5%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Greek area: House of Representatives (Vouli Antiprosopon): elections last held 19 May 1991 (next to be held May 1996); results - DISY 35.8%, AKEL (Communist) 30.6%, DIKO 19.5%, EDEK 10.9%; others 3.2%; seats - (56 total) DISY 20, AKEL (Communist) 18, DIKO 11, EDEK 7
Turkish area: Assembly of the Republic (Cumhuriyet Meclisi): elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA); results - UBP 29.9%, DP 29.2%, CTP 24.2% TKP 13.3%, others 3.4%; seats - (50 total) UBP (conservative) 15, DP 16, CTP 13, TKP 5, UDP 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the Supreme Council of Judicature
\Bnote:\b there is also a Supreme Court in the Turkish area
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
Greek area: Progressive Party of the Working
\BPeople:\b (AKEL, Communist Party), Dimitrios CHRISTOFIAS; Democratic Rally (DISY), Ioannis MATSIS; Democratic Party (DIKO), Spyros KYPRIANOU; United Democratic Union of the Center (EDEK), Vassos LYSSARIDIS; Socialist Democratic Renewal Movement (ADISOK), Mikhalis PAPAPETROU; Liberal Party, Nikolaos ROLANDIS; Free Democrats, Yeoryios VASSILIOU; New Horizons, Nikolaos KOUTSOU, secretary general
Turkish area: National Unity Party (UBP), Dervis EROGLU; Communal Liberation Party (TKP), Mustafa AKINCI; Republican Turkish Party (CTP), Mehmet ALI TALAT; New Cyprus Party (YKP), Alpay DURDURAN; Free Democratic Party (HDP), Ismet KOTAK; Nationalist Justice Party (MAP), Zorlu TORE; Unity and Sovereignty Party (BEP), Arif Salih KIRDAG; Democratic Party (DP), Serdar DENKTASH; National Birth Party (UDP), Enver EMIN; the HDP, MAP, and VP merged under the label National Struggle Unity Party (MMBP) to compete in the 12 December 1993 legislative election
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b United Democratic Youth Organization (EDON, Communist controlled); Union of Cyprus Farmers (EKA, Communist controlled); Cyprus Farmers Union (PEK, pro-West); Pan-Cyprian Labor Federation (PEO, Communist controlled); Confederation of Cypriot Workers (SEK, pro-West); Federation of Turkish Cypriot Labor Unions (Turk-Sen); Confederation of Revolutionary Labor Unions (Dev-Is)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Andreas J. JACOVIDES
\Ichancery:\i 2211 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-5772
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\Bnote:\b Representative of the Turkish area in the US is Namik KORMAN, office at 1667 K Street NW, Washington, DC, \Jtelephone\j [1] (202) 887-6198
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Richard A. BOUCHER
\Iembassy:\i corner of Metochiou and Ploutarchou Streets, Engomi, \JNicosia\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 4536, FPO AE 09836
\Itelephone:\i [357] (2) 476100
\IFAX:\i [357] (2) 465944
\BFlag:\b white with a copper-colored silhouette of the island (the name Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive branches in the center of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities
\Bnote:\b the Turkish Cypriot flag has a horizontal red stripe at the top and bottom between which is a red crescent and red star on a white field
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Greek Cypriot economy is small and prosperous, but highly susceptible to external shocks. Industry contributes 25% to GDP and employs 26% of the labor force, while the service sector contributes 70% to GDP and employs 62% of the labor force. After surging 9.7% in 1992, economic growth slowed to 1.6% in 1993 - its lowest level in two decades - because of the decline in tourist arrivals associated with the recession in Western Europe, Cyprus' main trading partner, and the loss in export competitiveness due to a sharp rise in unit labor costs. However, real GDP picked up in 1994 and 1995, as \Jinflation\j fell from 4.7% to about 3%. Economic prospects appear favorable for 1996: real GDP is likely to grow between 3% and 4%, and \Jinflation\j is likely to rise slightly to 3.5%-4.5%. The Turkish Cypriot economy has less than one-third the per capita GDP of the south. Because it is recognized only by Turkey, it has had much difficulty arranging foreign financing, and foreign firms have hesitated to invest there. The economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture and government service, which together employ about half of the work force. Moreover, the small, vulnerable economy has suffered because the Turkish lira is legal tender. Economic growth sharply dropped during 1994 because of the severe economic crisis affecting the mainland, and \Jinflation\j soared to 215%. To compensate for the economy's weakness, Turkey provides direct and indirect aid to nearly every sector; financial support has risen and now equals in value about one-third of Turkish Cypriot GDP.
\BGDP:\b
Greek area: purchasing power parity - $7.8 billion (1995 est.)
Turkish area: purchasing power parity - $520 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b
Greek area: 5% (1995 est.)
Turkish area: 0.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b
Greek area: $13,000 (1995 est.)
Turkish area: $3,900 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
Greek area - \Iagriculture:\i 5.6%
Greek area - \Iindustry:\i 24.9%
Greek area - \Iservices:\i 69.5% (1994)
Turkish area - \Iagriculture:\i 11.4%
Turkish area - \Iindustry:\i 22.9%
Turkish area - \Iservices:\i 65.7% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i
Greek area: 3% (1995 est.)
Turkish area: 215% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b
Greek area: 294,100
\Iby occupation:\i services 61.5%, industry 26%, agriculture 12.5% (1994)
Turkish area: 75,320
\Iby occupation:\i services 52.9%, industry 23.6%, agriculture 23.5% (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b
Greek area: 2.7% (1994)
Turkish area: 1.6% (1994)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i Greek area - $2.3 billion, Turkish area - $246 million
\Iexpenditures:\i Greek area - $3.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $500 million, Turkish area - $350 million, including capital expenditures of $75 million (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b food, beverages, textiles, chemicals, metal products, tourism, wood products
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit point for heroin via air routes and container traffic to Europe, especially from \JLebanon\j and Turkey, also some \Jcocaine\j transits en route to \JRussia\j
\BExports:\b
Greek area: $968 million (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i \Jcitrus\j, potatoes, grapes, wine, cement, clothing and shoes
\Ipartners:\i UK 16%, \JLebanon\j 9%, \JGreece\j 8%, \JRussia\j 12%
Turkish area: $59 million (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i \Jcitrus\j, potatoes, textiles
\Ipartners:\i UK 48%, Turkey 22%
\BImports:\b
Greek area: $2.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i consumer goods, \Jpetroleum\j and lubricants, food and feed grains, machinery
\Ipartners:\i UK 12%, \JJapan\j 9%, \JItaly\j 10%, \JGermany\j 9%, US 8%
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 48 countries among which are \JGreece\j 706, \JGermany\j 171, \JRussia\j 44, Netherlands 31, \JBelgium\j 30, \JJapan\j 29, \JCuba\j 21, UK 17, \JSpain\j 14, and Hong Kong 13 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 15
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 8
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 331,000 (1995 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent in both the Greek and Turkish areas
\Idomestic:\i open wire, fiber-optic cable, and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter; 3 coaxial and 5 fiber-optic submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 2 Eutelsat, 2 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b
Greek area: AM 11, FM 8, shortwave 0
Turkish area: AM 2, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b
Greek area: 270,000 (1993 est.)
Turkish area: 42,170 (1985 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b
Greek area: 1 (repeaters 34)
Turkish area: 1
\BTelevisions:\b
Greek area: 107,000 (1992 est.)
Turkish area: 75,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b
Greek area: Greek Cypriot National Guard (GCNG; includes air and naval elements), Greek Cypriot Police
Turkish area: Turkish Cypriot Security Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 190,372
\Imales fit for military service:\i 130,880
males reach military age (18) annually: 5,749 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $493 million, 5.6% of GDP (1995)
#
"Czech Republic (Atlas)",64,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, southeast of \JGermany\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 49 45 N, 15 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 78,703 sq km
\Iland area:\i 78,645 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than South Carolina
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,880 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 362 km, \JGermany\j 646 km, \JPoland\j 658 km, \JSlovakia\j 214 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b \JLiechtenstein\j claims \Jrestitution\j for 1,600 sq km of Czech territory confiscated from its royal family in 1918; Sudeten German claims for \Jrestitution\j of property confiscated in connection with their expulsion after World War II versus the Czech Republic claims that \Jrestitution\j does not precede February 1948 when the Communists seized power; unresolved property issues with \JSlovakia\j over redistribution of property of the former Czechoslovak federal government
\BTerrain:\b \JBohemia\j in the west consists of rolling plains, hills, and plateaus surrounded by low mountains; Moravia in the east consists of very hilly country
\Ilowest point:\i Elbe River 115 m
\Ihighest point:\i Snezka 1,602 m
\BNatural resources:\b hard coal, soft coal, \Jkaolin\j, clay, \Jgraphite\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air and water \Jpollution\j in areas of northwest \JBohemia\j and in northern Moravia around \JOstrava\j present health risks; acid rain damaging forests
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; strategically located astride some of oldest and most significant land routes in Europe; Moravian Gate is a traditional military corridor between the North European Plain and the Danube in central Europe
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 526,841; female 865,007) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -0.03% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.89 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.24 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.61 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.76 years
\Imale:\i 70.08 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.65 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.38 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Czech(s)
\Iadjective:\i Czech
\Bnote:\b 300,000 Slovaks declared themselves Czech citizens in 1994
\BEthnic divisions:\b Czech 94.4%, Slovak 3%, Polish 0.6%, German 0.5%, Gypsy 0.3%, Hungarian 0.2%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b atheist 39.8%, Roman Catholic 39.2%, Protestant 4.6%, Orthodox 3%, other 13.4%
\BLanguages:\b Czech, Slovak
\BLiteracy:\b age NA and over can read and write (est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Czech Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i Czech Republic
\Ilocal long form:\i Ceska Republika
\Ilocal short form:\i Cechy
\BData code:\b EZ
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JPrague\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 regions (kraje, kraj - singular); Jihocesky, Jihomoravsky, Praha, Severocesky, Severomoravsky, Stredocesky, Vychodocesky, Zapadocesky
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia)
\BNational holiday:\b National Liberation Day, 8 May; Founding of the Republic, 28 October
\BConstitution:\b ratified 16 December 1992; effective 1 January 1993
\BLegal system:\b civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j; legal code modified to bring it in line with Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) obligations and to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Vaclav HAVEL (since 26 January 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the Parliament; election last held 26 January 1993 (next to be held NA January 1998); results - Vaclav HAVEL was elected
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Vaclav KLAUS (since NA June 1992) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Ivan KOCARNIK (since NA June 1992), Josef LUX (since NA June 1992), Jan KALVODA (since NA June 1992)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Senate (Senate): elections to be held 15-16 November 1996 (next to be held NA); seats (81 total)
Chamber of Deputies (Snemovna Poslancu): elections last held 5-6 June 1992 (next to be held 31 May-1 June 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA given breakup and realignment of all parliamentary opposition parties since 1992; seats - (200 total) governing coalition (ODS 65, KDS 10, ODA 16, KDU-CSL 15), opposition (CSSD 18, LB 25, KSCM 10, LSU 9, LSNS 5, CMUS 9, SPR-RSC 6, independents 12)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
governing coalition: Civic Democratic Party (ODS), Vaclav KLAUS, chairman; Christian Democratic Party (KDS), Ivan PILIP, chairman; Civic Democratic Alliance (ODA), Jan KALVODA, chairman; Christian Democratic Union/Czech People's Party (KDU-CSL), Josef LUX, chairman; note - KDS was to merge with ODS in March 1996
opposition: Czech Social Democrats (CSSD - left opposition), Milos ZEMAN, chairman; Left Bloc (LB - left opposition), Jaroslav ORTMAN, chairman; Communist Party (KSCM - left opposition), Miroslav GREBENICEK, chairman; Liberal Social Union (LSU - left opposition), Frantisek TRNKA, chairman, note - may not still be in existence; Liberal National Social Party (LSNS - center party), Vavrinec BODENLOS, chairman; Bohemian-Moravian Center Union (CMUS - center party), Jan JEGLA, chairman; Assembly for the Republic (SPR-RSC - right radical), Miroslav SLADEK, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Czech-Moravian Chamber of Trade Unions; Civic Movement
\BInternational organization participation:\b \JAustralia\j Group, BIS, CCC, CE (guest), CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCRO, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNPROFOR, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Michael ZANTOVSKY
\Ichancery:\i 3900 Spring of Freedom Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 363-6315, 6316
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 966-8540
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jenonne R. WALKER
\Iembassy:\i Trziste 15, 11801 \JPrague\j 1
\Imailing address:\i Unit 1330, APO AE 09213-1330
\Itelephone:\i [42] (2) 2451-0847
\IFAX:\i [42] (2) 2451-1001
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side (almost identical to the flag of the former Czechoslovakia)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Czech Republic, which separated from \JSlovakia\j on 1 January 1993, emerged from recession with 2.6% growth in 1994 and 5% growth in 1995. \JInflation\j in 1994-95 was cut in half; unemployment was kept at about 3%; the budget was balanced; and exports were reoriented to the EU. \JPrague\j's mass privatization program, including its innovative distribution of ownership shares to Czech citizens via "coupon vouchers," has made the most rapid progress in Eastern Europe. About 80% of the economy is wholly or partially in private hands. Because of its progress on reform, the Czech Republic in 1995 became the first post-Communist member of the OECD. Its solid economic performance also led Standard and Poor's to upgrade the country's sovereign credit rating to "A" and attracted nearly $5.3 billion in direct foreign investment to Czech industry between 1990 and September 1995. The Czech crown became convertible for current account transactions in October 1995. Czech companies increasingly are using the international capital market to fund capital investment, and foreign currency reserves totaled $13.9 billion at the end of 1995. \JPrague\j's biggest macroeconomic concern now is limiting the inflationary effect of these large capital inflows. The Czech economy also still faces microeconomic problems. \JPrague\j has promised to strengthen its \Jbankruptcy\j law and improve the transparency of stock market operations in 1996, but some changes probably will not take effect until some time after the parliamentary elections of mid-1996 and will depend largely on voluntary compliance. \JPrague\j forecasts a balanced budget, 5.5% GDP growth, 2.8% unemployment, and 8.1% \Jinflation\j for 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $106.2 billion (1995 est.)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intersputnik (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Civil Defense Railroad Units
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,724,607
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,074,331
males reach military age (18) annually: 88,418 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $931 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Denmark (Atlas)",65,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of \JGermany\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 56 00 N, 10 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 43,070 sq km
\Iland area:\i 42,370 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of \JMassachusetts\j
\Bnote:\b includes the island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea and the rest of metropolitan Denmark, but excludes the Faroe Islands and \JGreenland\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 68 km
border country: \JGermany\j 68 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,379 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 4 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Rockall continental shelf dispute involving \JIceland\j, Ireland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
\BClimate:\b temperate; humid and overcast; mild, windy winters and cool summers
\BTerrain:\b low and flat to gently rolling plains
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j, principally from vehicle emissions; \Jnitrogen\j and \Jphosphorus\j \Jpollution\j of the North Sea; drinking and surface water becoming polluted from animal wastes
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding is a threat in some areas of the country (e.g., parts of Jutland, along the southern coast of the island of Lolland) that are protected from the sea by a system of dikes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b controls Danish Straits linking Baltic and North Seas; about one-quarter of the population lives in \JCopenhagen\j
\Bnote:\b see separate entries for the Faroe Islands and \JGreenland\j, which are part of the Danish realm and self-governing administrative divisions
\BIndependence:\b 10th century first organized as a unified state; in 1849 became a constitutional monarchy
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
\BConstitution:\b 1849 was the original constitution; there was a major overhaul 5 June 1953, allowing for a unicameral legislature and a female chief of state
\BLegal system:\b civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen MARGRETHE II (since NA January 1972) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince FREDERIK, elder son of the queen (born 26 May 1968)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN (since NA January 1993) was appointed by the queen
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the queen
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Folketing): elections last held 21 September 1994 (next to be held by December 1998); results - Social Democrats 34.6%, Liberals 23.3%, Conservatives 15.0%, Social People's Party 7.3%, Progress Party 6.4%, Radical Liberals 4.6%, Unity Party 3.1%, Center Democrats 2.8%, Christian People's Party 1.8%; seats - (179 total) Social Democrats 63, Liberals 44, Conservatives 28, Social People's Party 13, Progress Party 11, Radical Liberals 8, Unity Party 6, Center Democrats 5, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the monarch for life
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party, Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN; Conservative Party, Hans ENGELL; Liberal Party, Uffe ELLEMANN-JENSEN; Socialist People's Party, Holger K. NIELSEN; Progress Party, Group Chairman Kim BEHNKE and Policy Spokesman Jan Kopke CHRISTENSEN; Center Democratic Party, Mimi Stilling JAKOBSEN; Radical Liberal Party, Marianne JELVED; Christian People's Party, Jann SJURSEN; Danish Workers' Party, Common Cause, Preben Moller HANSEN; Unity Party
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Knud-Erik TYGESEN
\Ichancery:\i 3200 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-4300
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-1470
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward E. ELSON
\Iembassy:\i Dag Hammarskjolds Alle 24, 2100 \JCopenhagen\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09716, PSC 73
\Itelephone:\i [45] (31) 42 31 44
\IFAX:\i [45] (35) 43 02 23
\BFlag:\b red with a white cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side, and that design element of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) was subsequently adopted by the other Nordic countries of \JFinland\j, \JIceland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This thoroughly modern economy features high-tech agriculture, up-to-date small-scale and corporate industry, extensive government welfare measures, comfortable living standards, and high dependence on foreign trade. Denmark is self-sufficient in food production. The new center-left coalition government will concentrate on reducing the persistently high unemployment rate and the budget deficit as well as following the previous government's policies of maintaining low \Jinflation\j and a current account surplus. In the face of recent international market pressure on the Danish krone, the coalition has also vowed to maintain a stable currency. The coalition hopes to lower marginal income taxes while maintaining overall tax revenues; boost industrial competitiveness through labor market and tax reforms and increased research and development funds; and improve welfare services for the neediest while cutting paperwork and delays. Prime Minister RASMUSSEN's reforms will focus on adapting Denmark to the criteria for European \Jintegration\j by 1999; \JCopenhagen\j has won from the European Union (EU) the right to opt out of the European Monetary Union (EMU) if a national referendum rejects it. Denmark is, in fact, one of the few EU countries likely to fit into the EMU on time. Denmark is weathering the current worldwide slump better than many West European countries. Although unemployment is high, it remains stable compared to most European countries.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $112.8 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i private services 37.1%, government services 30.4%, manufacturing and mining 20%, construction 6.3%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 5.6%, electricity/gas/water 0.6% (1991)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 9.5% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $56.5 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $64.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b food processing, machinery and equipment, textiles and clothing, chemical products, \Jelectronics\j, construction, furniture, and other wood products, shipbuilding
Industrial production growth rate: -2.5% (1993 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 10,030,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 32 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 5,835 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b grain, potatoes, rape, sugar beets; meat, dairy products; fish
\BExports:\b $39.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i meat and meat products, dairy products, transport equipment (shipbuilding), fish, chemicals, industrial machinery
\Ipartners:\i EU 49.4% (Germany 22.4%, UK 8.2%), Sweden 10.4%, \JNorway\j 6.5%, US 5.5%, \JJapan\j 4.1%, FSU 1.7% (1994)
\BImports:\b $34 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i \Jpetroleum\j, machinery and equipment, chemicals, grain and foodstuffs, textiles, paper
\Ipartners:\i EU 51% (Germany 22%, UK 6.5%), Sweden 11.6%, \JNorway\j 5.1%, US 5.2%, \JJapan\j 3.5%, FSU 1.7% (1994)
\Bnote:\b Denmark has created its own internal register, called the Danish International Ship register (DIS); DIS ships do not have to meet Danish manning regulations, and they amount to a flag of convenience within the Danish register (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 109
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 7
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 13
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 77
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 4.005 million (1985 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent \Jtelephone\j and telegraph services
\Idomestic:\i buried and submarine cables and microwave radio relay form trunk network
\Iinternational:\i 19 submarine coaxial cables; satellite earth stations - 7 Intelsat, NA Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Denmark shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Finland, \JIceland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 2.04 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal Danish Army, Royal Danish Navy, Royal Danish Air Force, Home Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,338,791
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,150,996
males reach military age (20) annually: 34,324 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.2 billion, 1.8% of GDP (1995)
#
"Djibouti (Atlas)",66,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, between Eritrea and \JSomalia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 11 30 N, 43 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 22,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 21,980 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JMassachusetts\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 508 km
\Iborder countries:\i Eritrea 113 km, \JEthiopia\j 337 km, \JSomalia\j 58 km
\BCoastline:\b 314 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b desert; torrid, dry
\BTerrain:\b coastal plain and plateau separated by central mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Asal -155 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mousa Alli 2,028 m
\BNatural resources:\b geothermal areas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 9%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 91%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate supplies of potable water; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i earthquakes; droughts; occasional cyclonic disturbances from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rains and flash floods
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location near world's busiest shipping lanes and close to Arabian oilfields; terminus of rail traffic into \JEthiopia\j; a vast wasteland
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 June (1977)
\BConstitution:\b multiparty constitution approved in referendum 4 September 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system, traditional practices, and Islamic law
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President HASSAN GOULED Aptidon (since 24 June 1977); election last held 7 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President HASSAN GOULED reelected to a six-year term by universal suffrage
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister BARKAT Gourad Hamadou (since 30 September 1978)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers is responsible to the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes): elections last held 18 December 1992; results - RPP (the ruling party) dominated; seats - (65 total) RPP 65
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador ROBLE Olhaye Oudine
\Ichancery:\i Suite 515, 1156 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 331-0270
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 331-0302
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Martin L. CHESHES
\Iembassy:\i Plateau du Serpent, Boulevard Marechal Joffre, Djibouti
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 185, Djibouti
\Itelephone:\i [253] 35 39 95
\IFAX:\i [253] 35 39 40
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of light blue (top) and light green with a white isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a red five-pointed star in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based on service activities connected with the country's strategic location and status as a free trade zone in northeast Africa. Two-thirds of the inhabitants live in the capital city, the remainder being mostly nomadic herders. Scanty rainfall limits crop production to fruits and vegetables, and most food must be imported. Djibouti provides services as both a transit port for the region and an international transshipment and refueling center. It has few natural resources and little industry. The nation is, therefore, heavily dependent on foreign assistance (an important supplement to GDP) to help support its balance of payments and to finance development projects. An unemployment rate of over 30% continues to be a major problem. Per capita consumption dropped an estimated 35% over the last six years because of recession, civil war, and a high population growth rate (including immigrants and refugees).
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $500 million (1994 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 7,200 (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j facilities in the city of Djibouti are adequate as are the microwave radio relay connections to outlying areas of the country
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay network
\Iinternational:\i submarine cable to Saudi \JArabia\j; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 17,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Djibouti National Army (includes Navy and Air Force), National Security Force (Force Nationale de Securite), National Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 102,528
\Imales fit for military service:\i 60,076 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $26 million, NA% of GDP (1989)
#
"Dominica (Atlas)",67,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 30 N, 61 20 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 750 sq km
\Iland area:\i 750 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i more than four times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 148 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds; heavy rainfall
\BTerrain:\b rugged mountains of volcanic origin
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Morne Diablatins 1,447 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 13%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 3%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 41%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i flash floods are a constant threat; destructive hurricanes can be expected during the late summer months
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 82,926 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 28% (male 11,986; female 11,521)
\I15-64 years:\i 64% (male 27,206; female 25,841)
\I65 years and over:\i 8% (male 2,608; female 3,764) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.38% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 18.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -9.32 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.69 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 9.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.4 years
\Imale:\i 74.55 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.4 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.93 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Dominican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Dominican
\BEthnic divisions:\b black, \JCarib\j Indians
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 77%, Protestant 15% (Methodist 5%, Pentecostal 3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Baptist 2%, other 2%), none 2%, unknown 1%, other 5%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French patois
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 94%
\Imale:\i 94%
\Ifemale:\i 94%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of Dominica
\Iconventional short form:\i Dominica
\BData code:\b DO
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JRoseau\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 parishes; Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul, Saint Peter
\BIndependence:\b 3 November 1978 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 November (1978)
\BConstitution:\b 3 November 1978
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Crispin Anselm SORHAINDO (since 25 October 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Assembly; election last held 4 October 1993 (next to be held NA October 1998); results - percent of vote NA
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Edison C. JAMES (since 12 June 1995); prime minister is appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 12 June 1995 (next to be held by October 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (30 total; 9 appointed senators and 21 elected representatives) UWP 11, DLP 5, DFP 5
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (located in Santa Lucia), one of the six judges must reside in Dominica and preside over the Court of Summary \JJurisdiction\j
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Dominica Freedom Party (DFP), Brian ALLEYNE; Dominica Labor Party (DLP), Rosie DOUGLAS; United Workers Party (UWP), Edison JAMES
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Dominica Liberation Movement (DLM), a small leftist group
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Dominica does not have an embassy in the US
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Dominica; the Ambassador to Dominica resides in \JBridgetown\j (Barbados), but travels frequently to Dominica
\BFlag:\b green with a centered cross of three equal bands - the vertical part is yellow (hoist side), black, and white - the horizontal part is yellow (top), black, and white; superimposed in the center of the cross is a red disk bearing a sisserou parrot encircled by 10 green five-pointed stars edged in yellow; the 10 stars represent the 10 administrative divisions (parishes)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is dependent on agriculture and thus is highly vulnerable to climatic conditions. Agriculture accounts for 26% of GDP and employs 40% of the labor force. Development of the tourist industry remains difficult because of the rugged coastline and the lack of an international airport. Hurricane Luis devastated the country's banana crop in September 1995; tropical storms had wiped out one-quarter of the crop in 1994 as well. The newly elected government is attempting to develop an offshore financial industry in order to diversify the island's production base.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $200 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -1% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,450 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 26%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA% (1995)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 0.4% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 25,000
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 40%, industry and commerce 32%, services 28% (1984)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 15% (1992 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $80 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $95.8 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.)
Industrial production growth rate: -10% (1994 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 7,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 30 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 347 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b bananas, \Jcitrus\j, mangoes, root crops, coconuts; \Jforestry\j and fisheries potential not exploited
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe; minor cannabis producer
\BExports:\b $48.3 million (f.o.b., 1993)
\Icommodities:\i bananas, soap, bay oil, vegetables, \Jgrapefruit\j, oranges
\Ipartners:\i UK 55%, Caricom countries, \JItaly\j, US
\BImports:\b $98.8 million (f.o.b., 1993)
\Icommodities:\i manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, food, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i US 25%, Caricom, UK, \JJapan\j, Canada
\BExternal debt:\b $92.8 million (1992)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 800 km
\Ipaved:\i 500 km
\Iunpaved:\i 300 km
\BPorts:\b Portsmouth, \JRoseau\j
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 14,613 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i fully automatic network
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay and SHF radiotelephone links to Martinique and \JGuadeloupe\j; VHF and UHF radiotelephone links to Saint Lucia
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 45,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 cable
\BTelevisions:\b 5,200 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (includes Special Service Unit, Coast Guard)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Dominican Republic (Atlas)",68,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of \JHispaniola\j, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of \JHaiti\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 00 N, 70 40 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 48,730 sq km
\Iland area:\i 48,380 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of New Hampshire
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 275 km
border country: \JHaiti\j 275 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,288 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 6 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation in rainfall
\BTerrain:\b rugged highlands and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed
\Icurrent issues:\i water shortages; soil eroding into the sea damages \Jcoral\j reefs; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional hurricanes (July to October)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b shares island of \JHispaniola\j with \JHaiti\j (eastern two-thirds is the Dominican Republic, western one-third is Haiti)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 156,238; female 173,926) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.73% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.53 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.9 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 47.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.06 years
\Imale:\i 66.89 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.34 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.66 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Dominican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Dominican
\BEthnic divisions:\b white 16%, black 11%, mixed 73%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 82.1%
\Imale:\i 82%
\Ifemale:\i 82.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Dominican Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i none
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Dominicana
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\BData code:\b DR
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Santo Domingo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 29 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 district* (distrito); Azua, Baoruco, Barahona, Dajabon, Distrito Nacional*, Duarte, Elias Pina, El Seibo, Espaillat, Hato Mayor, Independencia, La Altagracia, La Romana, La Vega, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Monsenor Nouel, Monte Cristi, Monte Plata, Pedernales, Peravia, Puerto Plata, Salcedo, Samana, Sanchez Ramirez, San Cristobal, San Juan, San Pedro de Macoris, Santiago, Santiago Rodriguez, Valverde
\BIndependence:\b 27 February 1844 (from Haiti)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 February (1844)
\BConstitution:\b 28 November 1966
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil codes
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age, universal and compulsory; married persons regardless of age
\Bnote:\b members of the armed forces and police cannot vote
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo (since 16 August 1986, sixth elected term began 16 August 1994); Vice President Jacinto PEYNADO Garrigoza (since 16 August 1994); president is elected for a four-year term by direct vote; election last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held 16 May 1996); results - Joaquin BALAGUER (PRSC) 42.6%, Juan BOSCH Gavino (PLD) 13.2%, Jose Francisco PENA Gomez (PRD) 41.9%, Jacobo MAJLUTA (PRI) 2.3%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was nominated by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (30 total) PRSC 15, PLD 1, PRD 14
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PLD 13, PRSC 50, PRD 57
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
major parties: Social Christian Reformist Party (PRSC), Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo; Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Lidio CADET; Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD), Jose Franciso PENA Gomez; Independent Revolutionary Party (PRI), Jacobo MAJLUTA
minor parties: National Veterans and Civilian Party (PNVC), Juan Rene BEAUCHAMPS Javier; Liberal Party of the Dominican Republic (PLRD), Andres Van Der HORST; Democratic Quisqueyan Party (PQD), Elias WESSIN Chavez; National Progressive Force (FNP), Marino VINICIO Castillo; Popular Christian Party (PPC), Rogelio DELGADO Bogaert; Dominican Communist Party (PCD), Narciso ISA Conde; Dominican Workers' Party (PTD), Ivan RODRIGUEZ; Anti-Imperialist Patriotic Union (UPA), Ignacio RODRIGUEZ Chiappini; Alliance for Democracy Party (APD), Maximilano Rabelais PUIG Miller, Nelsida MARMOLEJOS, Vicente BENGOA; Democratic Union (UD), Fernando ALVAREZ Bogaert
\Bnote:\b in 1983 several leftist parties, including the PCD, joined to form the Dominican Leftist Front (FID); however, they still retain individual party structures
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Collective of Popular Organizations (COP)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jose del Carmen ARIZA Gomez
\Ichancery:\i 1715 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-6280
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-8057
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, Mayaguez (Puerto Rico), Miami, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\Iconsulate(s):\i Charlotte Amalie (Virgin Islands), \JDetroit\j, Houston, Jacksonville, Mobile, and Ponce (Puerto Rico)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Donna Jean HRINAK
\Iembassy:\i corner of Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson and Calle Leopoldo Navarro, Santo Domingo
\Imailing address:\i Unit 5500, APO AA 34041
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 221-2171, 221-8100
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 686-7437
\BFlag:\b a centered white cross that extends to the edges, divides the flag into four rectangles - the top ones are blue (hoist side) and red, the bottom ones are red (hoist side) and blue; a small coat of arms is at the center of the cross
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic reforms launched in late 1994 contributed to exchange rate stabilization, reduced \Jinflation\j, and relatively strong GDP growth in 1995. Output growth was concentrated in the tourism and free trade zone (ftz) sectors while sugar and non-ftz manufacturing declined last year. \JDrought\j in early 1995 hurt agricultural production but favorable world prices for export commodities helped mitigate the impact. Sugar refining was devastated by a disastrous harvest resulting from the \Jdrought\j and ongoing problems at the state-owned sugar company. Unreliable electric supplies continue to hamper expansion in manufacturing; small and medium-sized retail firms also suffer due to the dismal power situation. A presidential election scheduled for May 1996 could lead to increased government spending before and in the immediate aftermath of the vote, raising the potential for rising \Jinflation\j and increased pressure on the Dominican peso.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $26.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $3,400 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 13%
\Iindustry:\i 32%
\Iservices:\i 55% (1995)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 9.5% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 2.3 million to 2.6 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 50%, services and government 32%, industry 18% (1991 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 30% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.8 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
standard gauge: 375 km 1.435-m gauge (Central Romana Railroad)
narrow gauge: 142 km 0.762-m gauge (Dominica Government Railway); 240 km operated by sugar companies in various gauges (0.558-m, 0.762-m, 1.067-m gauges) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,931 km
\Ipaved:\i 5,766 km
\Iunpaved:\i 6,165 km (1987 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 96 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 8 km
\BPorts:\b Barahona, La Romana, Puerto Plata, San Pedro de Macoris, Santo Domingo
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 10 August (1809) (independence of Quito)
\BConstitution:\b 10 August 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal, compulsory for literate persons ages 18-65, optional for other eligible voters
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN Cordovez (since 10 August 1992); Vice President Eduardo PENA Trivino (since 18 October 1995); president and vice president were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; runoff election held 5 July 1992; results - Sixto DURAN-BALLEN elected as president (next election was held 19 May 1996; no presidential candidate received more than 50% of the vote; a runoff election between BUCARAM and NEBOT will be held on 7 July 1996); note - former Vice President DAHIK resigned 11 October 1995 and left the country to escape arrest on corruption charges; National Congress chose PENA as his successor in accordance with the constitution
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Congress (Congreso Nacional): elections last held 19 May 1996; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (82 total) PSC 27, PRE 21, DP 10, Pachakutik Movement 7, ID 5, PLRE 3, MPD 2, APRE 2, CFP 1, independent and other 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by the Chamber of Representatives
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
Center-Right parties: Republican Unity Party (PUR); Social Christian Party (PSC), Jaime NEBOT Saadi, president; Ecuadorian Conservative Party (PCE), President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN (two parties merged in 1995)
Center-Left parties: Democratic Left (ID), Andres VALLEJO Arcos, Rodrigo BORJA Cevallos, leaders; Popular Democracy (DP), Rodrigo PAZ, leader; Ecuadorian Radical Liberal Party (PLRE), Medardo MORA, leader; Radical Alfarista Front (FRA), Jaime ASPIAZU Seminario, director
Populist parties: Roldosist Party (PRE), Abdala BUCARAM Ortiz, director; Concentration of Popular Forces (CFP), Rodolfo BAQUERIZO Nazur, leader; Popular Revolutionary Action (APRE), Frank VARGAS Passos, leader
Far-Left parties: Popular Democratic Movement (MPD), Juan Jose CASTELLO, leader; Ecuadorian Socialist Party (PSE), Leon ROLDOS, leader; Broad Leftist Front (FADI), Rene Mauge MOSQUERA, chairman; Ecuadorian National Liberation (LN), Alfredo CASTILLO, director
Communists: Communist Party of \JEcuador\j (PCE, pro-North Korea), Rene Mauge MOSQUERA, Secretary General; Communist Party of Ecuador/Marxist-Leninist (PCMLE, Maoist)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edgar TERAN Teran
\Ichancery:\i 2535 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-7200
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San Francisco
\Iconsulate(s):\i Newark
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter F. ROMERO
\Iembassy:\i Avenida 12 de Octubre y Avenida Patria, \JQuito\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34039
\Itelephone:\i [593] (2) 562-890
\IFAX:\i [593] (2) 502-052
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JGuayaquil\j
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double width), blue, and red with the coat of arms superimposed at the center of the flag; similar to the flag of \JColombia\j that is shorter and does not bear a coat of arms
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JEcuador\j has substantial oil resources and rich agricultural areas. Growth has been uneven in recent years because of fluctuations in prices for \JEcuador\j's primary exports - oil and bananas - as well as because of government policies designed to curb \Jinflation\j. President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN launched a series of macroeconomic reforms when he came into office in August 1992, which included raising domestic fuel prices and utility rates, eliminating most subsidies, and bringing the government budget into balance. These measures helped to reduce \Jinflation\j from 55% in 1992 to 25% in 1995. DURAN-BALLEN has a much more favorable attitude toward foreign investment than his predecessor and has supported several laws designed to encourage foreign investment. \JEcuador\j has implemented free or complementary trade agreements with \JBolivia\j, \JChile\j, \JColombia\j, \JPeru\j, and Venezuela, as well as joined the World Trade Organization. Growth slowed to 2.3% in 1995 due in part to high domestic interest rates and shortages of electric power.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $44.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,100 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 13%
\Iindustry:\i 39%
\Iservices:\i 48% (1992 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 25% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 2.8 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 35%, manufacturing 21%, commerce 16%, services and other activities 28% (1982)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 7.1% (1994)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $3.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $3.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j, food processing, textiles, metal work, paper products, wood products, chemicals, plastics, fishing, lumber
\BIllicit drugs:\b significant transit country for derivatives of \Jcoca\j originating in \JColombia\j, \JBolivia\j, and \JPeru\j; minor illicit producer of \Jcoca\j; importer of precursor chemicals used in production of illicit \Jnarcotics\j; important money-laundering hub
ships by type: container 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 12, passenger 3, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 188
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 7
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 8
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 13
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 121
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 32 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 586,300 (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i facilities generally inadequate and unreliable
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 272, FM 0, shortwave 39
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 33
\BTelevisions:\b 940,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (Ejercito Ecuatoriano), Navy (Armada Ecuatoriana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana), National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,968,361
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,006,509
males reach military age (20) annually: 121,241 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $386 million, 2.1% of GDP (1995)
#
"Egypt (Atlas)",70,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JLibya\j and the Gaza Strip
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 27 00 N, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,001,450 sq km
\Iland area:\i 995,450 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than three times the size of New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,689 km
\Iborder countries:\i Gaza Strip 11 km, Israel 255 km, \JLibya\j 1,150 km, \JSudan\j 1,273 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,450 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b administrative boundary with \JSudan\j does not coincide with international boundary creating the "Hala'ib Triangle," a barren area of 20,580 sq km, tensions over this disputed area began to escalate in 1992 and remain high
\BClimate:\b desert; hot, dry summers with moderate winters
\BTerrain:\b vast desert plateau interrupted by Nile valley and delta
\Icurrent issues:\i agricultural land being lost to urbanization and windblown sands; increasing soil salinization below \JAswan\j High Dam; \Jdesertification\j; oil \Jpollution\j threatening \Jcoral\j reefs, beaches, and marine habitats; other water \Jpollution\j from agricultural pesticides, raw sewage, and industrial effluents; very limited natural fresh water resources away from the Nile which is the only perennial water source; rapid growth in population overstraining natural resources
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b controls \JSinai\j Peninsula, only land bridge between Africa and remainder of Eastern Hemisphere; controls Suez Canal, shortest sea link between Indian Ocean and Mediterranean Sea; size, and juxtaposition to Israel, establish its major role in Middle Eastern geopolitics
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 1,028,916; female 1,247,305) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.91% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 28.18 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.82 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 72.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 61.43 years
\Imale:\i 59.51 years
\Ifemale:\i 63.46 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.58 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Egyptian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Egyptian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Eastern Hamitic stock (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%, Greek, Nubian, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1%
\BReligions:\b Muslim (mostly Sunni) 94% (official estimate), Coptic Christian and other 6% (official estimate)
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 51.4%
\Imale:\i 63.6%
\Ifemale:\i 38.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Arab Republic of \JEgypt\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JEgypt\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Jumhuriyat Misr al-Arabiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i United Arab Republic (with Syria)
\BData code:\b EG
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JCairo\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Ad Daqahliyah, Al Bahr al Ahmar, Al Buhayrah, Al Fayyum, Al Gharbiyah, Al Iskandariyah, Al Isma'iliyah, Al Jizah, Al Minufiyah, Al Minya, Al Qahirah, Al Qalyubiyah, Al \JWadi\j al Jadid, Ash Sharqiyah, As Suways, \JAswan\j, Asyut, Bani Suwayf, Bur Sa'id, Dumyat, Janub Sina, Kafr ash Shaykh, Matruh, Qina, Shamal Sina, Suhaj
\BIndependence:\b 28 February 1922 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 23 July (1952)
\BConstitution:\b 11 September 1971
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law, Islamic law, and Napoleonic codes; judicial review by Supreme Court and Council of State (oversees validity of administrative decisions); accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK (sworn in as president 14 October 1981, eight days after the assassination of President SADAT); national referendum held 4 October 1993 validated MUBARAK's nomination by the People's Assembly to a third six-year presidential term; note - the president is nominated by the People's Assembly and that nomination must then be validated by a national, popular referendum
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Kamal Ahmed al-GANZOURI (since 4 January 1996) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral
People's Assembly (Majlis al-Cha'b): elections last held 29 November 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - NDP 72%, idependents 25%, opposition 3%; seats - (454 total, 444 elected, 10 appointed by the president) NDP 317, independents 114, NWP 6, NPUG 5, Nasserist Arab Democratic Party 1, Liberals 1
Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura): functions only in a consultative role; elections last held 7 June 1995 (next to be held NA); results - NDP 99%, independents 1%; seats - (264 total, 176 elected, 88 appointed by the president) seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Constitutional Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Party (NDP), President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK, leader, is the dominant party; legal opposition parties are as follows: New Wafd Party (NWP), Fu'ad SIRAJ AL-DIN; Socialist Labor Party (SLP), Ibrahim SHUKRI; National Progressive Unionist Grouping (NPUG), Khalid Muhi al-DIN; Socialist Liberal Party, Mustafa Kamal MURAD; Democratic Unionist Party, Mohammed 'Abd-al-Mun'im TURK; Umma Party, Ahmad al-SABAHI; Misr al-Fatah Party (Young \JEgypt\j Party), leader NA; Nasserist Arab Democratic Party, Dia' al-din DAWUD; Democratic Peoples' Party, Anwar AFIFI; The Greens Party, Kamal KIRAH; Social Justice Party, Muhammad 'ABD-AL-'AL
\Bnote:\b formation of political parties must be approved by government
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b despite a constitutional ban against religious-based parties, the technically illegal Muslim Brotherhood constitutes MUBARAK's potentially most significant political opposition; MUBARAK tolerated limited political activity by the Brotherhood for his first two terms, but has moved more aggressively in the past year to block its influence; trade unions and professional associations are officially sanctioned
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ahmed Maher El SAYED
\Ichancery:\i 3521 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 895-5400
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 244-4319, 5131
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, New York, and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward S. WALKER, Jr.
\Iembassy:\i (North Gate) 8, Kamel El-Din Salah Street, Garden City, \JCairo\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09839-4900, Unit 64900, \JCairo\j
\Itelephone:\i [20] (2) 3557371
\IFAX:\i [20] (2) 3573200
branch office: Alexandria
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with the national emblem (a shield superimposed on a golden eagle facing the hoist side above a scroll bearing the name of the country in Arabic) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Yemen, which has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of \JSyria\j that has two green stars and to the flag of \JIraq\j, which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Half of \JEgypt\j's GDP originates in the public sector, most industrial plants being owned by the government. Overregulation holds back technical modernization and foreign investment. Even so, the economy grew rapidly during the late 1970s and early 1980s, but in 1986 the collapse of world oil prices and an increasingly heavy burden of debt servicing led \JEgypt\j to begin negotiations with the IMF for balance-of-payments support. \JEgypt\j's first IMF standby arrangement, concluded in mid-1987, was suspended in early 1988 because of the government's failure to adopt promised reforms. \JEgypt\j signed a follow-on program with the IMF and also negotiated a structural adjustment loan with the World Bank in 1991. In 1991-93 the government made solid progress on administrative reforms such as liberalizing exchange and interest rates, but resisted implementing major structural reforms like \Jstreamlining\j the public sector. As a result, the economy has not gained enough momentum to tackle the growing problem of unemployment. \JEgypt\j made uneven progress in implementing the successor programs it signed onto in late 1993 with the IMF and World Bank; currently it is negotiating another successor program with the IMF. President MUBARAK has cited population growth as the main cause of the country's economic troubles. The addition of about 1.2 million people a year to the already huge population of 63 million exerts enormous pressure on the 5% of the land area available for agriculture along the Nile.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $171 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i government, public sector enterprises, and armed forces 36%, agriculture 34%, privately owned service and manufacturing enterprises 20% (1984)
\Bnote:\b shortage of skilled labor; 2.5 million Egyptians work abroad, mostly in Saudi \JArabia\j and the Gulf Arab states (1993 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 20% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $18 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $19.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.8 billion (FY94/95 est.)
\BAgriculture:\b cotton, rice, corn, wheat, beans, fruits, vegetables; \Jcattle\j, water buffalo, sheep, goats; annual fish catch about 140,000 metric tons
\BIllicit drugs:\b a transit point for Southwest Asian and Southeast Asian heroin and opium moving to Europe and the US; popular transit stop for Nigerian couriers; large domestic consumption of hashish from \JLebanon\j and \JSyria\j
\BExports:\b $5.4 billion (f.o.b., FY94/95 est.)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil and \Jpetroleum\j products, cotton yarn, raw cotton, textiles, metal products, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i EU, US, \JJapan\j
\BImports:\b $15.2 billion (c.i.f., FY94/95 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment, foods, fertilizers, wood products, durable consumer goods, capital goods
standard gauge: 4,751 km 1,435-m gauge (42 km electrified; 951 km double track)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 47,387 km
\Ipaved:\i 34,593 km
\Iunpaved:\i 12,794 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,500 km (including the Nile, Lake Nasser, Alexandria-Cairo Waterway, and numerous smaller canals in the delta); Suez Canal, 193.5 km long (including approaches), used by oceangoing vessels drawing up to 16.1 m of water
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,171 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 596 km; natural gas 460 km
\BPorts:\b Alexandria, Al Ghardaqah, \JAswan\j, Asyut, Bur Safajah, Damietta, Marsa Matruh, Port Said, Suez
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2.2 million (1993)
\BTelephone system:\b large system by Third World standards but inadequate for present requirements and undergoing extensive upgrading
\Idomestic:\i principal centers at Alexandria, \JCairo\j, Al Mansurah, Ismailia, Suez, and Tanta are connected by coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean), 1 Arabsat, and 1 Inmarsat; 5 coaxial submarine cables; tropospheric scatter to \JSudan\j; microwave radio relay to Israel; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 39, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 41
\BTelevisions:\b 5 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Air
\BDefense:\b Command
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 16,530,460
\Imales fit for military service:\i 10,723,011
males reach military age (20) annually: 660,453 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.5 billion, 8.2% of GDP (FY94/95 est.)
#
"El Salvador (Atlas)",71,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between \JGuatemala\j and \JHonduras\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 50 N, 88 55 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 21,040 sq km
\Iland area:\i 20,720 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JMassachusetts\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 545 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGuatemala\j 203 km, \JHonduras\j 342 km
\BCoastline:\b 307 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b land boundary dispute with \JHonduras\j mostly resolved by 11 September 1992 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision; with respect to the maritime boundary in the Golfo de Fonseca, ICJ referred to an earlier agreement in this century and advised that some tripartite resolution among El Salvador, \JHonduras\j and \JNicaragua\j likely would be required
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (May to October); dry season (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with narrow coastal belt and central plateau
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; water \Jpollution\j; contamination of soils from disposal of toxic wastes
\Inatural hazards:\i known as the Land of Volcanoes; frequent and sometimes very destructive earthquakes and volcanic activity
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b smallest Central American country and only one without a coastline on Caribbean Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 115,973; female 133,656) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.81% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 28.3 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.81 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -4.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.87 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 31.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 68.88 years
\Imale:\i 65.44 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.5 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.2 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Salvadoran(s)
\Iadjective:\i Salvadoran
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo 94%, Indian 5%, white 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 75%
\Bnote:\b there is extensive activity by Protestant groups throughout the country; by the end of 1992, there were an estimated 1 million Protestant evangelicals in El Salvador
\BLanguages:\b Spanish, Nahua (among some Indians)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 71.5%
\Imale:\i 73.5%
\Ifemale:\i 69.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of El Salvador
\Iconventional short form:\i El Salvador
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de El Salvador
\Ilocal short form:\i El Salvador
\BData code:\b ES
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b San Salvador
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, San Salvador, Santa Ana, San Vicente, Sonsonate, Usulutan
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 20 December 1983
\BLegal system:\b based on civil and Roman law, with traces of common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Armando CALDERON Sol (since 1 June 1994) and Vice President Enrique BORGO Bustamante (since 1 June 1994) were elected for five-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 49.03%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (CD/FMLN/MNR) 24.09%, Fidel CHAVEZ Mena (PDC) 16.39%, other 10.49%; because no candidate received a majority, a run-off election was held 24 April 1994; results - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 68.35%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (CD/FMLN/MNR) 31.65%
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): elections last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - ARENA 46.4%, FMLN 25.0%, PDC 21.4%, PCN 4.8%, other 2.4%; seats - (84 total) ARENA 39, FMLN 21, PDC 18, PCN 4, other 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are selected by the Legislative Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Republican Alliance (ARENA), Juan Jose DOMENECH, president; Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN), Salvador SANCHEZ Ceren (aka Leonel GONZALEZ), general coordinator; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Ronal UMANA, secretary general; National Conciliation Party (PCN), Ciro CRUZ Zepeda, secretary general; Democratic Convergence (CD), Juan Jose MARTEL, secretary general; Unity Movement, Jorge MARTINEZ Menendez, president
\Bnote:\b newly formed parties not yet officially recognized by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal: Liberal Democratic Party (PLD), Kirio Waldo SALGADO, founder; Social Democratic Party (breakaway from FMLN), Joaquin VILLALOBOS, founder; Social Christian Renovation Movement (MRSC) (breakaway from PDC), Abraham RODRIGUEZ, founder
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b
labor organizations: Salvadoran Communal Union (UCS), peasant association; General Confederation of Workers (CGT), moderate; United Workers Front (FUT)
business organizations: Productive Alliance (AP), conservative; National Federation of Salvadoran Small Businessmen (FENAPES), conservative
\Ichancery:\i 2308 \JCalifornia\j Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-9671, 9672
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, \JDallas\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alan H. FLANIGAN
\Iembassy:\i Final Boulevard Santa Elena, Station Antiguo Cuscatlan, San Salvador
\Imailing address:\i Unit 3116, APO AA 34023
\Itelephone:\i [503] 278-4444
\IFAX:\i [503] 278-6011
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and blue with the national coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL; similar to the flag of \JNicaragua\j, which has a different coat of arms centered in the white band - it features a triangle encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE \JNICARAGUA\j on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom; also similar to the flag of \JHonduras\j, which has five blue stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b El Salvador possesses a fast-growing entrepreneurial economy in which 90% of economic activity is in private hands, with growth averaging 5% since 1990. Yet, because the 1980s were a decade of civil war and stagnation, per capita GDP has not regained the level of the late 1970s. The rebound in the 1990s stems from the government program, in conjunction with the IMF, of privatization, deregulation, and fiscal stabilization. The economy now is oriented more toward manufacturing and services compared with agriculture. The sizable trade deficits are in the main covered by remittances from the large number of Salvadorans abroad.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $11.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Itotal:\i 602 km (single track; note - some sections abandoned, unusable, or operating at reduced capacity)
narrow gauge: 602 km 0.914-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,251 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,740 km (including 107 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 10,511 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Rio Lempa partially navigable
\BPorts:\b Acajutla, Puerto Cutuco, La Libertad, La Union, Puerto El Triunfo
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 73
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 48
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 21 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 116,000 (1984 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i nationwide microwave radio relay system
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to Central American Microwave System
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 77, FM 0, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 5 (1986 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 500,700 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,415,691
\Imales fit for military service:\i 905,938
males reach military age (18) annually: 78,660 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $100 million, 1% of GDP (1995)
#
"Equatorial Guinea (Atlas)",72,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JCameroon\j and \JGabon\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 2 00 N, 10 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 28,050 sq km
\Iland area:\i 28,050 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 539 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 189 km, \JGabon\j 350 km
\BCoastline:\b 296 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary dispute with \JGabon\j because of disputed sovereignty over islands in Corisco Bay
\BClimate:\b tropical; always hot, humid
\BTerrain:\b coastal plains rise to interior hills; islands are volcanic
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount \JMalabo\j 3,008 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, \Jpetroleum\j, small unexploited deposits of gold, \Jmanganese\j, uranium
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 4%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 51%
\Iother:\i 33%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i tap water is not potable; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i violent windstorms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b insular and continental regions rather widely separated
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 78.5%
\Imale:\i 89.6%
\Ifemale:\i 68.1%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Equatorial Guinea
\Iconventional short form:\i Equatorial Guinea
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Guinea Ecuatorial
\Ilocal short form:\i Guinea Ecuatorial
\Iformer:\i Spanish Guinea
\BData code:\b EK
\BType of government:\b republic in transition to multiparty democracy
\BCapital:\b \JMalabo\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, \JBioko\j Norte, \JBioko\j Sur, Centro Sur, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
\BIndependence:\b 12 October 1968 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 October (1968)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution 17 November 1991
\BLegal system:\b partly based on Spanish civil law and tribal custom
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO (since 3 August 1979) election last held 25 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2003); results - President OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO reelected to a seven-year term without opposition
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Silvestre SIALE BILEKA (since 17 January 1992); Vice Prime Minister Anatolio NDONG MBA (since November 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of People's Representatives: (Camara de Representantes del Pueblo) elections last held 21 November 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (82 total) PDGE 72, various opposition parties 10
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Tribunal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
ruling party: Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea (PDGE), Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO, party leader
opposition parties: Progressive Democratic Alliance (ADP), Antonio-Ebang Mbele Abang, president; Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea (APGE),Casiano Masi Edu, leader; Liberal Democratic Convention (CLD), Alfonso Nsue MIFUMU, president; Convergence for Social Democracy (CPDS), Santiago Obama Ndong, president; Social Democratic and Popular Convergence (CSDP), Secundino Oyono Agueng Ada, general secretary; Party of the Social Democratic Coalition (PCSD), Buenaventura Moswi M'Asumu, general coordinater; Liberal Party (PL), Santos PASCUAL; Party of Progress (PP), Severo MOTO Nsa, president; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Benjamin-Gabriel Balingha Balinga Alene, general secretary; Socialist Party of Equatorial Guinea (PSGE), Tomas MICHEBE Fernandez, general secretary; National Democratic Union (UDENA), Jose MECHEBA Ikaka, president; Democratic Social Union (UDS), Camelo Modu, general secretary; Popular Union (UP), Juan Bitui, president
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Pastor Micha ONDO \JBILE\j
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) 57 \JMagnolia\j Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 10553
\Itelephone:\i [1] (914) 738-9584, 667-6913
\IFAX:\i [1] (914) 667-6838
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Equatorial Guinea (embassy closed September 1995); US relations with Equatorial Guinea are handled through the US Embassy in Yaounde, \JCameroon\j
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side and the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms has six yellow six-pointed stars (representing the mainland and five offshore islands) above a gray shield bearing a silk-cotton tree and below which is a scroll with the motto UNIDAD, PAZ, JUSTICIA (Unity, Peace, Justice)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing account for about half of GDP and nearly all exports. Subsistence farming predominates. Although pre-independence Equatorial Guinea counted on \Jcocoa\j production for hard currency earnings, the deterioration of the rural economy under successive brutal regimes has diminished potential for agriculture-led growth. A number of aid programs sponsored by the World Bank and the IMF have been cut off since 1993 because of the government's gross corruption and mismanagement. Businesses, for the most part, are owned by government officials and their family members. Undeveloped natural resources include \Jtitanium\j, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, uranium, and alluvial gold. Oil exploration, taking place under concessions offered to US, French, and Spanish firms, has been moderately successful. In 1995, exports responded to the \Jdevaluation\j of 12 January 1994, apparently resulting in a sizable surplus and strong GDP growth. Increased production from recently discovered oil and natural gas fields will provide a greater share of exports in 1996-97.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $325 million (1995 est.)
ships by type: cargo 1, passenger-cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poor system with adequate government services
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i international communications from Bata and \JMalabo\j to African and European countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 4,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Rapid Intervention Force, National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 92,704
\Imales fit for military service:\i 47,124 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $2.5 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Eritrea (Atlas)",73,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Djibouti and \JSudan\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 39 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 121,320 sq km
\Iland area:\i 121,320 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JPennsylvania\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,630 km
\Iborder countries:\i Djibouti 113 km, \JEthiopia\j 912 km, \JSudan\j 605 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,151 km (land and island coastline is 2,234 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b a dispute with Yemen over sovereignty of the Hanish Islands in the southern Red Sea has been submitted to \Jarbitration\j under the auspices of the ICJ
\BClimate:\b hot, dry desert strip along Red Sea coast; cooler and wetter in the central highlands (up to 61 cm of rainfall annually); semiarid in western hills and lowlands; rainfall heaviest during June-September except on coastal desert
\BTerrain:\b dominated by extension of Ethiopian north-south trending highlands, descending on the east to a coastal desert plain, on the northwest to hilly terrain and on the southwest to flat-to-rolling plains
\Ilowest point:\i Kobar Sink -75 m
\Ihighest point:\i Soira 3,013 m
\BNatural resources:\b gold, \Jpotash\j, zinc, copper, salt, probably oil (petroleum geologists are prospecting for it), fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 3%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2% (coffee)
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 40%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 5%
\Iother:\i 50%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jfamine\j; deforestation; \Jdesertification\j; soil erosion; overgrazing; loss of \Jinfrastructure\j from civil warfare
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b strategic geopolitical position along world's busiest shipping lanes; Eritrea retained the entire coastline of \JEthiopia\j along the Red Sea upon de jure independence from \JEthiopia\j on 27 April 1993
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 54,310; female 50,514) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.79% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 43.32 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 15.44 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b it is estimated that between 300,000 and 500,000 Eritrean refugees were still living in \JSudan\j at the end of 1995; their repatriation is being facilitated by the UNHCR
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 118.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 50.31 years
\Imale:\i 48.57 years
\Ifemale:\i 52.1 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.5 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Eritrean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Eritrean
\BEthnic divisions:\b ethnic Tigrinya 50%, Tigre and Kunama 40%, Afar 4%, Saho (Red Sea coast dwellers) 3%
\BReligions:\b Muslim, Coptic Christian, Roman Catholic, Protestant
\BLanguages:\b Afar, Amharic, Arabic, Italian, Tigre and Kunama, Tigrinya, minor tribal languages
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i State of Eritrea
\Iconventional short form:\i Eritrea
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i Eritrea Autonomous Region in \JEthiopia\j
\BData code:\b ER
\BType of government:\b transitional government
\Bnote:\b on 29 May 1991 ISAIAS Afworke, secretary general of the Peoples' Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), which then served and still serves as the country's legislative body, announced the formation of the Provisional Government in Eritrea (PGE) in preparation for the 23-25 April 1993 referendum on independence for the autonomous region of Eritrea; the result was a landslide vote for independence, which was proclaimed on 27 April 1993
\BCapital:\b Asmara (formerly Asmera)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 provinces (singular - awraja); Akele Guzay, Barka, Denkel, Hamasen, Sahil, Semhar, Senhit, Seraye; note - information issued by the Eritrean government indicates that the administrative structure of Eritrea, which had been established by former colonial powers, will consist of only six regions when the new constitution, presently being drafted, goes into effect sometime in 1996
\BIndependence:\b 27 May 1993 (from \JEthiopia\j; formerly the Eritrea Autonomous Region)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day (independence from Ethiopia), 24 May (1993)
\BConstitution:\b transitional "constitution" decreed 19 May 1993; the promulgation of a draft constitution is expected in 1996
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b NA; note - the transitional constitution of 19 May 1993 did not provide rules for suffrage, but it seems likely that the final version of the constitution, to be promulgated some time in 1996, will follow the example set in the referendum of 1993 in which suffrage was universal for persons 18 years of age or older
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President ISAIAS Afworki (since 22 May 1993) is head of the State Council and National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i State Council is the collective executive authority
\Bnote:\b election to be held in 1997
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: 75 members of the PFDJ Central Committee (the old Central Committee of the EPLF) and 75 directly elected members serve as the country's legislative body until country-wide elections are held in 1997
\BJudicial branch:\b Judiciary
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), ISAIAS Afworki, PETROS Solomon (the only party recognized by the government)
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Eritrean Islamic \JJihad\j (EIJ); Eritrean Liberation Front (ELF), ABDULLAH Muhammed; Eritrean Liberation Front - United Organization (ELF-UO), Mohammed Said NAWUD; Eritrean Liberation Front - Revolutionary Council (ELF-RC), Ahmed NASSER
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador AMDEMICHAEL Berhane Khasai
\Ichancery:\i Suite 400, 910 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 429-1991
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 429-9004
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Robert G. HOUDEK
\Iembassy:\i Franklin D. Roosevelt St., Asmara
\Imailing address:\i P.O. Box 211, Asmara
\Itelephone:\i [291] (1) 120004
\IFAX:\i [291] (1) 127584
\BFlag:\b red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) dividing the flag into two right triangles; the upper triangle is green, the lower one is blue; a gold wreath encircling a gold olive branch is centered on the hoist side of the red triangle
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b With independence from \JEthiopia\j on 27 April 1993, Eritrea faces the bitter economic problems of a small, desperately poor African country. Most of the population will continue to depend on subsistence farming. Domestic output is substantially augmented by worker remittances from abroad. Government revenues come from custom duties and income and sales taxes. Eritrea has inherited the entire coastline of \JEthiopia\j and has long-term prospects for revenues from the development of offshore oil, offshore fishing, and tourism. For the time being, \JEthiopia\j will be largely dependent on Eritrean ports for its foreign trade.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1995 est.)
\BCurrency:\b 1 birr (Br) = 100 cents; at present, Ethiopian currency used
\BExchange rates:\b birr (Br) per US$1 - 6.2 (1995 est.), 5.600 (September 1994), 5.000 (fixed rate 1992-93); note - following independence from \JEthiopia\j, Eritrea continued to use Ethiopian currency, the official rate of which was pegged to US$1 = 5.000 birr
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 307 km; note - nonoperational since 1978 except for about 5 km that was reopened in \JMassawa\j in 1994; rehabilitation of the remainder and of the rolling stock is under way; links Ak'ordat and Asmara (formerly Asmera) with the port of \JMassawa\j (formerly Mits'iwa)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i very inadequate; about 4 telephones per 100 families, most of which are in Asmara; government is seeking international tenders to improve the system
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of \JFinland\j, between \JLatvia\j and \JRussia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 59 00 N, 26 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 45,100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 43,200 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Hampshire and \JVermont\j combined
\Bnote:\b includes 1,520 islands in the Baltic Sea
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 557 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JLatvia\j 267 km, \JRussia\j 290 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,393 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: limits to be fixed in coordination with neighboring states
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims over 2,000 sq km of Russian territory in the Narva and Pechora regions - based on boundary established under the 1921 Peace Treaty of Tartu; disputes maritime border with \JLatvia\j - primary concern is fishing rights around Ruhne Island in the Gulf of Riga
\Icurrent issues:\i air heavily polluted with sulfur dioxide from oil-shale burning power plants in northeast; contamination of soil and \Jgroundwater\j with \Jpetroleum\j products, chemicals at former Soviet military bases
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding occurs frequently in the spring
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 63,976; female 133,928) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -1.13% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.74 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 14.12 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -7.96 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.93 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.48 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.87 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 17.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 68.13 years
\Imale:\i 62.5 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.05 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.55 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Estonian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Estonian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Estonian 61.5%, Russian 30.3%, Ukrainian 3.2%, Byelorussian 1.8%, Finn 1.1%, other 2.1% (1989)
\BReligions:\b Lutheran, Orthodox Christian
\BLanguages:\b Estonian (official), \JLatvian\j, Lithuanian, Russian, other
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 100%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JEstonia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JEstonia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Eesti Vabariik
\Ilocal short form:\i Eesti
\Iformer:\i Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b EN
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JTallinn\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 15 counties (maakonnad, singular - maakond): Harju maakond (Tallinn), Hiiu maakond (Kardla), Ida-Viru maakond (Johvi), Jarva maakond (Paide), Jogeva maakond (Jogeva), Laane maakond (Haapsalu), Laane-Viru maakond (Rakvere), Parnu maakond (Parnu), Polva maakond (Polva), Rapla maakond (Rapla), Saare maakond (Kuessaare), Tartu maakond (Tartu), Valga maakond (Valga), Viljandi maakond (Viljandi), Voru maakond (Voru)
\Bnote:\b county centers are in parentheses
\BIndependence:\b 6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 24 February (1918)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 28 June 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Lennart MERI (since 21 October 1992) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 20 September 1992 (next to be held fall 1996); results - no candidate received majority; Parliament elected Lennart MERI
\Ihead of government:\i Acting Prime Minister Tiit VAHI (since NA March 1995); the president nominated and Parliament authorized the candidate for prime minister
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister, approved by Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Riigikogu): elections last held 5 March 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - KMU 32.22%, RE 16.18%, K 14.17%, Pro Patria and ERSP 7.85%, M 5.98%, Our Home is \JEstonia\j and Right-Wingers 5.0%; seats - (101 total) KMU 41, RE 19, K 16, Pro Patria 8, Our Home is \JEstonia\j 6, M 6, Right-Wingers 5
\BJudicial branch:\b National Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Coalition Party and Rural Union (KMU), Tiit VAHI, chairman, made up of 4 parties: Coalition Party, Country People's Party, Farmer's Assembly, and Pensioners' and Families' League; Reform Party-Liberals (RE), Siim KALLAS, chairman; Center Party (K), Edgar SAVISAAR, chairman; Union of Pro Patria or Fatherland Alliance (Isamaa of Fatherland), Toivo JURGENSON, chairman; National Independence Party (ERSP), Kelam TUNNE, chairman, note - may have disappeared since the last election; Our Home is \JEstonia\j made up of 2 parties: United Peoples Party and the Russian People's Party of \JEstonia\j; United Peoples Party, Viktor ANDREJEV, chairman; Russian People's Party of \JEstonia\j, Sergei KUZNETSOV, chairman; Moderates (M) made up of 2 parties: Social Democratic Party and Rural Center Party; Social Democratic Party, Eiki NESTOR, chairman; Rural Center Party, Vambo KAAL, chairman; Right-Wingers, Ulo NUGIS, chairman
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Toomas Hendrik ILVES
\Ichancery:\i 2131 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 588-0101
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 789-0471
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lawrence P. TAYLOR
\Iembassy:\i Kentmanni 20, \JTallinn\j EE 0001
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [372] (6) 312-021
\IFAX:\i [372] (6) 312-025
\BFlag:\b pre-1940 flag restored by Supreme Soviet in May 1990 - three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JEstonia\j continues to experience strong economic growth after its economy bottomed out in 1993. Bolstered by a widespread national desire to reintegrate into Western Europe, \JEstonia\j has adhered to disciplined fiscal and financial policies and has led the FSU countries in pursuing economic reform. Monthly \Jinflation\j has been held to under 5% since the beginning of 1992, with monthly \Jinflation\j in 1995 at 2%. Following four years of decline, \JEstonia\j's GDP grew 5% in 1994 and 6% in 1995 - among the highest rates in Europe, according to estimates of the IMF and \JEstonia\j's own Economic Ministry. Despite these positive economic indicators, unemployment - 8% in 1994 - is on the rise, and wages - especially for teachers and law enforcement personnel - have not kept pace with \Jinflation\j. Small- and medium-scale privatization is essentially complete, and large-scale privatization is progressing, but slowly. \JEstonia\j has successfully reoriented it trade toward the West, two-thirds of exports now going to Western markets. \JEstonia\j's free trade policies were the cornerstone of its negotiations with the European Union, and led to the signing of an association agreement in June 1995. \JEstonia\j was the only Baltic state not to have a transition period imposed by the EU prior to its implementation of a free trade agreement.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BAgriculture:\b potatoes, fruits, vegetables; livestock and dairy products; fish
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for illicit drugs from Central and Southwest Asia and Latin America to Western Europe; very limited illicit opium producer; mostly for domestic consumption
\Ipartners:\i \JFinland\j, \JRussia\j, \JGermany\j, Sweden
\BExternal debt:\b $270 million (January 1996)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $147 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b Western commitments $285 million (including international financial institutions)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Estonian kroon (EEK) = 100 cents (introduced in August 1992)
\BExchange rates:\b krooni (EEK) per US$1 - 11.523 (December 1995), 11.465 (1995), 12.991 (1994), 13.223 (1993); note - krooni are tied to the German deutsche mark at a fixed rate of 8 to 1
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,018 km common carrier lines only; does not include dedicated industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 1,018 km 1.520-m gauge (132 km electrified) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,771 km
\Ipaved:\i 8,124 km (including 62 km of expressways)
\BTelephone system:\b system is antiquated; improvements are being made piecemeal, with emphasis on business needs and international connections; there are still about 150,000 unfulfilled requests for subscriber service
\Idomestic:\i substantial investment has been made in cellular systems which are operational throughout \JEstonia\j
\Iinternational:\i international traffic is carried to the other former Soviet republics by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries partly by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch and partly by a new Tallinn-Helsinki fiber-optic, submarine cable which gives \JEstonia\j access to international circuits everywhere; access to the international packet-switched digital network via \JHelsinki\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 710,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3
\Bnote:\b provide Estonian programs as well as Moscow Ostenkino's first and second programs
\BTelevisions:\b 600,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Force (not officially sanctioned), Maritime Border Guard, Volunteer
\BDefense:\b League (Kaitseliit), Security Forces (internal and border troops), Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 357,835
\Imales fit for military service:\i 280,757
males reach military age (18) annually: 10,525 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $35 million, 1.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Ethiopia (Atlas)",75,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, west of \JSomalia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 38 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,127,127 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,119,683 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,311 km
\Iborder countries:\i Djibouti 337 km, Eritrea 912 km, \JKenya\j 830 km, \JSomalia\j 1,626 km, \JSudan\j 1,606 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b southern half of the boundary with \JSomalia\j is a Provisional Administrative Line; territorial dispute with \JSomalia\j over the Ogaden
\BClimate:\b tropical monsoon with wide topographic-induced variation
\BTerrain:\b high plateau with central mountain range divided by Great Rift Valley
\Ilowest point:\i Denakil -125 m
\Ihighest point:\i Ras Dashen Terara 4,620 m
\BNatural resources:\b small reserves of gold, \Jplatinum\j, copper, \Jpotash\j
\Inatural hazards:\i geologically active Great Rift Valley susceptible to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions; frequent droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked - entire coastline along the Red Sea was lost with the de jure independence of Eritrea on 27 April 1993
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 728,808; female 838,646) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.72% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 46.05 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 17.53 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b repatriation of Ethiopians who fled to \JSudan\j, \JKenya\j and \JSomalia\j for refuge from war and \Jfamine\j in earlier years, is expected to continue in 1996; entry into \JEthiopia\j of Sudanese and Somalis fleeing the fighting in their own countries is also continuing in 1996
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.87 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 122.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 46.85 years
\Imale:\i 45.71 years
\Ifemale:\i 48.02 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 7 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Ethiopian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Ethiopian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Oromo 40%, \JAmhara\j and Tigrean 32%, Sidamo 9%, Shankella 6%, Somali 6%, Afar 4%, Gurage 2%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 45%-50%, Ethiopian Orthodox 35%-40%, animist 12%, other 5%
\BLanguages:\b Amharic (official), Tigrinya, Orominga, Guaraginga, Somali, Arabic, English (major foreign language taught in schools)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 35.5%
\Imale:\i 45.5%
\Ifemale:\i 25.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Democratic Republic of \JEthiopia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JEthiopia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ityop'iya
abbreviation: FDRE
\BData code:\b ET
\BType of government:\b federal republic
\Bnote:\b on 28 May 1991 the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) toppled the authoritarian government of MENGISTU Haile-Mariam and took control in Addis Ababa; a new constitution was promulgated in December 1994 and national and regional popular elections were held in May and June 1995
\BCapital:\b Addis Ababa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 ethnically-based administrative regions (astedader akababiwach, singular - astedader akababi) and 1 federal capital*: Addis Ababa*; Afar; \JAmhara\j; Benshangul/Gumaz; Gambela; Harar; Oromia; Somali; Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples; Tigray
\BIndependence:\b oldest independent country in Africa and one of the oldest in the world - at least 2,000 years
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 28 May (1991) (defeat of Mengistu regime)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution promulgated in December 1994
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President NEGASSO Gidada (since NA August 1995) elected by the Council of People's Representatives following the elections of legislators in May and June 1995
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister MELES Zenawi (since NA August 1995) designated by the party in power, EPRDF, following the elections of legislators in May and June 1995
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers as provided in the December 1994 constitution; ministers are selected by the prime minister and approved by the Council of People's Representatives
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral legislature
Federal Council: upper chamber, having NA members, represents the ethnic interests of the regional governments and is elected by the regional assemblies
Council of People's Representatives: lower chamber, having 550 members, elected by popular vote
\Bnote:\b both bodies have five-year terms of office; regional and national popular elections were held in May and June 1995; results - EPRDF swept nearly all seats
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are elected by the national legislature
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), MELES Zenawi
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Oromo Liberation Front (OLF); All \JAmhara\j People's Organization; Southern \JEthiopia\j People's Democratic Coalition; numerous small, ethnic-based groups have formed since MENGISTU'S resignation, including several Islamic militant groups
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador BERHANE Gebre-Christos
\Ichancery:\i 2134 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-2281, 2282
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-7950
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Irvin HICKS
\Iembassy:\i Entoto Street, Addis Ababa
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1014, Addis Ababa
\Itelephone:\i [251] (1) 550666
\IFAX:\i [251] (1) 552191
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and red with a yellow pentagram and single yellow rays emanating from the angles between the points on a light blue disk centered on the three bands; \JEthiopia\j is the oldest independent country in Africa, and the colors of her flag were so often adopted by other African countries upon independence that they became known as the pan-African colors
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JEthiopia\j continues to face difficult economic problems as one of the poorest and least developed countries in Africa. Its economy is based on agriculture, which accounts for about half of GDP, 90% of exports, and 80% of total employment; \Jcoffee\j generates 60% of export earnings. The agricultural sector suffers from frequent periods of \Jdrought\j, poor cultivation practices, and deterioration of internal security conditions. The manufacturing sector is heavily dependent on inputs from the agricultural sector. Over 90% of large-scale industry, but less than 10% of agriculture, is state-run. The government is considering selling off a portion of state-owned plants and is implementing reform measures that are gradually liberalizing the economy. A major medium-term problem is the improvement of roads, water supply, and other parts of an \Jinfrastructure\j badly neglected during years of civil strife.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $24.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit hub for heroin originating in Southwest and Southeast Asia and destined for Europe and North America as well as \Jcocaine\j destined for markets in southern Africa; cultivates qat (chat) for local use and regional export
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 29 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 100,000 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b open wire and microwave radio relay system adequate for government use
\Idomestic:\i open wire and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i open wire to \JSudan\j and Djibouti; microwave radio relay to \JKenya\j and Djibouti; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 9.9 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 100,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Air Force, Police
\Bnote:\b following the secession of Eritrea, \JEthiopia\j's naval facilities remained in Eritrea's possession; current reorganization plans do not include a navy
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 12,912,144
\Imales fit for military service:\i 6,707,180
males reach military age (18) annually: 583,724 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $140 million, 4.1% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Europa Island (Atlas)",76,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (possession of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the \JMozambique\j Channel, about one-half of the way from southern Madagascar to southern \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 22 20 S, 40 22 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 28 sq km
\Iland area:\i 28 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 22.2 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by Madagascar
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b NA
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 24 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA% (heavily wooded)
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b wildlife sanctuary
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Europa Island
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile Europa
\BData code:\b EU
\BType of government:\b French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic; resident in Reunion
\BCapital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\ICommunications note:\i 1 meteorological station
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
\BLocation:\b Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of southern Argentina
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 51 45 S, 59 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 12,170 sq km
\Iland area:\i 12,170 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Connecticut
\Bnote:\b includes the two main islands of East and West Falkland and about 200 small islands
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,288 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b administered by the UK, claimed by Argentina
\BClimate:\b cold marine; strong westerly winds, cloudy, humid; rain occurs on more than half of days in year; occasional snow all year, except in January and February, but does not accumulate
\BTerrain:\b rocky, hilly, mountainous with some boggy, undulating plains
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Usborne 705 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, wildlife
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 99%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 1%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i strong winds persist throughout the year
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b deeply indented coast provides good natural harbors; short growing season
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,374 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.43% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Falkland Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Falkland Island
\BEthnic divisions:\b British
\BReligions:\b primarily Anglican, Roman Catholic, United Free Church, \JEvangelist\j Church, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses, Lutheran, Seventh-Day Adventist
\BLanguages:\b English
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Colony of the Falkland Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
\BData code:\b FA
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Stanley
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Liberation Day, 14 June (1982)
\BConstitution:\b 3 October 1985
\BLegal system:\b English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Governor R. RALPH (since NA) was appointed by the queen
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council; three members elected by the Legislative Council, two ex-officio members (chief executive and the financial secretary), and the governor
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council: elections last held 11 October 1989 (next was to be held NA October 1994); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (10 total, 8 elected) independents 8
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Falkland Island coat of arms in a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms contains a white ram (sheep raising is the major economic activity) above the sailing ship Desire (whose crew discovered the islands) with a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto DESIRE THE RIGHT
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy was formerly based on agriculture, mainly sheep farming, which directly or indirectly employs most of the work force. Dairy farming supports domestic consumption; crops furnish winter fodder. Exports feature shipments of high-grade wool to the UK and the sale of postage stamps and coins. Rich stocks of fish in the surrounding waters are not presently exploited by the islanders. So far, efforts to establish a domestic fishing industry have been unsuccessful. The economy has diversified since 1987, when the government began selling fishing licenses to foreign trawlers operating within the Falklands exclusive fishing zone. These license fees total more than $40 million per year and support the island's health, education, and welfare system. To encourage tourism, the Falkland Islands Development Corporation has built three lodges for visitors attracted by the abundant wildlife and \Jtrout\j fishing. The islands are now self-financing except for defense. The British Geological Survey announced a 200-mile oil exploration zone around the islands in 1993, and early seismic surveys suggest substantial reserves capable of producing 500,000 barrels per day. An agreement between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1995 seeks to defuse licensing and sovereignty conflicts that would dampen foreign interest in exploiting potential oil reserves.
\Bnote:\b UK, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments totaled $18 million (1993-94)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Falkland pound (úF) = 100 pence
\BExchange rates:\b Falkland pound (úF) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the Falkland pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 510 km
\Ipaved:\i 30 km
\Iunpaved:\i 480 km
\BPorts:\b Stanley
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,180 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i government-operated radiotelephone and private VHF/CB radiotelephone networks provide effective service to almost all points on both islands
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) with links through London to other countries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b British Forces Falkland Islands (includes Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, and Royal Marines), Police Force
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Faroe Islands (Atlas)",78,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (part of the Danish realm)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, island group between the Norwegian Sea and the north Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from \JIceland\j to \JNorway\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 62 00 N, 7 00 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,400 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,400 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i eight times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 764 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy
\BTerrain:\b rugged, rocky, some low peaks; cliffs along most of coast
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Slaettaratindur 882 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 98%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b archipelago of 18 inhabited islands and a few uninhabited islets; strategically located along important sea lanes in northeastern Atlantic; precipitous terrain limits habitation to small coastal lowlands
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 43,857 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 24% (male 5,461; female 5,280)
\I15-64 years:\i 62% (male 14,488; female 12,617)
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 2,661; female 3,350) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -1.8% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 13.91 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.69 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -23.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.15 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.79 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.83 years
\Imale:\i 74.75 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.88 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.38 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Faroese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Faroese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Scandinavian
\BReligions:\b Evangelical Lutheran
\BLanguages:\b Faroese (derived from Old Norse), Danish
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Faroe Islands
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Foroyar
\BData code:\b FO
\BType of government:\b part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark
\BCapital:\b Torshavn
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BIndependence:\b none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
\BConstitution:\b 5 June 1953 (Danish constitution)
\BLegal system:\b Danish
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen MARGRETHE II (of Denmark since 14 January 1972), who is a constitutional monarch, is represented by High Commissioner Bent KLINTE, chief administrative officer (since NA)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Edmund JOENSEN (since 15 September 1994) was elected by the Logting
\Icabinet:\i Landsstyri was elected by the Logting
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Faroese Parliament (Logting): elections last held 8 July 1994 (next to be held by July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (32 total) Liberal Party 8, People's Party 6, Social Democrats 5, Republicans 4, Workers' Party 3, Christian Democrats 2, Center Party 2, Home Rule Party 2
Danish Parliament: elections last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) Liberals 2
\BJudicial branch:\b none
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party, Marita PETERSEN; Workers Front, Oli JACOBSEN; Home Rule Party, Helena Dam A NEYSTABO; The "Coalition Party," Edmund JOENSEN; Republican Party, Finnbogi ISAKSON; Centrist Party, Tordur NICLASEN; Christian People's Party, Niels Pauli DANIELSEN; People's Party, Arnfinn KALLSBERG; Liberal Party, Jorgen ESTRUP; Christian Democratic Party
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BFlag:\b white with a red cross outlined in blue that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Faroese economy is experiencing a moderate upturn after several years of decline brought on by over-fishing and declining fish prices, large budget deficits by the Faroese Home Rule Government (FHRG), plummeting property values, and a bail-out merger of the two largest Faroese banks. Near-term forecasts suggest continued economic recovery, and oil finds close to the Faroese area may lay the basis for an eventual economic rebound. Aided by a substantial annual subsidy from Denmark, the Faroese have enjoyed a standard of living comparable to the Danes and other Scandinavians.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $733 million (1995 est.)
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclonic storms can occur from November to January
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b includes 332 islands of which approximately 110 are inhabited
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 11,235; female 12,424) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b
1.28% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -4.22 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.9 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 17.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 65.71 years
\Imale:\i 63.39 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.14 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.83 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Fijian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Fijian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Fijian 49%, Indian 46%, European, other Pacific Islanders, overseas Chinese, and other 5%
\BReligions:\b Christian 52% (Methodist 37%, Roman Catholic 9%), Hindu 38%, Muslim 8%, other 2%
\Bnote:\b Fijians are mainly Christian, Indians are Hindu, and there is a Muslim minority (1986)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Fijian, Hindustani
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 91.6%
\Imale:\i 93.8%
\Ifemale:\i 89.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional short form:\i \JFiji\j
\BData code:\b FJ
\BType of government:\b member of the Commonwealth nations
\Bnote:\b military coup leader Maj. Gen. Sitiveni RABUKA formally declared \JFiji\j a republic on 6 October 1987. Fiji was readmitted to the Commonwealth in October 1997.
\BCapital:\b Suva
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 4 divisions and 1 dependency*; Central, Eastern, Northern, Rotuma*, Western
\BIndependence:\b 10 October 1970 (from UK) until October 1997
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 10 October (1970)
\BConstitution:\b 10 October 1970 (suspended 1 October 1987); a new Constitution was proposed on 23 September 1988 and promulgated on 25 July 1990; the 1990 Constitution is under review; the review is scheduled to be complete by 1997
\BLegal system:\b based on British system
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ratu Sir Kamisese MARA (Acting President since 15 December 1993, President since 12 January 1994) was appointed for a five-year term by the Great Council of Chiefs; First Vice President Ratu Sir Josaia TAIVAIQIA (since 12 January 1994); Second Vice President Ratu Inoke TAKIVEIKATA (since 12 January 1994)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sitiveni RABUKA (since 2 June 1992) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Minister Timoci VESIKULA (since NA)
Presidential Council: advises the president on matters of national importance
Great Council of Chiefs: highest ranking members of the traditional chiefly system
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister from among the members of Parliament and is responsible to Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: nonelective body, members are appointed by the president and serve five-year terms; seats - (34 total, 24 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 9 for Indians and others, and 1 for the island of Rotuma)
House of Representatives: members serve five-year terms; elections last held 18-25 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (70 total, with ethnic Fijians allocated 37 seats, ethnic Indians 27 seats, and independents and other 6 seats) SVT 31, NFP 20, FLP 7, FAP 5, GVP 4, independents 2, ANC 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Fijian Political Party (SVT - primarily Fijian), leader Maj. Gen. Sitivini RABUKA; National Federation Party (NFP; primarily Indian), Jai Ram REDDY; Fijian Nationalist Party (FNP), Sakeasi BUTADROKA; \JFiji\j Labor Party (FLP), Mahendra CHAUDHRY; General Voters Party (GVP), Leo SMITH; \JFiji\j Conservative Party (FCP), leader NA; Conservative Party of \JFiji\j (CPF), leader NA; \JFiji\j Indian Liberal Party, leader NA; \JFiji\j Indian Congress Party, leader NA; \JFiji\j Independent Labor (Muslim), leader NA; Four Corners Party, leader NA; Fijian Association Party (FAP), Josevata KAMIKAMICA; General Electors' Association, leader NA
\Bnote:\b in early 1995, ethnic Fijian members of the All National Congress (ANC) merged with the Fijian Association (FA); the remaining members of the ANC have renamed their party the General Electors' Association
\Ichancery:\i Suite 240, 2233 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 337-8320
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 337-1996
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Don Lee GEVIRTZ
\Iembassy:\i 31 Loftus Street, Suva
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 218, Suva
\Itelephone:\i [679] 314466
\IFAX:\i [679] 300081
\BFlag:\b light blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Fijian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield depicts a yellow lion above a white field quartered by the cross of Saint George featuring stalks of sugarcane, a palm tree, bananas, and a white dove
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JFiji\j, richly endowed with forest, mineral, and fish resources, is one of the most developed of the Pacific island economies, though still with a large subsistence sector. Sugar exports and tourism are the major sources of foreign exchange. Industry contributes 17% to GDP; sugar processing makes up one-third of industrial activity. Roughly 250,000 tourists visit each year. Political uncertainty and \Jdrought\j, however, contribute to substantial fluctuations in earnings from tourism and sugar and to the emigration of skilled workers. In 1992, growth was approximately 3%, based on growth in tourism and a lessening of labor-management disputes in the sugar and gold-mining sectors. In 1993, the government's budgeted growth rate of 3% was not achieved because of a decline in non-sugar agricultural output and damage from \JCyclone\j Kina. Growth in 1994 of 5% was largely attributable to increased tourism and expansion in the manufacturing sector.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.7 billion (1995 est.)
ships by type: chemical tanker 2, oil tanker 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 21
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 15
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 60,017 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern local, interisland, and international (wire/radio integrated) public and special-purpose \Jtelephone\j, telegraph, and teleprinter facilities; regional radio communications center
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i access to important cable link between US and Canada and NZ and \JAustralia\j; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 7, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 12,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Republic of \JFiji\j Military Forces (RFMF; includes army, navy, and air elements)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 205,616
\Imales fit for military service:\i 113,339
males reach military age (18) annually: 8,746 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $28 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Finland (Atlas)",80,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of \JFinland\j, between Sweden and \JRussia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 64 00 N, 26 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 337,030 sq km
\Iland area:\i 305,470 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,628 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JNorway\j 729 km, Sweden 586 km, \JRussia\j 1,313 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,126 km (excludes islands and coastal indentations)
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 6 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm
territorial sea: 4 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b cold temperate; potentially subarctic, but comparatively mild because of moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current, Baltic Sea, and more than 60,000 lakes
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, flat to rolling plains interspersed with lakes and low hills
\Ilowest point:\i Baltic Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Haltiatunturi 1,328 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, copper, zinc, iron ore, silver
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 76%
\Iother:\i 16%
\BIrrigated land:\b 620 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from manufacturing and power plants contributing to acid rain; water \Jpollution\j from industrial wastes, agricultural chemicals; habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b long boundary with \JRussia\j; \JHelsinki\j is northernmost national capital on European continent; population concentrated on small southwestern coastal plain
\BLanguages:\b Finnish 93.5% (official), Swedish 6.3% (official), small Lapp- and Russian-speaking minorities
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JFinland\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JFinland\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Suomen Tasavalta
\Ilocal short form:\i Suomi
\BData code:\b FI
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JHelsinki\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 12 provinces (laanit, singular - laani); Ahvenanmaa, Hame, Keski-Suomi, Kuopio, Kymi, Lappi, Mikkeli, \JOulu\j, Pohjois-Karjala, Turku ja Pori, Uusimaa, \JVaasa\j
\BIndependence:\b 6 December 1917 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 December (1917)
\BConstitution:\b 17 July 1919
\BLegal system:\b civil law system based on Swedish law; Supreme Court may request legislation interpreting or modifying laws; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Martti AHTISAARI (since 1 March 1994) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 31 January-6 February 1994 (next to be held NA January 2000); results - Martti AHTISAARI 54%, Elisabeth REHN 46%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Paavo LIPPONEN (since 13 April 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Sauli NIINISTO (since 13 April 1995) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of State (Valtioneuvosto) was appointed by the president, responsible to Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Eduskunta): elections last held 19 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Social Democratic Party 28.3%, Center Party 19.9%, National Coalition (Conservative) Party 17.9%, Leftist Alliance (Communist) 11.2%, Swedish People's Party 5.1%, Green League 6.5%, \JEcology\j Party 0.3%, Rural 1.3%, Finnish Christian League 3.0%, Liberal People's Party 0.6%, Young Finns 2.8%; seats - (200 total) Social Democratic Party 63, Center Party 44, National Coalition (Conservative) Party 39, Leftist Alliance (Communist) 22, Swedish People's Party 11, Green League 9, \JEcology\j Party 1, Rural 1, Finnish Christian League 7, Young Finns 2, Aaland Islands 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Korkein Oikeus), judges appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
government coalition: Social Democratic Party, Paavo LIPPONEN; National Coalition (conservative) Party, Sauli NIINISTO; Leftist Alliance (Communist) People's Democratic League and Democratic Alternative, Claes ANDERSSON; Swedish People's Party, (Johan) Ole NORRBACK; Green League, Pekka HAAVISTO
\Iother:\i Center Party, Esko AHO; Finnish Christian League, Toimi KANKAANNIEMI; Rural Party, Raimo VISTBACKA; Liberal People's Party, Tuulikki UKKOLA; Greens Ecological Party (EPV); Young Finns, Risto PENTTILAE
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Finnish Communist Party-Unity, Yrjo HAKANEN; Constitutional Rightist Party; Finnish Pensioners Party; Communist Workers Party, Timo LAHDENMAKI
\BFlag:\b white with a blue cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JFinland\j has a highly industrialized, largely free-market economy, with per capita output equaling that of the UK, \JFrance\j and \JItaly\j. Its key economic sector is manufacturing - principally the wood, metals, and \Jengineering\j industries. Trade is important, with the export of goods representing about 30% of GDP. Except for timber and several minerals, \JFinland\j depends on imports of raw materials, energy, and some components for manufactured goods. Because of the climate, agricultural development is limited to maintaining self-sufficiency in basic products. \JForestry\j, an important export earner, provides a secondary occupation for the rural population. The economy, which experienced an average of 4.9% annual growth between 1987 and 1989, sank into deep recession in 1991 as GDP contracted by 6.5%. The recession - which continued in 1992 with GDP contracting by 4.1% - has been caused by economic overheating, depressed foreign markets, and the dismantling of the barter system between \JFinland\j and the former Soviet Union under which Soviet oil and gas had been exchanged for Finnish manufactured goods. The Finnish Government has proposed efforts to increase industrial competitiveness and efficiency by an increase in exports to Western markets, cuts in public expenditures, partial privatization of state enterprises, and changes in monetary policy. In June 1991 \JHelsinki\j had tied the markka to the European Union's (EU) European Currency Unit (ECU) to promote stability. Ongoing speculation resulting from a lack of confidence in the government's policies forced \JHelsinki\j to devalue the markka by about 12% in November 1991 and to indefinitely break the link in September 1992. The devaluations have boosted the competitiveness of Finnish exports. The recession bottomed out in 1993, and \JFinland\j participated in the general European upturn of 1994. Unemployment probably will remain a serious problem during the next few years; the majority of Finnish firms face a weak domestic market and the troubled German and Swedish export markets. The Finns voted in an October 1994 referendum to enter the EU, and \JFinland\j officially joined the Union on 1 January 1995. Increasing \Jintegration\j with Western Europe will dominate the economic picture over the next few years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $92.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i public services 30.4%, industry 20.9%, commerce 15.0%, finance, insurance, and business services 10.2%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 8.6%, transport and communications 7.7%, construction 7.2%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 17% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $21.7 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $31.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.)
\BIndustries:\b metal products, shipbuilding, pulp and paper, copper refining, foodstuffs, chemicals, textiles, clothing
Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1993 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 13,360,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 58 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 12,196 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcereals\j, sugar beets, potatoes; dairy \Jcattle\j; annual fish catch about 160,000 metric tons
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Latin American \Jcocaine\j for the West European market
\BExports:\b $29.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i paper and pulp, machinery, chemicals, metals, timber
\Ipartners:\i EU 46.5% (Germany 13.4%, UK 10.3%), Sweden 11%, US 7.2%, \JJapan\j 2.1%, FSU 8.6% (1994)
\BImports:\b $23.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i foodstuffs, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, chemicals, transport equipment, iron and steel, machinery, textile yarn and fabrics, fodder grains
\Ipartners:\i EU 44% (Germany 15%, UK 8.3%), Sweden 10.4%, US 7.6%, \JJapan\j 6.5%, FSU 10.3 (1994)
\BExternal debt:\b $30 billion (December 1993)
\BEconomic aid:\b
donor: ODA, $355 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 markka (FMk) or Finmark = 100 pennia
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2.78 million (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b good service from cable and microwave radio relay network
\Idomestic:\i cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i 1 submarine cable; satellite earth stations - access to Intelsat transmission service via a Swedish satellite earth station, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - \JFinland\j shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, \JIceland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 105, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 4.98 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 235
\BTelevisions:\b 2.1 million (1983 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Frontier Guard (includes Sea Guard)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,307,128
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,074,540
males reach military age (17) annually: 32,760 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.9 billion, 1.6% of GDP (1995)
#
"France (Atlas)",81,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between \JBelgium\j and \JSpain\j southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JItaly\j and \JSpain\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 46 00 N, 2 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 547,030 sq km
\Iland area:\i 545,630 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of \JColorado\j
\Bnote:\b includes only metropolitan \JFrance\j (which includes Corsica), but excludes the overseas administrative divisions
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,892.4 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAndorra\j 60 km, \JBelgium\j 620 km, \JGermany\j 451 km, \JItaly\j 488 km, Luxembourg 73 km, Monaco 4.4 km, \JSpain\j 623 km, \JSwitzerland\j 573 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,427 km (mainland 2,783 km, \JCorsica\j 644 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Madagascar claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, and Tromelin Island; \JComoros\j claims \JMayotte\j; \JMauritius\j claims Tromelin Island; \JSeychelles\j claims Tromelin Island; Suriname claims part of French Guiana; Mexico claims Clipperton Island; territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Adelie Land); Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and \JFrance\j; claims Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia
\BClimate:\b generally cool winters and mild summers, but mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat plains or gently rolling hills in north and west; remainder is mountainous, especially \JPyrenees\j in south, Alps in east
\Ilowest point:\i Rhone River delta -2 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Blanc 4,807 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal, iron ore, \Jbauxite\j, fish, timber, zinc, \Jpotash\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 32%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 23%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 27%
\Iother:\i 16%
\Bnote:\b includes \JCorsica\j
\BIrrigated land:\b 14,850 sq km (1993 est.); note - includes \JCorsica\j
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i some forest damage from acid rain; air \Jpollution\j from industrial and vehicle emissions; water \Jpollution\j from urban wastes, agricultural runoff
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b largest West European nation; occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-northwesterly wind known as mistral
\I65 years and over:\i 15.34% (male 3,589,100; female 5,354,186) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.34% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.82 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.27 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 1.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.67 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.93 years
\Imale:\i 73.98 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.11 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.49 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
\Iadjective:\i French
\BEthnic divisions:\b Celtic and Latin with Teutonic, Slavic, North African, Indochinese, Basque minorities
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 90%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim (North African workers) 1%, unaffiliated 6%
\BLanguages:\b French 100%, rapidly declining regional dialects and languages (Provencal, Breton, Alsatian, Corsican, \JCatalan\j, Basque, Flemish)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i French Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i \JFrance\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique Francaise
\Ilocal short form:\i \JFrance\j
\BData code:\b FR
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Paris
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 22 regions (regions, singular - region); \JAlsace\j, \JAquitaine\j, Auvergne, Basse-Normandie, Bourgogne, Bretagne, Centre, Champagne-Ardenne, Corse, Franche-Comte, Haute-Normandie, Ile-de-France, Languedoc-Roussillon, Limousin, Lorraine, Midi-Pyrenees, Nord-Pas-de-Calais, Pays de la Loire, Picardie, Poitou-Charentes, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, Rhone-Alpes
\Bnote:\b metropolitan \JFrance\j is divided into 22 regions (including the "territorial collectivity" of Corse or Corsica) and are subdivided into 96 departments; see separate entries for the overseas departments (French Guiana, \JGuadeloupe\j, Martinique, Reunion) and the territorial collectivities (Mayotte, Saint Pierre and Miquelon)
Dependent areas: Bassas da India, Clipperton Island, Europa Island, French \JPolynesia\j, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, New Caledonia, Tromelin Island, Wallis and Futuna
\Bnote:\b the US does not recognize claims to \JAntarctica\j
\BIndependence:\b 486 (unified by Clovis)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958, amended concerning election of president in 1962, amended to comply with provisions of EC Maastricht Treaty in 1992; amended to tighten \Jimmigration\j laws 1993
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with indigenous concepts; review of administrative but not legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) was elected for a seven-year term by direct universal suffrage; election last held 17 May 1995 (next to be held by May 2002); results - Second Ballot Jacques CHIRAC 52.64%, Lionel JOSPIN 47.36%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Alain JUPPE (since 18 May 1995) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i the Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the suggestion of the prime minister
Senate (Senat): elections last held 24 September 1995 (next to be held September 1998; nine-year term, elected by thirds every three years); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (321 total; 296 metropolitan \JFrance\j, 13 for overseas departments and territories, and 12 for French nationals abroad) RPR 91, UDF 132, PS 75, PCF 16, other 7
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (577 total) RPR 247, UDF 213, PS 67, PCF 24, independents 26; note - seating as of 24 September 1995: RPR 247, UDF 208, PS 71, PCF 24, independents 27
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Appeals (Cour de Cassation), judges are appointed by the president from nominations of the High Council of the Judiciary
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alain JUPPE, president; Union for French Democracy (UDF - coalition of PR, FD, RAD, PSD), Francois LEOTARD; Republican Party (PR), Francois LEOTARD; Democratic Force (FD), Francois BAYROU; Radical (RAD), Andre ROSSINOT; Socialist Party (PS), Lionel JOSPIN; Left Radical Movement (MRG); Communist Party (PCF), Robert \JHUE\j; National Front (FN), Jean-Marie LE PEN; The Greens, Dominique VOYNET; Generation \JEcology\j (GE), Brice LALONDE; Citizens Movement (MDC), Jean Pierre CHEVENEMENT
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Communist-controlled labor union (Confederation Generale du Travail - CGT) nearly 2.4 million members (claimed); Socialist-leaning labor union (Confederation Francaise Democratique du Travail - CFDT) about 800,000 members (est.); independent labor union (Force Ouvriere) 1 million members (est.); independent white-collar union (Confederation Generale des Cadres) 340,000 members (claimed); National Council of French Employers (Conseil National du Patronat Francais - CNPF or Patronat)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Francois BUJON DE L'ESTANG
\Ichancery:\i 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 944-6000
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, \JHonolulu\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Pamela C. HARRIMAN
\Iembassy:\i 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75382 Paris Cedex 08
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), white, and red; known as the French Tricouleur (Tricolor); the design and colors are similar to a number of other flags, including those of \JBelgium\j, Chad, Ireland, Cote d'Ivoire, and Luxembourg; the official flag for all French dependent areas
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of the four West European trillion-dollar economies, the French economy features considerable - albeit diminishing - state control over its capitalistic market system. In running important industrial segments (railways, airlines, electricity, telecommunications), administrating an exceptionally generous social welfare system, and staffing an enormous bureaucracy, the state spends about 55% of GDP. \JFrance\j has substantial agricultural resources and a diversified modern industrial sector. Large tracts of fertile land, the application of modern technology, and subsidies have combined to make it the leading agricultural producer in Western Europe. Largely self-sufficient in agricultural products, \JFrance\j is a major exporter of wheat and dairy products. The industrial sector generates about one-quarter of GDP, and the growing services sector has become crucial to the economy. Following stagnation and recession in 1991-93, French GDP expanded 2.4% in 1994 and in 1995. Persistently high unemployment still poses a major problem for the government, as will the need to cut back on welfare benefits and bureaucratic budgets. Paris remains committed to maintaining the franc-deutsche mark parity, which has kept French interest rates high at the expense of jobs. Although the pace of economic and financial \Jintegration\j within the European Union has slowed down, \Jintegration\j will remain a major force in \JFrance\j, shaping the fortunes of the various economic sectors over the next few years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.173 trillion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $20,200 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 2.4%
\Iindustry:\i 26.5%
\Iservices:\i 71.1% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 1.7% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 24.17 million
\Iby occupation:\i services 61.5%, industry 31.3%, agriculture 7.2% (1987)
\Bnote:\b includes \JCorsica\j
\BUnemployment rate:\b 11.7% (yearend 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $220.5 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $249.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $47 billion (1993 budget)
Industrial production growth rate: 2.6% (1994 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 105,250,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 447 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 6,149 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b wheat, \Jcereals\j, sugar beets, potatoes, wine grapes; beef, dairy products; fish catch of 850,000 metric tons ranks among world's top 20 countries and is all used domestically
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for South American \Jcocaine\j and Southwest Asian heroin
\BExports:\b $235.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, agricultural products, iron and steel products, textiles and clothing
\Ipartners:\i \JGermany\j 17.1%, \JItaly\j 9.3%, \JSpain\j 7.1%, Belgium-Luxembourg 8.7%, UK 9.9%, Netherlands 4.6%, US 7.0%, \JJapan\j 2.0%, \JRussia\j 0.5%
\BImports:\b $229.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil, machinery and equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, iron and steel products
\Ipartners:\i \JGermany\j 17.8%, \JItaly\j 10.1%, US 8.5%, Netherlands 4.9%, \JSpain\j 8.8%, Belgium-Luxembourg 9.1%, UK 7.9%, \JJapan\j 3.7%, \JRussia\j 1.2%
standard gauge: 33,524 km 1.435-m gauge; 32,275 km are operated by French National Railways (SNCF); 13,741 km of SNCF routes are electrified and 12,132 km are double- or multiple-tracked
narrow gauge: 367 km 1.000-m gauge
\Bnote:\b includes \JCorsica\j; does not include 33 tourist railroads, totalling 469 km, many being of very narrow gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,511,200 km
\Ipaved:\i 811,200 km (including 7,700 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 700,000 km (1992 est.)
\Bnote:\b includes \JCorsica\j
\BWaterways:\b 14,932 km; 6,969 km heavily traveled
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 3,059 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 4,487 km; natural gas 24,746 km
\BPorts:\b \JBordeaux\j, Boulogne, \JCherbourg\j, Dijon, Dunkerque, La Pallice, Le Havre, Lyon, \JMarseille\j, Mullhouse, \JNantes\j, Paris, \JRouen\j, Saint Nazaire, Saint Malo, \JStrasbourg\j
ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 5, chemical tanker 5, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 3, oil tanker 16, passenger 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 1
\Bnote:\b \JFrance\j also maintains a captive register for French-owned ships in the Kerguelen Islands (French Southern and Antarctic Lands) (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 460
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 13
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 26
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 91
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 73
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 179
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 75 (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b includes \JCorsica\j
\IHeliports:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 35 million (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b highly developed
\Idomestic:\i extensive cable and microwave radio relay; extensive introduction of fiber-optic cable; domestic satellite system
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (with total of 5 antennas - 2 for Indian Ocean and 3 for Atlantic Ocean), NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region); HF radiotelephone communications with more than 20 countries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 41, FM 800 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Naval Air), Air Force and Air Defense National Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 14,782,577
\Imales fit for military service:\i 12,299,651
males reach military age (18) annually: 383,252 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $47.7 billion, 2.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"French Guiana (Atlas)",82,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas department of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JBrazil\j and Suriname
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 00 N, 53 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 91,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 89,150 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JIndiana\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,183 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 673 km, Suriname 510 km
\BCoastline:\b 378 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Suriname claims area between Riviere Litani and Riviere Marouini (both headwaters of the Lawa)
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b low-lying coastal plains rising to hills and small mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Bellevue de l'Inini 851 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, timber, gold (widely scattered), cinnabar, \Jkaolin\j, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NEGL%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NEGL%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NEGL%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 88%
\Iother:\i 12% (1992)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i high frequency of heavy showers and severe thunderstorms; flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b mostly an unsettled wilderness
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 151,187 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 32% (male 24,447; female 23,378)
\I15-64 years:\i 63% (male 52,061; female 43,726)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 3,784; female 3,791) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.86% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.68 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.59 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 18.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.19 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.13 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 14.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.79 years
\Imale:\i 72.55 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.19 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.42 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i French Guianese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i French Guianese
\BEthnic divisions:\b black or mulatto 66%, white 12%, East Indian, Chinese, Amerindian 12%, other 10%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b French
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 83%
\Imale:\i 84%
\Ifemale:\i 82%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Department of Guiana
\Iconventional short form:\i French Guiana
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Guyane
\BData code:\b FG
\BType of government:\b overseas department of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b Cayenne
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French legal system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); represented by Prefect Pierre DARTOUT who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Stephan PHINERA-HORTH (since March 1994)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Council
General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (19 total) PSG 8, RPR 2, UDF 1, other right 1, other 7
Regional Council: elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (31 total) PSG 16, FDG 10, RPR 2, independents 3
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) PSG 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) RPR 1, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeals (highest local court based in Martinique with \Jjurisdiction\j over Martinique, \JGuadeloupe\j, and French Guiana)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Guianese Socialist Party (PSG), Raymond TRACY; Conservative Union for the Republic (UPR), Leon BERTRAND; Rally for the Center Right (URC); Rally for the Republic (RPR); \JGuyana\j Democratic Front (FDG), Georges OTHILY; Walwari Committee, Christine TAUBIRA-DELANON; Socialist Party (PS), Jean BART; Union for French Democracy (UDF), R. CHOW-CHINE
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas department of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas department of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is tied closely to that of \JFrance\j through subsidies and imports. Besides the French space center at \JKourou\j, fishing and \Jforestry\j are the most important economic activities, with exports of fish and fish products (mostly shrimp) accounting for more than 60% of total revenue in 1992. The large reserves of tropical hardwoods, not fully exploited, support an expanding sawmill industry that provides sawn logs for export. Cultivation of crops is limited to the coastal area, where the population is largely concentrated. French Guiana is heavily dependent on imports of food and energy. Unemployment is a serious problem, particularly among younger workers.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $800 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $6,000 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 2.5% (1992)
\BLabor force:\b 36,597 (1993)
\Iby occupation:\i services, government, and commerce 60.6%, industry 21.2%, agriculture 18.2% (1980)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 24.1% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $133 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $284 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
\Itotal:\i 1,817 km (national 432 km, departmental 385 km, community 1,000 km)
\Ipaved:\i 727 km
\Iunpaved:\i 1,090 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 460 km, navigable by small oceangoing vessels and river and coastal steamers; 3,300 km navigable by native craft
\BPorts:\b Cayenne, Degrad des \JCannes\j, Saint-Laurent du Maroni
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 10
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 31,000 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i fair open wire and microwave radio relay system
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 79,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\BTelevisions:\b 22,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b French Forces, Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 43,412
\Imales fit for military service:\i 28,171 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"French Polynesia (Atlas)",83,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas territory of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from South America to \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 S, 140 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 4,167 sq km (118 islands and atolls)
\Iland area:\i 3,660 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than one-third the size of Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,525 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, but moderate
\BTerrain:\b mixture of rugged high islands and low islands with reefs
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Orohena 2,241 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, fish, \Jcobalt\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 19%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 31%
\Iother:\i 44%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional cyclonic storms in January
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b includes five archipelagoes; Makatea in French \JPolynesia\j is one of the three great phosphate rock islands in the Pacific Ocean - the others are Banaba (Ocean Island) in Kiribati and \JNauru\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 224,911 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 35% (male 40,450; female 39,038)
\I15-64 years:\i 61% (male 70,506; female 65,620)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 4,636; female 4,661) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.19% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 27.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.27 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 14.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.94 years
\Imale:\i 68.49 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.5 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.26 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i French Polynesian(s)
\Iadjective:\i French Polynesian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Polynesian 78%, Chinese 12%, local French 6%, metropolitan French 4%
\BReligions:\b Protestant 54%, Roman Catholic 30%, other 16%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Tahitian (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 14 and over can read and write, but definition of \Jliteracy\j not available (1977 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of French \JPolynesia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i French \JPolynesia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Territoire de la Polynesie Francaise
\Ilocal short form:\i Polynesie Francaise
\BData code:\b FP
\BType of government:\b overseas territory of \JFrance\j since 1946
\BCapital:\b \JPapeete\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 5 archipelagic divisions named Archipel des Marquises, Archipel des Tuamotu, Archipel des Tubuai, Iles du Vent, and Iles Sous-le-Vent
\Bnote:\b Clipperton Island is administered by \JFrance\j from French \JPolynesia\j
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas territory of France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b based on French system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); represented by High Commissioner of the Republic Paul RONCIERE (since 8 August 1994) who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the Territorial Government of French \JPolynesia\j Gaston FLOSSE (since 4 April 1991); President of the Territorial Assembly Tinomana EBB (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; president submits a list of members of the Territorial Assembly for approval by them to serve as ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Territorial Assembly: elections last held 17 March 1991 (next to be held NA March 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (41 total) People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 18, Polynesian Union Party 12, New Fatherland Party 7, other 4
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) party NA
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal; Court of the First Instance; Court of Administrative Law
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Rally for the Republic (Tahoeraa Huiraatira), Gaston FLOSSE; Polynesian Union Party (includes Te Tiarama and Here Ai'a Party), Jean JUVENTIN; New Fatherland Party (Ai'a Api), Emile VERNAUDON; Independent Party (Ia Mana Te Nunaa), Jacques DROLLET; Te Aratia Ote Nunaa, Tinomana EBB; Haere i Mua, Alexandre LEONTIEFF; other small parties
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas territory of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas territory of France)
\BFlag:\b two narrow red horizontal bands encase a wide white band; centered on the white band is a disk with blue and white wave pattern on the lower half and gold and white ray pattern on the upper half; a stylized red, blue and white ship rides on the wave pattern; the French flag is used for official occasions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Since 1962, when \JFrance\j stationed military personnel in the region, French \JPolynesia\j has changed from a subsistence economy to one in which a high proportion of the work force is either employed by the military or supports the tourist industry. Tourism accounts for about 20% of GDP and is a primary source of hard currency earnings. The territory will continue to benefit from a five-year (1994-98) development agreement with \JFrance\j aimed principally at creating new jobs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.76 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $8,000 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 4%
\Iindustry:\i 18%
\Iservices:\i 78% (1992 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 1.5% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 76,630 employed (1988)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 13%, industry 19%, services 68% (1992 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $686 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $884 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989)
\BExchange rates:\b Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 91.00 (January 1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.94 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc
ships by type: passenger-cargo 2, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 41
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 13
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 15
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 33,200 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 116,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 35,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b French Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"French Southern and Antarctic Lands (Atlas)",84,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas territory of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, islands in the southern Indian Ocean, about equidistant between Africa, \JAntarctica\j, and \JAustralia\j; note - French Southern and Antarctic Lands includes Ile \JAmsterdam\j, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet, and Iles Kerguelen in the southern Indian Ocean, along with the French-claimed sector of \JAntarctica\j, "Adelie Land"; the US does not recognize the French claim to "Adelie Land"
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 43 00 S, 67 00 E
\BMap references:\b Antarctic Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 7,781 sq km
\Iland area:\i 7,781 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than 1.5 times the size of \JDelaware\j
\Bnote:\b includes Ile \JAmsterdam\j, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet and Iles Kerguelen; excludes "Adelie Land" claim of about 500,000 sq km in \JAntarctica\j that is not recognized by the US
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,232 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm from Iles Kerguelen only
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b "Adelie Land" claim in \JAntarctica\j is not recognized by the US
\BClimate:\b antarctic
\BTerrain:\b volcanic
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Ross on Kerguelen 1,850 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, \Jcrayfish\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i Ile \JAmsterdam\j and Ile Saint-Paul are extinct volcanoes
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b remote location in the southern Indian Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there were 145 (1995) mostly researchers whose numbers vary from winter (July) to summer (January)
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands
\Iconventional short form:\i French Southern and Antarctic Lands
\Ilocal long form:\i Territoire des Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
\Ilocal short form:\i Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
\BData code:\b FS
\BType of government:\b overseas territory of \JFrance\j since 1955; governed by High Administrator Christian DORS (since 4 December 1991)
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Paris, \JFrance\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 3 districts named Ile Crozet, Iles Kerguelen, and Iles Saint-Paul et \JAmsterdam\j; excludes "Adelie Land" claim in \JAntarctica\j that is not recognized by the US
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas territory of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is limited to servicing meteorological and geophysical research stations and French and other fishing fleets. The fish catches landed on Iles Kerguelen by foreign ships are exported to \JFrance\j and Reunion.
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $22.6 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\Bnote:\b a subset of the French register allowing French-owned ships to operate under more liberal taxation and manning regulations than permissable under the main French register (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b none (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Gabon (Atlas)",85,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, between \JCongo\j and Equatorial Guinea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 S, 11 45 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 267,670 sq km
\Iland area:\i 257,670 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JColorado\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,551 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 298 km, \JCongo\j 1,903 km, Equatorial Guinea 350 km
\BCoastline:\b 885 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary dispute with Equatorial Guinea because of disputed sovereignty over islands in Corisco Bay
\BClimate:\b tropical; always hot, humid
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain; hilly interior; savanna in east and south
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Iboundji 1,575 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jmanganese\j, uranium, gold, timber, iron ore
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 18%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 78%
\Iother:\i 2%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; poaching
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 30,270; female 31,294) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.47% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 28.22 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 13.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 90.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 55.59 years
\Imale:\i 52.72 years
\Ifemale:\i 58.56 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.89 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Gabonese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Gabonese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Bantu tribes including four major tribal groupings (Fang, Eshira, Bapounou, Bateke), other Africans and Europeans 100,000, including 27,000 French
\BReligions:\b Christian 55%-75%, Muslim less than 1%, animist
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Fang, Myene, Bateke, Bapounou/Eschira, Bandjabi
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\BNational holiday:\b Renovation Day, 12 March (1968) (Gabonese Democratic Party established)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 14 March 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j not accepted
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President El Hadj Omar BONGO (since 2 December 1967) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage on 5 December 1993 (next election to be held 1998); results - President Omar BONGO received 51% of the vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Paulin OBAME Nguema (since 9 December 1994) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister in consultation with the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral; note - the provision of the constitution for the establishment of a senate has not been implemented
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held on 5 December 1993 (next to be held by July 1996, according to the October 1994 Paris Accords; however, President BONGO has indicated that date might slip); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PDG 64, National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks (Morena-Bucherons/RNB) 17, PGP 12, National Recovery Movement (Morena-Original) 2, PUP 4, CLR 1, FAR 4, UPG 1, independents 15
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG, former sole party), Simplice Guedet MANZELA, secretary general; Circle of Liberal Reformers (CLR), General Jean Boniface ASSELE; People's Unity Party (PUP), Louis Gaston MAYILA; Gabonese Socialist Union (USG), Dr. Serge Mba BEKALE; National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks (Morena-Bucherons/RNB), Fr. Paul M'BA-ABESSOLE; Gabonese Party for Progress (PGP), Pierre-Louis AGONDHO-OKAWE, president; National Recovery Movement (Morena-Origina), note - this party won 2 seats in the 5 December 1993 elections for the National Assembly but is no longer very active; Gabonese Party for Progress (PGP), Pierre Louis AGONDJO OKAWE; African Forum for Reconstruction (FAR), Leon MBOU-YEMBI, secretary general; Gabonese People's Union (UPG), Pierre MAMBOUNDOU
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and blue
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Notwithstanding its serious ongoing economic problems, \JGabon\j enjoys a per capita income more than three times that of most nations of sub-Saharan Africa. \JGabon\j depended on timber and \Jmanganese\j until oil was discovered offshore in the early 1970s. The oil sector now accounts for 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth has been feeble since 1992 and \JGabon\j continues to face the problem of fluctuating prices for its oil, timber, \Jmanganese\j, and uranium exports. Despite an abundance of natural wealth, and a manageable rate of population growth, the economy is hobbled by poor fiscal management. In 1992, the fiscal deficit widened to 2.4% of GDP, and \JGabon\j failed to settle arrears on its bilateral debt, leading to a cancellation of rescheduling agreements with official and private creditors. \JDevaluation\j of its Francophone currency by 50% on 12 January 1994 sparked a one-time inflationary surge, to 35%; the rate dropped to 15% in 1995. Nevertheless, the government must continue to keep a tight rein on spending and wage increases. The IMF and \JFrance\j are considering offering financial assistance in 1996 if \JGabon\j shows progress in privatization and fiscal discipline.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 65.0%, industry and commerce 30.0%, services 2.5%, government 2.5%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 10%-14% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $311 million (1993 est.)
\BIndustries:\b food and beverage; textile; lumbering and plywood; cement; \Jpetroleum\j extraction and refining; \Jmanganese\j, uranium, and gold mining; chemicals; ship repair
Industrial production growth rate: -3% (1991)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 315,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 910 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 757 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcocoa\j, \Jcoffee\j, sugar, palm oil; rubber; okoume (a tropical softwood); \Jcattle\j; small fishing operations (provide a catch of about 20,000 metric tons)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 15 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 22,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i adequate system of cable, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, radiotelephone communication stations, and a domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Presidential Guard, National Gendarmerie, National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 273,662
\Imales fit for military service:\i 139,439
males reach military age (20) annually: 10,966 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $154 million, 2.4% of GDP (1993)
#
"Gaza Strip (Atlas)",86,0,0,0
Note: The Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), signed in Washington on 13 September 1993, provides for a transitional period not exceeding five years of Palestinian interim self-government in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Permanent status negotiations began on 5 May 1996.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JEgypt\j and Israel
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 31 25 N, 34 20 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 360 sq km
\Iland area:\i 360 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 62 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JEgypt\j 11 km, Israel 51 km
\BCoastline:\b 40 km
\BMaritime claims:\b Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation
\BInternational disputes:\b West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation
\BClimate:\b temperate, mild winters, dry and warm to hot summers
\BTerrain:\b flat to rolling, sand- and dune-covered coastal plain
\Ilowest point:\i Mediterranean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Abu 'Awdah (Joz Abu 'Auda) 105 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 32%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 55%
\BIrrigated land:\b 115 sq km (1992 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b there are 24 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the Gaza Strip (August 1995 est.)
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 923,940 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b in addition, there are 5,000 Israeli settlers in the Gaza Strip (August 1995 est.)
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 11,553; female 14,915) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 6.79% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 50.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.4 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 21.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.78 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 27.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.98 years
\Imale:\i 70.69 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.34 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 7.79 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i NA
\Iadjective:\i NA
\BEthnic divisions:\b Palestinian Arab and other 99.4%, Jewish 0.6%
\BReligions:\b Muslim (predominantly Sunni) 98.7%, Christian 0.7%, Jewish 0.6%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic, \JHebrew\j (spoken by Israeli settlers), English (widely understood)
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
Government \Bnote:\b Under the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, which includes a Palestinian Legislative Council elected in January 1996, as part of interim self-governing arrangements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A transfer of powers and responsibilities for the Gaza Strip and Jericho has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 4 May 1994 \JCairo\j Agreement on the Gaza Strip and the Jericho Area and in additional areas of the West Bank pursuant to the Israel-PLO 28 September 1995 Interim Agreement. The DOP provides that Israel will retain responsibility during the transitional period for external security and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Permanent status is to be determined through direct negotiations within five years.
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Gaza Strip
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Qita Ghazzah
\BData code:\b GZ
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b In 1991 roughly 40% of Gaza Strip workers were employed across the border by Israeli industrial, construction, and agricultural enterprises, with worker remittances supplementing GDP by roughly 50%. Gaza has depended upon Israel for nearly 90% of its external trade. Aggravating the impact of Israeli military administration, unrest in the territory from 1988 to 1993 (intifadah) raised unemployment and lowered the standard of living of Gazans. The Persian Gulf crisis and its aftershocks also dealt blows to Gaza since August 1990. Worker remittances from the Gulf states have dropped, unemployment has increased, and exports have fallen. The withdrawal of Israel from the Gaza Strip in May 1994 has brought a new set of adjustment problems. The stringent border restrictions have held back economic growth in 1995 and 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i construction 33.4%, agriculture 20.0%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels 14.9%, industry 10.0%, other services 21.7% (1991)
\Bnote:\b excluding Israeli settlers
\BUnemployment rate:\b 30%-45% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b $NA
\BIndustries:\b generally small family businesses that produce textiles, soap, olive-wood carvings, and mother-of-pearl souvenirs; the Israelis have established some small-scale modern industries in an industrial center
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b power supplied by Israel
\BAgriculture:\b olives, \Jcitrus\j, other fruits, vegetables; beef, dairy products
\BExports:\b $49 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i \Jcitrus\j
\Ipartners:\i Israel, \JEgypt\j
\BImports:\b $339 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food, consumer goods, construction materials
\Ipartners:\i Israel, \JEgypt\j
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b $410 million (est.) disbursed from international aid pledges in 1995 (includes aid to West Bank)
\BCurrency:\b 1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km; note - one line, abandoned and in disrepair, little trackage remains
\BHighways:\b NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\Bnote:\b small, poorly developed road network
\BPorts:\b Gaza
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\Bnote:\b 10% of Palestinian households have telephones (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 0, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA; note - 95% of Palestinian households have radios (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA; note - 59% of Palestinian households have televisions (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Georgia (Atlas)",87,0,0,0
Note: Beset by ethnic and civil strife since independence in 1991, Georgia began to stabilize in 1994. Separatist conflicts in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have been dormant for more than two years, although political settlements remain elusive. Russian peacekeepers are deployed in both regions and a UN Observer Mission is operating in Abkhazia. As a result of these conflicts, Georgia still has about 250,000 internally displaced people. In November 1995, Georgia held peaceful, generally free and fair nationwide presidential and parliamentary elections. Although the country continues to suffer from a crippling economic crisis, aggravated by a severe energy shortage, some progress has been made and the Georgian Government remains committed to economic reform in cooperation with the IMF and the World Bank. Violence and organized crime were sharply curtailed in 1995.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea, between Turkey and \JRussia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 42 00 N, 43 30 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 69,700 sq km
\Iland area:\i 69,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than South Carolina
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,461 km
\Iborder countries:\i Armenia 164 km, \JAzerbaijan\j 322 km, \JRussia\j 723 km, Turkey 252 km
\BCoastline:\b 310 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b warm and pleasant; Mediterranean-like on Black Sea coast
\BTerrain:\b largely mountainous with Great Caucasus Mountains in the north and Lesser Caucasus Mountains in the south; Kolkhida Lowland opens to the Black Sea in the west; Mtkvari River Basin in the east; good soils in river valley flood plains, foothills of Kolkhida Lowland
\Ilowest point:\i Black Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mt'a Mqinvartsveri (Gora Kazbek) 5,048 m
\BNatural resources:\b forests, hydropower, \Jmanganese\j deposits, iron ore, copper, minor coal and oil deposits; coastal climate and soils allow for important tea and \Jcitrus\j growth
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 11%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 29%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 38%
\Iother:\i 18%
\BIrrigated land:\b 4,660 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j, particularly in Rust'avi; heavy \Jpollution\j of Mtkvari River and the Black Sea; inadequate supplies of potable water; soil \Jpollution\j from toxic chemicals
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\Bnote:\b the administrative centers of the autonomous republics are included in parentheses; there are no oblasts - the rayons around T'bilisi are under direct republic \Jjurisdiction\j
\BIndependence:\b 9 April 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 May (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 17 October 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Eduard Amvrosiyevich SHEVARDNADZE (previously elected Chairman of the Government Council 10 March 1992, Council has since been disbanded; previously elected Chairman of Parliament 11 October 1992); presidential election last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA April 2001); results - Eduard SHEVARDNADZE 74%; president's term to last five years
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Georgian Parliament: elections last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - CUG 24%, NDP 8%, All Georgia Revival Union 7%, all other parties received less than 5% each; seats - (235 total) number of seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Citizens Union of Georgia (CUG), Eduard SHEVARDNADZE, Zurab ZHVANIA, general secretary; National Democratic Party (NDP), Irina SARISHVILI-CHANTARIA; United Republican Party, umbrella organization for parties including the GPF and the Charter 1991 Party, Notar NATADZE, chairman; Georgian Popular Front (GPF), Nodar NATADZE, chairman; Charter 1991 Party, Tedo PAATASHVILI; Georgian Social Democratic Party (GSDP), Guram MUCHAIDZE, secretary general; All Georgia Union for Revival, Alsan ABASHIDZE; Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Irakli SHENGELAYA; Democratic Georgia Union (DGU), Avtandil MARGIANI; National Independence Party (NIP), Irakliy TSERETELI, chairman; Georgian Monarchists' Party (GMP), Temur ZHORZHOLIANI; Greens Party; Agrarian Party of Georgia (APG), Roin LIPARTELIANI; United Communist Party of Georgia (UCP), Panteleimon GIORGADZE, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b supporters of ousted President Zviad GAMSAKHURDIA (deceased 1 January 1994) remain a source of opposition; separatist elements in the breakaway region of Abkhazia
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) Suite 424, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 393-5959
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 393-6060
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador William H. COURTNEY
\Iembassy:\i #25 Antoneli Street, T'bilisi 380026
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [7] (8832) 98-99-67, 93-38-03
\IFAX:\i [7] (8832) 93-37-59
\BFlag:\b maroon field with small rectangle in upper hoist side corner; rectangle divided horizontally with black on top, white below
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Georgia's economy has traditionally revolved around Black Sea tourism; cultivation of \Jcitrus\j fruits, tea, and grapes; mining of \Jmanganese\j and copper; and a small industrial sector producing wine, metals, machinery, chemicals, and textiles. The country imports the bulk of its energy needs, including natural gas and oil products. Its only sizable internal energy resource is hydropower. Since 1991 the economy has sustained severe damage from civil strife. Georgia has been suffering from acute energy shortages, as it is having problems paying for even minimal imports. Georgia is pinning its hopes for long-term recovery largely on reestablishing trade ties with \JRussia\j and on developing international transportation through the key Black Sea ports of P'ot'i and Bat'umi. Statistical estimates on Georgia are subject to a particularly wide margin of error, even compared with other FSU countries. The GDP estimate below probably does not reflect much of its grass roots economic activity. GDP is supplemented by considerable EU and US humanitarian aid.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.2 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 31%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 25%, other 44% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b officially less than 5% but real unemployment may be more than 20%, with even larger numbers of underemployed workers
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b steel, \Jaircraft\j, machine tools, foundry equipment, electric locomotives, tower cranes, electric welding equipment, machinery for food preparation and meat packing, electric motors, process control equipment, trucks, tractors, textiles, shoes, chemicals, wood products, wine
Industrial production growth rate: -10% (1995)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 4,410,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 9.1 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 1,526 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcitrus\j, grapes, tea, vegetables, potatoes; small livestock sector
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for domestic consumption; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $140 million (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i \Jcitrus\j fruits, tea, wine, other agricultural products; diverse types of machinery; ferrous and nonferrous metals; textiles; chemicals; fuel re-exports
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b transportation network is in poor condition and disrupted by ethnic conflict, criminal activities, and fuel shortages; network lacks maintenance and repair
\Iinternational:\i landline to \JCIS\j members and Turkey; satellite earth station - 1 Eutelsat; leased connections with other countries via the Moscow international gateway switch; international electronic mail and telex service available
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,288,291
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,021,632
males reach military age (18) annually: 40,654 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $60 million to $65 million, NA% of GDP (1995)
#
"Germany (Atlas)",88,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and \JPoland\j, south of Denmark
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 51 00 N, 9 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 356,910 sq km
\Iland area:\i 349,520 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Montana
\Bnote:\b includes the formerly separate Federal Republic of \JGermany\j, the German Democratic Republic, and Berlin, following formal unification on 3 October 1990
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,621 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 784 km, \JBelgium\j 167 km, Czech Republic 646 km, Denmark 68 km, \JFrance\j 451 km, Luxembourg 138 km, Netherlands 577 km, \JPoland\j 456 km, \JSwitzerland\j 334 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,389 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasional warm, tropical foehn wind; high relative \Jhumidity\j
\BTerrain:\b lowlands in north, uplands in center, Bavarian Alps in south
\Icurrent issues:\i emissions from coal-burning utilities and industries and lead emissions from vehicle exhausts (the result of continued use of leaded fuels) contribute to air \Jpollution\j; acid rain, resulting from sulfur dioxide emissions, is damaging forests; heavy \Jpollution\j in the Baltic Sea from raw sewage and industrial effluents from rivers in eastern \JGermany\j
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JDesertification\j, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location on North European Plain and along the entrance to the Baltic Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 15.33% (male 4,658,014; female 8,143,996) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.67% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 9.66 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 12.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 8.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.57 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.95 years
\Imale:\i 72.8 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.27 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.3 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i German(s)
\Iadjective:\i German
\BEthnic divisions:\b German 95.1%, Turkish 2.3%, Italians 0.7%, Greeks 0.4%, Poles 0.4%, other 1.1% (made up largely of people fleeing the war in the former Yugoslavia)
\BReligions:\b Protestant 45%, Roman Catholic 37%, unaffiliated or other 18%
\BLanguages:\b German
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1977 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Republic of \JGermany\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JGermany\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Bundesrepublik Deutschland
\Ilocal short form:\i Deutschland
\BData code:\b GM
\BType of government:\b federal republic
\BCapital:\b Berlin
\Bnote:\b the shift from \JBonn\j to Berlin will take place over a period of years, with \JBonn\j retaining many administrative functions and several ministries
\BIndependence:\b 18 January 1871 (German Empire unification); divided into four zones of occupation (UK, US, USSR, and later, France) in 1945 following World War II; Federal Republic of \JGermany\j (FRG or West Germany) proclaimed 23 May 1949 and included the former UK, US, and French zones; German Democratic Republic (GDR or East Germany) proclaimed 7 October 1949 and included the former USSR zone; unification of West \JGermany\j and East \JGermany\j took place 3 October 1990; all four power rights formally relinquished 15 March 1991
\BNational holiday:\b German Unity Day (Day of Unity), 3 October (1990)
\BConstitution:\b 23 May 1949, known as Basic Law; became constitution of the united German people 3 October 1990
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in the Federal Constitutional Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Roman HERZOG (since 1 July 1994) was elected by the Federal Convention including members of the Bundestag and an equal number of members elected by the Land Parliaments
\Ihead of government:\i Chancellor Dr. Helmut KOHL (since 4 October 1982) was elected by an absolute majority of the Bundestag
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president upon the proposal of the chancellor
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral chamber (no official name for the two chambers as a whole)
Federal Assembly (Bundestag): election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held by NA 1998); results - CDU 34.2%, SPD 36.4%, Alliance 90/Greens 7.3%, CSU 7.3%, FDP 6.9%, PDS 4.4%, Republicans 1.9%; seats - (usually 656 total, but 672 for the 1994 term) CDU 244, SPD 252, Alliance 90/Greens 49, CSU 50, FDP 47, PDS 30; elected by direct popular vote under a system combining direct and proportional representation; a party must win 5% of the national vote or three direct mandates to gain representation
Federal Council (Bundesrat): State governments are directly represented by votes; each has 3 to 6 votes depending on size and are required to vote as a block; current composition: votes - (68 total) SPD-led states 41, CDU-led states 27
\BJudicial branch:\b Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht), half the judges are elected by the Bundestag and half by the Bundesrat
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Helmut KOHL, chairman; Christian Social Union (CSU), Theo WAIGEL, chairman; Free Democratic Party (FDP), Wolfgang GERHARDT, chairman; Social Democratic Party (SPD), Oskar LA FONTAINE, chairman; Alliance '90/Greens, Krista SAGER, Juergen TRITTIN, cochairpersons; Party of Democratic \JSocialism\j (PDS), Lothar BISKY, chairman; Republikaner, Rolf SCHLIERER, chairman; National Democratic Party (NPD), Ellen-Doris SCHERER; Communist Party (DKP), Rolf PRIEMER and Heinz STEHR, cochairpersons
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b expellee, refugee, and veterans groups
\Ichancery:\i 4645 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 298-4000
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 298-4249
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, \JDetroit\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Seattle
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Charles E. REDMAN
\Iembassy:\i Deichmanns Aue 29, 53170 \JBonn\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09080, PSC 117, \JBonn\j
\Itelephone:\i [49] (228) 3391
\IFAX:\i [49] (228) 339-2663
branch office: Berlin
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JDusseldorf\j, Frankfurt, \JHamburg\j, \JLeipzig\j, Munich, and \JStuttgart\j
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and yellow
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JGermany\j, the world's third-most powerful economy, faces its own unique problem of bringing its eastern area up to scratch after 45 years of communist rule. Despite substantial progress toward economic \Jintegration\j, the eastern states will continue to rely on subsidies from the federal government into the next century. Assistance to the east of about $100 billion annually has helped the region average nearly 8% annual economic growth since 1991, even though the overall German economy has averaged less than 2% growth. The economic recovery in the east has been led by the construction industries, with growth increasingly supported by the service sectors and light manufacturing industries. Western \JGermany\j, which accounts for 90% of overall German GDP and has three times the per capita income of eastern \JGermany\j, is perennially the first- or second-largest exporter, after the US, in the world. Nonetheless, business and political leaders have in recent years become increasingly concerned about \JGermany\j's apparent decline in attractiveness as a business location. They cite the increasing preference of German companies to locate manufacturing facilities - long the strength of the postwar economy - to foreign countries, including the US, rather than in \JGermany\j, so they can be closer to their markets and avoid \JGermany\j's high production costs. The conditions under which European economic \Jintegration\j - especially movement toward a single European currency - will proceed will be another key issue facing \JGermany\j in the next few years.
\BGDP:\b
Germany: purchasing power parity - $1.4522 trillion (1995 est.)
western: purchasing power parity - $1.3318 trillion (1995 est.)
eastern: purchasing power parity - $120.4 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b
Germany: 1.8% (1995 est.)
western: 1.5% (1995 est.)
eastern: 6.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b
Germany: $17,900 (1995 est.)
western: $21,100 (1995 est.)
eastern: $6,600 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 1%
\Iindustry:\i 34.2%
\Iservices:\i 64.8% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i
western: 2% (1995 est.)
eastern: 2% (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 36.75 million
\Iby occupation:\i industry 41%, agriculture 6%, other 53% (1987)
\BUnemployment rate:\b
western: 8.7% (December 1995)
eastern: 14.9% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $690 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $780 billion, including capital expenditures of $96.5 billion (1994)
\BIndustries:\b
western: among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, coal, cement, chemicals, machinery, vehicles, machine tools, \Jelectronics\j, food and beverages
eastern: metal fabrication, chemicals, brown coal, shipbuilding, machine building, food and beverages, textiles, \Jpetroleum\j refining
\BIllicit drugs:\b source of precursor chemicals for South American \Jcocaine\j processors; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American \Jcocaine\j for West European markets
\BExports:\b $437 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 89.3% (including machines and machine tools, chemicals, motor vehicles, iron and steel products), agricultural products 5.5%, raw materials 2.7%, fuels 1.3% (1993)
\Ipartners:\i EC 47.9% (France 11.7%, Netherlands 7.4%, \JItaly\j 7.5%, UK 7.7%, Belgium-Luxembourg 6.6%), EFTA 15.5%, US 7.7%, Eastern Europe 5.2%, OPEC 3.0% (1993)
\Ipartners:\i EC 46.4% (France 11.3%, Netherlands 8.4%, \JItaly\j 8.1%, UK 6.0%, Belgium-Luxembourg 5.7%), EFTA 14.3%, US 7.3%, \JJapan\j 6.3%, Eastern Europe 5.1%, OPEC 2.6% (1993)
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
donor: ODA, $6.954 billion (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 deutsche mark (DM) = 100 pfennige
\BExchange rates:\b deutsche marks (DM) per US$1 - 1.4617 (January 1996), 1.4331 (1995), 1.6228 (1994), 1.6533 (1993), 1.5617 (1992), 1.6595 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 43,966 km
standard gauge: 43,531 km 1.435-m; 40,355 km are owned by Deutsche Bahn AG (DB); 17,015 km of the DB system are electrified and 16,941 km are double- or more-tracked
narrow gauge: 389 km 1.000-m gauge (DB operates 146 km of 1.000-m gauge); 7 km 0.900-m gauge; 39 km 0.750-m gauge
\Bnote:\b in addition to the DB system there are 54 privately-owned industrial or excursion railways, ranging in route length from 2 km to 632 km, with a total length of 3,465 km (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 636,282 km
\Ipaved:\i 531,018 km (including 10,955 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 105,264 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b
western: 5,222 km, of which almost 70% are usable by craft of 1,000-metric-ton capacity or larger; major rivers include the Rhine and Elbe; Kiel Canal is an important connection between the Baltic Sea and North Sea
eastern: 2,319 km (1988)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 3,644 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 3,946 km; natural gas 97,564 km (1988)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 55 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 55 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 44 million
\BTelephone system:\b \JGermany\j has one of the world's most technologically advanced telecommunications systems; as a result of intensive capital expenditures since reunification, the formerly backward system of the eastern part of the country is being rapidly modernized and integrated with that of the western part
\Idomestic:\i the region which was formerly West \JGermany\j is served by an extensive system of automatic \Jtelephone\j exchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwave radio relay, and a domestic satellite system; cellular \Jtelephone\j service is widely available and includes roaming service to many foreign countries; since the reunification of \JGermany\j, the \Jtelephone\j system of the eastern region has been upgraded and enjoys many of the advantages of the national system
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 14 Intelsat (12 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), 2 Intersputnik (1 Atlantic Ocean region and 1 Indian Ocean region); 6 submarine cable connections; 2 HF radiotelephone communication centers; tropospheric scatter links
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b
western: AM 80, FM 470, shortwave 0
eastern: AM 23, FM 17, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 70 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 246 (repeaters 6,000); note - there are 15 Russian repeaters in eastern \JGermany\j
\BTelevisions:\b 44.8 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Naval Air Arm), Air Force, Border Police, Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 21,540,919
\Imales fit for military service:\i 18,537,347
males reach military age (18) annually: 449,292 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $42.8 billion, 1.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Ghana (Atlas)",89,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and \JTogo\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 2 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 238,540 sq km
\Iland area:\i 230,020 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Oregon
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,093 km
\Iborder countries:\i Burkina Faso 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 668 km, \JTogo\j 877 km
\BCoastline:\b 539 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; warm and comparatively dry along southeast coast; hot and humid in southwest; hot and dry in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly low plains with dissected plateau in south-central area
\Icurrent issues:\i recent \Jdrought\j in north severely affecting agricultural activities; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching and habitat destruction threatens wildlife populations; water \Jpollution\j; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i dry, dusty, \Jharmattan\j winds occur from January to March; droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b Lake Volta is the world's largest artificial lake; northeasterly \Jharmattan\j wind (January to March)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 March (1957)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution approved 28 April 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Jerry John RAWLINGS (since 3 November 1992); elected for a four-year term by direct universal suffrage; the president can appoint a vice president; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA December 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet; president nominates members subject to approval by the Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - opposition boycotted the election, the National Democratic Congress won 198 of the total 200 seats and 2 seats were won by independents; because of interim bye-elections, the National Democratic Congress and its remaining coalition partner, Every Ghanian Living Everywhere (EGLE), now control 189 seats; former coalition partner, NCP, has 8 seats; independents hold 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Congress (NDC), Jerry John RAWLINGS; New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ala ADJETY; People's Heritage Party (PHP), Alex ERSKINE; National Convention Party (NCP), Kow ARKAAH; Every Ghanian Living Everywhere (EGLE), Ashang OKINE; Peoples Convention Party (PCP), B.K. NKETSIA; Peoples National Convention (PNC), Alhaji Asuma BANDA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ekwow SPIO-GARBRAH
\Ichancery:\i 3512 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 686-4520
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 686-4527
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward BRYNN
\Iembassy:\i Ring Road East, East of Danquah Circle, Accra
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 194, Accra
\Itelephone:\i [233] (21) 775348
\IFAX:\i [233] (21) 775747
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j; similar to the flag of \JBolivia\j, which has a coat of arms centered in the yellow band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Well endowed with natural resources, \JGhana\j has twice the per capita output of the poorer countries in West Africa. Heavily reliant on international assistance, \JGhana\j has made steady progress in liberalizing its economy since 1983. Overall growth continued at a rate of approximately 5% in 1995, due largely to increased gold, timber, and \Jcocoa\j production - major sources of foreign exchange. The economy, however, continues to revolve around subsistence agriculture, which accounts for almost half of GDP and employs 55% of the work force, mainly small landholders. Public sector wage increases, regional peacekeeping commitments, and the containment of internal unrest in the underdeveloped north have placed substantial demands on the government's budget and have led to inflationary deficit financing, depreciation of the cedi, and rising public discontent with \JGhana\j's austerity program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $25.1 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and fishing 54.7%, industry 18.7%, sales and clerical 15.2%, professional 3.7%, services, transportation, and communications 7.7%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 10% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.05 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $178 million (1993)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; transit hub for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin destined for Europe and the US
\BExchange rates:\b new cedis per US$1 - 1,246.11 (September 1995), 956.71 (1994), 649.06 (1993), 437.09 (1992), 367.83 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 953 km; note - undergoing major renovation (1995 est.)
narrow gauge: 953 km 1.067-m gauge; 32 km double track
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 38,145 km
\Ipaved:\i 7,476 km (including 21 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 30,669 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Volta, Ankobra, and Tano Rivers provide 168 km of perennial navigation for launches and lighters; Lake Volta provides 1,125 km of arterial and feeder waterways
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Police Force, Palace Guard, Civil
\BDefense:\b
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 4,135,538
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,303,423
males reach military age (18) annually: 176,332 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 0.8% of GDP (1994)
#
"Gibraltar (Atlas)",90,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Europe, bordering the Strait of \JGibraltar\j, which links the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, on the southern coast of \JSpain\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 36 11 N, 5 22 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 6.5 sq km
\Iland area:\i 6.5 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 11 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1.2 km
border country: \JSpain\j 1.2 km
\BCoastline:\b 12 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b source of friction between \JSpain\j and the UK
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean with mild winters and warm summers
\BTerrain:\b a narrow coastal lowland borders the Rock of \JGibraltar\j
\Ilowest point:\i Mediterranean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Rock of \JGibraltar\j 426 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural freshwater resources, so large concrete or natural rock water catchments collect rain water
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location on Strait of \JGibraltar\j that links the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 28,765 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 20% (male 3,109; female 2,728)
\I15-64 years:\i 66% (male 10,668; female 8,292)
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 1,582; female 2,386) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.54% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 13.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.73 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.21 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.14 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.29 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.66 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.15 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.83 years
\Imale:\i 74.5 years
\Ifemale:\i 81.31 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.26 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 74%, Protestant 11% (Church of England 8%, other 3%), Muslim 8%, Jewish 2%, none or other 5% (1981)
\BLanguages:\b English (used in schools and for official purposes), Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JGibraltar\j
\BData code:\b GI
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b \JGibraltar\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Commonwealth Day (second Monday of March)
\BConstitution:\b 30 May 1969
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal, plus other UK subjects resident six months or more
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor and Commander in Chief Field Marshal Sir John CHAPPLE (since NA March 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Joe BOSSANO (since 25 March 1988) was appointed by the governor
Gibraltar Council: advises the governor
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed from the elected members of the House of Assembly by the governor in consultation with the chief minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 16 January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1996); results - SL 73.3%, SD 20.2%, NP 4.7%, independents 1.8%; seats - (18 total, 15 elected) SL 8, SD 7
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JGibraltar\j Socialist Labor Party (SL), Joe BOSSANO; \JGibraltar\j Labor Party/Association for the Advancement of Civil Rights (GCL/AACR), leader Adolfo CANEPA; \JGibraltar\j Social Democrats (SD), Peter CARUANA; \JGibraltar\j National Party (NP), Joe GARCIA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Housewives Association; Chamber of Commerce; \JGibraltar\j Representatives Organization
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b two horizontal bands of white (top, double width) and red with a three-towered red castle in the center of the white band; hanging from the castle gate is a gold key centered in the red band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JGibraltar\j benefits from an extensive shipping trade and offshore banking. The British military presence has been sharply reduced and now contributes about 11% to the local economy. The financial sector accounts for 15% of GDP; tourism, shipping services fees, and duties on consumer goods also generate revenue. Because more than 70% of the economy is in the public sector, changes in government spending have a major impact on the level of employment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $205 million (1993 est.)
\Bnote:\b UK military establishments and civil government employ nearly 50% of the labor force
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $116 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $124 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992-93)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, banking and finance, construction, commerce; support to large UK naval and air bases; \Jtobacco\j, mineral waters, beer, canned fish
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 47,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 90 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 2,539 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b none
\BExports:\b $57 million (f.o.b., 1992)
\Icommodities:\i (principally reexports) \Jpetroleum\j 51%, manufactured goods 41%, other 8%
\BExchange rates:\b \JGibraltar\j pounds (úG) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the \JGibraltar\j pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km; 1.000-m gauge system in dockyard area only
\BHighways:\b 49.9 km (including 12.9 km public highways)
ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 3, chemical tanker 1, container 1, oil tanker 13 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 19,529 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate, automatic domestic system and adequate international facilities
\Idomestic:\i automatic exchange facilities
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone; microwave radio relay; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Glorioso Islands (Atlas)",91,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (possession of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Madagascar
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 11 30 S, 47 20 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 5 sq km
\Iland area:\i 5 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about eight times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Ile Glorieuse, Ile du Lys, Verte Rocks, Wreck Rock, and South Rock
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 35.2 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by Madagascar
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b NA
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 12 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j, coconuts
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all lush vegetation and coconut palms)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic cyclones
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Glorioso Islands
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Iles Glorieuses
\BData code:\b GO
\BType of government:\b French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
\BCapital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Greece (Atlas)",92,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between \JAlbania\j and Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 39 00 N, 22 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 131,940 sq km
\Iland area:\i 130,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JAlabama\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,210 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlbania\j 282 km, \JBulgaria\j 494 km, Turkey 206 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 228 km
\BCoastline:\b 13,676 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
territorial sea: 6 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b complex maritime, air, and territorial disputes with Turkey in Aegean Sea; Cyprus question; dispute with The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia over name; border demarcation with \JAlbania\j, the treatment of \JAlbania\j's ethnic Greek minority, and migrant \JAlbanian\j workers in \JGreece\j remain unresolved issues
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j; water \Jpollution\j
\Inatural hazards:\i severe earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location dominating the Aegean Sea and southern approach to Turkish Straits; a peninsular country, possessing an archipelago of about 2,000 islands
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 25 March (1821) (proclamation of the war of independence)
\BConstitution:\b 11 June 1975
\BLegal system:\b based on codified Roman law; judiciary divided into civil, criminal, and administrative courts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Konstandinos (Kostis) STEPHANOPOULOS (since 10 March 1995) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 10 March 1995 (next to be held by NA 2000); results - Konstandinos STEPHANOPOULOS was elected by Parliament
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Konstandinos SIMITIS (since 19 January 1996) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Vouli ton Ellinon): elections last held 10 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1997); results - PASOK 46.88%, ND 39.30%, Political Spring 4.87%, KKE 4.54%, and Progressive Left (replaced by Coalition of the Left and Progress) 2.94%; seats - (300 total) PASOK 170, ND 111, Political Spring 10, KKE 9; note - seating as of January 1996: PASOK 170, ND 109, Political Spring 11, KKE 9, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Judicial Court, judges appointed for life by the president after consultation with a judicial council; Special Supreme Tribunal, judges appointed for life by the president after consultation with a judicial council
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b New Democracy (ND; conservative), Miltiades EVERT; Panhellenic Socialist Movement (PASOK), Andreas PAPANDREOU (special congress scheduled for July 1996); Communist Party (KKE), Aleka PAPARIGA; Political Spring, Andonios SAMARAS; Coalition of the Left and Progress (Synaspismos), Nikolaos KONSTANDOPOULOS; Democratic Social Movement (DIKKI), Dhimitrios TSOVOLAS; Rainbow Coalition, Pavlos VOSKOPOULOS
\BFlag:\b nine equal horizontal stripes of blue alternating with white; there is a blue square in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a white cross; the cross symbolizes Greek Orthodoxy, the established religion of the country
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JGreece\j has a mixed capitalist economy. The basic entrepreneurial system underwent extensive socialist change in 1981-89, which enlarged the public sector from 55% of GDP in 1981 to about 70% in 1989. Tourism is a major source of foreign exchange, and agriculture is self-sufficient, except for meat, dairy products, and animal feedstuffs. Despite a moderate recovery in industrial output over the last year, the Greek economy remains weak, with real GDP growth of 1.7%; the country's huge public sector and burgeoning budget deficit are contributing to a public debt of 120% of GDP. The government's hard drachma policy and public sector wage restraint are largely responsible for the downward trend in \Jinflation\j, which is at the lowest level in 20 years. Investment is likely to be the primary engine for economic growth in 1996. \JAthens\j continues to rely heavily on EU aid, which currently amounts to about 4% of GDP. New Prime Minister SIMITIS's reputation as the architect of \JAthens\j' mid-1980s austerity program suggests that he will pursue prudent economic policies that will bring \JGreece\j closer to meeting the EU criteria for participating in economic and monetary union. SIMITIS faces strong opposition to further privatization and further austerity.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $101.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis and limited opium; mostly for domestic consumption; serves as a gateway to Europe for traffickers smuggling cannabis and heroin from the Middle East and Southwest Asia to the West and precursor chemicals to the East; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route
standard gauge: 1,565 km 1.435-m gauge (36 km electrified; 100 km double track)
narrow gauge: 887 km 1.000-m gauge; 22 km 0.750-m gauge (a rack type railway for steep grades)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 130,000 km
\Ipaved:\i 119,210 km (including 116 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 10,790 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 80 km; system consists of three coastal canals; including the \JCorinth\j Canal (6 km) which crosses the Isthmus of \JCorinth\j connecting the Gulf of \JCorinth\j with the Saronic Gulf and shortens the sea voyage from the Adriatic to Piraievs (Piraeus) by 325 km; and three unconnected rivers
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 26 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 547 km
\Bnote:\b \JGreece\j owns an additional 1,798 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 62,291,974 DWT operating under the registries of \JLiberia\j, Panama, Cyprus, Malta, The \JBahamas\j, Hong Kong, \JJapan\j, Hondurus, \JPortugal\j, and \JSingapore\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 77
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 15
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 16
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 17
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 21
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5,571,293 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate, modern networks reach all areas; microwave radio relay carries most traffic; extensive open-wire network; submarine cables to off-shore islands
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay, open wire, and submarine cable
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter; 8 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 29, FM 17 (repeaters 20), shortwave 0
\BIndependence:\b none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division)
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
\BConstitution:\b 5 June 1953 (Danish constitution)
\BLegal system:\b Danish
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen MARGRETHE II (of Denmark since 14 January 1972), a constitutional monarch, is represented by High Commissioner Steen \JSPORE\j (since NA 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Lars Emil JOHANSEN (since 15 March 1991) was elected by the Landsting
\Icabinet:\i Landsstyre is formed from the Landsting on basis of strength of parties
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Landsting): election last held on 4 March 1995 (next to be held NA 5 March 1999); results - Siumut 38.5%, \JInuit\j Ataqatigiit 20.3%, Atassut Party 29.7%; seats - (31 total) Siumut 12, Atassut Party 10, \JInuit\j Ataqatigiit 6, conservative splinter grouping 2, independent 1
Danish Folketing: election last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by NA September 1998); \JGreenland\j elects two representatives to the Folketing; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) Liberals 1, Social Democrats 1; note - Greenlandic representatives are affiliated with Danish political parties
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court (Landsret)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b two-party ruling coalition; Siumut (Forward Party, a moderate socialist party that advocates more distinct Greenlandic identity and greater autonomy from Denmark), Lars Emil JOHANSEN, chairman; \JInuit\j Ataqatigiit (IA) (Eskimo Brotherhood, a Marxist-Leninist party that favors complete independence from Denmark rather than home rule), Josef MOTZFELDT; Atassut Party (Solidarity, a more conservative party that favors continuing close relations with Denmark), Daniel SKIFTE; Akulliit Party, Bjarne KREUTZMANN; Issituup (Polar Party), Nicolai HEINRICH
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a large disk slightly to the hoist side of center - the top half of the disk is red, the bottom half is white
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JGreenland\j's economic situation at present is difficult. Unemployment is increasing, and prospects for economic growth in the immediate future are dim. Following the closing of the Black Angel lead and zinc mine in 1989, \JGreenland\j became almost completely dependent on fishing and fish processing, the sector accounting for 95% of exports. Prospects for fisheries are not bright, as the important shrimp catches will at best stabilize and cod catches have dropped. Resumption of mining and hydrocarbon activities is not around the corner, thus leaving only tourism with some potential for the near future. The public sector, i.e., the central government and its commercial entities and the municipalities, plays a dominant role in \JGreenland\j, accounting for about two-thirds of total employment. About half the government's revenues come from grants from the Danish Government, an important supplement of GDP.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $892 million (1995 est.)
\Inatural hazards:\i lies on edge of hurricane belt; hurricane season lasts from June to November
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b the administration of the islands of the Grenadines group is divided between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and \JGrenada\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 94,961 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 43% (male 20,975; female 20,246)
\I15-64 years:\i 52% (male 26,089; female 23,068)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 2,112; female 2,471) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.55% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 29.13 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.74 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -17.87 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.13 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.07 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 11.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.89 years
\Imale:\i 68.39 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.44 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.78 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Grenadian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Grenadian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black African
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic, Anglican, other Protestant sects
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French patois
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JGrenada\j
\BData code:\b GJ
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Saint George's
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 parishes and 1 dependency*; Carriacou and Petit Martinique*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick
\BIndependence:\b 7 February 1974 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 7 February (1974)
\BConstitution:\b 19 December 1973
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Reginald Oswald PALMER (since 6 August 1992)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Keith MITCHELL (since 22 June 1995) was appointed from members of the House of Assembly by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 13-member body, 10 appointed by the government and three by the leader of the opposition
House of Representatives: elections last held on 20 June 1995 (next to be held by NA October 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total) NDC 5, GULP 2, NNP 8
\BJudicial branch:\b West Indies Associate States Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Congress (NDC), George BRIZAN; \JGrenada\j United Labor Party (GULP), Sir Eric GAIRY; The National Party (TNP), Ben JONES; New National Party (NNP), Keith MITCHELL; Maurice Bishop Patriotic Movement (MBPM), Terrence MARRYSHOW; New Democratic Party (NDP), James MITCHELL; Unity Labor Party (ULP), Vincent BEACHE
\Ichancery:\i 1701 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-2561
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i the ambassador to \JBarbados\j is accredited to \JGrenada\j; Charge d'Affaires Dennis CARTER
\Iembassy:\i Point Salines, Saint George's
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 54, Saint George's, \JGrenada\j, W.I.
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 444-1173 through 1178
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 444-4820
\BFlag:\b a rectangle divided diagonally into yellow triangles (top and bottom) and green triangles (hoist side and outer side) with a red border around the flag; there are seven yellow five-pointed stars with three centered in the top red border, three centered in the bottom red border, and one on a red disk superimposed at the center of the flag; there is also a symbolic \Jnutmeg\j pod on the hoist-side triangle (Grenada is the world's second-largest producer of \Jnutmeg\j, after Indonesia); the seven stars represent the seven administrative divisions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is essentially agricultural and centers on the traditional production of spices and tropical plants. Agriculture accounts for about 10% of GDP and 80% of exports and employs 24% of the labor force. Tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner, followed by agricultural exports. Manufacturing remains relatively undeveloped, but is growing due to a favorable private investment climate since 1983. The economy achieved an impressive average annual growth rate of 5.5% in 1986-91 but has slowed since 1992. The new MITCHELL government has moved forward with a plan to eliminate personal income tax in the hope of spurring domestic consumption.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $284 million (1995 est.)
\Ipartners:\i US 31.2%, Caricom 23.6%, UK 13.8%, \JJapan\j 7.1% (1991)
\BExternal debt:\b $89.1 million (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 994 km
\Ipaved:\i 597 km
\Iunpaved:\i 397 km (1988 est.)
\BPorts:\b Grenville, Saint George's
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5,650 (1988 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b automatic, islandwide \Jtelephone\j system
\Idomestic:\i interisland VHF and UHF radiotelephone links
\Iinternational:\i new SHF radiotelephone links to Trinidad and Tobago and Saint Vincent; VHF and UHF radio links to Trinidad
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 80,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 30,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal \JGrenada\j Police Force, Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Guadeloupe (Atlas)",95,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas department of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 15 N, 61 35 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,780 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,706 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 10 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b \JGuadeloupe\j is an archipelago of nine inhabited islands, of which Basse-Terre, \JGrande-Terre\j, and Marie-Galante are the three largest
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 306 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b subtropical tempered by trade winds; moderately high \Jhumidity\j
\BTerrain:\b Basse-Terre is volcanic in origin with interior mountains; Grand-Terre is low \Jlimestone\j formation; most of the seven other islands are volcanic in origin
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Soufriere 1,467 m
\BNatural resources:\b cultivable land, beaches and climate that foster tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 18%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 5%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 13%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 40%
\Iother:\i 24%
\BIrrigated land:\b 30 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes (June to October); La Soufriere is an active \Jvolcano\j
\I65 years and over:\i 8% (male 14,617; female 19,821) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.2% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.59 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.16 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.74 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.4 years
\Imale:\i 74.37 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.58 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.92 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Guadeloupian(s)
\Iadjective:\i \JGuadeloupe\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b black or mulatto 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 4%, Protestant sects 1%
\BLanguages:\b French (official) 99%, \JCreole\j patois
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 90%
\Imale:\i 90%
\Ifemale:\i 90%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Department of \JGuadeloupe\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JGuadeloupe\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Departement de la \JGuadeloupe\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JGuadeloupe\j
\BData code:\b GP
\BType of government:\b overseas department of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b Basse-Terre
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French legal system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by Prefect Michel DIEFENBACHER (since NA March 1995), who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Dominique LARIFLA (since NA); President of the Regional Council Lucette MICHAUX-CHEVRY (since 22 March 1992)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council
General Council: elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held by NA 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (43 total) FRUI.G 13, RPR/DUD 13, PPDG 8, FGPS 3, PCG 3, UPLG 1, PSG 1, independent 1
Regional Council: elections last held 31 January 1994 (next to be held by 16 March 1998); results - RPR/FGPS-dissadents 48.30%, FGPS 17.09%, FRUI.G 7.44%, PPDG 8.90%, UPLG 7.75% PCG 6.05%; seats - (41 total) RPR/FGPS-dissadents 22, FGPS/FRUI.G 9, PPDG 5, PCG 3, UPLG 2
French Senate: elections last held in September 1995 (next to be held NA September 2004); \JGuadeloupe\j elects two representatives; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) PPDG 1, FGPS 1
French National Assembly: elections last held on 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); \JGuadeloupe\j elects four representatives; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) FGPS 1, RPR 1, PPDG 1, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel) with \Jjurisdiction\j over \JGuadeloupe\j, French Guiana, and Martinique
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally for the Republic (RPR), Daniel BEAUBRUN; Communist Party of \JGuadeloupe\j (PCG), Christian Medard CELESTE; Socialist Party (FGPS), Georges LOUISOR; Popular Union for the Liberation of \JGuadeloupe\j (UPLG), Claude MAKOUKE; FGPS \JDissidents\j (FRUI.G), Dominique LARIFLA; Union for French Democracy (UDF), Marcel ESDRAS; Progressive Democratic Party (PPDG), Henri BANGOU
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Movement for Independent \JGuadeloupe\j (MPGI); General Union of \JGuadeloupe\j Workers (UGTG); General Federation of \JGuadeloupe\j Workers (CGT-G); Christian Movement for the Liberation of \JGuadeloupe\j (KLPG)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas department of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas department of France)
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands, a narrow green band (top), a wide red band, and a narrow green band; the green bands are separated from the red band by two narrow white stripes; a five-pointed gold star is centered in the red band toward the hoist side; the flag of \JFrance\j is used for official occasions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy depends on agriculture, tourism, light industry, and services. It is also dependent upon \JFrance\j for large subsidies and imports. Tourism is a key industry, with most tourists from the US. In addition, an increasingly large number of cruise ships visit the islands. The traditionally important sugarcane crop is slowly being replaced by other crops, such as bananas (which now supply about 50% of export earnings), eggplant, and flowers. Other vegetables and root crops are cultivated for local consumption, although \JGuadeloupe\j is still dependent on imported food, which comes mainly from \JFrance\j. Light industry consists mostly of sugar and rum production. Most manufactured goods and fuel are imported. Unemployment is especially high among the young.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $9,200 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 6%
\Iindustry:\i 9%
\Iservices:\i 85% (1993 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 3.7% (1990)
\BLabor force:\b 129,700
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 15%, industry 20%, services 65% (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 31.3% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $395 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $407 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); microwave radio relay to Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and Martinique
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 8 (private stations licensed to broadcast FM 30), shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 100,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\BTelevisions:\b 150,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b French Forces, Gendarmerie
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Guam (Atlas)",96,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the \JPhilippines\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 28 N, 144 47 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 541.3 sq km
\Iland area:\i 541.3 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i three times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 125.5 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; generally warm and humid, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season from January to June, rainy season from July to December; little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b volcanic origin, surrounded by \Jcoral\j reefs; relatively flat coralline \Jlimestone\j plateau (source of most fresh water) with steep coastal cliffs and narrow coastal plains in north, low-rising hills in center, mountains in south
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Lamlam 406 m
\BNatural resources:\b fishing (largely undeveloped), tourism (especially from Japan)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 11%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 11%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 15%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 18%
\Iother:\i 45%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent squalls during rainy season; relatively rare, but potentially very destructive typhoons (especially in August)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b largest and southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago; strategic location in western North Pacific Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 156,974 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.34% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 3.86 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 15.17 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 74.29 years
\Imale:\i 72.42 years
\Ifemale:\i 76.13 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.25 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Guamanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Guamanian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Chamorro 47%, Filipino 25%, white 10%, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and other 18%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 98%, other 2%
\BLanguages:\b English, Chamorro, Japanese
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of \JGuam\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JGuam\j
\BData code:\b GQ
\BType of government:\b organized, unincorporated territory of the US with policy relations between \JGuam\j and the US under the \Jjurisdiction\j of the Office of Territorial and International Affairs, US Department of the Interior
\BCapital:\b Agana
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of the US)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of the US)
\BNational holiday:\b \JGuam\j Discovery Day (first Monday in March) (1521); Liberation Day, 21 July
\BConstitution:\b Organic Act of 1 August 1950
\BLegal system:\b modeled on US; federal laws apply
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal; US citizens, but do not vote in US presidential elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of the United States) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Carl GUTIERREZ (since 8 November 1994) and Lieutenant Governor Madeleine BORDALLO (since 8 November 1994) were elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Carl GUTIERREZ (Democrat) defeated Tommy TANAKA (Republican) with 54.6% of the vote
\Icabinet:\i executive departments; heads appointed by the governor with the consent of the \JGuam\j legislature
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislature: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total) Democrats 14, Republican 7
US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); \JGuam\j elects one delegate; results - Robert UNDERWOOD was reelected as delegate; seats - (1 total) Democrat 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Federal District Court, judge is appointed by the president; Territorial Superior Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the governor
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party (controls the legislature); Republican Party (party of the Governor)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of the US)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of the US)
\BFlag:\b territorial flag is dark blue with a narrow red border on all four sides; centered is a red-bordered, pointed, vertical \Jellipse\j containing a beach scene, outrigger canoe with sail, and a palm tree with the word \JGUAM\j superimposed in bold red letters; US flag is the national flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy depends mainly on US military spending and on revenues from tourism. Over the past 20 years, the tourist industry has grown rapidly, creating a construction boom for new hotels and the expansion of older ones. Visitors numbered about 900,000 in 1992. The slowdown in Japanese economic growth has been reflected in less vigorous growth in the tourism sector. About 60% of the labor force works for the private sector and the rest for government. Most food and industrial goods are imported, with about 75% from the US. \JGuam\j faces the problem of building up the civilian economic sector to offset the impact of military downsizing.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1991 est.)
\Icommodities:\i mostly transshipments of refined \Jpetroleum\j products, construction materials, fish, food and beverage products
\Ipartners:\i US 25%, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 63%, other 12%
\BImports:\b $493 million (c.i.f., 1984)
\Icommodities:\i \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, food, manufactured goods
\Ipartners:\i US 23%, \JJapan\j 19%, other 58%
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i although \JGuam\j receives no foreign aid, it does receive large transfer payments from the general revenues of the US Federal Treasury into which Guamanians pay no income or excise taxes; under the provisions of a special law of Congress, the Guamanian Treasury, rather than the US Treasury, receives federal income taxes paid by military and civilian Federal employees stationed in \JGuam\j
\BCurrency:\b 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b US currency is used
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 674 km (all-weather roads)
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Apra Harbor
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 4
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 26,317 (1989 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); submarine cables to US and \JJapan\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3
\BTelevisions:\b 75,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Guatemala (Atlas)",97,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between \JHonduras\j and \JBelize\j and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 30 N, 90 15 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 108,890 sq km
\Iland area:\i 108,430 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JTennessee\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,687 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelize\j 266 km, El Salvador 203 km, \JHonduras\j 256 km, Mexico 962 km
\BCoastline:\b 400 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b border with \JBelize\j in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are stalled
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with narrow coastal plains and rolling \Jlimestone\j plateau (Peten)
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; water \Jpollution\j
\Inatural hazards:\i numerous volcanoes in mountains, with frequent violent earthquakes; Caribbean coast subject to hurricanes and other tropical storms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b no natural harbors on west coast
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 184,927; female 207,620) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.48% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.96 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.15 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.98 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.89 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 50.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 65.24 years
\Imale:\i 62.64 years
\Ifemale:\i 67.97 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.5 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Guatemalan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Guatemalan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Mestizo - mixed Amerindian-Spanish ancestry (in local Spanish called Ladino) 56%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 44%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic, Protestant, traditional Mayan
\BLanguages:\b Spanish 60%, Indian language 40% (23 Indian dialects, including Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 55.6%
\Imale:\i 62.5%
\Ifemale:\i 48.6%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JGuatemala\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JGuatemala\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JGuatemala\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JGuatemala\j
\BData code:\b GT
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JGuatemala\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 22 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, \JGuatemala\j, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepequez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Solola, Suchitepequez, Totonicapan, Zacapa
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 31 May 1985, effective 14 January 1986
\Bnote:\b suspended 25 May 1993 by President SERRANO; reinstated 5 June 1993 following ouster of president
\BLegal system:\b civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Alvaro Enrique ARZU Irigoyen (since 14 January 1996); Vice President Luis Alberto FLORES Asturias (since 14 January 1996); results - Alvaro Enrique ARZU Irigoyen (PAN) 51.2%, Jorge PORTILLO Cabrera (FRG) 48.8%; ARZU was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election runoff held on 14 January 1996 (next to be held November 2000)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was named by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Congress of the Republic (Congreso de la Republica): elections were held on 12 November 1995 to select 80 new congressmen (next election will be held in November 2000); results - seats (80 total) PAN 43, FRG 21, FDNG 6, DCG 4, UCN 3, UD 2, MLN 1
\Bnote:\b on 11 November 1993 the congress approved a procedure that reduced its number from 116 seats to 80; the procedure provided for a special election in mid-1994 to elect an interim congress of 80 members to serve until replaced in the November 1995 general election; the plan was approved in a general referendum in January 1994 and the special election was held on 14 August 1994
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia); additionally the Court of Constitutionality is presided over by the President of the Supreme Court, judges are elected for a five-year term by Congress
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Centrist Union (UCN), (vacant); Solidarity Action Movement (MAS), Oliverio GARCIA Rodas; Christian Democratic Party (DCG), Alfonso CABRERA Hidalgo; National Advancement Party (PAN), Alvaro ARZU Irigoyen; National Liberation Movement (MLN), Mario SANDOVAL Alarcon; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Mario SOLORZANO Martinez; Revolutionary Party (PR), Carlos CHAVARRIA Perez; Guatemalan Republican Front (FRG), Efrain RIOS Montt; Democratic Union (UD), Jose CHEA Urruela; New Guatemalan Democratic Front (FDNG), Jorge GONZALEZ del Valle
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Coordinating Committee of Agricultural, Commercial, Industrial, and Financial Associations (CACIF); Mutual Support Group (GAM); Agrarian Owners Group (UNAGRO); Committee for Campesino Unity (CUC); leftist guerrilla movement known as Guatemalan National Revolutionary Union (URNG) has four main factions - Guerrilla Army of the Poor (EGP); Revolutionary Organization of the People in Arms (ORPA); Rebel Armed Forces (FAR); Guatemalan Labor Party (PGT/O)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Pedro LAMPORT Kelsall
\Ichancery:\i 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 745-4952 through 4954
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 745-1908
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Marilyn McAFEE
\Iembassy:\i 7-01 Avenida de la Reforma, Zone 10, \JGuatemala\j City
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34024
\Itelephone:\i [502] (2) 311541
\IFAX:\i [502] (2) 318885
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of light blue (hoist side), white, and light blue with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms includes a green and red \Jquetzal\j (the national bird) and a scroll bearing the inscription LIBERTAD 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1821 (the original date of independence from Spain) all superimposed on a pair of crossed rifles and a pair of crossed swords and framed by a wreath
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based on family and corporate agriculture, which accounts for 25% of GDP, employs about 60% of the labor force, and supplies two-thirds of exports. Manufacturing, predominantly in private hands, accounts for about 20% of GDP and 12% of the labor force. In both 1990 and 1991, the economy grew by 3%, the fourth and fifth consecutive years of mild growth. In 1992 growth picked up to almost 5% as government policies favoring competition and foreign trade and investment took stronger hold. In 1993-94, despite political unrest, this momentum continued, foreign investment held up, and annual growth averaged 4%. Strong international prices for \JGuatemala\j's traditional commodity exports featured 4.9% growth in 1995. Given the markedly uneven distribution of land and income, the government faces major obstacles in its program of economic modernization and the reduction of poverty.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $36.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit country for \Jcocaine\j shipments; illicit producer of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug trade; the government has an active eradication program for cannabis and opium poppy
\BNational holiday:\b Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
\BConstitution:\b unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
\BLegal system:\b English law and local statute; justice is administered by the Royal Court
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Vice-Admiral Sir John COWARD (since NA 1994) and \JBailiff\j Mr. Graham Martyn DOREY (since February 1992) were appointed by the queen
\Icabinet:\i Advisory and Finance Committee (other committees); appointed by the Assembly of the States
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Assembly of the States: elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - no percent of vote by party since all are independents; seats - (60 total, 33 elected), all independents
\BJudicial branch:\b Royal Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none; all independents
\BFlag:\b white with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) extending to the edges of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Financial services account for about 55% of total income. Tourism, manufacturing, and \Jhorticulture\j, mainly tomatoes and cut flowers, have been declining. Bank profits (1992) registered a record 26% growth. Fund management and insurance are the two other major income generators.
\BGDP:\b $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 7% (1988)
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3%-4% (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $238.3 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $223.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.)
\BExchange rates:\b \JGuernsey\j pounds (úG) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the \JGuernsey\j pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Saint Peter Port, Saint Sampson
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 41,850 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i 1 submarine cable
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Guinea (Atlas)",99,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 11 00 N, 10 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 245,860 sq km
\Iland area:\i 245,860 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Oregon
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,399 km
\Iborder countries:\i Guinea-Bissau 386 km, Cote d'Ivoire 610 km, \JLiberia\j 563 km, Mali 858 km, \JSenegal\j 330 km, Sierra Leone 652 km
\BCoastline:\b 320 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to November) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with northeasterly \Jharmattan\j winds
\BTerrain:\b generally flat coastal plain, hilly to mountainous interior
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Nimba 1,752 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, iron ore, diamonds, gold, uranium, hydropower, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 12%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 42%
\Iother:\i 40%
\BIrrigated land:\b 240 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; inadequate supplies of potable water; \Jdesertification\j; soil contamination and erosion; overfishing
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dusty \Jharmattan\j haze may reduce visibility during dry season
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 84,005; female 116,626) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.85% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 42.59 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 18.71 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -5.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b in prior years Guinea received several hundred thousand refugees from the civil wars in \JLiberia\j and Sierra Leone, many of whom are now returning to their own countries
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.72 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 134.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 45.06 years
\Imale:\i 42.73 years
\Ifemale:\i 47.47 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.72 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Second Republic, 3 April (1984)
\BConstitution:\b 23 December 1990 (Loi Fundamentale)
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system, customary law, and decree; legal codes currently being revised; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Lansana CONTE, elected in the first multiparty election 19 December 1993 (president must be elected by a majority of the votes cast); prior to the election he had ruled as head of military government since 5 April 1984
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
People's National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale Populaire): the People's National Assembly was dissolved after the 3 April 1984 coup; framework established in December 1991 for a new National Assembly with 114 seats; legislative elections were held on 11 June 1995; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (114 total) PUP 71, RPG 19, PRP 9, UNR 9, UPG 2, PDG 1, UNP 1, PDG/RDA 1, other 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b political parties were legalized on 1 April 1992; of the more than 40 with legal status, the following won seats in the legislature in the 11 June 1995 elections
pro-government: Party for Unity and Progress (PUP)
\Iother:\i Rally for the Guinean
\BPeople:\b (RPG), Alpha CONDE; Union for a New Republic (UNR), Mamadou BAH; Party for Renewal and Progress (PRP), Siradiou DIALLO; Union for Progress of Guinea (UPG), Secretary-General Jean-Marie DORE; Democratic Party of Guinea (DPG), Ahmed Sekou TOURE; National Union for the Prosperity of Guinea (UNPG), Lt.Col. Facine TOURE, leader; Democratic Party of Guinea (PDG), El Hadj Ismael Mohamed Gassim GUSHEIN, leader
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Bangoura Mahawa CAMARA
\Ichancery:\i 2112 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-9420
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 483-8688
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Joseph A. SALOOM III
\Iembassy:\i Rue KA 038, Conakry
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 603, Conakry
\Itelephone:\i [224] 41 15 20, 41 15 21, 41 15 23
\IFAX:\i [224] 44 15 22
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of red (hoist side), yellow, and green; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j; similar to the flag of \JRwanda\j, which has a large black letter R centered in the yellow band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Although possessing major mineral, hydropower, and agricultural resources, Guinea remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The agricultural sector employs 80% of the work force. Guinea possesses over 25% of the world's \Jbauxite\j reserves. The mining sector accounted for 85% of exports in 1991. Long-run improvements in \Jliteracy\j, financial institutions, and the legal framework are needed if the country is to move out of poverty. Except in the \Jbauxite\j industry, foreign investment remains minimal.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b the official exchange rate of the Guinean franc was set and quoted weekly against the US dollar until end-October 1993; since 1 November 1994, the exchange rate is determined in the interbank market for foreign exchange
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,086 km
standard gauge: 279 km 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 807 km 1.000-m gauge; note - includes 662 km in common carrier service from \JKankan\j to Conakry
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 29,750 km
\Ipaved:\i 4,490 km
\Iunpaved:\i 25,260 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,295 km navigable by shallow-draft native craft
\BPorts:\b Boke, Conakry, Kamsar
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 14
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 6
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 18,000 (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poor to fair system of open-wire lines, small radiotelephone communication stations, and new microwave radio relay system
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay and radiotelephone communication
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 257,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 65,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (acts primarily as a coast guard), Air Force, Republican Guard, Presidential Guard, paramilitary National Gendarmerie, National Police Force (Surete National)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,684,264
\Imales fit for military service:\i 849,404 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $50 million, 1.6% of GDP (1994)
#
"Guinea-Bissau (Atlas)",100,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and \JSenegal\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 00 N, 15 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 36,120 sq km
\Iland area:\i 28,000 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three times the size of Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 724 km
\Iborder countries:\i Guinea 386 km, \JSenegal\j 338 km
\BCoastline:\b 350 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to November) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with northeasterly \Jharmattan\j winds
\BTerrain:\b mostly low coastal plain rising to savanna in east
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location in the northeast corner of the country 300 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jphosphates\j, \Jbauxite\j, unexploited deposits of \Jpetroleum\j, fish, timber
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dusty \Jharmattan\j haze may reduce visibility during dry season; brush fires
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands
\BIndependence:\b 10 September 1974 (from Portugal)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 10 September (1974)
\BConstitution:\b 16 May 1984, amended 4 May 1991 (currently undergoing revision to liberalize popular participation in the government)
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 15 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau Joao Bernardo VIEIRA (assumed power 14 November 1980) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held August 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - Joao Bernardo VIEIRA 52%, Kumba YALLA 48%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Manuel SATURNINO (since 5 November 1994) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National People's Assembly: (Assembleia Nacional Popular) elections last held 3 July and 7 August 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) PAIGC 62, RGB 19, PRS 12, Union for Change Coalition 6, FLING 1
\BJudicial branch:\b none; there is a Ministry of Justice in the Council of Ministers
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b African Party for the Independence of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde (PAIGC), President Joao Bernardo VIEIRA, leader; Guinea-Bissau Resistance (RGB), Helder Jorge VAZ Gomes Lopes, leader; Democratic Front (FD); Social Renovation Party (PRS), Koumba YALLA, leader; Union for Change Coalition; Front for the Liberation and Independence of Guinea (FLING); Democratic Social Front (FDS), Rafael BARBOSA, leader; Bafata Movement, Domingos Fernandes GARNER, leader; Guinea-Bissau Resistance (RGB); Union for Change Coalition
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and green with a vertical red band on the hoist side; there is a black five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Guinea-Bissau ranks among the poorest countries in the world. Agriculture and fishing are the main economic activities. Cashew nuts, peanuts, and palm kernels are the primary exports. Exploitation of known mineral deposits is unlikely at present because of a weak \Jinfrastructure\j and the high cost of development. With IMF support, the country is committed to an economic reform program emphasizing monetary stability and private sector growth. This process will continue at a slow pace because of a heavy foreign debt burden and internal constraints.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1994 est.)
\BWaterways:\b scattered stretches are important to coastal commerce
\BPorts:\b \JBissau\j
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 16
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 8
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,000 (1988 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poor system
\Idomestic:\i combination of microwave radio relay, open-wire lines, and radiotelephone communications
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 40,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b People's Revolutionary Armed Force (FARP; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force), paramilitary force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 259,738
\Imales fit for military service:\i 148,291 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $9 million, 4.5% of GDP (1994)
#
"Guyana (Atlas)",101,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Suriname and Venezuela
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 5 00 N, 59 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 214,970 sq km
\Iland area:\i 196,850 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JIdaho\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,462 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 1,119 km, Suriname 600 km, Venezuela 743 km
\BCoastline:\b 459 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the outer edge of the continental margin
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b all of the area west of the Essequibo River claimed by Venezuela; Suriname claims area between New (Upper Courantyne) and Courantyne/Kutari Rivers (all headwaters of the Courantyne)
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid, moderated by northeast trade winds; two rainy seasons (May to mid-August, mid-November to mid-January)
\BTerrain:\b mostly rolling highlands; low coastal plain; savanna in south
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Roraima 2,835 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, gold, diamonds, hardwood timber, shrimp, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 3%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 6%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 83%
\Iother:\i 8%
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,300 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from sewage and agricultural and industrial chemicals; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i flash floods are a constant threat during rainy seasons
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Whaling
\BNational holiday:\b Republic Day, 23 February (1970)
\BConstitution:\b 6 October 1980
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law with certain admixtures of Roman-Dutch law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Executive President Cheddi JAGAN (since 9 October 1992); the president is elected by the majority party in the National Assembly after legislative elections, which must be held within five years; legislative elections last held 5 October 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Cheddi JAGAN was elected president by the PPP
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sam HINDS (since 9 October 1992) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president; is responsible to the legislature
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held on 5 October 1992 (next to be held in 1997); results - PPP 53.4%, PNC 42.3%, WPA 2%, TUF 1.2%; seats - (65 total, 53 elected) PPP 36, PNC 26, WPA 2, TUF 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Judicature
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Progressive Party (PPP), Cheddi JAGAN; People's National Congress (PNC), Hugh Desmond HOYTE; Good and Green \JGeorgetown\j (GGG), Hamilton GREEN; Working People's Alliance (WPA), Eusi KWAYANA, Rupert ROOPNARINE; Democratic Labor Movement (DLM), Paul TENNASSEE; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Llewellyn JOHN; National Democratic Front (NDF), Joseph BACCHUS; The United Force (TUF), Manzoor NADIR; United Republican Party (URP), Leslie RAMSAMMY; National Republican Party (NRP), Robert GANGADEEN; \JGuyana\j Labor Party (GLP), Nanda GOPAUL
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Trades Union Congress (TUC); \JGuyana\j Council of Indian Organizations (GCIO); Civil Liberties Action Committee (CLAC)
\Bnote:\b the latter two organizations are small and active but not well organized
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dr. Ali Odeen ISHMAEL
\Ichancery:\i 2490 Tracy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-6900, 6901
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador David L. HOBBS
\Iembassy:\i 99-100 Young and Duke Streets, Kingston, \JGeorgetown\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 10507, \JGeorgetown\j
\Itelephone:\i [592] (2) 54900 through 54909, 57960 through 57969
\IFAX:\i [592] (2) 58497
\BFlag:\b green with a red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) superimposed on a long yellow arrowhead; there is a narrow black border between the red and yellow, and a narrow white border between the yellow and the green
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b In 1995, \JGuyana\j, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, posted its fifth straight year of economic growth of 5% or better, with the advance led by gold mining and by production of rice, sugar, and \Jforestry\j products for export. Favorable factors include recovery in the key agricultural and mining sectors, a more favorable atmosphere for business initiative, a more realistic exchange rate, a sharp drop in the \Jinflation\j rate, and the continued support of international organizations. Serious underlying economic problems will continue. Electric power has been in short supply and constitutes a major barrier to future gains in national output. The government must persist in efforts to manage its $2 billion external debt, control \Jinflation\j, and extend the privatization program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 5.1% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,200 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 26.5%
\Iindustry:\i 27.8%
\Iservices:\i 45.7% (1993 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 8.1% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 268,000
\Iby occupation:\i industry and commerce 44.5%, agriculture 33.8%, services 21.7%
\Bnote:\b public-sector employment amounts to 60%-80% of the total labor force (1985)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 12% (1992 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $209 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $303 million, including capital expenditures of $109 million (1995 est.)
standard gauge: 40 km 1.435-m gauge (dedicated to ore transport)
narrow gauge: 48 km 0.914-m gauge (dedicated to ore transport)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,621 km
\Ipaved:\i 547 km
\Iunpaved:\i 7,074 km (1987 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 6,000 km total of navigable waterways; Berbice, Demerara, and Essequibo Rivers are navigable by oceangoing vessels for 150 km, 100 km, and 80 km, respectively
\BPorts:\b Bartica, \JGeorgetown\j, Linden, New \JAmsterdam\j, Parika
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 33,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair system for long-distance calling
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay network for trunk lines
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter to Trinidad; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b 398,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 32,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b \JGuyana\j
\BDefense:\b Force (GDF; includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard, and Air Corps), \JGuyana\j People's Militia (GPM), \JGuyana\j National Service (GNS)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 197,548
\Imales fit for military service:\i 149,646 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $7 million, 1.7% of GDP (1994)
#
"Haiti (Atlas)",102,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, western one-third of the island of \JHispaniola\j, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 00 N, 72 25 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 27,750 sq km
\Iland area:\i 27,560 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 275 km
border country: Dominican Republic 275 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,771 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: to depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims US-administered Navassa Island
\BClimate:\b tropical; semiarid where mountains in east cut off trade winds
\BTerrain:\b mostly rough and mountainous
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Chaine de la Selle 2,680 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 20%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 13%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 18%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 45%
\BIrrigated land:\b 750 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i extensive deforestation (much of the remaining forested land is being cleared for agriculture and use as fuel); soil erosion; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i lies in the middle of the hurricane belt and subject to severe storms from June to October; occasional flooding and earthquakes; periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b shares island of \JHispaniola\j with Dominican Republic (western one-third is \JHaiti\j, eastern two-thirds is the Dominican Republic)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 132,460; female 133,663) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.77% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 38.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 15.96 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -4.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.92 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 103.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 49.26 years
\Imale:\i 47.26 years
\Ifemale:\i 51.35 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.69 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Haitian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Haitian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 95%, mulatto and European 5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 80% (of which an overwhelming majority also practice Voodoo), Protestant 16% (Baptist 10%, Pentecostal 4%, Adventist 1%, other 1%), none 1%, other 3% (1982)
\BLanguages:\b French (official) 10%, \JCreole\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 January (1804)
\BConstitution:\b approved March 1987, suspended June 1988, most articles reinstated March 1989; in October 1991, government claimed to be observing the constitution; return to constitutional rule, October 1994
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Rene Garcia PREVAL (since 7 February 1996), was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - Rene PREVAL 88%, Leon JEUNE 2.5%, Victor BENOIT 2.3%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Rosny SMARTH (since March 1996) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet; was chosen by prime minister in consultation with the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale)
Senate: elections last held 25 June 1995 with reruns on 13 August and runoffs on 17 September (next to be held 25 June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - 27 total
Chamber of Deputies: elections last held 25 June 1995 with reruns on 13 August and runoffs on 17 September; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - 83 total
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal (Cour de Cassation)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Front for Change and Democracy (FNCD), Evans PAUL and Turneb DELPE; National Cooperative Action Movement (MKN), Volvick Remy JOSEPH; National Congress of Democratic Movements (CONACOM), Victor BENOIT; Movement for the Installation of Democracy in \JHaiti\j (MIDH), Marc BAZIN; National Progressive Revolutionary Party (PANPRA), Serge GILLES; National Patriotic Movement of November 28 (MNP-28), Dejean BELIZAIRE; National Agricultural and Industrial Party (PAIN), Louis DEJOIE; Movement for National Reconstruction (MRN), Rene THEODORE; Haitian Christian Democratic Party (PDCH), Fritz PIERRE; Assembly of Progressive National Democrats (RDNP), Leslie MANIGAT; National Labor Party (PNT), Remy ZAMOR; Mobilization for National Development (MDN), Hubert DE RONCERAY; Democratic Movement for the Liberation of \JHaiti\j (MODELH), Francois LATORTUE; Haitian Social Christian Party (PSCH), Gregoire EUGENE; Movement for the Organization of the Country (MOP), Gesner COMEAU and Jean \JMOLIERE\j; Democratic Unity Confederation (KID), Evans PAUL; National Lavalas Political Organization (OPL), Gerard PIERRE-CHARLES; Open the Gate Party (PLB), Renaud BERNARDIN; Haitian National Democratic Progressive Party (PNDPH), Turneb DELPE
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Roman Catholic Church; Confederation of Haitian Workers (CTH); Federation of Workers Trade Unions (FOS); Autonomous Haitian Workers (CATH); National Popular Assembly (APN); Papaye Peasants Movement (MPP)
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a centered white rectangle bearing the coat of arms, which contains a palm tree flanked by flags and two cannons above a scroll bearing the motto L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE (Union Makes Strength)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b About 75% of the population lives in abject poverty. Nearly 70% of all Haitians depend on the agriculture sector, which consists mainly of small-scale subsistence farming and employs about two-thirds of the economically active work force. The country has experienced only moderate job creation since President ARISTIDE was returned to power in October 1994. Failure to reach agreement with multilateral lenders in late 1995 led to rising deficit spending and subsequently increasing \Jinflation\j and a drop in the value of the Haitian currency in the final months of 1995. Potential investors, both foreign and domestic, have been reluctant to risk their capital, planning to "wait and see" what happens in the months following the inauguration of newly elected President Rene PREVAL and the drawdown of UN peacekeeping forces. The PREVAL government will have to grapple with implementing necessary, although unpopular, economic reforms in order to obtain badly needed foreign aid and improve \JHaiti\j's ability to attract foreign capital if the Haitian economy is to gain momentum. \JHaiti\j will continue to depend heavily on foreign aid in the medium term.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 50,000 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b domestic facilities barely adequate, international facilities slightly better
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 33, FM 0, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b 320,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 32,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Haitian National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,379,116
\Imales fit for military service:\i 746,617
males reach military age (18) annually: 67,287 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Heard Island and McDonald Islands (Atlas)",103,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Australia)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, islands in the Indian Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Madagascar to \JAntarctica\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 53 06 S, 72 31 E
\BMap references:\b Antarctic Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 412 sq km
\Iland area:\i 412 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 101.9 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b antarctic
\BTerrain:\b Heard Island - bleak and mountainous, with a quiescent \Jvolcano\j; McDonald Islands - small and rocky
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Big Ben 2,745 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i Heard Island is dominated by a dormant \Jvolcano\j called Big Ben
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b primarily used for research stations
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Heard Island and McDonald Islands
\BData code:\b HM
\BType of government:\b territory of \JAustralia\j administered by the Ministry for Environment, Sport, and Territories
\BCapital:\b none; administered from \JCanberra\j, \JAustralia\j
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j
#
"Holy See (Vatican City) (Atlas)",104,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Europe, an enclave of \JRome\j (Italy)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 41 54 N, 12 27 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 0.44 sq km
\Iland area:\i 0.44 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3.2 km
border country: \JItaly\j 3.2 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; mild, rainy winters (September to mid-May) with hot, dry summers (May to September)
\BTerrain:\b low hill
\Ilowest point:\i unnamed location 19 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 75 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i signed, but not ratified - Air \JPollution\j, Environmental Modification
\BGeographic note:\b urban; landlocked; enclave of \JRome\j, \JItaly\j; world's smallest state; outside the Vatican City, 13 buildings in \JRome\j and Castel Gandolfo (the pope's summer residence) enjoy extraterritorial rights
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 840 (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.15% (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i none
\Iadjective:\i none
\BEthnic divisions:\b Italians, Swiss
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b Italian, Latin, various other languages
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i The Holy See (State of the Vatican City)
\Iconventional short form:\i Holy See (Vatican City)
\Ilocal long form:\i Santa Sede (Stato della Citta del Vaticano)
\Ilocal short form:\i Santa Sede (Citta del Vaticano)
\BData code:\b VT
\BType of government:\b monarchical-sacerdotal state
\BCapital:\b Vatican City
\BIndependence:\b 11 February 1929 (from Italy)
\BNational holiday:\b Installation Day of the Pope, 22 October (1978) (John Paul II)
\Bnote:\b Pope John Paul II was elected on 16 October 1978
\BConstitution:\b Apostolic Constitution of 1967 (effective 1 March 1968)
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b limited to cardinals less than 80 years old
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Pope JOHN PAUL II (Karol WOJTYLA; since 16 October 1978) was elected for life by the College of Cardinals; election last held 16 October 1978 (next to be held after the death of the current pope); results - Karol WOJTYLA was elected for life by the College of Cardinals
\Ihead of government:\i Secretary of State \JArchbishop\j Angelo Cardinal SODANO (since NA 1991) was appointed by the pope
\Icabinet:\i Pontifical Commission was appointed by Pope
\BJudicial branch:\b none; normally handled by \JItaly\j
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b none (exclusive of influence exercised by church officers)
\BInternational organization participation:\b IAEA, ICFTU, Intelsat, IOM (observer), ITU, OAS (observer), OSCE, UN (observer), UNCTAD, UNHCR, UPU, WIPO, WToO (observer)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Apostolic Pro-Nuncio \JArchbishop\j Agostino CACCIAVILLAN
\Ichancery:\i 3339 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 333-7121
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Raymond L. FLYNN
\Iembassy:\i Villa Domiziana, Via Delle Terme Deciane 26, \JRome\j 00153
\Imailing address:\i PSC 59, APO AE 09624
\Itelephone:\i [39] (6) 46741
\IFAX:\i [39] (6) 5758346, 57300682
\BFlag:\b two vertical bands of yellow (hoist side) and white with the crossed keys of Saint Peter and the papal miter centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This unique, noncommercial economy is supported financially by contributions (known as Peter's Pence) from Roman Catholics throughout the world, the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications. The incomes and living standards of lay workers are comparable to, or somewhat better than, those of counterparts who work in the city of \JRome\j.
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i dignitaries, priests, nuns, guards, and 3,000 lay workers who live outside the Vatican
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $175.5 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $175 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
\BIndustries:\b printing and production of a small amount of mosaics and staff uniforms; worldwide banking and financial activities
\BExchange rates:\b Vatican lire (VLit) per US$1 - 1,583.8 (January 1996), 1,629.6 (1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991); note - the Vatican lira is at par with the Italian lira which circulates freely
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 862 meters; note - connects to \JItaly\j's network at \JRome\j's Saint Peter's station
narrow gauge: 862 meters 1.435-m gauge
\BHighways:\b none; all city streets
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b none
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,000
\BTelephone system:\b automatic exchange
\Idomestic:\i tied into Italian system
\Iinternational:\i uses Italian system
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JItaly\j; Swiss Papal Guards are posted at entrances to Vatican City
#
"Honduras (Atlas)",105,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between \JGuatemala\j and \JNicaragua\j and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and \JNicaragua\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 86 30 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 112,090 sq km
\Iland area:\i 111,890 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JTennessee\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,520 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGuatemala\j 256 km, El Salvador 342 km, \JNicaragua\j 922 km
\BCoastline:\b 820 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: natural extension of territory or to 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b land boundary dispute with El Salvador mostly resolved by 11 September 1992 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision; with respect to the maritime boundary in the Golfo de Fonseca, ICJ referred to an earlier agreement in this century and advised that some tripartite resolution among El Salvador, \JHonduras\j, and \JNicaragua\j likely would be required; maritime boundary dispute with \JNicaragua\j
\BClimate:\b subtropical in lowlands, temperate in mountains
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains in interior, narrow coastal plains
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Las Minas 2,870 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, iron ore, \Jantimony\j, coal, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 14%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 30%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 34%
\Iother:\i 20%
\BIrrigated land:\b 900 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i urban population expanding; deforestation results from logging and the clearing of land for agricultural purposes; further land degradation and soil erosion hastened by uncontrolled development and improper land use practices such as farming of marginal lands; mining activities polluting Lago de Yojoa (the country's largest source of freshwater) with heavy metals as well as several rivers and streams
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent, but generally mild, earthquakes; damaging hurricanes and floods along Caribbean coast
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Tropical Timber 94
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 91,126; female 98,611) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.6% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.53 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.92 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 41.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 68.42 years
\Imale:\i 66.01 years
\Ifemale:\i 70.96 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.41 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Honduran(s)
\Iadjective:\i Honduran
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo (mixed Indian and European) 90%, Indian 7%, black 2%, white 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant minority
\BLanguages:\b Spanish, Indian dialects
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 72.7%
\Imale:\i 72.6%
\Ifemale:\i 72.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JHonduras\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JHonduras\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JHonduras\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JHonduras\j
\BData code:\b HO
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Tegucigalpa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 18 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Atlantida, Choluteca, Colon, Comayagua, Copan, \JCortes\j, El Paraiso, Francisco Morazan, Gracias a Dios, Intibuca, Islas de la \JBahia\j, La Paz, Lempira, Ocotepeque, Olancho, Santa Barbara, Valle, Yoro
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 11 January 1982, effective 20 January 1982
\BLegal system:\b rooted in Roman and Spanish civil law; some influence of English common law; accepts ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Carlos Roberto REINA Idiaquez (since 27 January 1994) was elected for a four-year term by a simple majority of the people; First Vice President General (Ret.) Walter LOPEZ; Second Vice President Juan DE LA CRUZ Avelar; Third Vice President \JGuadeloupe\j JEREZANO; election last held 28 November 1993 (next to be held November 1997); results - Carlos Roberto REINA Idiaquez (PLH) 53%, Oswaldo RAMOS Soto (PNH) 41%, other 6%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Congress (Congreso Nacional): elections last held on 27 November 1993 (next to be held November 1997); results - PNH 53%, PLH 41%, PDCH 1.0%, PINU-SD 2.5%, other 2.5%; seats - (134 total) PNH 55, PLH 77, PINU-SD 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justica), judges are elected for four-year terms by the National Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Party (PLH), Rafael PINEDA Ponce, president; National Party of \JHonduras\j (PNH), Oswaldo RAMOS Soto, president; National Innovation and Unity Party (PINU), Olban VALLADARES, president; Christian Democratic Party (PDCH), Efrain DIAZ Arrivillaga, president
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Association of Honduran Campesinos (ANACH); Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (COHEP); Confederation of Honduran Workers (CTH); National Union of Campesinos (UNC); General Workers Confederation (CGT); United Federation of Honduran Workers (FUTH); Committee for the Defense of Human Rights in \JHonduras\j (CODEH); Coordinating Committee of Popular Organizations (CCOP)
\BInternational organization participation:\b BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), MINURSO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Roberto FLORES Bermudez
\Ichancery:\i 3007 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\Iconsulate(s):\i \JBoston\j, \JDetroit\j, and Jacksonville
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador William T. PRYCE
\Iembassy:\i Avenida La Paz, Apartado Postal No 3453, Tegucigalpa
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy, APO AA 34022, Tegucigalpa
\Itelephone:\i [504] 36-9320, 38-5114
\IFAX:\i [504] 36-9037
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and blue with five blue five-pointed stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band; the stars represent the members of the former Federal Republic of Central America - Costa Rica, El Salvador, \JGuatemala\j, \JHonduras\j, and \JNicaragua\j; similar to the flag of El Salvador, which features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of \JNicaragua\j, which features a triangle encircled by the word REPUBLICA DE \JNICARAGUA\j on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom, centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JHonduras\j is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Agriculture, the most important sector of the economy, employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces two-thirds of exports. Productivity remains low. Manufacturing, still in its early stages, employs about 9% of the labor force, and generates 20% of exports. Many basic problems face the economy, including rapid population growth, high unemployment, \Jinflation\j, a lack of basic services, a large and inefficient public sector, and the dependence of the export sector mostly on \Jcoffee\j and bananas, which are subject to sharp price fluctuations. A far-reaching reform program, initiated by former President CALLEJAS in 1990 and scaled back by President REINA, is beginning to take hold.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $10.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j; illicit producer of cannabis, cultivated on small plots and used principally for local consumption
\I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 307,186; female 388,750) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.77% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.23 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 12.42 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.79 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 82.19 years
\Imale:\i 78.88 years
\Ifemale:\i 85.71 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.3 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chinese
\Iadjective:\i Chinese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Chinese 95%, other 5%
\BReligions:\b eclectic mixture of local religions 90%, Christian 10%
\BLanguages:\b Chinese (Cantonese), English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 92.2%
\Imale:\i 96%
\Ifemale:\i 88.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of People's Republic of China (HKSAR)
\Iconventional short form:\i Hong Kong
abbreviation: HK
\BData code:\b HK
\BType of government:\b Special Administrative Region of People's Republic of China (HKSAR) with a high degree of autonomy
\BCapital:\b Victoria
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 1 only
\BIndependence:\b none
\BNational holiday:\b Liberation Day, 29 August (1945)
\BConstitution:\b In process of formulation
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law with final ajudication in H.K.
\BSuffrage:\b direct election 18 years of age; universal for permanent residents living in the territory of Hong Kong for the past seven years; indirect election limited to about 100,000 professionals of electoral college and functional constituencies. A new political system is in the process of evolving.
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Jiang Zemin
\Ihead of government:\i Tung Chee Hwa
\Icabinet:\i
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council: indirect and direct elections last held 17 September 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total, 30 indirectly elected by functional constituencies, 20 directly elected, 10 elected by election committee) Democratic Party 21, Liberal Party 10, Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong 6, other parties and independents 23. Hong Kong is preparing for new elections in 1998.
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court - Court of Final Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party, Martin LEE, chairman; Liberal Party, Allen LEE, chairman; Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong, TSANG Yuk-shing, chairman; Hong Kong Democratic Foundation, Dr. Patrick SHIU Kin-ying, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Association for Democracy and People's Livelihood (ADPL), Frederick FUNG Kin Kee, chairman; Liberal Democratic Federation, HU Fa-kuang, chairman; Federation of Trade Unions (pro-China), LEE Chark-tim, president; Hong Kong and \JKowloon\j Trade Union Council (pro-Taiwan); Confederation of Trade Unions (pro-democracy), LEE Cheuk-yan, chairman; Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce; Chinese General Chamber of Commerce (pro-China); Federation of Hong Kong Industries; Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong; Hong Kong Professional Teachers' Union, CHEUNG Man-kwong, president; Hong Kong Alliance in Support of the Patriotic Democratic Movement in China, Szeto WAH, chairman
\BFlag:\b The white Bauhinia flower on a red background.
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Hong Kong has a bustling free market economy with few tariffs or nontariff barriers. Natural resources are limited, and food and raw materials must be imported. Manufacturing and construction account for about 18% of GDP. Goods and services exports account for about 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth averaged a remarkable 8% in 1987-88, slowed to 3.0% in 1989-90, and picked up to 4.2% in 1991, 5.0% in 1992, 5.2% in 1993, 5.5% in 1994, and 5.0% in 1995. Unemployment, which has been declining since the mid-1980s, edged up from 2% to 3.5% in 1995. Notwithstanding, a shortage of labor continues to put upward pressure on prices and the cost of living. Prospects for 1996 remain bright so long as major trading partners continue to be reasonably prosperous and so long as investors feel China will support free market practices after the takeover in 1997.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $152.4 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $27,500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 0.2%
\Iindustry:\i 18.4%
\Iservices:\i 81.4% (1995 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 8.4% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 2,915,400 (1994)
\Iby occupation:\i manufacturing 28.5%, wholesale and retail trade, restaurants, and hotels 27.9%, services 17.7%, financing, insurance, and real estate 9.2%, transport and communications 4.5%, construction 2.5%, other 9.7% (1989)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.5% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $19 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $14.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $289 million (FY94/95)
\Icommodities:\i clothing, textiles, yarn and fabric, footwear, electrical appliances, watches and clocks, toys
\Ipartners:\i China 33%, US 22%, \JGermany\j 5%, \JJapan\j 5%, UK 3% (1993)
\BImports:\b $195.4 billion (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i foodstuffs, transport equipment, raw materials, semimanufactures, \Jpetroleum\j; a large share is re-exported
\Ipartners:\i China 38%, \JJapan\j 17%, \JTaiwan\j 9%, US 7% (1993)
\BExternal debt:\b none (1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Hong Kong dollar (HK$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Hong Kong dollars (HK$) per US$ - 7.800 (1995), 7.800 (1994), 7.800 (1993), 7.741 (1992), 7.771 (1991); note - linked to the US dollar at the rate of about 7.8 HK$ per 1 US$ since 1985
ships by type: bulk 129, cargo 32, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 4, combination ore/oil 3, container 39, liquefied gas tanker 3, multifunction large load carrier 1, oil tanker 17, refrigerated cargo 5, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 3
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 17 countries among which are UK 51, China 11, \JBelgium\j 8, South Africa 8, US 8, \JJapan\j 7, \JBermuda\j 6, \JSwitzerland\j 6, \JGermany\j 3, and Israel 3 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b new international airport to be commissioned in 1997/98
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 4.13 million (1995 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern facilities provide excellent domestic and international services
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay links and extensive fiber-optic network
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Pacific Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean); coaxial cable to \JGuangzhou\j, China; access to 5 international submarine cables providing connections to ASEAN member nations, \JJapan\j, \JTaiwan\j, \JAustralia\j, Middle East, and Western Europe
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (British Broadcasting Corporation repeater 1; British Forces Broadcasting Service repeater 1)
\BTelevisions:\b 1.75 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b People's Liberation Army of China
#
"Howland Island (Atlas)",107,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 48 N, 176 38 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.6 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1.6 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about three times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 6.4 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
\BTerrain:\b low-lying, nearly level, sandy, \Jcoral\j island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef; depressed central area
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 3 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j (deposits worked until late 1800s)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 5%
\Iother:\i 95%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b almost totally covered with grasses, prostrate vines, and low-growing shrubs; small area of trees in the center; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife; feral cats
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited; note - American civilians evacuated in 1942 after Japanese air and naval attacks during World War II; occupied by US military during World War II, but abandoned after the war; public entry is by special-use permit only and generally restricted to scientists and educators
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Howland Island
\BData code:\b HQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only; note - there is one boat landing area along the middle of the west coast
\BAirports:\b airstrip constructed in 1937 for scheduled refueling stop on the round-the-world flight of Amelia Earhart and Fred Noonan - they left Lae, New Guinea, for Howland Island, but were never seen again; the airstrip is no longer serviceable
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b Earhart Light is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast that was partially destroyed during World War II, but has since been rebuilt; named in memory of famed aviatrix Amelia Earhart
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard
#
"Hungary (Atlas)",108,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, northwest of \JRomania\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 47 00 N, 20 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 93,030 sq km
\Iland area:\i 92,340 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JIndiana\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,009 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 366 km, \JCroatia\j 329 km, \JRomania\j 443 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 151 km (all with Serbia), \JSlovakia\j 515 km, \JSlovenia\j 102 km, \JUkraine\j 103 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b Gabcikovo Dam dispute with \JSlovakia\j
\Icurrent issues:\i an early-1996 government study identified 179 areas that suffer from air \Jpollution\j, 54 areas with polluted soil, and 32 areas with polluted underground water; the study estimated clean-up costs at $350 million, but the 1996 government budget allocates only about $7 million for this purpose
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; strategic location astride main land routes between Western Europe and Balkan Peninsula as well as between \JUkraine\j and Mediterranean basin
\BIndependence:\b 1001 (unification by King Stephen I)
\BNational holiday:\b St. Stephen's Day (National Day), 20 August (commemorates the founding of Hungarian state circa 1000 AD)
\BConstitution:\b 18 August 1949, effective 20 August 1949, revised 19 April 1972; 18 October 1989 revision ensured legal rights for individuals and constitutional checks on the authority of the prime minister and also established the principle of parliamentary oversight
\BLegal system:\b in process of revision, moving toward rule of law based on Western model
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Arpad GONCZ (since 3 August 1990; previously interim president from 2 May 1990) was elected for a four-year term by the National Assembly; election last held 19 June 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President GONCZ elected by parliamentary vote with a total of 259 votes out of 335
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Gyula HORN (since 15 July 1994) was elected by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was elected by the National Assembly on recommendation of the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Orszaggyules): elections last held on 8 and 29 May 1994 (next to be held spring 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (386 total) MSzP 209, SzDSz 70, MDF 37, FKgP 26, KDNP 22, FiDeSz 20, other 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the National Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF), Lajos FUR, chairman; Independent Smallholders (FKgP), Jozsef TORGYAN, president; Hungarian Socialist Party (MSzP), Gyula HORN, president; Christian Democratic People's Party (KDNP), Gyorgy GICZY, president; Federation of Young Democrats (FiDeSz), Viktor ORBAN, chairman; Alliance of Free Democrats (SzDSz), Ivan PETO, chairman
\Bnote:\b the Hungarian Socialist (Communist) Workers' Party (MSzMP) renounced \JCommunism\j and became the Hungarian Socialist Party (MSzP) in October 1989; there is still a small MMP
\Ichancery:\i 3910 Shoemaker Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 362-6730
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 966-8135
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Donald M. BLINKEN
\Iembassy:\i V. Szabadsag Ter 12, Budapest
\Imailing address:\i Am Embassy, Unit 1320, APO AE 09213-1320
\Itelephone:\i [36] (1) 267-4400, 269-9331
\IFAX:\i [36] (1) 269-9326
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and green
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JHungary\j, probably the most Western-oriented economy in East Europe before the transition to a market system began in 1990, made good progress in the initial years of transition. The reform process slowed in 1993-94, however, in part because of the May 1994 elections and the resulting change in government. By 1994 the privatization of state firms had ground to a halt, while both the budget and current account deficits soared to unsustainable levels - about 8% and 10% of GDP, respectively. The situation improved sharply in 1995; an austerity program introduced in March reduced both deficits, and a renewed privatization effort later in 1995 resulted in more than $3 billion worth of sales of state firms to foreign investors - money that will be used to reduce \JHungary\j's large foreign debt. As for other macroeconomic developments, real GDP increased 2.9% in 1994 - following several years of steep decline - and about 1.5% in 1995. Unemployment reached 14% in early 1993 before gradually falling back to 10% in 1995. \JInflation\j has oscillated; it reached 40% in mid-1991, dropped to 17% in early 1994, and then jumped back to 31% by mid-1995. Prospects for 1996 are good. With the government still committed to austerity, both the budget and current account deficits should fall to about 4% of GDP. Economic growth is expected to be about 2% and unemployment at about 10%, with \Jinflation\j falling to 20% by yearend. In March 1996 the IMF signed a new standby loan agreement with Budapest, and the OECD approved \JHungary\j's application for admission.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $72.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b major transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and transit point for South American \Jcocaine\j destined for Western Europe; limited producer of precursor chemicals
\BExports:\b $13 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i raw materials and semi-finished goods 36.4%, consumer goods 26.7%, food and agriculture 20.5%, capital goods 13.1%, fuels and energy 3.3% (1994)
\Icommodities:\i fuels and energy 11.0%, raw materials and semi-finished goods 36.9%, capital goods 23.3%, consumer goods 22.0%, food and agriculture 6.8% (1994)
standard gauge: 7,474 km 1.435-m gauge (2,162 km electrified; 1,236 km double track)
narrow gauge: 176 km mostly 0.760-m gauge (1995)
\Bnote:\b Hungry and \JAustria\j jointly manage the cross-border standard-gauge railway between \JGyor\j, Sopron, Ebenfurti, and Vasut, a distance of about 100 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 158,711 km
\Ipaved:\i 69,992 km (including 441 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 88,719 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,622 km (1988)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,204 km; natural gas 4,387 km (1991)
\BTelephone system:\b 14,213 telex lines; automatic \Jtelephone\j network based on microwave radio relay system; 608,000 telephones on order; 12-15 year wait for a \Jtelephone\j; 49% of all telephones are in Budapest (1991 est.); note - the former state-owned telecommunications firm MATAV - now privatized and managed by a US/German consortium - has ambitious plans to upgrade the inadequate system, including a contract with the German firm Siemens and the Swedish firm Ericsson to provide 600,000 new phone lines during 1996-98
males reach military age (18) annually: 82,040 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $620 million, 1.7% of GDP (1995)
#
"Iceland (Atlas)",109,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, island between the \JGreenland\j Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northwest of the UK
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 65 00 N, 18 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JArctic\j Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 103,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 100,250 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Kentucky
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 4,988 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, Ireland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
\BClimate:\b temperate; moderated by North Atlantic Current; mild, windy winters; damp, cool summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly plateau interspersed with mountain peaks, icefields; coast deeply indented by bays and fiords
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from \Jfertilizer\j runoff; inadequate wastewater treatment
\Inatural hazards:\i earthquakes and volcanic activity
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location between \JGreenland\j and Europe; westernmost European country; more land covered by glaciers than in all of continental Europe
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 270,292 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b population data estimates based on average growth rate may differ slightly from official population data because of volatile migration rates
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 24% (male 33,605; female 31,933)
\I15-64 years:\i 64% (male 88,064; female 85,724)
\I65 years and over:\i 12% (male 13,916; female 17,050) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.83% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 16.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.17 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.82 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 4.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 80.08 years
\Imale:\i 77.68 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.6 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.24 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Icelander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Icelandic
\BEthnic divisions:\b homogeneous mixture of descendants of Norwegians and \JCelts\j
\BReligions:\b Evangelical Lutheran 96%, other Protestant and Roman Catholic 3%, none 1% (1988)
\BLanguages:\b Icelandic
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JIceland\j
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Establishment of the Republic, 17 June (1944)
\BConstitution:\b 16 June 1944, effective 17 June 1944
\BLegal system:\b civil law system based on Danish law; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR (since 1 August 1980) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 29 June 1988 (next to be held June 1996); results - there was no election in 1992 as President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR was unopposed
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister David ODDSSON (since 30 April 1991) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Althing): elections last held on 8 April 1995 (next to be held by April 1999); results - Independence Party 37.1%, Progressive Party 23.3%, Social Democratic Party 11.4%, Socialists 14.3%, People's Movement 7.2%, Women's Party 4.9%; seats - (63 total) Independence 25, Progressive 15, Social Democratic 7, Socialists 9, People's Movement 4, Women's Party 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Haestirettur), justices are appointed for life by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Independence Party (conservative), David ODDSSON; Progressive Party (liberal), Halldor ASGRIMSSON; Social Democratic Party, Jon Baldvin HANNIBALSSON; People's Alliance (left socialist), Margret FRIMANNSDOTTIR; Women's Party, Kristin ASTGEIRSDOTTIR; People's Movement (centrist); National Awakening ( People's Revival Party), Johanna SIGURDARDOTTIR
\BFlag:\b blue with a red cross outlined in white that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JIceland\j's Scandinavian-type economy is basically capitalistic, but with an extensive welfare system, low unemployment, and comparatively even distribution of income. The economy is heavily dependent on the fishing industry, which provides nearly 75% of export earnings and employs 12% of the work force. In the absence of other natural resources - except energy - \JIceland\j's economy is vulnerable to changing world fish prices. The economy, in recession since 1988, began to recover in 1993, posting 0.4% growth, but was still hampered by cutbacks in fish quotas as well as falling world prices for its main exports: fish and fish products, aluminum, and ferrosilicon. The center-right government plans to continue its policies of reducing the budget and current account deficits, limiting foreign borrowing, containing \Jinflation\j, revising agricultural and fishing policies, diversifying the economy, and privatizing state-owned industries. The government, however, remains divided on the issue of EU membership, primarily because of Icelanders' concern about losing control over their fishing resources.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i commerce, transportation, and services 60.0%, manufacturing 12.5%, fishing and fish processing 11.8%, construction 10.8%, agriculture 4.0%, other 0.9% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.9% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.9 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $297 million (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b fish processing, aluminum smelting, ferrosilicon production, geothermal power
Industrial production growth rate: 1.75% (1991 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 1,070,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 4.7 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 16,458 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b potatoes, turnips; \Jcattle\j, sheep; fish catch of about 1.1 million metric tons in 1992
\BExports:\b $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i fish and fish products, animal products, aluminum, ferrosilicon, diatomite
ships by type: cargo 1, chemical tanker 1, oil tanker 1, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 84
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 5
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 49
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 22 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 143,600 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate domestic service
\Idomestic:\i the trunk network consists of coaxial and fiber-optic cables and microwave radio relay links
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - \JIceland\j shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, \JFinland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 147 (transmitters and repeaters), shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 91,500 licensed (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 202 (transmitters and repeaters)
\BTelevisions:\b 96,100 licensed (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular armed forces; Police, Coast Guard; note - \JIceland\j's defense is provided by the US-manned Icelandic
\BDefense:\b Force (IDF) headquartered at Keflavik
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 71,317
\Imales fit for military service:\i 63,126 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i none
#
"India (Atlas)",110,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between \JBurma\j and \JPakistan\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 20 00 N, 77 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 3,287,590 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,973,190 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than one-third the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,103 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBangladesh\j 4,053 km, \JBhutan\j 605 km, \JBurma\j 1,463 km, China 3,380 km, \JNepal\j 1,690 km, \JPakistan\j 2,912 km
\BCoastline:\b 7,000 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b boundaries with \JBangladesh\j and China in dispute; status of Kashmir with \JPakistan\j; water-sharing problems with downstream riparians, \JBangladesh\j over the Ganges and \JPakistan\j over the Indus (Wular Barrage)
\BClimate:\b varies from tropical monsoon in south to temperate in north
\BTerrain:\b upland plain (Deccan Plateau) in south, flat to rolling plain along the Ganges, deserts in west, \JHimalayas\j in north
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Kanchenjunga 8,598 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal (fourth-largest reserves in the world), iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, mica, \Jbauxite\j, \Jtitanium\j ore, chromite, natural gas, diamonds, \Jpetroleum\j, \Jlimestone\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 55%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 4%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 23%
\Iother:\i 17%
\BIrrigated land:\b 430,390 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; overgrazing; \Jdesertification\j; air \Jpollution\j from industrial effluents and vehicle emissions; water \Jpollution\j from raw sewage and runoff of agricultural pesticides; tap water is not potable throughout the country; huge and rapidly growing population is overstraining natural resources
\Inatural hazards:\i droughts, flash floods, severe thunderstorms common; earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b dominates South Asian subcontinent; near important Indian Ocean trade routes
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 19,148,385; female 19,527,771) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.64% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 25.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.04 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.07 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 71.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 59.71 years
\Imale:\i 59.12 years
\Ifemale:\i 60.32 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.2 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Indian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Indian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Indo-Aryan 72%, Dravidian 25%, \JMongoloid\j and other 3%
\BReligions:\b Hindu 80%, Muslim 14%, Christian 2.4%, Sikh 2%, Buddhist 0.7%, Jains 0.5%, other 0.4%
\BLanguages:\b English enjoys associate status but is the most important language for national, political, and commercial communication, \JHindi\j the national language and primary tongue of 30% of the people, \JBengali\j (official), \JTelugu\j (official), \JMarathi\j (official), Tamil (official), \JUrdu\j (official), \JGujarati\j (official), \JMalayalam\j (official), \JKannada\j (official), Oriya (official), \JPunjabi\j (official), Assamese (official), Kashmiri (official), Sindhi (official), Sanskrit (official), Hindustani a popular variant of Hindu/Urdu, is spoken widely throughout northern India
\Bnote:\b 24 languages each spoken by a million or more persons; numerous other languages and dialects, for the most part mutually unintelligible
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 52%
\Imale:\i 65.5%
\Ifemale:\i 37.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of India
\Iconventional short form:\i India
\BData code:\b IN
\BType of government:\b federal republic
\BCapital:\b New Delhi
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 25 states and 7 union territories*; Andaman and Nicobar Islands*, Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chandigarh*, Dadra and Nagar Haveli*, Daman and Diu*, Delhi*, \JGoa\j, \JGujarat\j, Haryana, Himachel Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, \JKarnataka\j, \JKerala\j, Lakshadweep*, Madhya Pradesh, \JMaharashtra\j, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, \JNagaland\j, Orissa, Pondicherry*, Punjab, \JRajasthan\j, \JSikkim\j, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal
\BIndependence:\b 15 August 1947 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 26 January (1950)
\BConstitution:\b 26 January 1950
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; limited judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Shankar Dayal SHARMA (since 25 July 1992) was elected for a five-year term by an electoral college consisting of elected members of both houses of Parliament and the legislatures of the states; Vice President Kicheril Raman NARAYANAN (since 21 August 1992) was elected by both houses of Parliament
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha RAO (since 21 June 1991) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Council of States (Rajya Sabha): body consisting of not more than 250 members, up to 12 appointed by the president, the remainder chosen by the elected members of the state and territorial assemblies
People's Assembly (Lok Sabha): elections last held 21 May, 12 and 15 June 1991 (next to be held 27 April through May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (545 total, 543 elected, 2 appointed) Congress (I) Party 245, BJP 119, Janata Dal Party 39, Janata Dal (Ajit Singh) 20, CPI/M 35, CPI 14, \JTelugu\j Desam 13, AIADMK 11, Samajwadi Janata Party 5, Shiv Sena 4, RSP 4, BSP 1, Congress (S) Party 1, other 23, vacant 9; note - the distribution of seats as of 18 January 1995 is as follows: Congress (I) Party 260, BJP 117, CPI/M 36, Janata Dal Party 24, Samata Party 14, CPI 14, AIADMK 12, Janata Dal (Ajit) 7, \JTelugu\j Desam 7, RSP 4, Janata Dal (Ex-Ajit) 3, Samajwadi Party 3, BSP 3, AIFB 3, Shiv Sena 2, Congress (S) Party 1, \JKerala\j Congress (Mani faction) 1, Bihar Peoples Party 1, India National League 1, other 14, vacant 16
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Congress (I) Party, P. V. Narasimha RAO, president; Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), L.K. ADVANI; Janata Dal Party, Laloo Prasad YADAV; Janata Dal (Ajit), Ajit SINGH; Janata Dal (Ex-Ajit), leader NA; Communist Party of India/Marxist (CPI/M), Harkishan Singh SURJEET; Communist Party of India (CPI), Indrajit GUPTA; \JTelugu\j Desam (Naidu) (a regional party in Andhra Pradesh), Chandrababu NAIDU; All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (AIADMK; a regional party in Tamil Nadu), Jayaram JAYALALITHA; Samajwadi Party (SP), Mulayam Singh YADAV (president), Om Prakash CHAUTALA, Devi LAL; Shiv Sena, Bal THACKERAY; Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), Tridip CHOWDHURY; Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Kanshi RAM; Congress (S) Party, leader NA; Communist Party of India/Marxist-Leninist (CPI/ML), Vinod MISHRA; Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (a regional party in Tamil Nadu), M. KARUNANIDHI; Akali Dal factions representing Sikh religious community in the Punjab; National Conference (NC; a regional party in Jammu and Kashmir), Farooq ABDULLAH; Bihar Peoples Party, Lovely ANAND; Samata Party (formerly Janata Dal members), George FERNANDES; Indian National League, Suliaman SAIT; \JKerala\j Congress (Mani faction), K.M. MANI; All India Forward Bloc (AIFB), Prem Dutta PALIWAL (chairman), Chitta BASU (general secretary); Congress (Tiwari), Arjun SINGH and N.D. TIWARI
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b various separatist groups seeking greater communal and/or regional autonomy; numerous religious or militant/chauvinistic organizations, including Adam Sena, Ananda Marg, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of orange (top), white, and green with a blue chakra (24-spoked wheel) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of \JNiger\j, which has a small orange disk centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b India's economy is a mixture of traditional village farming, modern agriculture, handicrafts, a wide range of modern industries, and a multitude of support services. Faster economic growth in the 1980s permitted a significant increase in real per capita private consumption. A large share of the population, perhaps as much as 40%, remains too poor to afford an adequate diet. Financial strains in 1990 and 1991 prompted government austerity measures that slowed industrial growth but permitted India to meet its international payment obligations without rescheduling its debt. Production, trade, and investment reforms since 1991 have provided new opportunities for Indian businessmen and an estimated 200 million plus middle class consumers. New Delhi has always paid its foreign debts on schedule and has stimulated exports, attracted foreign investment, and revived confidence in India's economic prospects. GDP growth in 1992-95 has averaged nearly 5%. Most of the country's external fundamentals - including the current account balance and reserves (now nearly $17 billion) are healthy. Party politics is increasingly shaping the debate over economic reforms. In addition, the 25 Indian states and several union territories, which are playing a more active role in determining economic policy, are further complicating the economic climate. The Indian Government will also have to watch closely rising government expenditures and higher debt servicing which could create a debt trap by the turn of the century. Nevertheless, India should achieve economic growth of 5.5%-6.5% annually through the next several years. Even if a weak coalition government comes to power in 1996 and is unable to push reforms aggressively, parts of the economy that have already benefited from deregulation will continue to grow. Moreover, the country can build on other strengths, including its diverse industrial base, large scientific and technical pool, well-developed legal system, and its large middle class to achieve higher growth.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.4087 trillion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 5.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 9% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 314.751 million (1990)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 65% (1993 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $36.5 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $54.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $11.4 billion (FY94/95)
Industrial production growth rate: 10% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 81,200,000 kW (March 1995)
\Iproduction:\i 314 billion kWh (1993)
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 324 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, wheat, oilseed, cotton, jute, tea, sugarcane, potatoes; \Jcattle\j, water buffalo, sheep, goats, poultry; fish catch of about 3 million metric tons ranks India among the world's top 10 fishing nations
\BIllicit drugs:\b licit producer of opium for the pharmaceutical trade, but an undetermined quantity of opium is diverted to illicit international drug markets; major transit country for illicit \Jnarcotics\j produced in neighboring countries; illicit producer of hashish and methaqualone; produced 70 metric tons of illicit opium in 1995
\BExports:\b $29.96 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i clothing, gems and jewelry, \Jengineering\j goods, chemicals, leather manufactures, cotton yarn, and fabric
\Ipartners:\i US, \JJapan\j, \JGermany\j, UK, Hong Kong
\BImports:\b $33.5 billion (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil and \Jpetroleum\j products, machinery, gems, \Jfertilizer\j, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i US, \JGermany\j, Saudi \JArabia\j, UK, \JBelgium\j, \JJapan\j
\BExternal debt:\b $97.9 billion (March 1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $1.237 billion (1993); US ODA bilateral commitments $171 million; US Ex-Im bilateral commitments $680 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA bilateral commitments $2.48 billion; OPEC bilateral aid $200 million; World Bank (IBRD) multilateral commitments $2.8 billion; Asian Development Bank (AsDB) multilateral commitments $760 million; International Finance Corporation (IFC) multilateral commitments $200 million; other multilateral commitments $554 million (1995-96)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 36 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 15 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 9.8 million (1995)
\BTelephone system:\b probably the least adequate \Jtelephone\j system of any of the industrializing countries; three of every four villages have no \Jtelephone\j service; only 5% of India's villages have long-distance service; poor \Jtelephone\j service significantly impedes commercial and industrial growth and penalizes India in global markets; slow improvement is taking place with the recent admission of private and private-public investors, but demand for communication services is also growing rapidly
\Idomestic:\i local service is provided mostly by open wire and obsolete electromechanical and manual switchboard systems; within the last 10 years a substantial amount of digital switch gear has been introduced for local service; long-distance traffic is carried mostly by open wire, coaxial cable, and low-capacity microwave radio relay; since 1985, however, significant trunk capacity has been added in the form of fiber-optic cable and a domestic satellite system with over 100 earth stations
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 8 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region); submarine cables to \JMalaysia\j and UAE
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 96, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, various security or paramilitary forces (includes Border Security Force, Assam Rifles, and Coast Guard)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 260,624,007
\Imales fit for military service:\i 153,176,413
males reach military age (17) annually: 9,770,331 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $8.0 billion, 2.7% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Indian Ocean (Atlas)",111,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b body of water between Africa, \JAntarctica\j, Asia, and \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 30 00 S, 80 00 E
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 73.6 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than eight times the size of the US; third-largest ocean (after the Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean, but larger than the \JArctic\j Ocean)
\Bnote:\b includes Arabian Sea, Bass Straight, Bay of Bengal, Great Australian Bight, Gulf of Oman, Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Strait of Malacca, and other tributary water bodies
\BCoastline:\b 66,526 km
\BInternational disputes:\b some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
\BClimate:\b northeast monsoon (December to April), southwest monsoon (June to October); tropical cyclones occur during May/June and October/November in the northern Indian Ocean and January/February in the southern Indian Ocean
\BTerrain:\b surface dominated by counterclockwise gyre (broad, circular system of currents) in the southern Indian Ocean; unique reversal of surface currents in the northern Indian Ocean; low atmospheric pressure over southwest Asia from hot, rising, summer air results in the southwest monsoon and southwest-to-northeast winds and currents, while high pressure over northern Asia from cold, falling, winter air results in the northeast monsoon and northeast-to-southwest winds and currents; ocean floor is dominated by the Mid-Indian Ocean Ridge and subdivided by the Southeast Indian Ocean Ridge, Southwest Indian Ocean Ridge, and Ninety East Ridge
\Ilowest point:\i Java Trench -7,258 m
\Ihighest point:\i sea level 0 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil and gas fields, fish, shrimp, sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i endangered marine species include the \Jdugong\j, seals, turtles, and whales; oil \Jpollution\j in the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea
\Inatural hazards:\i ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme south near \JAntarctica\j from May to October
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b major chokepoints include Bab el Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz, Strait of Malacca, southern access to the Suez Canal, and the Lombok Strait
\BGovernment:\b
\BData code:\b none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Indian Ocean provides major sea routes connecting the Middle East, Africa, and East Asia with Europe and the Americas. It carries a particularly heavy traffic of \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products from the oilfields of the Persian Gulf and \JIndonesia\j. Its fish are of great and growing importance to the bordering countries for domestic consumption and export. Fishing fleets from \JRussia\j, \JJapan\j, Korea, and \JTaiwan\j also exploit the Indian Ocean, mainly for shrimp and \Jtuna\j. Large reserves of \Jhydrocarbons\j are being tapped in the offshore areas of Saudi \JArabia\j, \JIran\j, India, and western \JAustralia\j. An estimated 40% of the world's offshore oil production comes from the Indian Ocean. Beach sands rich in heavy minerals and offshore placer deposits are actively exploited by bordering countries, particularly India, South Africa, \JIndonesia\j, Sri Lanka, and \JThailand\j.
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b \JCalcutta\j (India), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Durban (South Africa), Jakarta (Indonesia), Madras (India), Melbourne (Australia), \JMumbai\j (Bombay; India), Richard's Bay (South Africa)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables from India to UAE and \JMalaysia\j and from Sri Lanka to Djibouti and \JIndonesia\j
#
"Indonesia (Atlas)",112,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 5 00 S, 120 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,919,440 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,826,440 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three times the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,602 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JMalaysia\j 1,782 km, Papua New Guinea 820 km
\BCoastline:\b 54,716 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b sovereignty over \JTimor\j \JTimur\j (East \JTimor\j Province) disputed with \JPortugal\j and not recognized by the UN; two islands in dispute with \JMalaysia\j
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
\BTerrain:\b mostly coastal lowlands; larger islands have interior mountains
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; water \Jpollution\j from industrial wastes, sewage; air \Jpollution\j in urban areas
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional floods, severe droughts, and tsunamis
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b archipelago of 13,500 islands (6,000 inhabited); straddles Equator; strategic location astride or along major sea lanes from Indian Ocean to Pacific Ocean
\BReligions:\b Muslim 87%, Protestant 6%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 2%, Buddhist 1%, other 1% (1985)
\BLanguages:\b Bahasa \JIndonesia\j (official, modified form of Malay), English, Dutch, local dialects the most widely spoken of which is \JJavanese\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 83.8%
\Imale:\i 89.6%
\Ifemale:\i 78%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JIndonesia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JIndonesia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republik \JIndonesia\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JIndonesia\j
\Iformer:\i Netherlands East Indies; Dutch East Indies
\BData code:\b ID
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Jakarta
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 24 provinces (propinsi-propinsi, singular - propinsi), 2 special regions* (daerah-daerah istimewa, singular - daerah istimewa), and 1 special capital city district** (daerah khusus ibukota); Aceh*, Bali, Bengkulu, Irian Jaya, Jakarta Raya**, Jambi, Jawa Barat, Jawa Tengah, Jawa \JTimur\j, \JKalimantan\j Barat, \JKalimantan\j Selatan, \JKalimantan\j Tengah, \JKalimantan\j \JTimur\j, Lampung, Maluku, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Nusa Tenggara \JTimur\j, Riau, Sulawesi Selatan, Sulawesi Tengah, Sulawesi Tenggara, Sulawesi Utara, Sumatera Barat, Sumatera Selatan, Sumatera Utara, \JTimor\j \JTimur\j, Yogyakarta*
\BIndependence:\b 17 August 1945 (proclaimed independence; on 27 December 1949, \JIndonesia\j became legally independent from the Netherlands)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 17 August (1945)
\BConstitution:\b August 1945, abrogated by Federal Constitution of 1949 and Provisional Constitution of 1950, restored 5 July 1959
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman-Dutch law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts and by new criminal procedures code; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 17 years of age; universal and married persons regardless of age
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Gen. (Ret.) SOEHARTO (since 27 March 1968) and Vice President Gen. (Ret.) Try SUTRISNO (since 11 March 1993) were elected for five-year terms by the People's Consultative Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Representatives (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat or DPR): elections last held 28 May 1997; results - GOLKAR returned with increased majority
\Bnote:\b the People's Consultative Assembly (Majelis Permusyawaratan Rakyat or MPR) includes the DPR plus 500 indirectly elected members who meet every five years to elect the president and vice president and, theoretically, to determine national policy
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Mahkamah Agung), the judges are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b GOLKAR (quasi-official party based on functional groups), HARMOKO, general chairman; \JIndonesia\j Democracy Party (PDI - federation of former Nationalist and Christian Parties), Megawati SUKARNOPUTRI, chairman; Development Unity Party (PPP, federation of former Islamic parties), Ismail Hasan METAREUM, chairman
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Arifin Mohamad SIREGAR
\Ichancery:\i 2020 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 775-5200
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 775-5365
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador J. Stapleton ROY
\Iembassy:\i Medan Merdeka Selatan 5, Jakarta
\Imailing address:\i Box 1, APO AP 96520
\Itelephone:\i [62] (21) 360360
\IFAX:\i [62] (21) 3862259
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Medan, \JSurabaya\j
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; similar to the flag of Monaco, which is shorter; also similar to the flag of \JPoland\j, which is white (top) and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JIndonesia\j is a mixed economy with some central planning but with an emphasis on rapid deregulation and private enterprise. Real GDP growth in 1985-95 averaged about 7%, quite impressive, but not sufficient to both slash underemployment and absorb the 2.3 million workers annually entering the labor force. Plantation crops - rubber and palm oil - and textiles and plywood are being encouraged for both export and job generation. Industrial output is based on a supply of diverse natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, timber, metals, and coal. Foreign investment has also boosted manufacturing output and exports in recent years. Indeed, the economy's growth is highly dependent on the continuing expansion of nonoil exports. \JJapan\j remains \JIndonesia\j's most important customer and supplier of aid. Like some other rapidly developing countries in Southeast Asia, \JIndonesia\j is struggling to keep the economy from overheating.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $710.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis largely for domestic use; government actively eradicating plantings and prosecuting traffickers; minor role as transshipment point for Golden Triangle heroin
\BExports:\b $39.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 51.9%, fuels 26.4%, foodstuffs 12.7%, raw materials 9.0%
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 27.4%, US 14.6%, \JSingapore\j 10.1%, South Korea 6.5%, \JTaiwan\j 4.1%, Netherlands 3.3%, China 3.3%, Hong Kong 3.3%, \JGermany\j 3.2%
\BImports:\b $32 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 75.3%, raw materials 9.0%, foodstuffs 7.8%, fuels 7.7%
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 24.2%, US 11.2%, \JGermany\j 7.7%, South Korea 6.8%, \JSingapore\j 5.9%, \JAustralia\j 4.8%, \JTaiwan\j 4.5%, China 4.3%
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea, between \JIraq\j and \JPakistan\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 32 00 N, 53 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.648 million sq km
\Iland area:\i 1.636 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JAlaska\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,440 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 936 km, Armenia 35 km, Azerbaijan-proper 432 km, Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave 179 km, \JIraq\j 1,458 km, \JPakistan\j 909 km, Turkey 499 km, Turkmenistan 992 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,440 km
\Bnote:\b \JIran\j also borders the Caspian Sea (740 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: natural prolongation
exclusive economic zone: bilateral agreements, or median lines in the Persian Gulf
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b \JIran\j and \JIraq\j restored diplomatic relations in 1990 but are still trying to work out written agreements settling outstanding disputes from their eight-year war concerning border demarcation, prisoners-of-war, and freedom of navigation and sovereignty over the Shatt al-Arab waterway; \JIran\j occupies two islands in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE: Lesser Tunb (called Tunb as Sughra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek in Persian by Iran) and Greater Tunb (called Tunb al Kubra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg in Persian by Iran); it jointly administers with the UAE an island in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE (called Abu Musa in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Abu Musa in Persian by Iran); in 1992 the dispute over Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when \JIran\j unilaterally tried to control the entry of third country nationals into the UAE portion of Abu Musa island, Tehran subsequently backed off in the face of significant diplomatic support for the UAE in the region, but in 1994 it increased its military presence on the disputed islands; periodic disputes with \JAfghanistan\j over Helmand water rights; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined; support to clients in \JAfghanistan\j
\BClimate:\b mostly arid or semiarid, subtropical along Caspian coast
\BTerrain:\b rugged, mountainous rim; high, central basin with deserts, mountains; small, discontinuous plains along both coasts
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j, especially in urban areas, from vehicle emissions, refinery operations, and industrial effluents; deforestation; overgrazing; \Jdesertification\j; oil \Jpollution\j in the Persian Gulf; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts, floods; dust storms, sandstorms; earthquakes along the Western border
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 1,327,718; female 1,253,274) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.21% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 52.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 67.39 years
\Imale:\i 66.12 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.72 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.72 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Iranian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Iranian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Persian 51%, Azerbaijani 24%, Gilaki and Mazandarani 8%, Kurd 7%, Arab 3%, Lur 2%, Baloch 2%, Turkmen 2%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b Shi'a Muslim 89%, Sunni Muslim 10%, Zoroastrian, Jewish, Christian, and Baha'i 1%
\BLanguages:\b Persian and Persian dialects 58%, Turkic and Turkic dialects 26%, Kurdish 9%, Luri 2%, Baloch 1%, Arabic 1%, Turkish 1%, other 2%
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1994 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 72.1%
\Imale:\i 78.4%
\Ifemale:\i 65.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Islamic Republic of \JIran\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JIran\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye \JIran\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JIran\j
\BData code:\b IR
\BType of government:\b theocratic republic
\BCapital:\b Tehran
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 25 provinces (ostanha, singular - ostan); Ardabil, Azarbayjan-e Gharbi, Azarbayjan-e Sharqi, Bushehr, Chahar Mahall va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshahan, Khorasan, Khuzestan, Kohkiluyeh va Buyer Ahmadi, Kordestan, Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd, Zanjan
\BIndependence:\b 1 April 1979 (Islamic Republic of \JIran\j proclaimed)
\BNational holiday:\b Islamic Republic Day, 1 April (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 2-3 December 1979; revised 1989 to expand powers of the presidency and eliminate the prime ministership
\BLegal system:\b the Constitution codifies Islamic principles of government
\BSuffrage:\b 15 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
supreme leader (rahbar-e moazam) and functional chief of state: Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (since 4 June 1989) was appointed for life by Council of Experts
\Ihead of government:\i President Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI (since 3 August 1989) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; First Vice President Hasan Ebrahim HABIBI (since NA August 1989); election last held 11 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI was elected with 63% of the vote
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was selected by the president with legislative approval
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles-e-Shura-ye-Eslami): elections last held 8 March and 19 April 1996 (next to be held NA March 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (270 seats total) number of seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b there are at least 76 licensed parties, none are, as yet, openly active; the most important groupings are - Tehran Militant \JClergy\j Association, leader NA; Militant Clerics Association, Mehdi MAHDAVI-KARUBI and Mohammad Asqar MUSAVI-KHOINIHA; Servants of Reconstruction (G-6), leader NA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b groups that generally support the Islamic Republic include Ansar-e Hizballah, Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution, Muslim Students Following the Line of the Imam, and the Islamic Coalition Association; opposition groups include the Liberation Movement of \JIran\j and the Nation of \JIran\j party; armed political groups that have been almost completely repressed by the government include Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), People's Fedayeen, Kurdish Democratic Party of \JIran\j; the Society for the Defense of Freedom
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none; note - \JIran\j has an Interests Section in the Pakistani Embassy, headed by Faramarz FATH-NEJAD; address: Iranian Interests Section, Pakistani Embassy, 2209 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007; \Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 965-4990
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none; note - protecting power in \JIran\j is \JSwitzerland\j
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red; the national emblem (a stylized representation of the word Allah) in red is centered in the white band; ALLAH AKBAR (God is Great) in white Arabic script is repeated 11 times along the bottom edge of the green band and 11 times along the top edge of the red band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JIran\j's economy is a mixture of central planning, state ownership of oil and other large enterprises, village agriculture, and small-scale private trading and service ventures. Over the past several years, the government has introduced several measures to liberalize the economy and reduce government intervention, but most of these changes have moved slowly or have been reversed because of political opposition. \JIran\j has faced increasingly severe financial difficulties since mid-1992 due to an import surge that began in 1989 and general financial mismanagement. At yearend 1993 the Iranian Government estimated that it owed foreign creditors about $30 billion; an estimated $8 billion of this debt was in arrears. At yearend 1994, \JIran\j rescheduled $12 billion in debt. Earnings from oil exports - which provide 85% of \JIran\j's export revenues - are providing less relief to \JIran\j than usual because of reduced oil prices. \JIran\j's financial situation will remain tight in 1996 because the bulk of payments due under its rescheduling agreements in 1993-94 will be coming due.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $323.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jpetrochemicals\j, textiles, cement and other construction materials, food processing (particularly sugar refining and vegetable oil production), metal fabricating, armaments
Industrial production growth rate: 4.3% (1994 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of opium poppy for the domestic and international drug trade; produced 35-70 metric tons in 1993; net opiate importer but also a key transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin to Europe
\BCurrency:\b 10 Iranian rials (IR) = 1 toman; note - domestic figures are generally referred to in terms of the toman
\BExchange rates:\b Iranian rials (IR) per US$1 - 1,750 (January 1996), 1,747.93 (1995), 1,748.75 (1994), 1,267.77 (1993), 65.55 (1992), 67.51 (1991); black market rate: 4,000 rials per US$1 (December 1995); note - as of May 1995, the "official rate" of 1,750 rials per US$1 is used for imports of essential goods and services and for oil exports, wheras the "official export rate" of 3,000 rials per US$1 is used for non-oil exports and imports not covered by the official rate
\BFiscal year:\b 21 March - 20 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,093 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 96 km 1.676-m gauge
standard gauge: 4,997 km 1.432-m gauge (146 km electrified) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 140,200 km
\Ipaved:\i 42,700 km
\Iunpaved:\i 97,500 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 904 km; the Shatt al Arab is usually navigable by maritime traffic for about 130 km; channel has been dredged to 3 m and is in use
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 5,900 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 3,900 km; natural gas 4,550 km
\BPorts:\b \JAbadan\j (largely destroyed in fighting during 1980-88 war), Ahvaz, Bandar Beheshti, Bandar-e 'Abbas, Bandar-e Anzali, Bandar-e Bushehr, Bandar-e Khomeyni, Bandar-e Mah Shahr, Bandar-e Torkeman, Jazireh-ye Khark, Jazireh-ye Lavan, Jazireh-ye Sirri, Khorramshahr (limited operation since November 1992), Now Shahr
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 88 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 12 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3.02 million (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay extends throughout country; system centered in Tehran
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region); HF radio and microwave radio relay to Turkey, \JPakistan\j, \JSyria\j, \JKuwait\j, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan; submarine fiber-optic cable to UAE
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 77, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 14.3 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 28
\BTelevisions:\b 3.9 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Islamic Republic of \JIran\j regular forces (includes Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces), Revolutionary Guards (includes Ground, Air, Navy, Qods, and Basij-mobilization-forces), Law Enforcement Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 15,157,796
\Imales fit for military service:\i 9,010,648
males reach military age (21) annually: 632,602 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i according to official Iranian data, \JIran\j in 1994 budgeted 4,377 billion rials and in 1993 spent 2,182 billion rials, including $850 million in hard currency; note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using current exchange rates could produce misleading results
#
"Iraq (Atlas)",114,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between \JIran\j and \JKuwait\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 33 00 N, 44 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 437,072 sq km
\Iland area:\i 432,162 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of \JIdaho\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,631 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JIran\j 1,458 km, Jordan 181 km, \JKuwait\j 242 km, Saudi \JArabia\j 814 km, \JSyria\j 605 km, Turkey 331 km
\BCoastline:\b 58 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: not specified
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b \JIran\j and \JIraq\j restored diplomatic relations in 1990 but are still trying to work out written agreements settling outstanding disputes from their eight-year war concerning border demarcation, prisoners-of-war, and freedom of navigation and sovereignty over the Shatt al Arab waterway; in November 1994, \JIraq\j formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with \JKuwait\j which had been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687 (1991), 773 (1993), and 883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to \JKuwait\j and to Bubiyan and Warbah islands; dispute over water development plans by Turkey for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers
\BClimate:\b mostly desert; mild to cool winters with dry, hot, cloudless summers; northern mountainous regions along Iranian and Turkish borders experience cold winters with occasionally heavy snows which melt in early spring, sometimes causing extensive flooding in central and southern \JIraq\j
\BTerrain:\b mostly broad plains; reedy marshes along Iranian border in south; mountains along borders with \JIran\j and Turkey
\Icurrent issues:\i government water control projects have drained most of the inhabited marsh areas east of An Nasiriyah by drying up or diverting the feeder streams and rivers; a once sizable population of Shi'a Muslims, who have inhabited these areas for thousands of years, has been displaced; furthermore, the destruction of the natural habitat poses serious threats to the area's wildlife populations; inadequate supplies of potable water; development of Tigris-Euphrates Rivers system contingent upon agreements with upstream riparian Turkey; air and water \Jpollution\j; soil degradation (salinization) and erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 307,097; female 350,483) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.69% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 43.07 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.57 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.88 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 60 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 66.95 years
\Imale:\i 65.92 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.03 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.41 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Iraqi(s)
\Iadjective:\i Iraqi
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab 75%-80%, Kurdish 15%-20%, Turkoman, Assyrian or other 5%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 97% (Shi'a 60%-65%, Sunni 32%-37%), Christian or other 3%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic, Kurdish (official in Kurdish regions), Assyrian, Armenian
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 58%
\Imale:\i 70.7%
\Ifemale:\i 45%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JIraq\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JIraq\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumhuriyah al Iraqiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al \JIraq\j
\BData code:\b IZ
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JBaghdad\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 18 provinces (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Anbar, Al Basrah, Al Muthanna, Al Qadisiyah, An Najaf, Arbil, As Sulaymaniyah, At Ta'mim, Babil, \JBaghdad\j, Dahuk, Dhi Qar, Diyala, Karbala', Maysan, Ninawa, Salah ad Din, Wasit
\BIndependence:\b 3 October 1932 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 17 July (1968)
\BConstitution:\b 22 September 1968, effective 16 July 1970 (provisional Constitution); new constitution drafted in 1990 but not adopted
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law in special religious courts, civil law system elsewhere; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President SADDAM Husayn (since 16 July 1979); Vice President Taha Muhyi al-Din MARUF (since 21 April 1974); Vice President Taha Yasin RAMADAN (since 23 March 1991) were elected by a two-thirds majority of the Revolutionary Command Council
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister SADDAM Husayn (since NA May 1994); Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Mikhail AZIZ (since NA 1979)
National Assembly (Majlis al-Watani): elections last held 24 March 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (250 total, 30 appointed by SADDAM Husayn to represent three northern provonces of Dahuk, Arbil, and As Sulaymaniyah)
\Bnote:\b in northern \JIraq\j, a "Kurdish Assembly" was elected in May 1992 and calls for Kurdish self-determination within a federated \JIraq\j; the assembly is not recognized by the \JBaghdad\j government
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Cassation
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Ba'th Party, SADDAM Husayn, central party leader
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b political parties and activity severely restricted; opposition to regime from disaffected members of the Ba'th Party, Army officers, tribes, and Shi'a religious and ethnic Kurdish \Jdissidents\j; the Green Party (government-controlled)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none; note - \JIraq\j has an Interest Section in the Algerian Embassy; address: Iraqi Interests Section, Algerian Embassy, 1801 P Street NW, Washington, DC 20036; \Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-7500; \IFAX:\i [1] (202) 462-5066
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none; note - the US has an Interests Section in the Polish Embassy in \JBaghdad\j, which is in the Masbah Quarter (opposite the Foreign Ministry Club); address: P. O. Box 2447 Alwiyah, \JBaghdad\j; \Itelephone:\i [964] (1) 719-6138, 719-6139, 718-1840, 719-3791; Telex 212287
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with three green five-pointed stars in a horizontal line centered in the white band; the phrase ALLAHU AKBAR (God is Great) in green Arabic script - Allahu to the right of the middle star and Akbar to the left of the middle star - was added in January 1991 during the Persian Gulf crisis; similar to the flag of \JSyria\j that has two stars but no script and the flag of Yemen that has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of \JEgypt\j that has a symbolic eagle centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Ba'thist regime engages in extensive central planning and management of industrial production and foreign trade while leaving some small-scale industry and services and most agriculture to private enterprise. The economy has been dominated by the oil sector, which has traditionally provided about 95% of foreign exchange earnings. In the 1980s, financial problems caused by massive expenditures in the eight-year war with \JIran\j and damage to oil export facilities by \JIran\j, led the government to implement austerity measures and to borrow heavily and later reschedule foreign debt payments; \JIraq\j suffered economic losses of at least $100 billion from the war. After the end of hostilities in 1988, oil exports gradually increased with the construction of new pipelines and restoration of damaged facilities. Agricultural development remained hampered by labor shortages, salinization, and dislocations caused by previous land reform and collectivization programs. The industrial sector, although accorded high priority by the government, also was under financial constraints. \JIraq\j's seizure of \JKuwait\j in August 1990, subsequent international economic embargoes, and military action by an international coalition beginning in January 1991 drastically changed the economic picture. Industrial and transportation facilities, which suffered severe damage, have been partially restored. Oil exports remain at less than 5% of the previous level. Shortages of spare parts continue. Living standards deteriorated even further in 1994 and 1995; consumer prices have more than doubled in both 1994 and 1995. The UN-sponsored economic embargo has reduced exports and imports and has contributed to the sharp rise in prices. The Iraqi Government has been unwilling to abide by UN resolutions so that the economic embargo can be removed. The government's policies of supporting large military and internal security forces and of allocating resources to key supporters of the regime have exacerbated shortages. In brief, per capita output for 1994-95 is well below the 1989-90 level, but any estimate has a wide range of error.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $41.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,000 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 4.4 million (1989)
\Iby occupation:\i services 48%, agriculture 30%, industry 22%
\Bnote:\b severe labor shortage; expatriate labor force was about 1,600,000 (July 1990); since then, it has declined substantially
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j, chemicals, textiles, construction materials, food processing
\Ipartners:\i \JGermany\j, US, Turkey, \JFrance\j, UK (1990)
\BExternal debt:\b $50 billion (1989 est.), excluding debt of about $35 billion owed to Gulf Arab states
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Iraqi dinar (ID) = 1,000 fils
\BExchange rates:\b Iraqi dinars (ID) per US$1 - 3.2169 (fixed official rate since 1982); black-market rate (December 1995) US$1 = 2,900 Iraqi dinars; semi-official rate US$1 = 1,000 Iraqi dinars
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,032 km
standard gauge: 2,032 km 1.435-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 45,554 km
\Ipaved:\i 38,402 km (including 976 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 7,152 km (1989 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,015 km; Shatt al Arab is usually navigable by maritime traffic for about 130 km; channel has been dredged to 3 meters and is in use; Tigris and Euphrates Rivers have navigable sections for shallow-draft watercraft; Shatt al Basrah canal was navigable by shallow-draft craft before closing in 1991 because of the Persian Gulf war
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 4,350 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 725 km; natural gas 1,360 km
\BPorts:\b Umm Qasr, Khawr az Zubayr, and Al Basrah have limited functionality
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 5 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 632,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b reconstitution of damaged telecommunication facilities began after the Gulf war; most damaged facilities have been rebuilt
\Idomestic:\i the network consists of coaxial cables and microwave radio relay links
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Jordan, \JKuwait\j, \JSyria\j, and Turkey; \JKuwait\j line is probably nonoperational
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 16, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 4.02 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 13
\BTelevisions:\b 1 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Republican Guard and Special Republican Guard, Navy, Air Force, Air
males reach military age (18) annually: 237,843 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Ireland (Atlas)",115,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 53 00 N, 8 00 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 70,280 sq km
\Iland area:\i 68,890 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 360 km
border country: UK 360 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,448 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: not specified
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Northern Ireland question with the UK; Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, \JIceland\j, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
\BClimate:\b temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
\BTerrain:\b mostly level to rolling interior plain surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains; sea cliffs on west coast
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j, especially of lakes, from agricultural runoff
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location on major air and sea routes between North America and northern Europe; over 40% of the population resides within 60 miles of Dublin
\BNational holiday:\b Saint Patrick's Day, 17 March
\BConstitution:\b 29 December 1937; adopted 1 July 1937 by \Jplebiscite\j
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mary Bourke ROBINSON (since 9 November 1990) was elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held 9 November 1990 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - Mary Bourke ROBINSON 52.8%, Brian LENIHAN 47.2%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister John BRUTON (since 15 December 1994) was nominated by the House of Representatives and appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by president with previous nomination of the prime minister and approval of the House of Representatives
Senate (Seanad Eireann): elections last held NA February 1992 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total, 49 elected) Fianna Fail 26, Fine Gael 16, Labor 9, Progressive Democrats 2, Democratic Left 1, independents 6
House of Representatives (Dail Eireann): elections last held 25 November 1992 (next to be held by NA November 1997); results - Fianna Fail 39.1%, Fine Gael 24.5%, Labor Party 19.3%, Progressive Democrats 4.7%, Democratic Left 2.8%, Sinn Fein 1.6%, Workers' Party 0.7%, independents 5.9%; seats - (166 total) Fianna Fail 68, Fine Gael 45, Labor Party 33, Progressive Democrats 10, Democratic Left 4, Greens 1, independents 5
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president on the advice of the government (prime minister and cabinet)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Left, Proinsias DE ROSSA; Fianna Fail, Bertie AHERN; Labor Party, Richard SPRING; Fine Gael, John BRUTON; Communist Party of Ireland, Michael O'RIORDAN; Sinn Fein, Gerry ADAMS; Progressive Democrats, Mary HARNEY; The Workers' Party, Marion DONNELLY; Green Alliance, Bronwen MAHER
\Bnote:\b Prime Minister BRUTON heads a three-party coalition consisting of the Fine Gael, the Labor Party, and the Democratic Left
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dermot A. GALLAGHER
\Ichancery:\i 2234 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-3939
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, New York, and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jean Kennedy SMITH
\Iembassy:\i 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [353] (1) 6688777
\IFAX:\i [353] (1) 6689946
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag of \JItaly\j, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is small and trade dependent. Agriculture, once the most important sector, is now dwarfed by industry, which accounts for 38% of GDP, about 80% of exports, and employs 28% of the labor force. Although exports remain the primary engine for Ireland's robust growth, the economy is also benefiting from a rise in consumer spending and recovery in both construction and business investment. Ireland has substantially reduced its external debt since 1987, to 40% of GDP in 1994. Over the same period, \Jinflation\j has fallen sharply and chronic trade deficits have been transformed into annual surpluses. Unemployment remains a serious problem, however, and job creation is the main focus of government policy. To ease unemployment, Dublin aggressively courts foreign investors and recently created a new industrial development agency to aid small indigenous firms. Government assistance is constrained by Dublin's continuing deficit reduction measures.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $54.6 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 900,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern digital system using cable and microwave radio relay
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2.2 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 86 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 1.025 million (1990 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (includes Naval Service and Air Corps), National Police (Garda Siochana)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 939,237
\Imales fit for military service:\i 761,048
males reach military age (17) annually: 35,904 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $618 million, 1.3% of GDP (1994)
#
"Israel (Atlas)",116,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (also see separate Gaza Strip and West Bank entries)
Note: The territories occupied by Israel since the 1967 war are not included in the data below. In keeping with the framework established at the Madrid Conference in October 1991, bilateral negotiations are being conducted between Israel and Palestinian representatives, and Israel and \JSyria\j, to achieve a permanent settlement between them. On 25 April 1982, Israel withdrew from the \JSinai\j pursuant to the 1979 Israel-Egypt Peace treaty. Outstanding territorial and other disputes with Jordan were resolved in the 26 October 1994 Israel-Jordan Treaty of Peace.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JEgypt\j and \JLebanon\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 31 30 N, 34 45 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 20,770 sq km
\Iland area:\i 20,330 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Jersey
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,006 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JEgypt\j 255 km, Gaza Strip 51 km, Jordan 238 km, \JLebanon\j 79 km, \JSyria\j 76 km, West Bank 307 km
\BCoastline:\b 273 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: to depth of exploitation
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation; Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Israeli troops in southern \JLebanon\j since June 1982
\BClimate:\b temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
\BTerrain:\b Negev desert in the south; low coastal plain; central mountains; Jordan Rift Valley
\Ilowest point:\i Dead Sea -408 m
\Ihighest point:\i Har Meron 1,208 m
\BNatural resources:\b copper, \Jphosphates\j, bromide, \Jpotash\j, clay, sand, sulfur, \Jasphalt\j, \Jmanganese\j, small amounts of natural gas and crude oil
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 17%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 5%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 40%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 6%
\Iother:\i 32%
\BIrrigated land:\b 2,140 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited arable land and natural fresh water resources pose serious constraints; \Jdesertification\j; air \Jpollution\j from industrial and vehicle emissions; \Jgroundwater\j \Jpollution\j from industrial and domestic waste, chemical fertilizers, and pesticides
\Inatural hazards:\i sandstorms may occur during spring and summer
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b there are 202 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the West Bank, 42 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 24 in the Gaza Strip, and 26 in East \JJerusalem\j (August 1995 est.)
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 5,421,995 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b includes 127,600 Israeli settlers in the West Bank, 14,800 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 5,000 in the Gaza Strip, and 153,700 in East \JJerusalem\j (August 1995 est.)
\BIndependence:\b 14 May 1948 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 14 May 1948 (Israel declared independence on 14 May 1948, but the Jewish calendar is lunar and the holiday may occur in April or May)
\BConstitution:\b no formal constitution; some of the functions of a constitution are filled by the Declaration of Establishment (1948), the basic laws of the parliament (Knesset), and the Israeli citizenship law
\BLegal system:\b mixture of English common law, British Mandate regulations, and, in personal matters, Jewish, Christian, and Muslim legal systems; in December 1985, Israel informed the UN Secretariat that it would no longer accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ezer WEIZMAN (since 13 May 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the \JKnesset\j; election last held 24 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - Ezer WEIZMAN elected by \JKnesset\j
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Shimon PERES (since 15 November 1995) was appointed by the president following the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was selected from and approved by the \JKnesset\j
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
parliament (Knesset): elections last held NA June 1992 (next to be held 29 May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) Labor 44, Likud 32, MERETZ 12, Tzomet 8, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, United \JTorah\j Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 3, Arab Democratic Party 2; note - the distribution of seats as of January 1996 is as follows - Labor Party 45, Likud bloc 33, MERETZ 12, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, Tzomet 5, United \JTorah\j Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 2, Arab Democratic Party 2, Yi'ud 1 (in coalition), Right of Israel 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
members of the government: Labor Party, Prime Minister Shimon PERES; MERETZ, Minister of Environment Yossi SARID; Yi'ud, Gonen SEGEV
not in coalition, but voting with the government: Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash), Hashim MAHAMID; Arab Democratic Party, Abd al Wahab DARAWSHAH
opposition parties: Likud Party, Binyamin NETANYAHU; Tzomet, Rafael EITAN; National Religious Party, Zevulun HAMMER; United \JTorah\j Jewry, Avraham SHAPIRA; Moledet, Rehavam ZEEVI; Peace Guard (independent), Shaul GUTMAN; SHAS, Arieh DERI; Right of Israel, leader NA
\Bnote:\b Israel currently has a coalition government comprising three parties that hold 58 seats of the \JKnesset\j's 120 seats
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Gush Emunim, Israeli nationalists advocating Jewish settlement on the West Bank and Gaza Strip; Peace Now supports territorial concessions in the West Bank and is critical of government's \JLebanon\j policy
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Itamar RABINOVICH
\Ichancery:\i 3514 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 364-5500
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 364-5610
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Martin S. INDYK
\Iembassy:\i 71 Hayarkon Street, Tel Aviv
\Imailing address:\i PSC 98, Box 100, APO AE 09830
\Itelephone:\i [972] (3) 519-7575
\IFAX:\i [972] (3) 517-3227
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JJerusalem\j
\BFlag:\b white with a blue hexagram (six-pointed linear star) known as the Magen David (Shield of David) centered between two equal horizontal blue bands near the top and bottom edges of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Israel has a market economy with substantial government participation. It depends on imports of crude oil, grains, raw materials, and military equipment. Despite limited natural resources, Israel has intensively developed its agricultural and industrial sectors over the past 20 years. Industry employs about 22% of Israeli workers, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 3.5%, and services the rest. Israel is largely self-sufficient in food production except for grains. Diamonds, high-technology equipment, and agricultural products (fruits and vegetables) are leading exports. Israel usually posts current account deficits, which are covered by large transfer payments from abroad and by foreign loans. Roughly half of the government's external debt is owed to the US, which is its major source of economic and military aid. To earn needed foreign exchange, Israel has been targeting high-technology niches in international markets, such as medical scanning equipment. The influx of Jewish immigrants from the former USSR, which topped 525,000 during the period 1990-95, increased unemployment, intensified housing problems, and strained the government budget. At the same time, the immigrants bring to the economy valuable scientific and professional expertise.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $80.1 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i public services 29.3%, industry 22.1%, commerce 13.9%, finance and business 10.4%, personal and other services 7.4%, construction 6.5%, transport, storage, and communications 6.3%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 3.5%, other 0.6% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 6.3% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $41 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $53 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996)
\BIndustries:\b food processing, diamond cutting and polishing, textiles and apparel, chemicals, metal products, military equipment, transport equipment, electrical equipment, \Jpotash\j mining, high-technology \Jelectronics\j, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 10.3% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 4,140,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 23 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 4,290 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcitrus\j and other fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, poultry, dairy products
\BIllicit drugs:\b increasingly concerned about \Jcocaine\j and heroin abuse and trafficking
\BExports:\b $28.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment, cut diamonds, chemicals, textiles and apparel, agricultural products, metals
\Ipartners:\i US, EU, \JJapan\j
\BImports:\b $40.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i military equipment, investment goods, rough diamonds, oil, other productive inputs, consumer goods
\Ipartners:\i EU, US, \JJapan\j
\BExternal debt:\b $18.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i total receipts $12.14 billion of which $11.38 billion from the US (1990-93)
\BCurrency:\b 1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2.425 million (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b most highly developed system in the Middle East although not the largest
\Idomestic:\i good system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i 3 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2.25 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 20
\BTelevisions:\b 1.5 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Israel
\BDefense:\b Forces (includes ground, naval, and air components), Pioneer Fighting Youth (Nahal), Frontier Guard, Chen (women); note - historically there have been no separate Israeli military services
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,390,603
fe\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,363,986
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,139,137
fe\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,112,947
males reach military age (18) annually: 50,508
females reach military age (18) annually: 48,176 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $9.2 billion, about 9.8% of GDP (1996)
#
"Italy (Atlas)",117,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Europe, a peninsula extending into the central \JMediterranean Sea\j, northeast of \JTunisia\j
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b \Itotal area:\i 301,230 km▓ \Iland area:\i 294,020 km▓ \Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JArizona\j \BNote:\b includes \JSardinia\j and \JSicily\j
\BLand boundaries:\b total 1,899.2 km, \JAustria\j 430 km, \JFrance\j 488 km, Holy See (\JVatican City\j) 3.2 km, San Marino 39 km, \JSlovenia\j 199 km, \JSwitzerland\j 740 km
\BCoastline:\b 4,996 km
\BMaritime claims:\b \Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation \Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b predominantly Mediterranean; \JAlpine\j in far north; hot, dry in south
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged and mountainous; some plains, coastal lowlands
\BLand use:\b \Iarable land:\i 32% \Ipermanent crops:\i 10% \Imeadows and pastures:\i 17% \Iforest and woodland:\i 22% \Iother:\i 19%
\BIrrigated land:\b 31,000 km▓ (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b current issues: air \Jpollution\j from industrial emissions such as sulfur dioxide; coastal and inland rivers polluted from industrial and agricultural effluents; \Jacid rain\j damaging lakes; inadequate industrial waste treatment and disposal facilities natural hazards: regional risks include landslides, mudflows, avalanches, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, flooding; land subsidence in \JVenice\j international agreements: party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air \JPollution\j-\JNitrogen\j \JOxides\j, Air \JPollution\j-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air \JPollution\j-Sulphur 94, Air \JPollution\j-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j
\BNote:\b strategic location dominating central Mediterranean as well as southern sea and air approaches to Western Europe
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b 25,600,000 telephones; modern, well-developed, fast; fully automated \Jtelephone\j, telex, and data services local: NA intercity: high-capacity cable and microwave radio relay trunks international: international service by 21 submarine cables, 3 satellite earth stations operating in INTELSAT with 3 Atlantic Ocean antennas and 2 Indian Ocean antennas; also participates in INMARSAT and EUTELSAT systems
\BRadio:\b \Ibroadcast stations:\i AM 135, FM 28 (repeaters 1,840), shortwave 0 radios: 16 million
\BTelevision:\b \Ibroadcast stations:\i 83 (repeaters 1,000) televisions: 18 million
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri
\BManpower availability:\b males age 15-49 14,934,657; males fit for military service 12,962,594; males reach military age (18) annually 382,142 (1995 est.)
\BDefense expenditures:\b exchange rate conversion - $21.5 billion, 2% of GDP (1994)
\BEconomy:\b
\BOverview:\b Since World War II the Italian economy has changed from one based on agriculture into a ranking industrial economy, with approximately the same total and per capita output as \JFrance\j and the UK. The country is still divided into a developed industrial north, dominated by private companies, and an undeveloped agricultural south, dominated by large public enterprises. Services account for 48% of GDP, industry 35%, agriculture 4%, and public administration 13%. Most raw materials needed by industry and over 75% of energy requirements must be imported. After growing at an average annual rate of 3% in 1983-90, growth slowed to about 1% in 1991 and 1992, fell by 0.7% in 1993, and recovered to 2% in 1994. In the second half of 1992, \JRome\j became unsettled by the prospect of not qualifying to participate in EU plans for economic and monetary union later in the decade; thus it finally began to address its huge fiscal imbalances. Subsequently, the government has adopted fairly stringent budgets, abandoned its highly inflationary wage indexation system, and started to scale back its extremely generous social welfare programs, including pension and health care benefits. Monetary officials were forced to withdraw the lira from the European monetary system in September 1992 when it came under extreme pressure in currency markets. For the 1990s, \JItaly\j faces the problems of pushing ahead with fiscal reform, refurbishing a tottering communications system, curbing \Jpollution\j in major industrial centers, and adjusting to the new competitive forces accompanying the ongoing expansion and economic \Jintegration\j of the European Union.
\BNational product:\b GDP - purchasing power parity - $998.9 billion (1994 est.)
\BNational product real growth rate:\b 2.2% (1994 est.)
\BNational product per capita:\b $17,180 (1994 est.)
\BInflation rate (consumer prices):\b 3.9% (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 12.2% (January 1995)
\BBudget:\b revenues: $339 billion expenditures: $431 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
\BExports:\b $190.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994) \Icommodities:\i metals, textiles and clothing, production machinery, motor vehicles, transportation equipment, chemicals, other partners: EU 53.4%, US 7.8%, OPEC 3.8% (1994)
\BImports:\b $168.7 billion (c.i.f., 1994) \Icommodities:\i industrial machinery, chemicals, transport equipment, \Jpetroleum\j, metals, food, agricultural products partners: EU 56.3%, OPEC 5.3%, US 4.6% (1994)
\BExternal debt:\b $67 billion (1993 est.)
\BIndustrial production:\b growth rate 4.3% (1994 est.); accounts for 35% of GDP
\BIndustries:\b machinery, iron and steel, chemicals, food processing, textiles, motor vehicles, clothing, footwear, \Jceramics\j
\BAgriculture:\b accounts for about 4% of GDP; self-sufficient in foods other than meat, dairy products, and \Jcereals\j; principal crops - fruits, vegetables, grapes, potatoes, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, olives; fish catch of 525,000 metric tons in 1990
\BIllicit drugs:\b important gateway country for Latin American \Jcocaine\j and Southwest Asian heroin entering the European market
\BEconomic aid:\b donor: ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $25.9 billion
\BCurrency:\b 1 Italian lira (Lit) = 100 centesimi
\BNames:\b \Iconventional long form:\i Italian Republic \Iconventional short form:\i \JItaly\j \Ilocal long form:\i Repubblica Italiana \Ilocal short form:\i Italia \Iformer:\i Kingdom of \JItaly\j
\BIndependence:\b 17 March 1861 (Kingdom of \JItaly\j proclaimed)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Republic, 2 June (1946)
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1948
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system, with ecclesiastical law influence; appeals treated as trials de novo; judicial review under certain conditions in Constitutional Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal (except in senatorial elections, where minimum age is 25)
\BExecutive branch:\b \Ichief of state:\i President Oscar Luigi SCALFARO (since 28 May 1992) \Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister (referred to in \JItaly\j as the President of the Council of Ministers) Lamberto DINI (since 1 February 1995) \Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; nominated by the President of the Council (i.e., Prime Minister) and approved by the President of the Republic
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament (Parlamento) Senate (Senato della Repubblica): elections last held 27-28 March 1994 (next must be held by spring 1999, but may be held by end of 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (326 total, 315 elected, 11 appointed senators-for-life) PDS 61, Northern League 60, National Alliance 48, Forza Italia 36, Italian Popular Party 31, Communist Refoundation 18, Greens and The Network 13, Italian Socialists 13, Christian Democratic Center 12, Democratic Alliance 8, Christian Socialists 5, Pact for \JItaly\j 4, Radical Party (Pannella List) 1, others 5 Chamber of Deputies (Camera dei Deputati): elections last held 27-28 March 1994 (next must be held by spring 1999, but may be held by end of 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (630 total) Northern League 117, PDS 114, Forza Italia 113, National Alliance 109, Communist Refoundation 39, Christian Democratic Center 33, Italian Popular Party 33, Greens and The Network 20, Democratic Alliance 18, Italian Socialists 16, Pact for \JItaly\j 13, Christian Socialists 5
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Forza Italia (FI), Silvio BERLUSCONI; National Alliance, Gianfranco FINI, party secretary; Northern League - Federal \JItaly\j (NL), Umberto BOSSI, president; Italian Social Movement, Pino RAUTI; Democratic Party of the Left (PDS, Massimo D'ALEMA, secretary; Communist Refoundation (RC), Fausto BERTINOTTI; Greens, Gianni MATTIOLI; Italian Socialists, Ottaviano DELTURCO; Rete (The Network), Leoluca ORLANDO; Christian Socialists, Ermanno GORRIERI; Pact for \JItaly\j, Mario SEGNI; Italian Popular Party (PPI), Rocco BUTTIGLIONE, Gerardo BIANCO; Christian Democratic Center (CCD), Pier Ferdinando CASINI; Union of the Democratic Center (UDC), Raffaele COSTA; Pannella List, Marco PANNELLA
Other political or pressure groups: the Roman Catholic Church; three major trade union confederations (Confederazione Generale Italiana del Lavoro or CGIL which is PDS-dominated, Confederazione Italiana dei Sindacati Lavoratori or CISL which is centerist, and Unione Italiana del Lavoro or UIL which is center-left); Italian manufacturers and merchants associations (Confindustria, Confcommercio); organized farm groups (Confcoltivatori, Confagricoltura)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Boris BIANCHERI-CHIAPPORI chancery: 1601 Fuller Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 \Jtelephone\j: [1] (202) 328-5500 consulate(s) general: \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San Francisco consulate(s): \JDetroit\j and New Orleans
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and red; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and is green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of the Cote d'Ivoire, which has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 58,261,971 (July 1995 est.)
\BAge structure:\b 0-14 years: 15% (female 4,352,325; male 4,603,083) 15-64 years: 68% (female 19,969,086; male 19,874,528) 65 years and over: 17% (female 5,630,747; male 3,832,202) (July 1995 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.21% (1995 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.89 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.78 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 1.03 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b \Itotal population:\i 77.85 years \Imale:\i 74.67 years \Ifemale:\i 81.23 years (1995 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.41 children born/woman (1995 est.)
\BNationality:\b noun: Italian(s) adjective: Italian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Italian (includes small clusters of German-, French-, and Slovene-Italians in the north and Albanian-Italians and Greek-Italians in the south), Sicilians, Sardinians
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 98%, other 2%
\BLanguages:\b Italian, German (parts of Trentino-Alto Adige region are predominantly German speaking), French (small French-speaking minority in Valle d'Aosta region), Slovene (Slovene-speaking minority in the Trieste-Gorizia area)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.) \Itotal population:\i 97% \Imale:\i 98% \Ifemale:\i 96%
\BLabor force:\b 23.988 million by occupation: services 58%, industry 32.2%, agriculture 9.8% (1988)
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailroads:\b \Itotal:\i 19,503 km \Istandard gauge:\i 18,230 km 1.435-m gauge (10,499 km electrified; 2,112 km privately owned) \Inarrow gauge:\i 1,273 km 0.950-m to 1.000-m gauge (224 km electrified; 1,273 km privately owned)
\BHighways:\b \Itotal:\i 305,388 km \Ipaved:\i 277,388 km (6,940 km of expressways) \Iunpaved:\i gravel, crushed stone 23,000 km; earth 5,000 km (1992)
\BInland waterways:\b 2,400 km for various types of commercial traffic, although of limited overall value
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,703 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 2,148 km; natural gas 19,400 km
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; coastal waters polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and oil spills; damage to \Jcoral\j reefs; air \Jpollution\j in Kingston results from vehicle emissions
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes (especially July to November)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location between \JCayman\j Trench and \JJamaica\j Channel, the main sea lanes for Panama Canal
\I65 years and over:\i 7% (male 77,725; female 97,541) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.8% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 22.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.57 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -8.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 15.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 74.88 years
\Imale:\i 72.6 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.29 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.45 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Jamaican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Jamaican
\BEthnic divisions:\b African 76.3%, Afro-European 15.1%, East Indian and Afro-East Indian 3%, white 3.2%, Chinese and Afro-Chinese 1.2%, other 1.2%
\BReligions:\b Protestant 55.9% (Church of God 18.4%, Baptist 10%, Anglican 7.1%, Seventh-Day Adventist 6.9%, Pentecostal 5.2%, Methodist 3.1%, United Church 2.7%, other 2.5%), Roman Catholic 5%, other, including some spiritual cults 39.1% (1982)
\BLanguages:\b English, \JCreole\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 85%
\Imale:\i 80.8%
\Ifemale:\i 89.1%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JJamaica\j
\BData code:\b JM
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Kingston
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 parishes; Clarendon, \JHanover\j, Kingston, Manchester, Portland, Saint Andrew, Saint Ann, Saint Catherine, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Saint Mary, Saint Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland
\BIndependence:\b 6 August 1962 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day (first Monday in August) (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 6 August 1962
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Howard COOKE (since 1 August 1991) who was appointed by the queen on recommendation of the prime minister
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Percival James PATTERSON (since 30 March 1992) and the Deputy Prime Minister Seymour MULLINGS (since NA 1993) were appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 21-member body appointed by the governor general
House of Representatives: elections last held 30 March 1993 (next to be held by March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) PNP 52, JLP 8
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's National Party (PNP), P. J. PATTERSON; \JJamaica\j Labor Party (JLP), Edward SEAGA; National Democratic Movement (NDM), Bruce GOLDING
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Rastafarians (black religious/racial cultists, pan-Africanists); New Beginnings Movement (NBM)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Richard Leighton BERNAL
\Ichancery:\i 1520 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 452-0660
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 452-0081
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador J. Gary COOPER
\Iembassy:\i \JJamaica\j Mutual Life Center, 2 Oxford Road, 3rd floor, Kingston
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 929-4850 through 4859
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 926-6743
\BFlag:\b diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and bottom) and black (hoist side and outer side)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Key sectors in this island economy are \Jbauxite\j (alumina and \Jbauxite\j account for more than half of exports) and tourism. Since assuming office in 1992, Prime Minister PATTERSON has consolidated the market-oriented reforms initiated by his predecessor, Michael MANLEY, to make \JJamaica\j a regional leader in economic reform. PATTERSON has eliminated most price controls, streamlined tax schedules, and privatized government enterprises. Tight monetary and fiscal policies under an IMF program have helped slow \Jinflation\j and stabilize the exchange rate, but, as a result, economic growth has slowed down and unemployment remains high. \JJamaica\j's medium-term prospects depend largely on its ability to continue to attract foreign capital and limit speculation against the Jamaican dollar.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j from Central and South America to North America and Europe; illicit cultivation of cannabis; government has an active cannabis eradication program
\BExports:\b $2 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i \Jalumina\j, \Jbauxite\j, sugar, bananas, rum
\Ipartners:\i US 47%, UK 11%, Canada 9%, \JNorway\j 7%, \JFrance\j 4% (1993)
\BImports:\b $2.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, construction materials, fuel, food, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i US 54%, \JJapan\j 4.0%, Mexico 6%, UK 4%, Venezuela 3% (1993)
standard gauge: 272 km 1.435-m gauge; note - 207 km belonging to the \JJamaica\j Railway Corporation which were in common carrier service are no longer operational; the remaining track is privately owned and used to transport \Jbauxite\j
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 18,094 km
\Ipaved:\i 12,528 km
\Iunpaved:\i 5,566 km (1988 est.)
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products 10 km
\BPorts:\b \JAlligator\j Pond, Discovery Bay, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Longs Wharf, Rocky Point
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 1.04 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 8
\BTelevisions:\b 330,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b \JJamaica\j
\BDefense:\b Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard and Air Wing), \JJamaica\j Constabulary Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 680,965
\Imales fit for military service:\i 481,616
males reach military age (18) annually: 25,810 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $30 million, NA% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Jan Mayen (Atlas)",119,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Norway)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, island between the \JGreenland\j Sea and the Norwegian Sea, northeast of \JIceland\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 71 00 N, 8 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JArctic\j Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 373 sq km
\Iland area:\i 373 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 124.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 10 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 4 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b \Jarctic\j maritime with frequent storms and persistent fog
\BTerrain:\b volcanic island, partly covered by glaciers
\Ilowest point:\i Norwegian Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Haakon VII Toppen (Beerenberg) 2,277 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i dominated by the \Jvolcano\j Beerenberg; volcanic activity resumed in 1970
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b barren volcanic island with some moss and grass
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no permanent inhabitants; note - there are personnel who man the Long Range Navigation (LORAN) C base and the weather and coastal services radio station
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Jan Mayen
\BData code:\b JN
\BType of government:\b territory of \JNorway\j
\BCapital:\b none
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Norway)
\BExecutive branch:\b administered from Oslo, \JNorway\j, through a governor (sysselmann) resident in Longyearbyen (Svalbard); however, authority has been delegated to a station commander of the Norwegian
\BDefense:\b Communication Service
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JNorway\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Jan Mayen is a volcanic island with no exploitable natural resources. Economic activity is limited to providing services for employees of \JNorway\j's radio and meteorological stations located on the island.
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 15,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 40 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i NA kWh (1992)
\BTransportation:\b
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\Bnote:\b radio and meteorological station
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JNorway\j
#
"Japan (Atlas)",120,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of \JJapan\j, east of the Korean Peninsula
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 36 00 N, 138 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 377,835 sq km
\Iland area:\i 374,744 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JCalifornia\j
\Bnote:\b includes Bonin Islands (Ogasawara-gunto), Daito-shoto, Minami-jima, Okinotori-shima, Ryukyu Islands (Nansei-shoto), and \JVolcano\j Islands (Kazan-retto)
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 29,751 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm; 3 nm in the international straits - La Perouse or Soya, Tsugaru, Osumi, and Eastern and Western Channels of the Korea or Tsushima Strait
\BInternational disputes:\b islands of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai group occupied by the Soviet Union in 1945, now administered by \JRussia\j, claimed by \JJapan\j; Liancourt Rocks disputed with South Korea; Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands) claimed by China and \JTaiwan\j
\BClimate:\b varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged and mountainous
\Ilowest point:\i Hachiro-gata -4 m
\Ihighest point:\i Fujiyama 3,776 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible mineral resources, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 1%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 67%
\Iother:\i 18%
\BIrrigated land:\b 28,680 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from power plant emissions results in acid rain; acidification of lakes and reservoirs degrading water quality and threatening aquatic life; \JJapan\j's appetite for fish and tropical timber is contributing to the depletion of these resources in Asia and elsewhere
\Inatural hazards:\i many dormant and some active volcanoes; about 1,500 seismic occurrences (mostly tremors) every year; tsunamis
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location in northeast Asia
\BIndependence:\b 660 BC (traditional founding by Emperor Jimmu)
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of the Emperor, 23 December (1933)
\BConstitution:\b 3 May 1947
\BLegal system:\b modeled after European civil law system with English-American influence; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Emperor AKIHITO (since 7 January 1989) is a constitutional monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ryutaro HASHIMOTO (since 11 January 1996) and Deputy Prime Minister Wataru KUBO (since 11 January 1996) were designated by the Diet and appointed by the emperor
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Diet (Kokkai)
House of Councillors (Sangi-in): half of the members elected every three years to six-year terms; elections last held 23 July 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (252 total, with 126 up for election) LDP 110 (49 newly won), Shinshinto 56 (40 newly won), SDP 38 (16 newly won), JCP 14 (8 newly won), Sakigate 3 (3 newly won), others 19 (4 newly won), independents 12 (6 newly won); note - the distribution of seats as of 1 March 1996 is as follows - LDP 111, Heisei-kai 69, SDP 35, JCP 14, Sakigake 3, others and independents 19, vacancies 1
House of Representatives (Shugi-in): all members elected every four years to four-year terms; elections last held 18 July 1993 (next to be held by July 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (511 total) LDP 223, SDP 70, Shinseito 55, Komeito 51, JNP 35, JCP 15, DSP 15, Sakigake 13, others 4, independents 30; note - the distribution of seats as of 1 March 1996 is as follows - LDP 207, Shinshinto 170, SDP 63, Sakigake 22, JCP 15, others and independents 19, vacant 15
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chief justice is appointed by the emperor after designation by the cabinet, all other justices are appointed by the cabinet
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Ryutaro HASHIMOTO, president and Koichi KATO, secretary general; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Tomiichi MURAYAMA, president and Kanju SATO, secretary general; Sakigake (Harbinger), Masayoshi TAKEMURA, chairman and Yukio HATOYAMA, secretary general; Shinshinto (New Frontier Party, NFP), Ichiro OZAWA, chairman and Takashi YONEZAWA, secretary general; \JJapan\j Communist Party (JCP), Tetsuzo FUWA, presidium chairman
\Bnote:\b Shinshinto was formed in December 1994 by the merger of Shinseito (Japan Renewal Party, JRP), Komeito (Clean Government Party, CGP), \JJapan\j New Party (JNP), Democratic Socialist Party (DSP), and several minor groups; Heisei-kai is a joint bloc of Shinshinto and Komei members; Komei is a group formed from what remains of Komeito in the upper house
\Ichancery:\i 2520 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-6700
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-2187
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Agana (Guam), \JAnchorage\j, \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, \JDetroit\j, \JHonolulu\j, Houston, Kansas City (Missouri), Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Portland (Oregon), San Francisco, and Seattle
\Imailing address:\i Unit 45004, Box 258, APO AP 96337-0001
\Itelephone:\i [81] (3) 3224-5000
\IFAX:\i [81] (3) 3505-1862
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, \JSapporo\j
\Iconsulate(s):\i \JFukuoka\j, \JNagoya\j
\BFlag:\b white with a large red disk (representing the sun without rays) in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (roughly 1% of GDP) have helped \JJapan\j advance with extraordinary rapidity to the rank of second most powerful economy in the world. One notable characteristic of the economy is the working together of manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors in closely knit groups called keiretsu. A second basic feature has been the guarantee of lifetime employment for a substantial portion of the urban labor force; this guarantee is slowly eroding. Industry, the most important sector of the economy, is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels. The much smaller agricultural sector is highly subsidized and protected, with crop yields among the highest in the world. Usually self-sufficient in rice, \JJapan\j must import about 50% of its requirements of other grain and fodder crops. \JJapan\j maintains one of the world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global catch. For three decades overall economic growth had been spectacular: a 10% average in the 1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s and 1980s. Growth came to a halt in 1992-95 largely because of the aftereffects of overinvestment during the late 1980s and contractionary domestic policies intended to wring speculative excesses from the stock and real estate markets. At yearend 1995, the financial structure is shaky with banks holding hundreds of billions of dollars of suspect assets. At the same time, the continued basic strength of the economy has been reflected in substantial trade surpluses, sizable foreign investments, and remarkably low rates of unemployment, \Jinflation\j, and social disorder. The crowding of the habitable land area and the aging of the population are two major long-run problems.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.6792 trillion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i trade and services 54%, manufacturing, mining, and construction 33%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 7%, government 3%, other 3% (1988)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.1% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $595 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $829 billion, including capital expenditures (public works only) of about $122 billion (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of steel and non-ferrous \Jmetallurgy\j, heavy electrical equipment, construction and mining equipment, motor vehicles and parts, electronic and telecommunication equipment, machine tools, automated production systems, locomotives and railroad rolling stock, ships, chemicals; textiles, processed foods
Industrial production growth rate: 3.3% (1995)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 205,140,000 kW (1993)
\Iproduction:\i 915 billion kWh (1995)
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 7,293 kWh (1995)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, sugar beets, vegetables, fruit; pork, poultry, dairy products, eggs; world's largest fish catch of 10 million metric tons in 1991
\Bnote:\b \JJapan\j owns an additional 1,587 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 50,072,815 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, \JLiberia\j, Vanuatu, The \JBahamas\j, \JSingapore\j, Cyprus, \JPhilippines\j, Hong Kong, and Malta (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 164
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 6
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 32
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 34
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 30
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 60
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 11 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 64 million (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent domestic and international service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region), and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); submarine cables to China, \JPhilippines\j, \JRussia\j, and US (via Guam)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 318, FM 58, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 97 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 12,350 (1 kW or greater 196)
\BTelevisions:\b 100 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b \JJapan\j Ground Self-
\BDefense:\b Force (Army), \JJapan\j Maritime Self-
\BDefense:\b Force (Navy), \JJapan\j Air Self-
\BDefense:\b Force (Air Force)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 31,833,691
\Imales fit for military service:\i 27,322,517
males reach military age (18) annually: 858,912 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $50.2 billion, 1% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Jarvis Island (Atlas)",121,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to the Cook Islands
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 22 S, 160 03 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 4.5 sq km
\Iland area:\i 4.5 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about eight times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 8 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
\BTerrain:\b sandy, \Jcoral\j island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 23 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j (deposits worked until late 1800s)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b sparse bunch grass, prostrate vines, and low-growing shrubs; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife; feral cats
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited; note - Millersville settlement on western side of island occasionally used as a weather station from 1935 until World War II, when it was abandoned; reoccupied in 1957 during the International Geophysical Year by scientists who left in 1958; public entry is by special-use permit only and generally restricted to scientists and educators
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Jarvis Island
\BData code:\b DQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only; note - there is one boat landing area in the middle of the west coast and another near the southwest corner of the island
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b there is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard
#
"Jersey (Atlas)",122,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (British crown dependency)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of \JFrance\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 49 15 N, 2 10 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 117 sq km
\Iland area:\i 117 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.7 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 70 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; mild winters and cool summers
\BTerrain:\b gently rolling plain with low, rugged hills along north coast
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 143 m
\BNatural resources:\b agricultural land
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 57%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b largest and southernmost of Channel Islands; about 30% of population concentrated in Saint Helier
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 87,848 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 17% (male 7,787; female 7,284)
\I15-64 years:\i 69% (male 29,928; female 30,395)
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 5,107; female 7,347) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.77% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 12.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 4.01 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.11 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 2.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 78.36 years
\Imale:\i 75.63 years
\Ifemale:\i 81.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.5 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Channel Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Channel Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b UK and Norman-French descent
\BReligions:\b Anglican, Roman Catholic, Baptist, Congregational New Church, Methodist, Presbyterian
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French (official), Norman-French \Jdialect\j spoken in country districts
\BNational holiday:\b Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
\BConstitution:\b unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
\BLegal system:\b English law and local statute
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
Chief of State: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
Head of \BGovernment:\b
Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Sir Michael WILKES (since NA 1995) and \JBailiff\j Philip Martin BAILHACHE (since NA 1995) were appointed by the queen
\Icabinet:\i committees were appointed by the Assembly of the States
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Assembly of the States: elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - no percent of vote by party since all are independents; seats - (56 total, 52 elected) independents 52
\BJudicial branch:\b Royal Court, judges elected by an electoral college and the \Jbailiff\j
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none; all independents
\BFlag:\b white with the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) extending to the corners of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based largely on financial services, agriculture, and tourism. Potatoes, \Jcauliflower\j, tomatoes, and especially flowers are important export crops, shipped mostly to the UK. The Jersey breed of dairy \Jcattle\j is known worldwide and represents an important export earner. Milk products go to the UK and other EU countries. In 1986 the finance sector overtook tourism as the main contributor to GDP, accounting for 40% of the island's output. In recent years, the government has encouraged light industry to locate in Jersey, with the result that an \Jelectronics\j industry has developed alongside the traditional manufacturing of knitwear. All raw material and energy requirements are imported, as well as a large share of Jersey's food needs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $643.7 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $597.2 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, banking and finance, dairy
\Icommodities:\i light industrial and electrical goods, foodstuffs, textiles
\Ipartners:\i UK
\BImports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, foodstuffs, mineral fuels, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i UK
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b none
\BCurrency:\b 1 Jersey pound (úJ) = 100 pence
\BExchange rates:\b Jersey pounds (úJ) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); the Jersey pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Gorey, Saint Aubin, Saint Helier
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 61,447 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i 3 submarine cables
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Johnston Atoll (Atlas)",123,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, \Jatoll\j in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 45 N, 169 30 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2.8 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2.8 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 4.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 10 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Summit Peak 5 m
\BNatural resources:\b NA; \Jguano\j deposits worked until depletion about 1890
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; Johnston Island and Sand Island are natural islands, which have been expanded by \Jcoral\j dredging; North Island (Akau) and East Island (Hikina) are manmade islands formed from \Jcoral\j dredging; closed to the public; former nuclear weapons test site; site of Johnston \JAtoll\j Chemical Agent Disposal System (JACADS); some low-growing vegetation
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are 1,200 US military and civilian contractor personnel (July 1996 est.)
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Johnston \JAtoll\j
\BData code:\b JQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US
\BDefense:\b Nuclear Agency (DNA) and managed cooperatively by DNA and the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge system
\BCapital:\b none
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of the US)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of the US)
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is limited to providing services to US military personnel and contractors located on the island. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
\BElectricity:\b supplied by the management and operations contractor
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Johnston Island
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b 52 \Jtelephone\j lines; excellent system
\Idomestic:\i 60-channel submarine cable, 22 DSN circuits by satellite, Autodin with standard remote terminal, digital \Jtelephone\j switch, Military Affiliated Radio System (MARS station), UHF/VHF air-ground radio, a link to the Pacific Consolidated Telecommunications Network (PCTN) satellite, and amateur radio
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM 5, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Jordan (Atlas)",124,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, northwest of Saudi \JArabia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 31 00 N, 36 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 89,213 sq km
\Iland area:\i 88,884 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JIndiana\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,619 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JIraq\j 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi \JArabia\j 728 km, \JSyria\j 375 km, West Bank 97 km
\BCoastline:\b 26 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b mostly arid desert; rainy season in west (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b mostly desert plateau in east, highland area in west; Great Rift Valley separates East and West Banks of the Jordan River
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 57,783; female 56,728) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.65% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 36.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 3.95 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 31.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.48 years
\Imale:\i 70.62 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.45 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.1 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Jordanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Jordanian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 8%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 86.6%
\Imale:\i 93.4%
\Ifemale:\i 79.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
\Iconventional short form:\i Jordan
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Mamlakah al Urduniyah al Hashimiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Urdun
\Iformer:\i Transjordan
\BData code:\b JO
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b \JAmman\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al Mafraq, 'Amman, At Tafilah, Az \JZarqa\j', Irbid, Ma'an
\BIndependence:\b 25 May 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 25 May (1946)
\BConstitution:\b 8 January 1952
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law and French codes; judicial review of legislative acts in a specially provided High Tribunal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King HUSSEIN Bin Talal Al Hashimi (since 2 May 1953) is a constitutional monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Abd al-Karim al-KABARITI (since 4 February 1996) was appointed by the king
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly (Majlis al-'Umma)
House of Notables (Majlis al-A'ayan): consists of a 40-member body appointed by the king from designated categories of public figures
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1993 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (80 total) IAF 16, Jordanian National Alliance Party 4, Al-Yaqazah Party 2, Al-Watan Party 2, Al-'Ahd Party 2, Jordanian Arab Democratic Party 2, Al-Mustaqbal Party 1, Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party 1, Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party 1, Jordanian People's Democratic Party-Hashd 1, Jordanian Socialist Democratic Party 1, independents 47
\Bnote:\b the House of Representatives has been convened and dissolved by the king several times since 1974; in November 1989 the first parliamentary elections in 22 years were held
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Cassation
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Al-'Ahd (Pledge) Party, 'Abd al-Hadi al-MAJALI, secretary general; Al-Ahrar (Liberals) Party, Ahmad al-ZU'BI, secretary general; Al-Taqaddumi (Progressive) Party, Fawwaz al-ZUBI, secretary general; Al-Watan (Homeland) Party, 'Akif al-FAYIZ; Al-Yaqazah (Awakening) Party, 'Abd al-Ra'uf al-RAWABIDAH, secretary general; Constitutional Jordanian Arab Front Party, Milhim al-TALL; Democratic Arab Islamic Movement Party-Du'a', Yusuf Abu BAKR, secretary general; Democratic Arab Unionist Party-Wad, Anis al-MU'ASHIR, secretary general; Islamic Action Front (IAF), Ishaq al-FARHAN, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Masses Party, 'Abd al-Khaliq SHATAT, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party, Taysir al-HIMSI, command first secretary; Jordanian Communist Party (JCP), Ya'qub ZAYADIN, secretary general; Jordanian Democratic Popular Unity Party, 'Azmi al-KHAWAJA, secretary general; Jordanian National Alliance Party, Mijhim al-KHURAYSHAH, secretary general; Jordanian People's Democratic Party-Hashd, Salim al-NAHHAS, secretary general; Jordanian Unionist Democratic Party, 'Isa MADANAT (secretary general), Ali AMIR (secretary general), Munis al-RAZZAZ (secretary general); Pan-Arab Action Front Party, Muhammad al-ZU'BI, secretary general; Popular Unity Party-the Unionists, Mustafa AL-'ISAWI, secretary general; Progress and Justice Party, 'Ali al-SA'D, secretary general; Progressive Arab Ba'th Party, Mahmud al-MA'AYITAH, command secretary; Al-Mustaqbal (Future) Party, Sulayman 'ARAR, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Partisans Party, Muhammad al-MAJALI, leader, Muhammad SHURAYDAH, secretary general
\Bnote:\b in 1995, the Jordanian Arab Democratic Party, the Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party, and the Jordanian Socialist Democratic Party merged to form the Jordanian Unionist Democratic Party
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Fayiz A. TARAWNEH
\Ichancery:\i 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 966-2664
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 966-3110
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Wesley W. EGAN, Jr.
\Iembassy:\i Jabel \JAmman\j, \JAmman\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 354, \JAmman\j 11118 Jordan; APO AE 09892-0200
\Itelephone:\i [962] (6) 820101
\IFAX:\i [962] (6) 820159
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of black (top), white, and green with a red isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a small white seven-pointed star; the seven points on the star represent the seven fundamental laws of the Koran
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Jordan is a small Arab country with inadequate supplies of water and other natural resources such as oil and coal. Jordan benefited from increased Arab aid during the oil boom of the late 1970s and early 1980s, when its annual real GNP growth averaged more than 10%. In the remainder of the 1980s, however, reductions in both Arab aid and worker remittances slowed real economic growth to an average of roughly 2% per year. Imports - mainly oil, capital goods, consumer durables, and food - outstripped exports, with the difference covered by aid, remittances, and borrowing. In mid-1989, the Jordanian Government began debt-rescheduling negotiations and agreed to implement an IMF-supported program designed to gradually reduce the budget deficit and implement badly needed structural reforms. The Persian Gulf crisis that began in August 1990, however, aggravated Jordan's already serious economic problems, forcing the government to shelve the IMF program, stop most debt payments, and suspend rescheduling negotiations. Aid from Gulf Arab states, worker remittances, and trade contracted; and refugees flooded the country, producing serious balance-of-payments problems, stunting GDP growth, and straining government resources. The economy rebounded in 1992, largely due to the influx of capital repatriated by workers returning from the Gulf, but the recovery was uneven throughout 1994 and 1995. The government is implementing the reform program adopted in 1992 and continues to secure rescheduling and write-offs of its heavy foreign debt. Debt, poverty, and unemployment remain Jordan's biggest on-going problems.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $19.3 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i industry 11.4%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels 10.5%, construction 10.0%, transport and communications 8.7%, agriculture 7.4%, other services 52.0% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 16% (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $2.5 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $640 million (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate \Jtelephone\j system
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay, cable, and radiotelephone links
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to \JIraq\j, Saudi \JArabia\j, and \JSyria\j; microwave radio relay to \JLebanon\j is inactive; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 1.1 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 8 and 1 TV receive-only satellite link
\BTelevisions:\b 350,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Jordanian Armed Forces (JAF; includes Royal Jordanian Land Force, Royal Naval Force, and Royal Jordanian Air Force); Ministry of the Interior's Public Security Force (falls under JAF only in wartime or crisis situations)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,011,588
\Imales fit for military service:\i 721,460
males reach military age (18) annually: 45,406 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $589 million, 8.2% of GDP (1996)
#
"Juan de Nova Island (Atlas)",125,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (possession of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the \JMozambique\j Channel, about one-third of the way between Madagascar and \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 03 S, 42 45 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 4.4 sq km
\Iland area:\i 4.4 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about seven times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 24.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 12 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to depth the of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by Madagascar
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b NA
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 10 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j deposits and other fertilizers
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 90%
\Iother:\i 10%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic cyclones
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b wildlife sanctuary
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Juan de Nova Island
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile Juan de Nova
\BData code:\b JU
\BType of government:\b French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
\BCapital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km; short line going to a jetty
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Kazakstan (Atlas)",126,0,0,0
\BAlso spelt Kazakhstan\b
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Asia, northwest of China
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 48 00 N, 68 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,717,300 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,669,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than four times the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,012 km
\Iborder countries:\i China 1,533 km, \JKyrgyzstan\j 1,051 km, \JRussia\j 6,846 km, Turkmenistan 379 km, Uzbekistan 2,203 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\Bnote:\b Kazakstan borders the Aral Sea (1,015 km) and the Caspian Sea (1,894 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
\BClimate:\b continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
\BTerrain:\b extends from the Volga to the Altai Mountains and from the plains in western \JSiberia\j to oasis and desert in Central Asia
\Ilowest point:\i Vpadina Kaundy -132 m
\Ihighest point:\i Zhengis Shingy 7,439 m
\BNatural resources:\b major deposits of \Jpetroleum\j, coal, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, chrome ore, nickel, \Jcobalt\j, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, \Jbauxite\j, gold, uranium
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 15%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NEGL%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 57%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 24%
\BIrrigated land:\b 23,080 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i radioactive or toxic chemical sites associated with its former defense industries and test ranges are found throughout the country and pose health risks for humans and animals; industrial \Jpollution\j is severe in some cities; because the two main rivers which flowed into the Aral Sea have been diverted for irrigation, it is drying up and leaving behind a harmful layer of chemical pesticides and natural salts; these substances are then picked up by the wind and blown into noxious dust storms; \Jpollution\j in the Caspian Sea; soil \Jpollution\j from overuse of agricultural chemicals and salinization from faulty irrigation practices
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\I65 years and over:\i 7% (male 384,341; female 814,542) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -0.15% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 19.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.65 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -10.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.47 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.93 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 63.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 64.09 years
\Imale:\i 58.56 years
\Ifemale:\i 69.9 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.36 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Kazakstani(s)
\Iadjective:\i Kazakstani
\BEthnic divisions:\b Kazak (Qazaq) 41.9%, Russian 37%, Ukrainian 5.2%, German 4.7%, Uzbek 2.1%, Tatar 2%, other 7.1% (1991 official data)
\BReligions:\b Muslim 47%, Russian Orthodox 44%, Protestant 2%, other 7%
\BLanguages:\b Kazak (Qazaqz) official language spoken by over 40% of population, Russian (language of interethnic communication) spoken by two-thirds of population and used in everyday business
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 96%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Kazakhstan
\Bnote:\b names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblys name
\BIndependence:\b 16 December 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 16 December (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 28 January 1993; has been amended in April 1995 and August 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV (since 22 February 1990) was elected chairman of the Supreme Soviet 22 February 1990, and president by popular election 1 December 1991; was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 1 December 1991 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV ran unopposed; note - President NAZARBAYEV's term was extended to the year 2000 by a nationwide referendum held 30 April 1995
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Akezhan KAZHEGELDIN (since 12 October 1994) and First Deputy Prime Ministers Nigmatzhan ISINGARIN (since 12 October 1994) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
\Bnote:\b President NAZARBAYEV has expanded his presidential powers by decree: only he can initiate constitutional amendments, appoint and dismiss the government, dissolve parliament, call referenda at his discretion, and appoint administrative heads of regions and cities
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: elections (indirect) last held 5 December 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) "independent" state officials 25, progovernment parties 11, other parties 2, vacant 9 (of which 7 are to be nominated by the president)
Majilis: elections last held 9 December and 23 December 1995 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (67 total) seats by party NA; note - 172 candidates were forwarded by parties and social organizations and 113 candidates were independents
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b ALASH party; People's Unity Party (PUP; was Union of People's Unity), Akhan BIZHANOV, chairman; Democratic Party, Tulegen ZHUKEYEV and Altynbek SARSENBAYEV, cochairmen; People's Congress of Kazakstan (PCK), Olzhas SULEYMENOV, chairman; Socialist Party of Kazakstan (SPK; former Communist Party), Petr SVOIK, chairman; Communist Party, Baidabek TULEPBAYEV; National Democratic Party, Kamal ORMANTAYEV, chairman; AZAT party, Khasen KOZH-AKHMET, chairman; Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakstan; Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakstan (KPU); Slavic Movement LAD, Aleksandra DOKUCHAYEVA, chairman; Party for Social Justice and Economic Revival "Tagibat"; Social Democratic Party, Dos KUSHIMOV, cochairman; People's Cooperative Party, Umirzak SARSENOV, chairman; Organization of Veterans; Republican Party
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Independent Trade Union Center, Leonid SOLOMIN, president; Kazakstani-American Bureau on Human Rights, Yevgeniy ZHOVTIS, executive director; Democratic Committee on Human Rights; Independent Miners Union
\BFlag:\b sky blue background representing the endless sky and a gold sun with 32 rays soaring above a golden steppe eagle in the center; on the hoist side is a "national ornamentation" in yellow
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Kazakstan, the second largest of the former Soviet states in territory, possesses enormous untapped fossil-fuel reserves as well as plentiful supplies of other minerals and metals. It also has considerable agricultural potential with its vast steppe lands accommodating both livestock and grain production. Kazakstan's industrial sector rests on the extraction and processing of these natural resources and also on a relatively large machine building sector specializing in construction equipment, tractors, agricultural machinery, and some defense items. The breakup of the USSR and the collapse of demand for Kazakstan's traditional heavy industry products have resulted in a sharp contraction of the economy since 1991, with the steepest annual decline occurring in 1994. The government has pursued a moderate program of economic reform and privatization, resulting in a gradual lifting of state controls over economic activity and a shifting of assets into the private sector. Nevertheless, government control over key sectors of the economy remains strong. Moreover, continued lack of pipeline transportation for expanded oil exports has closed off a likely source of economic recovery.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $46.9 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 31%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 26%, other 43% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 1.4% includes only officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of underemployed workers (September 1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b oil, coal, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, chromite, lead, zinc, copper, \Jtitanium\j, \Jbauxite\j, gold, silver, \Jphosphates\j, sulfur, iron and steel, nonferrous metal, tractors and other agricultural machinery, electric motors, construction materials; much of industrial capacity is shut down and/or is in need of repair
Industrial production growth rate: -8% (1995)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 17,380,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 65.7 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 3,700 kWh (1995 est.)
\BAgriculture:\b grain, mostly spring wheat, cotton; wool, meat
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
\Iinternational:\i international traffic with other former Soviet republics and China carried by landline and microwave radio relay and with other countries by satellite and through 8 international telecommunications circuits at the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and a new satellite earth station established at Almaty of unknown type
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b 4.088 million (with multiple speakers for program diffusion 6.082 million)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA; Orbita (TV receive only) earth station
\BTelevisions:\b 4.75 million
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air Force, Air
\BDefense:\b Force, National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops); Kazakstan may also be establishing a maritime force - navy or coast guard - on the Caspian Sea
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 4,399,356
\Imales fit for military service:\i 3,516,583
males reach military age (18) annually: 154,750 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 18.9 billion tenges, NA% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Kenya (Atlas)",127,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between \JSomalia\j and \JTanzania\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 N, 38 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 582,650 sq km
\Iland area:\i 569,250 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Nevada
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,446 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JEthiopia\j 830 km, \JSomalia\j 682 km, \JSudan\j 232 km, \JTanzania\j 769 km, \JUganda\j 933 km
\BCoastline:\b 536 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b administrative boundary with \JSudan\j does not coincide with international boundary; possible claim by \JSomalia\j based on unification of ethnic Somalis
\BClimate:\b varies from tropical along coast to arid in interior
\BTerrain:\b low plains rise to central highlands bisected by Great Rift Valley; fertile plateau in west
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount \JKenya\j 5,199 m
\BNatural resources:\b gold, \Jlimestone\j, soda ash, salt \Jbarytes\j, rubies, \Jfluorspar\j, garnets, wildlife
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 3%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 7%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 85%
\BIrrigated land:\b 520 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from urban and industrial wastes; degradation of water quality from increased use of pesticides and fertilizers; deforestation; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j; poaching
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b the Kenyan Highlands comprise one of the most successful agricultural production regions in Africa; glaciers on Mt. \JKenya\j; unique physiography supports abundant and varied wildlife of scientific and economic value
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 328,649; female 396,935) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.27% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.3 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.83 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 55.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 55.61 years
\Imale:\i 55.53 years
\Ifemale:\i 55.69 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.45 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Kenyan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Kenyan
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JKikuyu\j 22%, \JLuhya\j 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%, Asian, European, and Arab 1%, other 15%
\BReligions:\b Protestant (including Anglican) 38%, Roman Catholic 28%, indigenous beliefs 26%, other 8%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), \JSwahili\j (official), numerous indigenous languages
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 78.1%
\Imale:\i 86.3%
\Ifemale:\i 70%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JKenya\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JKenya\j
\Iformer:\i British East Africa
\BData code:\b KE
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JNairobi\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 provinces and 1 area*; Central, Coast, Eastern, \JNairobi\j Area*, North Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley, Western
\BIndependence:\b 12 December 1963 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 December (1963)
\BConstitution:\b 12 December 1963, amended as a republic 1964; reissued with amendments 1979, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1991, and 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law, tribal law, and Islamic law; judicial review in High Court; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations; constitutional amendment of 1982 making \JKenya\j a de jure one-party state repealed in 1991
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Daniel Toroitich arap MOI (since 14 October 1978) elected for a five-year term from the National Assembly by direct popular vote; election last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held by early 1998); results - President Daniel T. arap MOI was reelected with 37% of the vote; Kenneth MATIBA (FORD-ASILI) 26%; Mwai KIBAKI (DP) 19%, Oginga ODINGA (FORD-Kenya) 17%; Vice President George SAITOTI (since 10 May 1989) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Bunge): election last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (188 total) KANU 100, FORD-Kenya 31, FORD-Asili 31, DP 23, smaller parties 3; president nominates 12 additional members; note - as of 9 April 1996 seat distribution was: KANU 106, FORD-Kenya 32, FORD-Asili 22, DP 22, smaller parties and vacancies 6
\Bnote:\b first multiparty election since repeal of one-party state law in 1991
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal; High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b ruling party is \JKenya\j African National Union (KANU), President Daniel Toroitich arap MOI; opposition parties include Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD-Kenya), Michael WAMALWA; Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD-Asili), Kenneth MATIBA; Democratic Party of \JKenya\j (DP), Mwai KIBAKI
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b labor unions; Roman Catholic Church; unregistered SAFINA party with which prominent naturalist Richard Leakey is associated
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Benjamin Edgar KIPKORIR
\Ichancery:\i 2249 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 387-6101
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 462-3829
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Aurelia E. BRAZEAL
\Iembassy:\i corner of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue, \JNairobi\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, APO AE 09831
\Itelephone:\i [254] (2) 334141
\IFAX:\i [254] (2) 340838
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green; the red band is edged in white; a large warrior's shield covering crossed spears is superimposed at the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JKenya\j in recent years has had one of the highest natural rates of growth in population, but the statistics have been complicated by the large-scale movement of nomadic groups and of Somalis back and forth across the border. Population growth has been accompanied by deforestation, deterioration in the road system, the water supply, and other parts of the \Jinfrastructure\j. In industry and services, \JNairobi\j's reluctance to embrace IMF-supported reforms had held back investment and growth in 1991-93. \JNairobi\j's push on economic reform in 1994, however, helped support a 3.3% increase in output. The strong economy continued into 1995 with \Jinflation\j cut sharply and GDP growth at 5%.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $36.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b widespread harvesting of small, wild plots of marijuana and qat (chat); most locally consumed; transit country for Southwest Asian heroin moving to West Africa and onward to Europe and North America; Indian methaqualone also transits on way to South Africa
\Ipartners:\i EC 47%, Africa 23%, Asia 11%, US 4%, Middle East 3% (1991)
\BImports:\b $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transportation equipment 29%, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products 15%, iron and steel 7%, raw materials, food and consumer goods (1989)
\Ipartners:\i EC 46%, Asia 23%, Middle East 20%, US 5% (1991)
ships by type: oil tanker 1, roll on/roll off 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 199
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 22
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 62
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 12
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 95 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 357,251 (1989 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b in top group of African systems
\Idomestic:\i primarily microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 16, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 260,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary General Service Unit of the Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 6,657,530
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,114,416 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $136 million, 1.9% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Kingman Reef (Atlas)",128,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, reef in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American \JSamoa\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 24 N, 162 24 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 1.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 3 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, but moderated by prevailing winds
\BTerrain:\b low and nearly level
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 1 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i wet or awash most of the time, maximum elevation of about 1 meter makes Kingman Reef a maritime hazard
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b barren \Jcoral\j \Jatoll\j with deep interior lagoon; closed to the public
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Kingman Reef
\BData code:\b KQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Navy; however, it is awash the majority of the time, so it is not usable and is uninhabited
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b lagoon was used as a halfway station between Hawaii and American \JSamoa\j by Pan American Airways for flying boats in 1937 and 1938
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Kiribati (Atlas)",129,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator and the International Date Line, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 25 N, 173 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 717 sq km
\Iland area:\i 717 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i four times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes three island groups - Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,143 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b mostly low-lying \Jcoral\j atolls surrounded by extensive reefs
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Banaba 81 m
\BNatural resources:\b phosphate (production discontinued in 1979)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 51%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 3%
\Iother:\i 46%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i heavy \Jpollution\j in lagoon of south \JTarawa\j \Jatoll\j due to heavy migration mixed with traditional practices such as lagoon latrines and open-pit dumping; ground water at risk
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional tornadoes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b 20 of the 33 islands are inhabited; Banaba (Ocean Island) in Kiribati is one of the three great phosphate rock islands in the Pacific Ocean - the others are Makatea in French \JPolynesia\j and \JNauru\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 80,919 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.89% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 27.13 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 52.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 62.02 years
\Imale:\i 60.25 years
\Ifemale:\i 64.03 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.21 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i I-Kiribati (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i I-Kiribati
\BEthnic divisions:\b Micronesian
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 52.6%, Protestant (Congregational) 40.9%, Seventh-Day Adventist, Baha'i, Church of God, Mormon 6% (1985)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Gilbertese
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Kiribati
\Iconventional short form:\i Kiribati
\Bnote:\b pronounced kiribas
\Iformer:\i Gilbert Islands
\BData code:\b KR
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JTarawa\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 3 units; Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands
\Bnote:\b in addition, there are 6 districts (Banaba, Central Gilberts, Line Islands, Northern Gilberts, Southern Gilberts, Tarawa) and 21 island councils (Abaiang, Abemama, Aranuka, Arorae, Banaba, Beru, Butaritari, Kanton, \JKiritimati\j, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa, Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, \JTarawa\j, Teraina; note - one council for each of the inhabited islands)
\BIndependence:\b 12 July 1979 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 July (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 12 July 1979
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President (Beretitenti) Teburoro TITO (since 1 October 1994) was elected by popular vote; note - the House of Assembly chooses the presidential candidates from among their members and then those candidates compete in a general election; election last held 30 September 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999); results - Teburoro TITO 51.2%, Tewareka TENTOA 18.3%, Roniti TEIWAKI 16.0%, Peter Taberannang TIMEON 14.5%; Vice President (Kauoman-ni-Beretitenti) Tewareka TENTOA (since 12 October 1994) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president from among the members of the House of Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Assembly (Maneaba Ni Maungatabu): elections last held 22 July 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (40 total, 39 elected) Maneaban Te Mauri 13, National Progressive Party 7, independents 19
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal, judges at all levels are appointed by the president; High Court, judges at all levels are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Progressive Party, Teatao TEANNAKI; Christian Democratic Party, Teburoro TITO; New Movement Party, leader NA; Liberal Party, Tewareka TENTOA; Maneaban Te Mauri Party, Roniti TEIWAKI
\Bnote:\b there is no tradition of formally organized political parties in Kiribati; they more closely resemble factions or interest groups because they have no party headquarters, formal platforms, or party structures
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Kiribati does not have an embassy in the US
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Kiribati; the ambassador to \JFiji\j is accredited to Kiribati
\BFlag:\b the upper half is red with a yellow \Jfrigate\j bird flying over a yellow rising sun, and the lower half is blue with three horizontal wavy white stripes to represent the ocean
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b A remote country of 33 scattered \Jcoral\j atolls, Kiribati has few national resources. Commercially viable phosphate deposits were exhausted at the time of independence in 1979. Copra and fish now represent the bulk of production and exports. The economy has fluctuated widely in recent years. Real GDP growth has declined from about 10% in 1988 to about 2.6% in 1995. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak \Jinfrastructure\j, and remoteness from international markets. The financial sector is at an early stage of development. Foreign financial aid, largely from the UK and \JJapan\j, is a critical supplement to GDP, equal in amount to 25%-50% of GDP in recent years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $68 million (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 11 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,400 (1984 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 15,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 0 (1988 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular military forces; Police Force (carries out law enforcement functions and paramilitary duties; small police posts are on all islands)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Korea, North (Atlas)",130,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Korea Bay and the Sea of \JJapan\j, between China and South Korea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 00 N, 127 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 120,540 sq km
\Iland area:\i 120,410 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Mississippi
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,673 km
\Iborder countries:\i China 1,416 km, South Korea 238 km, \JRussia\j 19 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,495 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
military boundary line: 50 nm in the Sea of \JJapan\j and the exclusive economic zone limit in the Yellow Sea where all foreign vessels and \Jaircraft\j without permission are banned
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of boundary with China is indefinite; Demarcation Line with South Korea
\BClimate:\b temperate with rainfall concentrated in summer
\BTerrain:\b mostly hills and mountains separated by deep, narrow valleys; coastal plains wide in west, discontinuous in east
\Icurrent issues:\i localized air \Jpollution\j attributable to inadequate industrial controls; water \Jpollution\j; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i late spring droughts often followed by severe flooding; occasional typhoons during the early fall
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location bordering China, South Korea, and \JRussia\j; mountainous interior is isolated, nearly inaccessible, and sparsely populated
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 355,284; female 649,112) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.74% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 22.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.45 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.55 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 25.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.32 years
\Imale:\i 67.23 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.57 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.31 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Korean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Korean
\BEthnic divisions:\b racially homogeneous
\BReligions:\b \JBuddhism\j and Confucianism, some \JChristianity\j and syncretic Chondogyo
\Bnote:\b autonomous religious activities now almost nonexistent; government-sponsored religious groups exist to provide illusion of religious freedom
\BLanguages:\b Korean
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write Korean (1990 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Democratic People's Republic of Korea
\Iconventional short form:\i North Korea
\Ilocal long form:\i Choson-minjujuui-inmin-konghwaguk
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Bnote:\b the North Koreans generally use the term "Choson" to refer to their country
abbreviation: DPRK
\BData code:\b KN
\BType of government:\b Communist state; Stalinist dictatorship
\BCapital:\b P'yongyang
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 3 special cities* (si, singular and plural); Chagang-do (Chagang Province), Hamgyong-bukto (North Hamgyong Province), Hamgyong-namdo (South Hamgyong Province), Hwanghae-bukto (North Hwanghae Province), Hwanghae-namdo (South Hwanghae Province), Kaesong-si* (Kaesong City), Kangwon-do (Kangwon Province), Namp'o-si* (Namp'o City), P'yongan-bukto (North P'yongan Province), P'yongan-namdo (South P'yongan Province), P'yongyang-si* (P'yongyang City), Yanggang-do (Yanggang Province)
\BIndependence:\b 9 September 1948
\Bnote:\b 15 August 1945, date of independence from the Japanese and celebrated in North Korea as National Liberation Day
\BNational holiday:\b DPRK Foundation Day, 9 September (1948)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 1948, completely revised 27 December 1972, revised again in April 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on German civil law system with Japanese influences and Communist legal theory; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 17 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i KIM Chong-il [defacto]; note - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994 leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; however the son has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new elections have been held or scheduled
\Ihead of government:\i Premier KANG Song-san (since NA December 1992) was elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
\Icabinet:\i State Administration Council was appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Supreme People's Assembly (Ch'oego Inmin Hoeui): elections last held 7-9 April 1990 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of candidates who are elected without opposition; minor parties hold a few seats
\BJudicial branch:\b Central Court, judges are elected by the Supreme People's Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b major party - Korean Workers' Party (KWP), KIM Chong-il, secretary, Central Committee; Korean Social Democratic Party, KIM Pyong-sik, chairman; Chondoist Chongu Party, YU Mi-yong, chairwoman
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none; note - North Korea has a Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, headed by PAK Kil-yon
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (triple width), and blue; the red band is edged in white; on the hoist side of the red band is a white disk with a red five-pointed star
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b More than 90% of this command economy is socialized; agricultural land is collectivized; and state-owned industry produces 95% of manufactured goods. State control of economic affairs is unusually tight even for a communist country because of the small size and homogeneity of the society and the strict rule of KIM Il-song in the past and now his son, KIM Chong-il. Economic growth during the period 1984-88 averaged 2%-3%, but output declined by an average of 4%-5% annually during 1989-95 because of systemic problems and disruptions in socialist-style economic relations and technological links with the former USSR and China. The leadership has insisted on maintaining its high level of military outlays from a shrinking economic pie. Moreover, a serious drawdown in inventories and critical shortages in the energy sector have led to increasing interruptions in industrial production. Abundant mineral resources and hydropower have formed the basis of industrial development since World War II. Manufacturing is centered on heavy industry, including military industry, with light industry lagging far behind. Despite the use of improved seed varieties, expansion of irrigation, and the heavy use of fertilizers, North Korea has not yet become self-sufficient in food production. Indeed, a shortage of arable lands, several years of poor harvests, and a cumbersome distribution system have resulted in chronic food shortages. The year 1995 was marked by serious summer floods that worsened an already tenuous food situation. Substantial grain shipments from \JJapan\j and South Korea offset a portion of the losses. North Korea remains far behind South Korea in economic development and living standards.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $21.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b North Korea owns an additional 4 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling approximately 34,782 DWT operating under the registries of Hondurus and \JPoland\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 49
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 15
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 12
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 6 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 30,000 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b system is believed to be available principally for government business
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region); other international connections through Moscow and \JBeijing\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 18, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.5 million
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 11
\BTelevisions:\b 400,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Korean People's Army (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Civil Security Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 6,844,035
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,143,713
males reach military age (18) annually: 194,922 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $5 billion to $7 billion, 25% to 33% of GDP (1995 est.)
#
"Korea, South (Atlas)",131,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Sea of \JJapan\j and the Yellow Sea, south of North Korea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 37 00 N, 127 30 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 98,480 sq km
\Iland area:\i 98,190 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JIndiana\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 238 km
border country: North Korea 238 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,413 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: not specified
territorial sea: 12 nm; 3 nm in the Korea Strait
\BInternational disputes:\b Demarcation Line with North Korea; Liancourt Rocks claimed by \JJapan\j
\BClimate:\b temperate, with rainfall heavier in summer than winter
\BTerrain:\b mostly hills and mountains; wide coastal plains in west and south
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 1,014,649; female 1,688,171) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.02% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 16.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.14 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.11 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.6 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.26 years
\Imale:\i 69.65 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.77 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Korean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Korean
\BEthnic divisions:\b homogeneous (except for about 20,000 Chinese)
\BReligions:\b \JChristianity\j 48.6%, \JBuddhism\j 47.4%, Confucianism 3%, pervasive folk religion (shamanism), Chondogyo (Religion of the Heavenly Way) 0.2%
\BLanguages:\b Korean, English widely taught in high school
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99.3%
\Ifemale:\i 96.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Korea
\Iconventional short form:\i South Korea
\Ilocal long form:\i Taehan-min'guk
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Bnote:\b the South Koreans generally use the term "Hanguk" to refer to their country
abbreviation: ROK
\BData code:\b KS
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Seoul
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 6 special cities* (gwangyoksi, singular and plural); Cheju-do, Cholla-bukto, Cholla-namdo, Ch'ungch'ong-bukto, Ch'ungch'ong-namdo, Inch'on-gwangyoksi*, Kangwon-do, Kwangju-gwangyoksi*, Kyonggi-do, Kyongsang-bukto, Kyongsang-namdo, Pusan-gwangyoksi*, Soul-t'ukpyolsi*, Taegu-gwangyoksi*, Taejon-gwangyoksi*
\BIndependence:\b 15 August 1948
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 August (1948)
\BConstitution:\b 25 February 1988
\BLegal system:\b combines elements of continental European civil law systems, Anglo-American law, and Chinese classical thought
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President KIM Yong-sam (since 25 February 1993) was elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 18 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - KIM Yong-sam (DLP) 41.9%, KIM Tae-chung (DP) 33.8%, CHONG Chu-yong (UPP) 16.3%, other 8%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister YI Su-song (since 15 December 1995) was appointed by the president with the consent of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Ministers NA Ung-pae (since 20 December 1995) and KWON O-ki (since 20 December 1995) were appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation
\Icabinet:\i State Council was appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Kukhoe): members elected for four-year terms; elections last held 11 April 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (299 total) NKP 139, NCNP 79, ULD 50, DP 15, independents 16
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, justices are appointed by the president subject to the consent of the National Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
majority party: New Korea Party (NKP), KIM Yong-sam, president
opposition: United Liberal Democratic Party (ULD), KIM Chong-p'il, president; Democratic Party (DP), KIM Won-ki, co-chairman and CHANG Ul-pyong, co-chairman; National Congress for New Politics (NCNP), KIM Tae-chung, president
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Korean National Council of Churches; National Democratic Alliance of Korea; National Federation of Student Associations; National Federation of Farmers' Associations; National Council of Labor Unions; Federation of Korean Trade Unions; Korean Veterans' Association; Federation of Korean Industries; Korean Traders Association
\Ichancery:\i 2450 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-5600, 524-9273
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Agana (Guam), \JAnchorage\j, \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, \JHonolulu\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador James T. LANEY
\Iembassy:\i 82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy, Unit 15550, APO AP 96205-0001
\Itelephone:\i [82] (2) 397-4114
\IFAX:\i [82] (2) 738-8845
\Iconsulate(s):\i Pusan
\BFlag:\b white with a red (top) and blue yin-yang symbol in the center; there is a different black trigram from the ancient I Ching (Book of Changes) in each corner of the white field
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b As one of the Four Dragons of East Asia, South Korea has achieved an incredible record of growth. Three decades ago its GDP per capita was comparable with levels in the poorer countries of Africa and Asia. Today its GDP per capita is nine times India's, 14 times North Korea's, and already up with the lesser economies of the European Union. This success has been achieved by a unique combination of authoritarian government guidance of what is at bottom an essentially entrepreneurial process. The government has sponsored large-scale adoption of technology and management from \JJapan\j and other modern nations; has successfully pushed the development of export industries while encouraging the import of machinery and materials at the expense of consumer goods; and has pushed its labor force to a work effort seldom matched anywhere even in wartime. Real GDP grew by an average 10% in 1986-91, then paused to a "mere" 5% in 1992-93, only to move back up to 8% in 1994 and 9% in 1995. With a much higher standard of living and with a considerable easing of authoritarian controls, the work pace has softened. Growth rates will probably slow down over the medium term because of the exhaustion of former growth opportunities and the need to deal with \Jpollution\j and the other problems of success.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $590.7 billion (1995 est.)
Industrial production growth rate: 12.2% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 28,750,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 165 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 2,899 kWh (1994)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, root crops, \Jbarley\j, vegetables, fruit; \Jcattle\j, pigs, chickens, milk, eggs; fish catch of 2.9 million metric tons, seventh largest in world
\BExports:\b $125.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i electronic and electrical equipment, machinery, steel, automobiles, ships; textiles, clothing, footwear; fish
\Ipartners:\i US 19%, \JJapan\j 14%, EU 13%
\BImports:\b $135.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery, \Jelectronics\j and electronic equipment, oil, steel, transport equipment, textiles, organic chemicals, grains
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 24%, US 22%, EU 13%
\BExternal debt:\b $77 billion (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 South Korean won (W) = 100 chun (theoretical)
\BExchange rates:\b South Korean won (W) per US$1 - 787.27 (January 1996), 771.27 (1995), 803.45 (1994), 802.67 (1993), 780.65 (1992), 733.35 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,101 km
standard gauge: 3,081 km 1.435-m gauge (560 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 20 km 0.762-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 61,296 km
\Ipaved:\i 51,918 km (including 1,550 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 9,378 km (1993)
\BWaterways:\b 1,609 km; use restricted to small native craft
\Bnote:\b South Korea owns an additional 231 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 10,128,506 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, \JLiberia\j, Cyprus, Malta, The \JBahamas\j, and \JThailand\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 105
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 20
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 14
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 54
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 201 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 16.6 million (1993)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent domestic and international services
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i fiber-optic submarine cable to China; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 79, FM 46, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 42 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 256 (57 of which are 1 kW or greater) (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 9.3 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, National Maritime Police (Coast Guard)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 13,602,115
\Imales fit for military service:\i 8,706,545
males reach military age (18) annually: 398,322 (1996 est.)
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between \JIraq\j and Saudi \JArabia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 29 30 N, 45 45 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 17,820 sq km
\Iland area:\i 17,820 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than New Jersey
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 464 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JIraq\j 242 km, Saudi \JArabia\j 222 km
\BCoastline:\b 499 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b in November 1994, \JIraq\j formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with \JKuwait\j which had been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687 (1991), 773 (1993), and 883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to \JKuwait\j and to Bubiyan and Warbah islands; ownership of Qaruh and Umm al Maradim islands disputed by Saudi \JArabia\j
\BClimate:\b dry desert; intensely hot summers; short, cool winters
\BTerrain:\b flat to slightly undulating desert plain
\Ilowest point:\i Persian Gulf 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 306 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, fish, shrimp, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 8%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 92%
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural fresh water resources; some of world's largest and most sophisticated \Jdesalination\j facilities provide much of the water; air and water \Jpollution\j; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i sudden cloudbursts are common from October to April, they bring inordinate amounts of rain which can damage roads and houses; sandstorms and dust storms occur throughout the year, but are most common between March and August
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location at head of Persian Gulf
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 18,459; female 14,970) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 6.65% (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b this rate reflects the continued post-Gulf crisis return of nationals and expatriates
\BBirth rate:\b 20.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 2.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 48.46 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.49 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.23 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.32 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 11.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.92 years
\Imale:\i 73.59 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.38 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.82 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Kuwaiti(s)
\Iadjective:\i Kuwaiti
\BEthnic divisions:\b Kuwaiti 45%, other Arab 35%, South Asian 9%, Iranian 4%, other 7%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 85% (Shi'a 30%, Sunni 45%, other 10%), Christian, Hindu, Parsi, and other 15%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), English widely spoken
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 78.6%
\Imale:\i 82.2%
\Ifemale:\i 74.9%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i State of \JKuwait\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JKuwait\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Dawlat al Kuwayt
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Kuwayt
\BData code:\b KU
\BType of government:\b nominal constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b \JKuwait\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Ahmadi, Al Jahrah, Al Kuwayt, Hawalli, Al Farwaniyah
\BIndependence:\b 19 June 1961 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 25 February (1950)
\BConstitution:\b approved and promulgated 11 November 1962
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with Islamic law significant in personal matters; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b adult males who have been naturalized for 30 years or more or have resided in \JKuwait\j since before 1920 and their male descendants at age 21
\Bnote:\b only 10% of all citizens are eligible to vote; in 1996, naturalized citizens who do not meet the pre-1920 qualification but have been naturalized for 30 years will be eligible to vote
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Amir JABIR al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al \JSabah\j (since 31 December 1977) is a hereditary monarch of the MUBARAK line of the ruling \JSabah\j family
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister and Crown Prince SAAD al-Abdallah al-Salim Al \JSabah\j (since 8 February 1978), First Deputy Prime Minister \JSABAH\j al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al \JSabah\j (since 17 October 1992), and Second Deputy Prime Minister Nasir Abdallah al-RUDAN (since NA) were appointed by the Amir
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister and approved by the amir
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Majlis al-umma): elected members serve four-year terms; elections last held 5 October 1992 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (50 total) independents 50; note - all cabinet ministers are also ex officio members of the National Assembly
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b several political groups act as de facto parties: Bedouins, merchants, Sunni and Shi'a activists, and secular leftists and nationalists
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador MUHAMMAD al-Sabah al-Salim Al \JSABAH\j
\Ichancery:\i 2940 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 966-0702
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 966-0517
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ryan C. CROCKER
\Iembassy:\i Bneid al-Gar (opposite the \JKuwait\j International Hotel), \JKuwait\j City
\Imailing address:\i P.O. Box 77, SAFAT, 13001 SAFAT, \JKuwait\j; Unit 6900, APO AE 09880-9000
\Itelephone:\i [965] 2424151 through 2424159
\IFAX:\i [965] 2442855
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a black trapezoid based on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JKuwait\j is a small and relatively open economy with proved crude oil reserves of about 94 billion barrels - 10% of world reserves. \JKuwait\j has rebuilt its war-ravaged \Jpetroleum\j sector; its crude oil production averaged 2.0 million barrels per day in 1994. The government continues to record large fiscal deficits. \JPetroleum\j accounts for nearly half of GDP, 90% of export revenues, and 70% of government income. \JKuwait\j lacks water and has practically no arable land, thus preventing development of agriculture. With the exception of fish, it depends almost wholly on food imports. About 75% of potable water must be distilled or imported. Because of its high per capita income, comparable with Western European incomes, \JKuwait\j provides its citizens with extensive health, educational, and retirement benefits. Per capita military expenditures are among the highest in the world. The economy improved moderately in 1994-95, with the growth in industry and finance. The World Bank has urged \JKuwait\j to push ahead with privatization, including in the oil industry, but the government will move slowly on this front.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $30.8 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 548,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b the civil network suffered some damage as a result of the Gulf war, but most of the \Jtelephone\j exchanges were left intact and, by the end of 1994, domestic and international telecommunications had been restored to normal operation; the quality of service is excellent
\Idomestic:\i new \Jtelephone\j exchanges provide a large capacity for new subscribers; trunk traffic is carried by microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, open wire and fiber-optic cable; a cellular \Jtelephone\j system operates throughout \JKuwait\j and the country is well supplied with pay telephones
\Iinternational:\i coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Saudi \JArabia\j; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean, 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean), and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 720,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3 (1986 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 800,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Ministry of Interior Forces, Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 658,270
\Imales fit for military service:\i 391,586
males reach military age (18) annually: 17,544 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.5 billion, 12.8% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Kyrgyzstan (Atlas)",133,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Asia, west of China
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 41 00 N, 75 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 198,500 sq km
\Iland area:\i 191,300 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than South Dakota
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,878 km
\Iborder countries:\i China 858 km, Kazakstan 1,051 km, Tajikistan 870 km, Uzbekistan 1,099 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b territorial dispute with Tajikistan on southwestern boundary in Isfara Valley area
\BClimate:\b dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest (Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone
\BTerrain:\b peaks of Tien Shan and associated valleys and basins encompass entire nation
\Ilowest point:\i Kara-Daryya 132 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jengish Chokusu 7,439 m
\BNatural resources:\b abundant hydroelectric potential; significant deposits of gold and rare earth metals; locally exploitable coal, oil, and natural gas; other deposits of nepheline, mercury, \Jbismuth\j, lead, and zinc
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 7%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NEGL%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 42%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 51%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10,320 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j; many people get their water directly from contaminated streams and wells; as a result, water-borne diseases are prevalent; increasing soil \Jsalinity\j from faulty irrigation practices
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 100,524; female 177,292) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.07% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 26.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -16.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.57 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 77.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 63.86 years
\Imale:\i 59.18 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.77 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.22 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Kyrgyz(s)
\Iadjective:\i Kyrgyz
\BEthnic divisions:\b Kirghiz 52.4%, Russian 21.5%, Uzbek 12.9%, Ukrainian 2.5%, German 2.4%, other 8.3%
\BReligions:\b Muslim NA%, Russian Orthodox NA%
\BLanguages:\b Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) - official language, Russian - official language
\Bnote:\b in March 1996, the Kyrgyz legislature amended the constitution to make Russian an official language, along with Kyrgyz, in territories and work places where Russian-speaking citizens predominate
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Bnote:\b names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblast name
\BIndependence:\b 31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 2 December; Independence Day, 31 August (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 5 May 1993
\Bnote:\b amendment proposed by President AKAYEV and passed in a national referendum on 10 February 1996 significantly expands the powers of the president at the expense of the legislature
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Askar AKAYEV (since 28 October 1990) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; elections last held 24 December 1995 (next to be held NA); results - Askar AKAYEV won election with 75% of vote with 86% of electorate voting; note - elections were held early which gave the two opposition candidates little time to campaign; AKAYEV may have orchestrated the "deregistration" of two other candidates, one of whom was a major rival
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Apas JUMAGULOV (since NA December 1993) was appointed by the president and reappointed February 1996
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Supreme Council (Zhogorku Kenesh)
Assembly of People's Representatives: elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (70 total) seats by party NA; note - not all the 70 seats were filled at the 5 February elections; as a result, run-off elections were held at later dates; the assembly meets twice yearly
Legislative Assembly: elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (35 total) seats by party NA; note - not all the 35 seats were filled at the 5 February elections; as a result, run-off elections were held
\Bnote:\b the legislature became bicameral for the 5 February 1995 elections
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed for a 10-year term by the Zhogorku Kenesh on recommendation of the president; Constitutional Court; Higher Court of \JArbitration\j
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party (SDP); Democratic Movement of \JKyrgyzstan\j (DDK), Jypar JEKSHEYEV, chairman; National Unity; Communist Party of \JKyrgyzstan\j (PCK), Absamat MASALIYEV, chairman; Democratic Movement of Free \JKyrgyzstan\j (ErK), Tursunbay Bakir UULU, chairman; Republican Popular Party of \JKyrgyzstan\j; Agrarian Party of \JKyrgyzstan\j; Atu Meken Party, Omurbek TEKEBAYEV; ASABA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Unity Democratic Movement; Peasant Party; Council of Free Trade Unions; Union of Entrepreneurs; Agrarian Party
\BFlag:\b red field with a yellow sun in the center having 40 rays representing the 40 Kirghiz tribes; on the obverse side the rays run counterclockwise, on the reverse, clockwise; in the center of the sun is a red ring crossed by two sets of three lines, a stylized representation of the roof of the traditional Kirghiz yurt
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JKyrgyzstan\j is a small, poor, mountainous country with a predominantly agricultural economy. Cotton, wool, and meat are the main agricultural products and exports. Industrial exports included gold, mercury, uranium, and hydropower. \JKyrgyzstan\j has been one of the most progressive countries of the former Soviet Union in carrying out market reforms. Following a successful stabilization program, which has lowered \Jinflation\j from 88% in 1994 to 32% for 1995, attention is turning toward stimulating growth. About half of government stock in enterprises has been sold. Drops in production have been severe since the break up of the Soviet Union, but by mid-1995 production began to level off as exports began to increase. The level of hardship for pensioners, unemployed workers, and government workers with salaries arrears continues to be very high. Foreign assistance plays a substantial role in the country's budget. In early 1996, the economy apparently is slowly beginning to restore previous levels of output.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5.4 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 38%, industry and construction 21%, other 41% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 4.8% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b small machinery, textiles, food processing, cement, shoes, sawn logs, refrigerators, furniture, electric motors, gold, rare earth metals
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
\Itotal:\i 370 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 370 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 28,400 km
\Ipaved:\i 22,400 km
\Iunpaved:\i 6,000 km (1990)
\BPipelines:\b natural gas 200 km
\BPorts:\b Balykchy (Ysyk-Kol or Rybach'ye)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 54
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 9
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 32 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 342,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poorly developed; about 100,000 unsatisfied applications for household telephones
\Idomestic:\i principally microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i connections with other \JCIS\j countries by landline or microwave radio relay and with other countries by leased connections with Moscow international gateway switch and by satellite; satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik and 1 Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note -1 state-run radio broadcast station
\BRadios:\b 825,000 (radio receiver systems with multiple speakers for program diffusion 748,000)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\Bnote:\b receives Turkish broadcasts
\BTelevisions:\b 875,000
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops), Civil
\BDefense:\b
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,096,985
\Imales fit for military service:\i 890,901
males reach military age (18) annually: 44,159 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 151 million soms, NA% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Laos (Atlas)",134,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, northeast of \JThailand\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 00 N, 105 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 236,800 sq km
\Iland area:\i 230,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JUtah\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,083 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBurma\j 235 km, \JCambodia\j 541 km, China 423 km, \JThailand\j 1,754 km, Vietnam 2,130 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b boundary dispute with \JThailand\j
\BClimate:\b tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to April)
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; a majority of the population does not have access to potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i floods, droughts, and blight
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 75,748; female 88,320) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.81% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 41.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 13.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.94 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 96.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 52.69 years
\Imale:\i 51.14 years
\Ifemale:\i 54.31 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.87 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Lao(s) or Laotian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Lao or Laotian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Lao Loum (lowland) 68%, Lao Theung (upland) 22%, Lao Soung (highland) including the Hmong ("Meo") and the Yao (Mien) 9%, ethnic Vietnamese/Chinese 1%
\BReligions:\b Buddhist 60%, animist and other 40%
\BLanguages:\b Lao (official), French, English, and various ethnic languages
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 56.6%
\Imale:\i 69.4%
\Ifemale:\i 44.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Lao People's Democratic Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i Laos
\Ilocal long form:\i Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\BData code:\b LA
\BType of government:\b Communist state
\BCapital:\b \JVientiane\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 16 provinces (khoueng, singular and plural) and 1 municipality* (kampheng nakhon, singular and plural); Attapu, Bokeo, Bolikhamxai, Champasak, Houaphan, Khammouan, Louangnamtha, Louangphabang, Oudomxai, Phongsali, Salavan, Savannakhet, Viangchan*, Viangchan, Xaignabouli, Xekong, Xiangkhoang
\BIndependence:\b 19 July 1949 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 2 December (1975) (proclamation of the Lao People's Democratic Republic)
\BConstitution:\b promulgated 14 August 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on traditional customs, French legal norms and procedures, and Socialist practice
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President NOUHAK PHOUMSAVAN (since 25 November 1992) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Gen. KHAMTAI SIPHANDON (since 15 August 1991) was appointed for a five-year term by the president with the approval of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Minister KHAMPHOUI KEOBOUALAPHA (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president, approved by the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: members elected for five-year terms; elections last held 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (85 total) LPRP 85
\BJudicial branch:\b People's Supreme Court, the president of the People's Supreme Court is elected by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the National Assembly Standing Committee, the vice president of the People's Supreme Court and the judges are appointed by the National Assembly Standing Committee
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), KHAMTAI Siphandon, party president; other parties proscribed
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b noncommunist political groups proscribed; most opposition leaders fled the country in 1975
\Ichancery:\i 2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-6416, 6417
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-4923
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Victor L. TOMSETH
\Iembassy:\i Rue Bartholonie, B.P. 114, \JVientiane\j
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy, Box V, APO AP 96546
\Itelephone:\i [856] (21) 212581, 212582, 212585
\IFAX:\i [856] (21) 212584
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of red (top), blue (double width), and red with a large white disk centered in the blue band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The government of Laos - one of the few remaining official communist states - has been decentralizing control and encouraging private enterprise since 1986. The results, starting from an extremely low base, have been striking - growth has averaged 7.5% annually since 1988. Even so, Laos is a landlocked country with a primitive \Jinfrastructure\j. It has no railroads, a rudimentary road system, and limited external and internal telecommunications. Electricity is available in only a few urban areas. Subsistence agriculture accounts for half of GDP and provides 80% of total employment. The predominant crop is rice. In non-drought years, Laos is self-sufficient overall in food, but each year flood, pests, and localized \Jdrought\j cause shortages in various parts of the country. For the foreseeable future the economy will continue to depend on aid from the IMF and other international sources; aid from the former USSR/Eastern Europe has been cut sharply. As in many developing countries, deforestation and soil erosion will hamper efforts to maintain the high rate of GDP growth.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b world's third largest opium producer (180 metric tons from nearly 20,000 hectares in 1995); heroin producer; increasingly used as transshipment point for heroin produced in \JBurma\j; illicit producer of cannabis
\BWaterways:\b about 4,587 km, primarily Mekong and tributaries; 2,897 additional kilometers are sectionally navigable by craft drawing less than 0.5 m
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 13 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 6,600 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b service to general public very poor; radiotelephone communications network provides generally erratic service to government users
\Idomestic:\i radiotelephone communications
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 10, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 560,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 32,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Lao People's Army (LPA; includes riverine naval and militia elements), Air Force, National Police Department
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,087,264
\Imales fit for military service:\i 586,664
males reach military age (18) annually: 53,250 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $105 million, 8.1% of GDP (FY92/93)
#
"Latvia (Atlas)",135,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between \JEstonia\j and \JLithuania\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 57 00 N, 25 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 64,100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 64,100 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,078 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelarus\j 141 km, \JEstonia\j 267 km, \JLithuania\j 453 km, \JRussia\j 217 km
\BCoastline:\b 531 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\BInternational disputes:\b the Abrene/Pytalovo section of border ceded by the \JLatvian\j Soviet Socialist Republic to \JRussia\j in 1944; the maritime borders with \JLithuania\j and \JEstonia\j
\Icurrent issues:\i air and water \Jpollution\j because of a lack of waste conversion equipment; Gulf of Riga and Daugava River heavily polluted; contamination of soil and \Jgroundwater\j with chemicals and \Jpetroleum\j products at military bases
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Ozone Layer Protection
\BReligions:\b Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Russian Orthodox
\BLanguages:\b Lettish (official), Lithuanian, Russian, other
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JLatvia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JLatvia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Latvijas Republika
\Ilocal short form:\i Latvija
\Iformer:\i \JLatvian\j Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b LG
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Riga
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 counties (singular - rajons) and 7 municipalities*: Aizkraukles Rajons, Aluksnes Rajons, Balvu Rajons, Bauskas Rajons, Cesu Rajons, Daugavpils*, Daugavpils Rajons, Dobeles Rajons, Gulbenes Rajons, Jekabpils Rajons, Jelgava*, Jelgavas Rajons, Jurmala*, Kraslavas Rajons, Kuldigas Rajons, Leipaja*, Liepajas Rajons, Limbazu Rajons, Ludzas Rajons, Madonas Rajons, Ogres Rajons, Preiju Rajons, Rezekne*, Rezeknes Rajons, Riga*, Rigas Rajons, Saldus Rajons, Talsu Rajons, Tukuma Rajons, Valkas Rajons, Valmieras Rajons, Ventspils*, Ventspils Rajons
\BIndependence:\b 6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 18 November (1918)
\BConstitution:\b newly elected Parliament in 1993 restored the 1933 constitution
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Guntis ULMANIS (since 7 July 1993) was elected by Parliament (Saeima) in the third round of balloting; election last held 7 July 1993 (next to be held NA June 1996)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Andris SKELE (since 21 December 1995) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was nominated by the prime minister and appointed by the Supreme Council
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Saeima): elections last held 30 September-1 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1998); results - Saimnieks 18%, LC 17%, For \JLatvia\j 16%, TB 14%, LNNK 8%, Unity 8%, LSZ/LKDS 7%, Harmony 6%, Socialist 6%; seats - (100 total) Saimnieks 18, LC 17, For \JLatvia\j 16, TB 14, LNNK 8, Unity 8, LSZ/LKDS 7, Harmony 6, Socialist 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges' appointments are confirmed by the Saeima
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party "Saimnieks" (DPS), Ziedonis CEVERS, chairman; \JLatvia\j's Way (LC), Valdis BIRKAVS; People's Movement For \JLatvia\j, Joachim SIEGERIST; Fatherland and Freedom (TB), Maris GRINBLATS; \JLatvian\j Unity Party (LVP), A. KAULS; \JLatvian\j National Conservative Party (LNNK), A. SEILE; Green Party (LSZ), O. BATAREVSK; \JLatvian\j Farmers Union (LZS), A. ROZENTALS; Christian Democrat Union (LKDS), P. KLAVINS; National Harmony Party (TSP), Janis JURKANS; \JLatvian\j Socialist Party (LSP), F. STROGANOVS; \JLatvian\j Liberal Party (LLP), J. DANOSS; Political Association of the Underprivileged (MPA), B. PELSE, V. DIMANTS, J. KALNINS; \JLatvian\j Democratic Labor Party (LDDP), J. BOJARS; Party of Russian Citizens (LKPP), V. SOROCHIN, V. IVANOV; Popular Front of \JLatvia\j (LTF), Uldis AUGSTKALNS; Political Union of Economists (TPA), E. KIDE; \JLatvian\j National Democratic Party (LNDP), A. MALINS; "Our Land" (MZ), M. DAMBEKALNE; Anticommunist Union (PA), P. MUCENIEKS; \JLatvian\j Social-Democratic Workers Party (LSDSP); Party for the Defense of \JLatvia\j's Defrauded People; \JLatvian\j Independence Party (LNP), V. KONOVALOUS
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ojars Eriks KALNINS
\Ichancery:\i 4325 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 726-8213, 8214
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 726-6785
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Larry C. NAPPER
\Iembassy:\i Raina Boulevard 7, LV-1510, Riga
\Imailing address:\i PSC 78, Box R, APO AE 09723
\Itelephone:\i [371] (2) 210-005
\IFAX:\i [371] (2) 226-530
\BFlag:\b two horizontal bands of maroon (top and bottom), white (middle, narrower than other two bands)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JLatvia\j's economic transformation to a modern market economy - rivaled only by \JEstonia\j among the former Soviet states - faltered in 1995 as a result of banking and budget crises. \JLatvia\j's largely unregulated financial sector suffered a series of bank failures, including the collapse of the country's largest commercial bank - Bank Baltija - due largely to criminal activity by the owners. The government's attempts to compensate depositors of failed banks exacerbated an existing budget shortfall; poor revenue collection and a soft treasury bill market had already caused the government to incur a larger than expected deficit early in the year. As a result of the crises, \JLatvia\j's budget deficit for 1995 was $168 million, double that originally planned. In addition, GDP growth came to a halt. The Central Bank maintained its tough monetary policies - severely limiting credits to the state, despite the budget problems - helping to keep annual \Jinflation\j the lowest among the Baltic states, at about 20%. New Prime Minister SKELE wants to invigorate the privatization of industry; agriculture already is mainly in private hands.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $14.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -1.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $5,300 (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 41%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 16%, other 43% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 6.5% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b buses, vans, street and railroad cars, synthetic fibers, agricultural machinery, fertilizers, washing machines, radios, \Jelectronics\j, pharmaceuticals, processed foods, textiles; dependent on imports for energy, raw materials, and intermediate products
Industrial production growth rate: -9.5% (1994 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 2,080,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 5.5 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 1,864 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b grain, sugar beets, potatoes, vegetables; meat, milk, eggs; fish
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for illicit drugs from Central and Southwest Asia and Latin America to Western Europe; limited producer of illicit opium; mostly for domestic consumption; also produces illicit amphetamines for export
\BTelephone system:\b service is better than in most of the other former Soviet republics
\Idomestic:\i an NMT-450 analog cellular \Jtelephone\j network covers 75% of \JLatvia\j's population
\Iinternational:\i international traffic carried by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch, through the new Ericsson digital \Jtelephone\j exchange in Riga, and through the Finnish cellular net; Sprint data network carries electronic mail
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there are 25 radio broadcast stations of unknown type
\BRadios:\b 1.4 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 30
\BTelevisions:\b 1.1 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Security Forces, Border Guard, Home Guard (Zemessardze)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 583,134
\Imales fit for military service:\i 457,067
males reach military age (18) annually: 16,180 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 176 million rubles, 3% to 5% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the prevailing exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Lebanon (Atlas)",136,0,0,0
Note: \JLebanon\j has made progress toward rebuilding its political institutions and regaining its national sovereignty since the end of the devastating 16-year civil war which began in 1975. Under the Ta'if accord - the blueprint for national reconciliation - the Lebanese have established a more equitable political system, particularly by giving Muslims a greater say in the political process. Since December 1990, the Lebanese have formed four cabinets and conducted the first legislative election in 20 years. Most of the militias have been weakened or disbanded. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) has seized vast quantities of weapons used by the militias during the war and extended central government authority over about one-half of the country. Hizballah, the radical Shi'a party, retains most of its weapons. Foreign forces still occupy areas of \JLebanon\j. Israel maintains troops in southern \JLebanon\j and continues to support a proxy militia, The Army of South \JLebanon\j (ASL), along a narrow stretch of territory contiguous to its border. The ASL's enclave encompasses this self-declared security zone and about 20 kilometers north to the strategic town of Jazzin. \JSyria\j maintains about 30,000 troops in \JLebanon\j. These troops are based mainly in \JBeirut\j, North \JLebanon\j, and the Bekaa Valley. \JSyria\j's deployment was legitimized by the Arab League early in \JLebanon\j's civil war and in the Ta'if accord. Citing the continued weakness of the LAF, \JBeirut\j's requests, and failure of the Lebanese Government to implement all of the constitutional reforms in the Ta'if accord, Damascus has so far refused to withdraw its troops from \JBeirut\j.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and \JSyria\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 33 50 N, 35 50 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 10,400 sq km
\Iland area:\i 10,230 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.8 times the size of Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 454 km
\Iborder countries:\i Israel 79 km, \JSyria\j 375 km
\BCoastline:\b 225 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Israeli troops in southern \JLebanon\j since June 1982; Syrian troops in northern, central, and eastern \JLebanon\j since October 1976
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; \JLebanon\j mountains experience heavy winter snows
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain; Al Biqa' (Bekaa Valley) separates \JLebanon\j and Anti-Lebanon Mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Mediterranean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal al Makmal 3,087 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jlimestone\j, iron ore, salt, water-surplus state in a water-deficit region
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 21%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 9%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 1%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 8%
\Iother:\i 61%
\BIrrigated land:\b 860 sq km (1990 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j; air \Jpollution\j in \JBeirut\j from vehicular traffic and the burning of industrial wastes; \Jpollution\j of coastal waters from raw sewage and oil spills
\Inatural hazards:\i dust storms, sandstorms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b Nahr al Litani only major river in Near East not crossing an international boundary; rugged terrain historically helped isolate, protect, and develop numerous factional groups based on religion, clan, and \Jethnicity\j
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 98,406; female 115,236) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.16% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 27.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.9 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.85 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 36.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.99 years
\Imale:\i 67.49 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.62 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.24 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Lebanese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Lebanese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b \JIslam\j 70% (5 legally recognized Islamic groups - Alawite or Nusayri, Druze, Isma'ilite, Shi'a, Sunni), Christian 30% (11 legally recognized Christian groups - 4 Orthodox Christian, 6 Catholic, 1 Protestant), \JJudaism\j NEGL%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), French (official), Armenian, English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 92.4%
\Imale:\i 94.7%
\Ifemale:\i 90.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JLebanon\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JLebanon\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumhuriyah al Lubnaniyah
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\BData code:\b LE
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JBeirut\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Biqa', Al Janub, Ash Shamal, Bayrut, Jabal Lubnan
\BIndependence:\b 22 November 1943 (from League of Nations mandate under French administration)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 22 November (1943)
\BConstitution:\b 23 May 1926, amended a number of times
\BLegal system:\b mixture of Ottoman law, canon law, Napoleonic code, and civil law; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; compulsory for all males; authorized for women at age 21 with elementary education
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ilyas HARAWI (since 24 November 1989) was elected for a six-year term by the National Assembly and in 1995 the National Assembly amended the constitution to extend his term by three years; note - by custom, the president is a Maronite Christian, the prime minister is a Sunni Muslim, and the speaker of the legislature is a Shi'a Muslim
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Rafiq al-HARIRI (since 22 October 1992) and Deputy Prime Minister Michel al-MURR (since NA) were appointed by the president in consultation with the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was chosen by the prime minister in consultation with the members of the National Assembly; the current Cabinet was formed in 1995
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Arabic - Majlis Alnuwab, French -
Assemblee Nationale): elections last held in the summer of 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (128 total, one-half Christian and one-half Muslim) independents 128
\BJudicial branch:\b four Courts of Cassation (three courts for civil and commercial cases and one court for criminal cases)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b political party activity is organized along largely sectarian lines; numerous political groupings exist, consisting of individual political figures and followers motivated by religious, clan, and economic considerations
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of red (top), white (double width), and red with a green and brown \Jcedar\j tree centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The 1975-91 civil war seriously damaged \JLebanon\j's economic \Jinfrastructure\j, cut national output by half, and all but ended \JLebanon\j's position as a Middle Eastern entrepot and banking hub. Peace has enabled the central government to restore control in \JBeirut\j, begin collecting taxes, and regain access to key port and government facilities. Economic recovery has been helped by a financially sound banking system and resilient small- and medium-scale manufacturers. Family remittances, banking services, manufactured and farm exports, and international aid are the main sources of foreign exchange. In the relatively settled year of 1991, industrial production, agricultural output, and exports showed substantial gains. The rebuilding of the war-ravaged country was delayed in 1992 because of an upturn in political wrangling. In October 1992, Rafiq al-HARIRI was appointed prime minister. A billionaire entrepreneur, al-HARIRI, announced ambitious plans for \JLebanon\j's reconstruction, which involve a substantial influx of foreign aid and investment. The economy has posted considerable gains since 1992, with GDP rebounding, \Jinflation\j falling, and foreign capital inflows jumping. Signs of strain have emerged in recent years, however, as the government budget deficit has risen and grassroots economic dissatisfaction has grown. Meantime, the future fate of \JLebanon\j and its economy is being determined largely by outside forces - in \JSyria\j, other Arab nations, Israel, and the West.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $18.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of hashish and heroin for the international drug trade; hashish production is shipped to Western Europe, the Middle East, and North and South America; a key locus of \Jcocaine\j processing and trafficking; a Lebanese/Syrian 1994 eradication campaign practically eliminated the opium crop and caused a 50% decrease in the cannabis crop
\BExports:\b $1 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i agricultural products, chemicals, textiles, precious and semiprecious metals and jewelry, metals and metal products
\Ipartners:\i Saudi \JArabia\j 13%, \JSwitzerland\j 12%, UAE 11%, \JSyria\j 9%, US 5%
\BImports:\b $7.3 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i consumer goods, machinery and transport equipment, \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i \JItaly\j 14%, \JFrance\j 9%, US 8%, Turkey 5%, Saudi \JArabia\j 3%
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 150,000 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b telecommunications system severely damaged by civil war; rebuilding still underway
\Idomestic:\i primarily microwave radio relay and cable
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) (erratic operations); coaxial cable to \JSyria\j; microwave radio relay to \JSyria\j but inoperable beyond \JSyria\j to Jordan; 3 submarine coaxial cables
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 1
\Bnote:\b more than 100 AM and FM stations are operated sporadically by various factions
\BRadios:\b 2.37 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 13
\BTelevisions:\b 1.1 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 889,517
\Imales fit for military service:\i 553,538 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $278 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994)
#
"Lesotho (Atlas)",137,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 29 30 S, 28 30 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 30,350 sq km
\Iland area:\i 30,350 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 909 km
border country: South Africa 909 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; cool to cold, dry winters; hot, wet summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly highland with plateaus, hills, and mountains
\Ilowest point:\i junction of the Orange and Makhaleng Rivers 1,400 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Thabana Ntlenyana 3,482 m
\BNatural resources:\b water, agricultural and grazing land, some diamonds and other minerals
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 66%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 24%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i population pressure forcing settlement in marginal areas results in overgrazing, severe soil erosion, soil exhaustion; \Jdesertification\j; Highlands Water Project will control, store, and redirect water to South Africa
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; surrounded by South Africa
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 4 October (1966)
\BConstitution:\b 2 April 1993
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and Roman-Dutch law; judicial review of legislative acts in High Court and Court of Appeal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King LETSIE III (since 7 February 1996); the king is the former Crown Prince David Monato BERENG Seeiso and succeeded his father King MOSHOESHOE II, who died in an \Jautomobile\j accident on 16 January 1996; King LETSIE III formerly occupied the throne (November 1990 to February 1995) while his father was in exile
\Bnote:\b the king is a hereditary monarch, but, under the terms of the constitution which came into effect after the March 1993 election, he has no executive or legislative powers; moreover, under traditional law the king can be elected or deposed by a majority vote of the College of Chiefs
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ntsu MOKHEHLE (since 2 April 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of 33 members (the 22 principal chiefs and 11 other members appointed by the ruling party)
Assembly: members elected by popular vote; election last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (65 total) BCP 65
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court; Court of Appeal; Magistrate's Court; customary or traditional court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Basotho National Party (BNP), Evaristus SEKHONYANA; Basotho Congress Party (BCP), Ntsu MOKHEHLE; National Independent Party (NIP), A. C. MANYELI; Marematlou Freedom Party (MFP), Vincent MALEBO; United Democratic Party, Charles MOFELI; Communist Party of \JLesotho\j (CPL), Jacob M. KENA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dr. Eunice M. BULANE
\Ichancery:\i 2511 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-5533 through 5536
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 234-6815
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador \JBismarck\j MYRICK
\Iembassy:\i address NA, \JMaseru\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 333, \JMaseru\j 100, \JLesotho\j
\Itelephone:\i [266] 312666
\IFAX:\i [266] 310116
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper half is white bearing the brown silhouette of a large shield with crossed spear and club; the lower half is a diagonal blue band with a green triangle in the corner
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Small, landlocked, and mountainous, \JLesotho\j has no important natural resources other than water. Its economy is based on agriculture, light manufacturing, and remittances from laborers employed in South Africa (these remittances supplement domestic income by as much as 45%). The great majority of households gain their livelihoods from subsistence farming and migrant labor; a large portion of the adult male work force is employed in South African mines. Manufacturing depends largely on farm products which support the milling, canning, leather, and jute industries. Although \Jdrought\j has decreased agricultural activity over the past few years, improvement of a major hydropower facility will permit the sale of water to South Africa and will support the economy's continued expansion.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.8 billion (1994 est.)
\Ipartners:\i South Africa 83%, Asia 12%, EC 3% (1993)
\BExternal debt:\b $512 million (1993)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 loti (L) = 100 lisente
\BExchange rates:\b maloti (M) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1996), 3.6266 (1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991); note - the Basotho loti is at par with the South African rand
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2.6 km; note - owned by, operated by, and included in the statistics of South Africa
narrow gauge: 2.6 km 1.067-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,324 km
\Ipaved:\i 799 km
\Iunpaved:\i 4,525 km (1993 est.)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 29
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 23
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 12,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b rudimentary system
\Idomestic:\i consists of a few landlines, a small microwave radio relay system, and a minor radiotelephone communication system
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 66,000
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 11,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b \JLesotho\j
\BDefense:\b Force (LDF; includes Army and Air Wing), \JLesotho\j Mounted Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 455,218
\Imales fit for military service:\i 245,774 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Liberia (Atlas)",138,0,0,0
Note: Years of civil strife have destroyed much of \JLiberia\j's economic \Jinfrastructure\j, made civil administration nearly impossible, and brought economic activity virtually to a halt. The deterioration of economic conditions has been greatly exacerbated by the flight of most business people with their expertise and capital. Civil order ended in 1990 when President Samuel Kanyon DOE was killed by rebel forces. The ensuing civil war persisted until August 1995 when the major factions signed the \JAbuja\j peace accord and, in September 1995, formed a transitional coalition government under Wilton SANKAWULO. The war was resumed in April 1996, when forces loyal to faction leaders Charles TAYLOR and Alhaji KROMAH attacked rival factions in \JMonrovia\j, further damaging the capital's already dilapidated \Jinfrastructure\j and causing panic among the remaining foreign residents, thousands of whom sought refuge in US facilities. Prospects for peace became extremely uncertain again.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 30 N, 9 30 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 111,370 sq km
\Iland area:\i 96,320 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JTennessee\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,585 km
\Iborder countries:\i Guinea 563 km, Cote d'Ivoire 716 km, Sierra Leone 306 km
\BCoastline:\b 579 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; dry winters with hot days and cool to cold nights; wet, cloudy summers with frequent heavy showers
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to rolling coastal plains rising to rolling plateau and low mountains in northeast
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Wuteve 1,380 m
\BNatural resources:\b iron ore, timber, diamonds, gold
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 2%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 39%
\Iother:\i 55%
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i tropical rain forest subject to deforestation; soil erosion; loss of \Jbiodiversity\j; \Jpollution\j of rivers from the dumping of iron ore tailings and of coastal waters from oil residue and raw sewage
\Inatural hazards:\i dust-laden \Jharmattan\j winds blow from the Sahara (December to March)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 35,544; female 38,139) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.13% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 42.72 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 11.95 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -9.48 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b until the Ghanaian-led peace negotiations are successful, many Liberian refugees will be unable to return from exile
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.93 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 108.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 58.59 years
\Imale:\i 56.05 years
\Ifemale:\i 61.22 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.23 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Liberian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Liberian
\BEthnic divisions:\b indigenous African tribes 95% (including Kpelle, Bassa, Gio, \JKru\j, Grebo, Mano, Krahn, Gola, Gbandi, Loma, Kissi, Vai, and Bella), Americo-Liberians 5% (descendants of former slaves)
\BReligions:\b traditional 70%, Muslim 20%, Christian 10%
\BLanguages:\b English 20% (official), Niger-Congo language group about 20 local languages come from this group
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 38.3%
\Imale:\i 53.9%
\Ifemale:\i 22.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JLiberia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JLiberia\j
\BData code:\b LI
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JMonrovia\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 13 counties; Bomi, Bong, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand \JKru\j, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Cess, Sinoe
\BIndependence:\b 26 July 1847
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 July (1847)
\BConstitution:\b 6 January 1986
\BLegal system:\b dual system of statutory law based on Anglo-American common law for the modern sector and customary law based on unwritten tribal practices for indigenous sector
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Chairman of the Council of State Wilton SANKAWULO (since NA September 1995); president was to be elected for a six-year term by universal suffrage at the end of 1995; election last held 15 October 1985 (next to be held NA August 1996); results - Samuel Kanyon DOE (NDPL) 50.9%, Jackson DOE (LAP) 26.4%, other 22.7%
\Bnote:\b constitutional government ended in September 1990 when President Samuel Kanyon DOE was killed by rebel forces; civil war ensued and in August 1995 the \JAbuja\j peace accord was signed by the major warring factions; a transitional coalition government under Wilton SANKAWULO was formed in September 1995; presidential elections are scheduled for August 1996
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was selected by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Transitional Legislative Assembly, the members of which are appointed by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
\Bnote:\b the former bicameral legislature no longer exists and is unlikely to be reconstituted soon
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Party of \JLiberia\j (NDPL), Augustus CAINE, chairman; Liberian Action Party (LAP), Emmanuel KOROMAH, chairman; Unity Party (UP), Joseph KOFA, chairman; United People's Party (UPP), Gabriel Baccus MATTHEWS, chairman; National Patriotic Party (NPP), Charles TAYLOR, chairman; Liberian Peoples Party (LPP), Dusty WOLOKOLLIE, chairman
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Konah K. BLACKETT
\Ichancery:\i 5201 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 723-0437
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Chief of Mission William MILAM
\Iembassy:\i 111 United Nations Drive, \JMonrovia\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 100098, Mamba Point, \JMonrovia\j
\Itelephone:\i [231] 226-370
\IFAX:\i [231] 226-148
\BFlag:\b 11 equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white; there is a white five-pointed star on a blue square in the upper hoist-side corner; the design was based on the US flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Civil war since 1990 has destroyed much of \JLiberia\j's economy, especially the \Jinfrastructure\j in and around \JMonrovia\j. Businessmen have fled the country, taking capital and expertise with them. Many will not return. Richly endowed with water, mineral resources, forests, and a climate favorable to agriculture, \JLiberia\j had been a producer and exporter of basic products, while local manufacturing, mainly foreign owned, had been small in scope. Political instability threatens prospects for economic reconstruction and repatriation of some 750,000 Liberian refugees who have fled to neighboring countries. The continued political turmoil has prevented restoration of normal economic life, including the re-establishment of a strong central government with effective economic development programs. The economy deteriorated further in 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.3 billion (1994 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b increasingly a transshipment point for heroin and \Jcocaine\j
\BExports:\b $530 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i iron ore 61%, rubber 20%, timber 11%, \Jcoffee\j
\Ipartners:\i US, EC, Netherlands, \JSingapore\j
\BImports:\b NA (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i mineral fuels, chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods; rice and other foodstuffs
\Ipartners:\i US, EC, \JJapan\j, China, Netherlands, ECOWAS, South Korea
\BExternal debt:\b $1.9 billion (1993 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Liberian dollar (L$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Liberian dollars (L$) per US$1 - 1.0000 (officially fixed rate since 1940); market exchange rate of US$1 - L$50 (October 1995), L$7 (January 1992), market rate floats against the US dollar
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 490 km (single track); note - three rail systems owned and operated by foreign steel and financial interests in conjunction with Liberian Government; one of these, the Lamco Railroad, closed in 1989 after iron ore production ceased; the other two have been shut down by the civil war
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 59 countries among which are US 253, \JJapan\j 172, \JNorway\j 165, \JGermany\j 149, \JGreece\j 137, Hong Kong 114, UK 78, China 49, Monaco 41, and Cyprus 34 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 39
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 29
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b less than 25,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j and telegraph service via microwave radio relay network; main center is \JMonrovia\j; most telecommunications services inoperable due to insurgency movement
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 622,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 5 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 51,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA; the ultimate structure of the Liberian military force will depend on who is the victor in the ongoing civil war
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 479,274
\Imales fit for military service:\i 256,200 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 2.9% of GDP (1993)
#
"Libya (Atlas)",139,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JEgypt\j and \JTunisia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 25 00 N, 17 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,759,540 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,759,540 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JAlaska\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,383 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 982 km, Chad 1,055 km, \JEgypt\j 1,150 km, \JNiger\j 354 km, \JSudan\j 383 km, \JTunisia\j 459 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,770 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
Gulf of Sidra closing line: 32 degrees 30 minutes north
\BInternational disputes:\b the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in February 1994 that the 100,000 sq km Aozou Strip between Chad and \JLibya\j belongs to Chad and that \JLibya\j must withdraw from it by 31 May 1994; \JLibya\j has withdrawn some of its forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains part of the airfield and a small military presence at the airfield's water supply located in Chad; maritime boundary dispute with \JTunisia\j; claims part of northern \JNiger\j and part of southeastern \JAlgeria\j
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean along coast; dry, extreme desert interior
\BTerrain:\b mostly barren, flat to undulating plains, plateaus, depressions
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jdesertification\j; very limited natural fresh water resources; the Great Manmade River Project, the largest water development scheme in the world, is being built to bring water from large aquifers under the Sahara to coastal cities
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dust-laden ghibli is a southern wind lasting one to four days in spring and fall; dust storms, sandstorms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 87,434; female 79,387) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.67% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 44.42 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.1 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 59.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 64.67 years
\Imale:\i 62.48 years
\Ifemale:\i 66.97 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.26 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Libyan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Libyan
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JBerber\j and Arab 97%, Greeks, Maltese, Italians, Egyptians, Pakistanis, Turks, Indians, Tunisians
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 97%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic, Italian, English, all are widely understood in the major cities
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 76.2%
\Imale:\i 87.9%
\Ifemale:\i 63%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
\Iconventional short form:\i \JLibya\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumahiriyah al Arabiyah al Libiyah ash Shabiyah al Ishtirakiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\BData code:\b LY
\BType of government:\b Jamahiriya (a state of the masses) in theory, governed by the populace through local councils; in fact, a military dictatorship
\BCapital:\b Tripoli
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 25 municipalities (baladiyah, singular - baladiyat); Ajdabiya, Al 'Aziziyah, Al Fatih, Al Jabal al Akhdar, Al Jufrah, Al Khums, Al Kufrah, An Nuqat al Khams, Ash Shati', Awbari, Az Zawiyah, Banghazi, Darnah, Ghadamis, Gharyan, Misratah, Murzuq, Sabha, Sawfajjin, Surt, Tarabulus, Tarhunah, Tubruq, Yafran, Zlitan
\Bnote:\b the 25 muncipalities may have been replaced by 1,500 communes in 1992
\BIndependence:\b 24 December 1951 (from Italy)
\BNational holiday:\b Revolution Day, 1 September (1969)
\BConstitution:\b 11 December 1969, amended 2 March 1977
\BLegal system:\b based on Italian civil law system and Islamic law; separate religious courts; no constitutional provision for judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Revolutionary Leader Col. Muammar Abu Minyar al-QADHAFI (since 1 September 1969) was elected by the General People's Congress
\Ihead of government:\i Secretary of the General People's Committee (Premier) Abd al Majid al-QA'UD (since 29 January 1994)
\Icabinet:\i General People's Committee was established by the General People's Congress
\Bnote:\b national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
General People's Congress: national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b various Arab nationalist movements with almost negligible memberships may be functioning clandestinely, as well as some Islamic elements
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JLibya\j does not have an embassy in the US
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US suspended all embassy activities in Tripoli on 2 May 1980
\BFlag:\b plain green; green is the traditional color of \JIslam\j (the state religion)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The socialist-oriented economy depends primarily upon revenues from the oil sector, which contributes practically all export earnings and about one-third of GDP. In 1990 per capita GDP was the highest in Africa at $5,410, but subsequently GDP growth has slowed on average and has fluctuated sharply in response to changes in the world oil market. Import restrictions and inefficient resource allocations have led to periodic shortages of basic goods and foodstuffs. The nonoil manufacturing and construction sectors, which account for about 20% of GDP, have expanded from processing mostly agricultural products to include the production of \Jpetrochemicals\j, iron, steel, and aluminum. Although agriculture accounts for only 5% of GDP, it employs 18% of the labor force. Climatic conditions and poor soils severely limit farm output, and \JLibya\j imports about 75% of its food requirements. The UN sanctions imposed in April 1992 have not yet had a major impact on the economy because \JLibya\j's oil revenues generate sufficient foreign exchange to sustain imports of food, consumer goods, and equipment for the oil industry and ongoing development projects.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $32.9 billion (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b \JLibya\j has had no railroad in operation since 1965, all previous systems having been dismantled; current plans are to construct a 1.435-m standard gauge line from the Tunisian frontier to Tripoli and Misratah, then inland to Sabha, center of a mineral-rich area, but there has been no progress; other plans made jointly with \JEgypt\j would establish a rail line from As Sallum, \JEgypt\j, to Tobruk with completion set for mid-1994; no progress has been reported
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 19,189 km
\Ipaved:\i 10,738 km
\Iunpaved:\i 8,451 km (1987 est.)
\BWaterways:\b none
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 4,383 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 443 km (includes liquefied \Jpetroleum\j gas 256 km); natural gas 1,947 km
\BPorts:\b Al Khums, Banghazi, Darnah, Marsa al Burayqah, Misratah, Ra's Lanuf, Tobruk, Tripoli, Zuwarah
ships by type: cargo 10, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3, short-sea passenger 4
\Bnote:\b \JLibya\j owns an additional 6 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 38,260 DWT operating under the registries of \JAlgeria\j and Turkey (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 130
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 24
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 22
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 6
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 13
with unpaved runways over 3,047 m: 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 15
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 38 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 370,000
\BTelephone system:\b modern telecommunications system
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, tropospheric scatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); planned Arabsat and Intersputnik satellite earth stations; submarine cables to \JFrance\j and \JItaly\j; microwave radio relay to \JTunisia\j and \JEgypt\j; tropospheric scatter to \JGreece\j; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 1 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 12 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 500,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Armed Peoples of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriyah (includes Army, Navy, and Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Command), Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,170,100
\Imales fit for military service:\i 696,288
males reach military age (17) annually: 56,834 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.4 billion, 6.1% of GDP (1994 est.)
#
"Liechtenstein (Atlas)",140,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, between \JAustria\j and \JSwitzerland\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 47 10 N, 9 32 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 160 sq km
\Iland area:\i 160 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.9 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 78 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 37 km, \JSwitzerland\j 41 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b claims 1,600 square kilometers of Czech territory confiscated from its royal family in 1918; the Czech Republic insists that \Jrestitution\j does not go back before February 1948, when the communists seized power
\BClimate:\b continental; cold, cloudy winters with frequent snow or rain; cool to moderately warm, cloudy, humid summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountainous (Alps) with Rhine Valley in western third
\Ilowest point:\i Ruggleller Riet 430 m
\Ihighest point:\i Grauspitz 2,599 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydroelectric potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 25%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 38%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 19%
\Iother:\i 18%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JBiodiversity\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; variety of microclimatic variations based on elevation
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 31,122 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 19% (male 2,961; female 2,871)
\I15-64 years:\i 70% (male 10,775; female 11,113)
\I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 1,366; female 2,036) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.08% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 11.47 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.81 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 6.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.14 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.67 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 78.84 years
\Imale:\i 75.92 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.17 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.37 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Liechtensteiner(s)
\Iadjective:\i \JLiechtenstein\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b Alemannic 95%, Italian and other 5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 87.3%, Protestant 8.3%, unknown 1.6%, other 2.8% (1988)
\BLanguages:\b German (official), Alemannic \Jdialect\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 10 and over can read and write (1981 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 100%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Principality of \JLiechtenstein\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JLiechtenstein\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Furstentum \JLiechtenstein\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JLiechtenstein\j
\BData code:\b LS
\BType of government:\b hereditary constitutional monarchy
\BIndependence:\b 23 January 1719 (Imperial Principality of \JLiechtenstein\j established)
\BNational holiday:\b Assumption Day, 15 August
\BConstitution:\b 5 October 1921
\BLegal system:\b local civil and penal codes; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Prince Hans ADAM II (since 13 November 1989, who is a hereditary monarch, assumed executive powers 26 August 1984); Heir Apparent Prince ALOIS von und zu \JLiechtenstein\j (born 11 June 1968)
\Ihead of government:\i Mario FRICK (since 15 December 1993) and Deputy Head of Government Dr. Thomas BUECHEL (since 15 December 1993) were elected by the Landtag for a four-year term and confirmed by the prince
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was elected by the Diet; confirmed by the prince
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Diet (Landtag): elections last held on 24 October 1993 (next to be held by March 1997); results - VU 50.1%, FBP 41.3%, FL 8.5%; seats - (25 total) VU 13, FBP 11, FL 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for criminal cases; Superior Court (Obergericht) for civil cases
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Fatherland Union (VU), Dr. Oswald KRANTZ; Progressive Citizens' Party (FBP), Otmar HASLER; The Free List (FL)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JLiechtenstein\j does not have an embassy in the US, but is represented by the Swiss embassy in routine diplomatic matters
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JLiechtenstein\j, but the US Consul General at Zurich (Switzerland) has consular accreditation in \JVaduz\j
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a gold crown on the hoist side of the blue band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Despite its small size and limited natural resources, \JLiechtenstein\j has developed into a prosperous, highly industrialized, free-enterprise economy with a vital service sector and living standards on par with the urban areas of its large European neighbors. Low business taxes - the maximum tax rate is 18% - and easy incorporation rules have induced about 25,000 holding or so-called letter box companies to establish nominal offices in \JLiechtenstein\j, providing 30% of state revenues. The country participates in a customs union with \JSwitzerland\j and uses the Swiss franc as its national currency. \JLiechtenstein\j plans to join the European Economic Area (an organization serving as a bridge between EFTA and EU) in 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $630 million (1990 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $22,300 (1990 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 5.4% (1990)
\BLabor force:\b 20,000 of which 12,000 are foreigners; 6,885 commute from \JAustria\j and \JSwitzerland\j to work each day
\Iby occupation:\i industry, trade, and building 48.1%, services 50.2%, agriculture, fishing, \Jforestry\j, and \Jhorticulture\j 1.7% (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 0.9% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $455 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $442 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\Itotal:\i 18.5 km; note - owned, operated, and included in statistics of Austrian Federal Railways
standard gauge: 18.5 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 238 km
\Ipaved:\i 238 km
\Iunpaved:\i 0 km (1986 est.)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b none
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 18,916 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b limited, but sufficient automatic \Jtelephone\j system
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i linked to Swiss networks by cable and microwave radio relay
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\Bnote:\b linked to Swiss networks
\BRadios:\b 11,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\Bnote:\b linked to Swiss networks
\BTelevisions:\b 10,620 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JSwitzerland\j
#
"Lithuania (Atlas)",141,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between \JLatvia\j and \JRussia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 56 00 N, 24 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 65,200 sq km
\Iland area:\i 65,200 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,273 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelarus\j 502 km, \JLatvia\j 453 km, \JPoland\j 91 km, \JRussia\j (Kaliningrad) 227 km
\BCoastline:\b 108 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b dispute with \JRussia\j (Kaliningrad Oblast) over the position of the Nemunas (Nemen) River border presently located on the Lithuanian bank and not in midriver as by international standards; disputes maritime border with \JLatvia\j (primary concern is oil exploration rights); treaty with \JBelarus\j defining the border awaits ratification
\BClimate:\b maritime; wet, moderate winters and summers
\BTerrain:\b lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil
\Ilowest point:\i Baltic Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Juozapine Kalnas 292 m
\BNatural resources:\b peat
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 49%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 22%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 16%
\Iother:\i 13%
\BIrrigated land:\b 430 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i contamination of soil and \Jgroundwater\j with \Jpetroleum\j products and chemicals at military bases
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Ozone Layer Protection
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JLithuania\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JLithuania\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Lietuvos Respublika
\Ilocal short form:\i Lietuva
\Iformer:\i Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b LH
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JVilnius\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 44 regions (rajonai, singular - rajonas) and 11 municipalities*: Akmenes Rajonas, Alytaus Rajonas, Alytus*, Anyksciu Rajonas, Birsionas*, Birzu Rajonas, Druskininkai*, Ignalinos Rajonas, Jonavos Rajonas, Joniskio Rajonas, Jurbarko Rajonas, Kaisiadoriu Rajonas, Marijampoles Rajonas, Kaunas*, Kauno Rajonas, Kedainiu Rajonas, Kelmes Rajonas, Klaipeda*, Klaipedos Rajonas, Kretingos Rajonas, Kupiskio Rajonas, Lazdiju Rajonas, Marijampole*, Mazeikiu Rajonas, Moletu Rajonas, Neringa* Pakruojo Rajonas, Palanga*, Panevezio Rajonas, Panevezys*, Pasvalio Rajonas, Plunges Rajonas, Prienu Rajonas, Radviliskio Rajonas, Raseiniu Rajonas, Rokiskio Rajonas, Sakiu Rajonas, Salcininky Rajonas, Siauliai*, Siauliu Rajonas, Silales Rajonas, Siltues Rajonas, Sirvinty Rajonas, Skuodo Rajonas, Svencioniu Rajonas, Taurages Rajonas, Telsiu Rajonas, Traky Rajonas, Ukmerges Rajonas, Utenos Rajonas, Varenos Rajonas, Vilkaviskio Rajonas, Vilniaus Rajonas, Vilnius*, Zarasu Rajonas
\BIndependence:\b 6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 16 February (1918)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 25 October 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Algirdas Mykolas BRAZAUSKAS (since 25 November 1992; elected acting president by Parliament 25 November 1992 and elected by direct vote 15 February 1993) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held spring 1997); results - Algirdas BRAZAUSKAS was elected; percent of vote NA
\Ihead of government:\i Premier Mindaugas STANKEVICIUS (since 15 February 1996) was appointed by the president on approval of the Seimas
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the nomination of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Seimas (parliament): elections last held 26 October and 25 November 1992 (next to be held NA October 1996); results - LDDP 51%; seats - (141 total) LDDP 73, Conservative Party 30, LKDP 17, LTS 8, Farmers' Union 4, LLS 4, Center Union 2, others 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed by the Seimas; Court of Appeal, judges appointed by the Seimas
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Democratic Party (LKDP), Algirdas SAUDARGAS, chairman; Democratic Labor Party of \JLithuania\j (LDDP), Mindaugas STANKEVICIUS , chairman; Lithuanian Nationalist Union (LTS), Rimantas SMETONA, chairman; Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), Aloyzas SAKALAS, chairman; Farmers' Union, Jonas CIULEVICIUS, chairman; Center Union, Romualdas OZOLAS, chairman; Homeland Union/Conservative Party, Vytautas LANDSBERGIS, chairman; Lithuanian Polish Union (LLS), Rytardas MACIEKIANIEC, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Lithuanian Future Forum
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alfonsas EIDINTAS
\Ichancery:\i 2622 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-5860, 2639
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-0466
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador James W. SWIHART, Jr.
\Iembassy:\i Akmenu 6, \JVilnius\j 2600
\Imailing address:\i PSC 78, Box V, APO AE 09723
\Itelephone:\i [78] (8) 973-0000, 227-224
\IFAX:\i [78] (8) 670-6084
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Since declaring independence in 1990, \JLithuania\j has implemented reforms aimed at eliminating the vestiges of the former socialist system. With the help of the IMF and other international institutions, the government has adopted a disciplined program to restrain \Jinflation\j, reduce price controls, lower the budget deficit and privatize the economy. \JLithuania\j has embarked on a series of price liberalizations; most price controls have been abolished. More than two-thirds of its industrial facilities as well as most housing and agricultural enterprises have been privatized, although important "strategic" enterprises have been exempted from privatization - namely energy and telecommunications. While \JLithuania\j has reduced its trade dependence on \JRussia\j and other republics of the FSU from 85% in 1991 to about 40% in 1995, \JRussia\j remains \JLithuania\j's leading trading partner. \JLithuania\j has made great strides in reducing its annual rate of \Jinflation\j - from over 1,100% in 1992 to about 35% in 1995. Production bottomed out in 1994-95. A banking crisis beginning in September, during which central bank reserves dropped one-third, held back growth in 1995. If the government can stay the course on economic reform and fiscal discipline - which may be politically difficult in the election year of 1996 - \JLithuania\j could be set for strong economic growth in the near term. As for real resources, \JLithuania\j's growth depends largely on its ability to exploit its strategic location - with its ice-free port at Klaipeda and its rail and highway hub in \JVilnius\j connecting it with Eastern Europe, \JBelarus\j, \JRussia\j, and \JUkraine\j. Lacking important natural resources, it will remain dependent on imports of fuels and raw materials.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $13.3 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BAgriculture:\b grain, potatoes, sugar beets, vegetables; meat, milk, eggs; fish
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for illicit drugs from Central and Southwest Asia and Latin America to Western Europe; limited producer of illicit opium; mostly for domestic consumption
\BTelephone system:\b telecommunications system ranks among the most modern of the former Soviet republics
\Idomestic:\i an NMT-450 analog cellular \Jtelephone\j network operates in \JVilnius\j and other cities; landlines and microwave radio relay connect switching centers
\Iinternational:\i international connections no longer depend on the Moscow international gateway switch, but are established by satellite through Oslo from \JVilnius\j and through \JCopenhagen\j from \JKaunas\j; satellite earth stations - 1 Eutelsat and 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); cellular network linked internationally through \JCopenhagen\j by Eutelsat; international electronic mail is available; landlines or microwave radio relay to former Soviet republics
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 13, FM 26, shortwave 1, longwave 1
\BRadios:\b 1.42 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3
\BTelevisions:\b 1.77 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Force, Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard (Skat)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 903,437
\Imales fit for military service:\i 712,875
males reach military age (18) annually: 26,162 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $31.7 million, 1% of GDP (1995)
#
"Luxembourg (Atlas)",142,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, between \JFrance\j and \JGermany\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 49 45 N, 6 10 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,586 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,586 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Rhode Island
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 359 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelgium\j 148 km, \JFrance\j 73 km, \JGermany\j 138 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b modified continental with mild winters, cool summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly gently rolling uplands with broad, shallow valleys; uplands to slightly mountainous in the north; steep slope down to Moselle floodplain in the southeast
\Ilowest point:\i Moselle River 133 m
\Ihighest point:\i Burgplatz 559 m
\BNatural resources:\b iron ore (no longer exploited)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 24%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 20%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 21%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; air and water \Jpollution\j in urban areas
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 23 June (1921) (public celebration of the Grand Duke's birthday)
\BConstitution:\b 17 October 1868, occasional revisions
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Grand Duke JEAN (since 12 November 1964) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Prince HENRI (son of Grand Duke JEAN, born 16 April 1955)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jean-Claude JUNCKER (since 1 January 1995) and Vice Prime Minister Jacques F. POOS (since 21 July 1984) were appointed by the sovereign but are responsible to the legislature
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the sovereign, responsible to the legislature
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes): elections last held 12 June 1994 (next to be held by June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) CSV 21, LSAP 17, DP 12, Action Committee for Democracy and Pension Rights 5, Greens 5
\Bnote:\b the Council of State (Conseil d'Etat) is an advisory body whose views are considered by the Chamber of Deputies
\BJudicial branch:\b Superior Court of Justice (Cour Superieure de Justice), judges are appointed for life by the Grand Duke
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Social People's Party (CSV), Erna HENNICOT-SCHOEPGES; Luxembourg Socialist Workers' Party (LSAP), Ben FAYOT; Democratic Party (DP), Henri GRETHEN; Action Committee for Democracy and Pension Rights, Roby MEHLEN; the Green Alternative, Abbes JACOBY; other minor parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b group of steel companies representing iron and steel industry; Centrale Paysanne representing agricultural producers; Christian and Socialist labor unions; Federation of Industrialists; Artisans and Shopkeepers Federation
\Ichancery:\i 2200 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-4171
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-8270
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Clay CONSTANTINOU
\Iembassy:\i 22 Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais, 2535 Luxembourg City
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy Luxembourg, Unit 1410, APO AE 09126-1410 (official mail); American Embassy Luxembourg, PSC 9, Box 9500, APO AE 09123 (personal mail)
\Itelephone:\i [352] 46 01 23
\IFAX:\i [352] 46 14 01
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and light blue; similar to the flag of the Netherlands, which uses a darker blue and is shorter; design was based on the flag of \JFrance\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The stable, prosperous economy features moderate growth, low \Jinflation\j, and negligible unemployment. Agriculture is based on small but highly productive family-owned farms. The industrial sector, until recently dominated by steel, has become increasingly more diversified, particularly toward high-technology firms. During the past decade, growth in the financial sector has more than compensated for the decline in steel. Services, especially banking, account for a growing proportion of the economy. Luxembourg participates in an economic union with \JBelgium\j on trade and most financial matters, is also closely connected economically to the Netherlands, and, as a member of the EU, enjoys the advantages of the open European market.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $10 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.6% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $24,800 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 1.4%
\Iindustry:\i 33.7%
\Iservices:\i 64.9% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 3.6% (1992)
\BLabor force:\b 200,400 (1992) (one-third of labor force is foreign workers, mostly from \JPortugal\j, \JItaly\j, \JFrance\j, \JBelgium\j, and Germany)
\Iby occupation:\i trade, restaurants, hotels 20%, mining, quarrying, manufacturing 18%, other market services 17%, community, social, personal services 14%, construction 11%, finance, insurance, real estate, business services 9%, transport, storage, communications 7%, agriculture, hunting, \Jforestry\j, fishing 3%, electricity, gas, water 1%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 2.5% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $4 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $4.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b banking, iron and steel, food processing, chemicals, metal products, \Jengineering\j, tires, glass, aluminum
\BCurrency:\b 1 Luxembourg franc (LuxF) = 100 centimes
\BExchange rates:\b Luxembourg francs (LuxF) per US$1 - 30.036 (January 1996), 29.480 (1995), 33.456 (1994), 34.597 (1993), 32.150 (1992), 34.148 (1991); note - the Luxembourg franc is at par with the Belgian franc, which circulates freely in Luxembourg
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 275 km
standard gauge: 275 km 1.435-m gauge (262 km electrified; 178 km double track) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,134 km
\Ipaved:\i 5,088 km (including 121 km of expressways)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of \JPortugal\j; \JPortugal\j signed an agreement with China on 13 April 1987 to return Macau to China on 20 December 1999; in the joint declaration, China promises to respect Macau's existing social and economic systems and lifestyle for 50 years after transition)
\BNational holiday:\b Day of \JPortugal\j, 10 June (1580)
\BConstitution:\b 17 February 1976, Organic Law of Macau; basic law drafted primarily by \JBeijing\j promulgated 31 March 1993
\BLegal system:\b Portuguese civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of Portugal) Mario Alberto SOARES (since 9 March 1986)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Gen. Vasco Joachim Rocha VIEIRA (since 20 March 1991) was appointed by the President of \JPortugal\j after consultation with the Legislative Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Consultative Council consists of a total of 15 members - five appointed by the governor, two nominated by the governor, five elected for a four-year term (two represent administrative bodies, one represents moral, cultural, and welfare interests, and two represent economic interests), and three statutory members
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly: elections last held 10 March 1991 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total, 8 elected by direct vote, 8 by indirect vote, and 7 appointed by the governor) number of seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, consisting of five magistrates including the president; lower court judges appointed for three years by governor
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Association to Defend the Interests of Macau; Macau Democratic Center; Group to Study the Development of Macau; Macau Independent Group
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b wealthy Macanese and Chinese representing local interests, wealthy procommunist merchants representing China's interests; in January 1967 the Macau Government acceded to Chinese demands that gave China veto power over administration
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (Chinese territory under Portuguese administration)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US has no offices in Macau, and US interests are monitored by the US Consulate General in Hong Kong
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JPortugal\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based largely on tourism (including gambling) and textile and fireworks manufacturing. Efforts to diversify have spawned other small industries - toys, artificial flowers, and \Jelectronics\j. The tourist sector has accounted for roughly 25% of GDP, and the clothing industry has provided about two-thirds of export earnings; the gambling industry probably represents over 40% of GDP. Macau depends on China for most of its food, fresh water, and energy imports. \JJapan\j and Hong Kong are the main suppliers of raw materials and capital goods.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Ipartners:\i US 35%, Hong Kong 12.5%, \JGermany\j 12%, China 9.9%, \JFrance\j 8% (1992 est.)
\BImports:\b $2 billion (1992 est.)
\Icommodities:\i raw materials, foodstuffs, capital goods
\Ipartners:\i Hong Kong 33%, China 20%, \JJapan\j 18% (1992 est.)
\BExternal debt:\b $0 (1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 pataca (P) = 100 avos
\BExchange rates:\b patacas (P) per US$1 - 8.034 (1991-95), 8.024 (1990), 8.030 (1989); note - linked to the Hong Kong dollar at the rate of 1.03 patacas per Hong Kong dollar
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 90 km
\Ipaved:\i 42 km
\Iunpaved:\i 48 km (1987 est.)
\BPorts:\b Macau
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b new international airport completed in 1995; 1 \Jseaplane\j station
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 170,021 (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fairly modern communication facilities maintained for domestic and international services
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i HF radiotelephone communication facility; access to international communications carriers provided via Hong Kong and China; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 135,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\Bnote:\b TV programs received from Hong Kong
\BTelevisions:\b 34,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 142,704
\Imales fit for military service:\i 79,225 (1996 est.)
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JPortugal\j
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, north of \JGreece\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 41 50 N, 22 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 25,333 sq km
\Iland area:\i 24,856 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JVermont\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 748 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlbania\j 151 km, \JBulgaria\j 148 km, \JGreece\j 228 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 221 km (all with Serbia)
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b dispute with \JGreece\j over name; in September 1995, Skopje and \JAthens\j signed an interim accord resolving their dispute over symbols and certain constitutional provisions; \JAthens\j also lifted its economic embargo on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
\BClimate:\b hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall
\BTerrain:\b mountainous territory covered with deep basins and valleys; there are three large lakes, each divided by a frontier line; country bisected by the Vardar River
\BIndependence:\b 17 September 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
\BNational holiday:\b 8 September
\BConstitution:\b adopted 17 November 1991, effective 20 November 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Kiro GLIGOROV (since 27 January 1991) was elected by the Assembly in 1991 and reelected by popular vote in 1994; election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; note - following a failed assassination attempt on the president in October 1995, then Parliamentary Speaker Stojan ANDOV was acting president; GLIGOROV resumed his duties in early 1996
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Branko CRVENKOVSKI (since 4 September 1992) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers were elected by the majority vote of all the deputies in the Assembly; note - after the withdrawal of the Liberal Party from the ruling coalition in early 1996, the Council of Ministers was reorganized without LP participation
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Assembly (Sobranje): elections last held 16 and 30 October 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) SDSM 58, LP 29, SPM 8, PDP 10, NDP 4, independents 7, other 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the Judicial Council; Judicial Court of the Republic, judges are elected by the Judicial Council
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social-Democratic Alliance of Macedonia (SDSM; former Communist Party), Branko CRVENKOVSKI, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity (PDP), Abdurahman HALITI, president; National Democratic Party (NDP), Ilijas HALINI, president; Alliance of Reform Forces of Macedonia - Liberal Party (SRSM-LP), Stojan ANDOV, president; Socialist Party of Macedonia (SPM), Kiro POPOVSKI, president; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE), Ljupco GEORGIEVSKI, president; Party of Yugoslavs in Macedonia (SJM), Milan DURCINOV, president; Democratic Party (DP), Petar GOSEV, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity of Albanians (PDPA), Arben XHAFFERI, president
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Movement for All Macedonian Action (MAAK); Democratic Party of Serbs; Democratic Party of Turks; Party for Democratic Action (Slavic Muslim)
\Ichancery:\i 3050 K Street, NW, Suite 210, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 337 3063
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 337 3093
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador-designate Christopher HILL; Charge d'Affaires Victor D. COMRAS
\Iembassy:\i ul. 27 Mart No. 5, 9100 Skopje
\Imailing address:\i United States Liaison Office Skopje, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7120 (pouch)
\Itelephone:\i [389] (91) 116-180
\IFAX:\i [389] (91) 117-103
\Bnote:\b the US agreed to establish full diplomatic relations with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in September 1995, and to upgrade the Liaison Office to an Embassy
\BFlag:\b a rising yellow sun with 8 rays extending to the edges of the red field
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, although the poorest republic in the former Yugoslav federation, can meet basic food and energy needs through its own agricultural and coal resources. Its economic decline will continue unless ties are reforged or enlarged with its neighbors \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j, \JAlbania\j, \JGreece\j, and \JBulgaria\j. The economy depends on outside sources for all of its oil and gas and most of its modern machinery and parts. An important supplement of GDP is the remittances from thousands of Macedonians working in \JGermany\j and other West European nations. The end of sanctions on \JSerbia\j and the lifting of the Greek embargo on Macedonia have reopened its natural trade corridors, but the country has been slow to capitalize on these opportunities. Moreover, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's geographical isolation, technological underdevelopment, and potential political instability place it far down the list of countries of interest to Western investors. An internal commitment to economic reform would encourage foreign investment over the long run.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b limited illicit opium cultivation; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin
\BExports:\b $916.2 million (1995)
\Icommodities:\i manufactured goods 40%, machinery and transport equipment 14%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 23%, raw materials 7.6%, food (rice) and live animals 5.7%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 4.5%, chemicals 4.7% (1990)
\Ipartners:\i principally \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j and the other former Yugoslav republics, \JGermany\j, \JGreece\j, \JAlbania\j
\BImports:\b $199 million (1995)
\Icommodities:\i fuels and lubricants 19%, manufactured goods 18%, machinery and transport equipment 15%, food and live animals 14%, chemicals 11.4%, raw materials 10%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 8.0%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 3.5% (1990)
\Ipartners:\i other former Yugoslav republics, \JGreece\j, \JAlbania\j, \JGermany\j, \JBulgaria\j
\BExternal debt:\b $737.1 million (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b US, $10 million (for humanitarian and technical assistance); in December 1995, the EU agreed to provide a credit line of ECU 21.7 million for investment projects
\BCurrency:\b the denar, which was adopted by the Macedonian legislature 26 April 1992, was initially issued in the form of a coupon pegged to the German mark; subsequently repegged to a basket of seven currencies
standard gauge: 699 km 1.435-m gauge (232 km electrified) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 10,591 km
\Ipaved:\i 5,091 km
\Iunpaved:\i 5,500 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b none, lake transport only
\BPipelines:\b none
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 16
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 12
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 125,000
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 369,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 5 (relays 2)
\BTelevisions:\b 327,011 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 571,927
\Imales fit for military service:\i 458,231
males reach military age (19) annually: 16,698 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 7 billion denars, NA% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic Of (Atlas)",144,0,0,0
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, north of \JGreece\j
\BMap references:\b Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
\BLand boundaries:\b total 748 km, \JAlbania\j 151 km, \JBulgaria\j 148 km, \JGreece\j 228 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 221 km (all with \JSerbia\j)
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none; landlocked
\BInternational disputes:\b dispute with \JGreece\j over name, symbols, and certain constitutional provisions
\BClimate:\b hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall
\BTerrain:\b mountainous territory covered with deep basins and valleys; there are three large lakes, each divided by a frontier line; country bisected by the Vardar River
\BLand use:\b \Iarable land:\i 5% \Ipermanent crops:\i 5% \Imeadows and pastures:\i 20% \Iforest and woodland:\i 30% \Iother:\i 40%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA km▓
\BEnvironment:\b current issues: air \Jpollution\j from metallurgical plants natural hazards: high seismic risks international agreements: party to - Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection
\BNote:\b landlocked; major transportation corridor from Western and Central Europe to \JAegean Sea\j and Southern Europe to Western Europe
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b 125,000 telephones local: NA intercity: NA international: no satellite links
\BRadio:\b \Ibroadcast stations:\i AM 6, FM 2, shortwave 0 radios: 370,000
\BManpower availability:\b males age 15-49 585,403; males fit for military service 474,467; males reach military age (19) annually 19,693 (1995 est.)
\BDefense expenditures:\b 7 billion denars, NA% of GNP (1993 est.); note - conversion of the military budget into US dollars using the prevailing exchange rate could produce misleading results
\BEconomy:\b
\BOverview:\b The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, although the poorest republic in the former Yugoslav federation, can meet basic food and energy needs through its own agricultural and coal resources. Its economic decline will continue unless ties are reforged or enlarged with its neighbors \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j, \JAlbania\j, \JGreece\j, and \JBulgaria\j. The economy depends on outside sources for all of its oil and gas and most of its modern machinery and parts. An important supplement of GDP is the remittances from thousands of Macedonians working in \JGermany\j and other West European nations. Continued political turmoil, both internally and in the region as a whole, prevents any swift readjustments of trade patterns and economic programs. The country's industrial output and GDP are expected to decline further in 1995. The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's geographical isolation, technological backwardness, and potential political instability place it far down the list of countries of interest to Western investors. Resolution of the dispute with \JGreece\j and an internal commitment to economic reform would encourage foreign investment over the long run. In the immediate future, the worst scenario for the economy would be the spread of fighting across its borders.
\BNational product:\b GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.9 billion (1994 est.)
\BNational product real growth rate:\b -15% (1994 est.)
\BNational product per capita:\b $900 (1994 est.)
\BInflation rate (consumer prices):\b 54% (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 30% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BExports:\b $1.06 billion (1993) \Icommodities:\i manufactured goods 40%, machinery and transport equipment 14%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 23%, raw materials 7.6%, food (rice) and live animals 5.7%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 4.5%, chemicals 4.7% (1990) partners: principally \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j and the other former Yugoslav republics, \JGermany\j, \JGreece\j, \JAlbania\j
\BImports:\b $1.2 billion (1993) \Icommodities:\i fuels and lubricants 19%, manufactured goods 18%, machinery and transport equipment 15%, food and live animals 14%, chemicals 11.4%, raw materials 10%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 8.0%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 3.5% (1990) partners: other former Yugoslav republics, \JGreece\j, \JAlbania\j, \JGermany\j, \JBulgaria\j
\BElectricity:\b capacity: 1,600,000 kW production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh (1993)
\BIndustries:\b low levels of technology predominate, such as, oil refining by distillation only; produces basic liquid fuels, coal, metallic \Jchromium\j, lead, zinc, and ferronickel; light industry produces basic textiles, wood products, and \Jtobacco\j
\BAgriculture:\b meets the basic needs for food; principal crops are rice, \Jtobacco\j, wheat, corn, and \Jmillet\j; also grown are cotton, sesame, \Jmulberry\j leaves, \Jcitrus\j fruit, and vegetables; agricultural production is highly labor intensive
\BIllicit drugs:\b limited illicit opium cultivation; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin
\BEconomic aid:\b recipient: US $10 million (for humanitarian and technical assistance) EC promised a 100 ECU million economic aid package (1993)
\BCurrency:\b the denar, which was adopted by the Macedonian legislature 26 April 1992, was initially issued in the form of a coupon pegged to the German mark; subsequently repegged to a basket of seven currencies
\BNames:\b \Iconventional long form:\i The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia \Iconventional short form:\i none \Ilocal long form:\i Republika Makedonija \Ilocal short form:\i Makedonija
\BIndependence:\b 17 September 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
\BNational holiday:\b 8 September
\BConstitution:\b adopted 17 November 1991, effective 20 November 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b \Ichief of state:\i President Kiro GLIGOROV (since 27 January 1991); election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Kiro GLIGOROV was elected by the Assembly in 1991; reelected by popular vote in 1994 \Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Branko CRVENKOVSKI (since 4 September 1992) \Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; elected by the majority vote of all the deputies in the Sobranje
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Assembly (Sobranje): elections last held 16 and 30 October 1994 (next to be held November 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, Judicial Court of the Republic
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social-Democratic Alliance of Macedonia (SDSM; former Communist Party), Branko CRVENKOVSKI, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity (PDP); note - two factions competing for party name; one faction is led by Abdurahman HALITI and the other faction is led by Arber XHAFFERI; National Democratic Party (NDP), Ilijas HALINI, president; Alliance of Reform Forces of Macedonia - Liberal Party (SRSM-LP), Stojan ANDOV, president; Socialist Party of Macedonia (SPM), Kiro POPOVSKI, president; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE), Ljupco GEORGIEVSKI, president; Party of Yugoslavs in Macedonia (SJM), Milan DURCINOV, president; Democratic Party (DP), Petar GOSEV, president
Other political or pressure groups: Movement for All Macedonian Action (MAAK); Democratic Party of Serbs; Democratic Party of Turks; Party for Democratic Action (Slavic Muslim)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b the US recognized The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on 8 February 1994
\BUS diplomatic representation:\b \Ichief of mission:\i Victor D. COMRAS liaison office: ul. 27 Mart No. 5, 9100 Skopje mailing address: USLO Skopje, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7120 (pouch) \Jtelephone\j: [389] (91) 116-180 FAX: [389] (91) 117-103
\BFlag:\b 16-point gold sun (Vergina, Sun) centered on a red field
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,159,503 (July 1995 est.) \BNote:\b the Macedonian government \Jcensus\j of July 1994 put the population at 1.94 million, but ethnic allocations were likely undercounted
\BAge structure:\b 0-14 years: 25% (female 257,876; male 277,314) 15-64 years: 67% (female 711,810; male 733,903) 65 years and over: 8% (female 97,475; male 81,125) (July 1995 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.9% (1995 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.82 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 24.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b \Itotal population:\i 74 years \Imale:\i 71.87 years \Ifemale:\i 76.3 years (1995 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.02 children born/woman (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 591,773 (June 1994) by occupation: manufacturing and mining 40% (1992)
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailroads:\b \Itotal:\i 922 km \Istandard gauge:\i 922 km 1.435-m gauge (1994)
\BHighways:\b \Itotal:\i 10,591 km \Ipaved:\i 5,091 km \Iunpaved:\i gravel 1,404 km; earth 4,096 km (1991)
\BInland waterways:\b none, lake transport only
\BPipelines:\b none
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b \Itotal:\i 16 \Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 11 \Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:\i 1 \Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2
#
"Madagascar (Atlas)",145,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 20 00 S, 47 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 587,040 sq km
\Iland area:\i 581,540 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JArizona\j
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 4,828 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or 100 nm from the 2,500-m isobath
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, and Tromelin Island (all administered by France)
\BClimate:\b tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain, high plateau and mountains in center
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Maromokotro 2,876 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jgraphite\j, chromite, coal, \Jbauxite\j, salt, \Jquartz\j, tar sands, semiprecious stones, mica, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 4%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 58%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 26%
\Iother:\i 11%
\BIrrigated land:\b 9,000 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion results from deforestation and overgrazing; \Jdesertification\j; surface water contaminated with raw sewage and other organic wastes; several species of flora and fauna unique to the island are endangered
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic cyclones
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b world's fourth-largest island; strategic location along \JMozambique\j Channel
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 June (1960)
\BConstitution:\b 19 August 1992 by national referendum
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and traditional \JMalagasy\j law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Albert ZAFY (since 9 March 1993) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 10 February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - Albert ZAFY (UNDD) 67%; Didier RATSIRAKA (AREMA) 33%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Emmanuel RAKOTOVAHINY (since 30 October 1995) was elected by the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate (Senat): two-thirds of upper house seats are to be filled from popularly elected regional assemblies; the remaining third is to be filled by presidential appointment; decentralization and formation of regional assemblies is not expected before 1997
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 16 June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (138 total) CFV coalition 76, PMDM/MFM 16, CSCD 11, Famima 10, RPSD 7, various pro-Ratsiraka groups 10, others 8
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Committee of Living Forces (CFV), an alliance of National Union for Development and Democracy (UNDD), Support Group for Democracy and Development in Madagascar (CSDDM), Action and Reflection Group for the Development of Madagascar (GRAD), Congress Party for Madagascar Independence - Renewal (AKFM-Fanavaozana), and some 12 other parties, trade unions, and religious groups; Militant Party for the Development of Madagascar (PMDM/MFM), formerly the Movement for Proletarian Power, Manandafy RAKOTONIRINA; Confederation of Civil Societies for Development (CSCD), Guy Willy RAZANAMASY; Association of United Malagasys (Famima); Rally for Social Democracy (RPSD), Pierre TSIRANANA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Council of Christian Churches (FFKM); Federalist Movement
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador \JPierrot\j Jocelyn RAJAONARIVELO
\Ichancery:\i 2374 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-5525, 5526
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Vicki J. HUDDLESTON
\Iembassy:\i 14-16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, \JAntananarivo\j
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 620, \JAntananarivo\j
\Itelephone:\i [261] (2) 212-57, 200-89, 207-18
\IFAX:\i [261] (2) 234-539
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band of the same width on hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, suffering from chronic \Jmalnutrition\j, underfunded health and education facilities, a roughly 3% annual population growth rate, and severe loss of forest cover, accompanied by erosion. Agriculture, including fishing and \Jforestry\j, is the mainstay of the economy, accounting for 35% of GDP and contributing more than 70% of export earnings. Industry is largely confined to the processing of agricultural products and textile manufacturing; it accounts for 15% of GDP. In 1986, the government introduced a five-year development plan that stressed self-sufficiency in food (mainly rice) by 1990, increased production for export, and reduced energy imports. Subsequently, growth in output has been held back because of protracted antigovernment strikes and demonstrations for political reform. Since 1993, corruption and political instability have caused the economy and \Jinfrastructure\j to decay further. Since April 1994, the government commitment to economic reforms has been erratic. Enormous obstacles stand in the way of Madagascar's realizing its considerable growth potential.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $11.4 billion (1995 est.)
workers not receiving money wages: 4.7 million (96% of total labor force); note - 4.3 million workers are in subsistence agriculture
wage earners: 175,400 (3.6% of total work force)
wage earners \Iby occupation:\i agriculture 45,500, domestic service 29,750, industry 26,250, commerce 24,500, construction 19,250, service 15,750, transportation 10,500, other 3,500 (1985 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $250 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $265 million, including capital expenditures of $180 million (1991 est.)
\BBranches:\b Popular Armed Forces (includes Intervention Forces, Development Forces, Aeronaval Forces - includes Navy and Air Force), Gendarmerie, Presidential Security Regiment
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,103,022
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,843,732
males reach military age (20) annually: 132,146 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $29 million, 1.0% of GDP (1994)
#
"Malawi (Atlas)",146,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, east of \JZambia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 30 S, 34 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 118,480 sq km
\Iland area:\i 94,080 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JPennsylvania\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,881 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JMozambique\j 1,569 km, \JTanzania\j 475 km, \JZambia\j 837 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b dispute with \JTanzania\j over the boundary in Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi)
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (November to May); dry season (May to November)
\BTerrain:\b narrow elongated plateau with rolling plains, rounded hills, some mountains
\Ilowest point:\i junction of the Shire River and international boundary with \JMozambique\j 37 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Mlanje Sapitwa 3,002 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jlimestone\j, unexploited deposits of uranium, coal, and \Jbauxite\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 25%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 20%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 50%
\Iother:\i 5%
\BIrrigated land:\b 200 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; land degradation; water \Jpollution\j from agricultural runoff, sewage, industrial wastes; siltation of spawning grounds endangers fish populations
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day 6 July (1964); Republic Day 6 July (1966)
\BConstitution:\b 18 May 1995; most recent revision
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court of Appeal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Bakili MULUZI (since 21 May 1994), leader of the UDF, was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was named by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 17 May 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) UDF 84, AFORD 33, MCP 55, others 5; note - because of defections and a bi-election of 18 December 1995, the seats in the National Assembly were held at the end of the year as follows: UDF 87, MCP 55, AFORD 35
\Bnote:\b the constitution of 18 May 1995, in addition to reducing the age at which universal suffrage is conferred from 21 to 18 years, provided for a bicameral legislature; by 1999, in addition to the existing National Assembly, a Senate of 80 seats is to be elected
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court; Supreme Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
ruling party: United Democratic Front (UDF), Bakili MULUZI
opposition groups: Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Green MUNLO, secretary general (top party position); Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Chakufwa CHIHANA; Christian Democratic Party (CDP), Eston KAKHOME, president; Malawi Democratic Party (MDP), Kampelo KALUA, president
\Ichancery:\i 2408 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-1007
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter R. CHAVEAS
\Iembassy:\i address NA, in new capital city development area in \JLilongwe\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 30016, \JLilongwe\j 3, Malawi
\Itelephone:\i [265] 783 166
\IFAX:\i [265] 780 471
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green with a radiant, rising, red sun centered in the black band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Landlocked Malawi ranks among the world's least developed countries. The economy is predominately agricultural, with about 90% of the population living in rural areas. Agriculture accounts for 31% of GDP and 90% of export revenues. The economy depends on substantial inflows of economic assistance from the IMF, the World Bank, and individual donor nations. The new government faces strong challenges, e.g., to spur exports, to improve educational and health facilities, and to deal with environmental problems of deforestation and erosion. \JDrought\j hurt the 1994 economy, with GDP down by 12.4%. Good weather and a strong \Jtobacco\j crop resulted in an upturn in 1995. In December 1995, donors pledged $332 million in aid for 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi); Shire River, 144 km
\BPorts:\b Chipoka, Monkey Bay, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 41
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 4
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 20
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 14 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 43,000 (1985 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i fair system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and radiotelephone communications stations
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 1.011 million (1995)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (includes Air Wing and Naval Detachment), Police (includes paramilitary Mobile Force Unit)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,106,905
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,076,788 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $10.4 million, NA% of GDP (FY94/95)
#
"Malaysia (Atlas)",147,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of the island of \JBorneo\j, bordering \JIndonesia\j and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 2 30 N, 112 30 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 329,750 sq km
\Iland area:\i 328,550 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,669 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrunei\j 381 km, \JIndonesia\j 1,782 km, \JThailand\j 506 km
\BCoastline:\b 4,675 km (Peninsular \JMalaysia\j 2,068 km, East \JMalaysia\j 2,607 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation; specified boundary in the South China Sea
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, \JPhilippines\j, \JTaiwan\j, Vietnam, and possibly \JBrunei\j; State of \JSabah\j claimed by the \JPhilippines\j; \JBrunei\j may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that divides \JBrunei\j into two parts; two islands in dispute with \JSingapore\j; two islands in dispute with \JIndonesia\j
\BClimate:\b tropical; annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to February) monsoons
\BTerrain:\b coastal plains rising to hills and mountains
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from industrial and vehicular emissions; water \Jpollution\j from raw sewage; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location along Strait of Malacca and southern South China Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 342,742; female 438,052) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.07% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 26.2 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.49 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.78 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 24 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.75 years
\Imale:\i 66.82 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.89 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.27 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Malaysian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Malaysian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Malay and other indigenous 59%, Chinese 32%, Indian 9%
\BReligions:\b
Peninsular \JMalaysia\j: Muslim (Malays), Buddhist (Chinese), Hindu (Indians)
Sabah: Muslim 38%, Christian 17%, other 45%
Sarawak: tribal religion 35%, Buddhist and Confucianist 24%, Muslim 20%, Christian 16%, other 5%
\BLanguages:\b
Peninsular \JMalaysia\j: Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Tamil
Sabah: English, Malay, numerous tribal dialects, Chinese (Mandarin and \JHakka\j dialects predominate)
Sarawak: English, Malay, Mandarin, numerous tribal languages
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 83.5%
\Imale:\i 89.1%
\Ifemale:\i 78.1%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JMalaysia\j
\Iformer:\i Malayan Union
\BData code:\b MY
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\Bnote:\b Federation of \JMalaysia\j formed 9 July 1963; nominally headed by the paramount ruler (king) and a bicameral Parliament; Peninsular Malaysian states - hereditary rulers in all but Melaka, where governors are appointed by Malaysian Pulau Pinang Government; powers of state governments are limited by federal Constitution; \JSabah\j - self-governing state, holds 20 seats in House of Representatives, with foreign affairs, defense, internal security, and other powers delegated to federal government; \JSarawak\j - self-governing state, holds 27 seats in House of Representatives, with foreign affairs, defense, internal security, and other powers delegated to federal government
\BCapital:\b Kuala Lumpur
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 13 states (negeri-negeri, singular - negeri) and 2 federal territories* (wilayah-wilayah persekutuan, singular - wilayah persekutuan); Johor, Kedah, \JKelantan\j, Labuan*, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, \JPahang\j, \JPerak\j, Perlis, Pulau Pinang, \JSabah\j, \JSarawak\j, \JSelangor\j, Terengganu, Wilayah Persekutuan*
\BIndependence:\b 31 August 1957 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 31 August (1957)
\BConstitution:\b 31 August 1957, amended 16 September 1963
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court at request of supreme head of the federation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Paramount Ruler TUANKU JA'AFAR ibni Al-Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman (since 26 April 1994) and Deputy Paramount Ruler Sultan TUNKU SALAHUDDIN Abdul Aziz Shah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Hisammuddin Alam Shah (since 26 April 1994) were elected for five-year terms by and from the hereditary rulers of nine of the states
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Dr. MAHATHIR bin Mohamad (since 16 July 1981) was appointed by the paramount ruler; Deputy Prime Minister ANWAR bin Ibrahim (since 1 December 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the paramount ruler from among the members of Parliament
Senate (Dewan Negara): elected members serve six-year terms; elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (58 total, 32 appointed by the paramount ruler and 26 elected by the state legislatures) seats by party NA
House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat): members elected for five-year terms; elections last held NA April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - National Front 63%, other 37%; seats - (192 total) National Front 162, DAP 9, PBS 8, PAS 7, Semangat'46 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed by the paramount ruler
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
Peninsular \JMalaysia\j: National Front, a confederation of 13 political parties dominated by United Malays National Organization Baru (UMNO Baru), MAHATHIR bin Mohamad; Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA), LING Liong Sik; Gerakan Rakyat \JMalaysia\j, LIM Keng Yaik; Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), S. Samy VELLU; Spirit of '46 (Semangat '46), Tengku Tan Sri RAZALEIGH, president
Sabah: National Front, SALLEH Said Keruak, \JSabah\j Chief Minister, Sakaran DANDAI, head of \JSabah\j State; United \JSabah\j National Organizaton (USNO), leader NA; \JSabah\j United Party (Parti Bersatu \JSabah\j, PBS), Datuk Seri Joseph PAIRIN Kitingan
Sarawak: coalition \JSarawak\j National Front composed of the Party Pesaka Bumiputra Bersatu (PBB), Datuk Patinggi Amar Haji Abdul TAIB Mahmud; \JSarawak\j United People's Party (SUPP), Datuk Amar James WONG Soon Kai; \JSarawak\j National Party (SNAP), Datuk Amar James WONG; Parti Bansa Dayak \JSarawak\j (PBDS), Datuk Leo MOGGIE; major opposition parties are Democratic Action Party (DAP), LIM Kit Siang and Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), Fadzil NOOR
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador DALI Mahmud Hashim
\Ichancery:\i 2401 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 328-2700
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 483-7661
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John R. MALOTT
\Iembassy:\i 376 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box No. 10035, 50700 Kuala Lumpur, APO AP 96535-8152
\Itelephone:\i [60] (3) 2489011
\IFAX:\i [60] (3) 2422207
\BFlag:\b 14 equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and the star are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j; the design was based on the flag of the US
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Malaysian economy, a mixture of private enterprise and public management, has posted a remarkable record of 9% average annual growth in 1988-95. The official growth target for 1996 is 8.3%. This growth has resulted in a substantial reduction in poverty and a marked rise in real wages. Manufactured goods exports expanded rapidly, and foreign investors continued to commit large sums in the economy. The government is aware of the inflationary potential of this rapid development and is closely monitoring fiscal and monetary policies.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $193.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 9.5% (1995)
\BGDP per capita:\b $9,800 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 8%
\Iindustry:\i 25%
\Iservices:\i 67%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 5.3% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 7.627 million (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 2.8% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $20.2 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $19.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $4.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b
Peninsular \JMalaysia\j: rubber and oil palm processing and manufacturing, light manufacturing industry, \Jelectronics\j, tin mining and smelting, logging and processing timber
Sabah: logging, \Jpetroleum\j production
Sarawak: agriculture processing, \Jpetroleum\j production and refining, logging
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe, and the Third World despite severe penalties for drug trafficking
\BExports:\b $72 billion (1995)
\Icommodities:\i electronic equipment, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, palm oil, wood and wood products, rubber, textiles
\Ipartners:\i \JSingapore\j 21%, US 20%, \JJapan\j 12%, UK 4%, \JThailand\j 4%, \JGermany\j 3% (1994)
\BImports:\b $72.2 billion (1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment, chemicals, food, \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 26%, US 17%, \JSingapore\j 14%, \JTaiwan\j 5%, \JGermany\j 4%, UK 3%, South Korea 3% (1993)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,550,957 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b international service good
\Idomestic:\i good intercity service provided on Peninsular \JMalaysia\j mainly by microwave radio relay; adequate intercity microwave radio relay network between \JSabah\j and \JSarawak\j via \JBrunei\j; domestic satellite system with 2 earth stations
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to India, Hong Kong and \JSingapore\j; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 28, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 8.08 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 33
\BTelevisions:\b 2 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Malaysian Army, Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Malaysian Police Force, Marine Police, \JSarawak\j Border Scouts
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,160,884
\Imales fit for military service:\i 3,129,626
males reach military age (21) annually: 184,236 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $2.4 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1995)
#
"Maldives (Atlas)",148,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 3 15 N, 73 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 300 sq km
\Iland area:\i 300 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i nearly twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 644 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 35-310 nm as defined by geographic coordinates; segment of zone coincides with maritime boundary with India
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy, southwest monsoon (June to August)
\BTerrain:\b flat
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Wilingili 24 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 3%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 3%
\Iother:\i 84%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i depletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies
\Inatural hazards:\i low level of islands makes them very sensitive to sea level rise
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b 1,190 \Jcoral\j islands grouped into 26 atolls; archipelago of strategic location astride and along major sea lanes in Indian Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 270,758 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 47% (male 65,559; female 62,399)
\I15-64 years:\i 50% (male 69,071; female 65,659)
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 4,336; female 3,734) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.52% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 41.88 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.16 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 47 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 66.17 years
\Imale:\i 64.6 years
\Ifemale:\i 67.82 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.06 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Maldivian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Maldivian
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JSinhalese\j, Dravidian, Arab, African
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim
\BLanguages:\b Maldivian Divehi (dialect of Sinhala, script derived from Arabic), English spoken by most government officials
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 93.2%
\Imale:\i 93.3%
\Ifemale:\i 93%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JMaldives\j
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 July (1965)
\BConstitution:\b 4 June 1968
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law with admixtures of English common law primarily in commercial matters; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM (since 11 November 1978) was reelected for a five-year term by secret ballot of the Majlis; election last held 1 October 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM was reelected with 92.76% of the vote
\Icabinet:\i Ministry of Atolls was appointed by the president; note - need not be members of Majilis
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral; members elected for five-year terms or appointed by the president
Citizens' Council (Majlis): elections last held 2 December 1994 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (48 total, 40 elected, 8 appointed by the president) independents 40
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b although political parties are not banned, none exist
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JMaldives\j does not have an embassy in the US, but does have a Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, headed by Ahmed ZAKI
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JMaldives\j; the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka is accredited to \JMaldives\j and makes periodic visits there
\BFlag:\b red with a large green rectangle in the center bearing a vertical white crescent; the closed side of the crescent is on the hoist side of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b During the 1980s tourism became one of the most important and highest growth sectors of the economy. In 1994, tourism, \JMaldives\j largest industry, accounted for about 18% of GDP and more than 60% of the \JMaldives\j' foreign exchange receipts. Fishing is a second leading growth sector. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. The Maldivian Government initiated an economic reform program in 1989 initially by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labor. Most staple foods must be imported. In 1994, industry which consisted mainly of garment production, boat building, and handicrafts accounted for about 15% of GDP.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $390 million (1994 est.)
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 8,523 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b minimal domestic and international facilities
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 28,284 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 7,309 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National Security Service (paramilitary police force)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 59,179
\Imales fit for military service:\i 33,016 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Mali (Atlas)",149,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, southwest of \JAlgeria\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 00 N, 4 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.24 million sq km
\Iland area:\i 1.22 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,243 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 1,376 km, Burkina Faso 1,000 km, Guinea 858 km, Cote d'Ivoire 532 km, \JMauritania\j 2,237 km, \JNiger\j 821 km, \JSenegal\j 419 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b the disputed international boundary between Burkina Faso and Mali was submitted to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in October 1983 and the ICJ issued its final ruling in December 1986, which both sides agreed to accept; Burkina Faso and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with \JNiger\j
\BClimate:\b subtropical to arid; hot and dry February to June; rainy, humid, and mild June to November; cool and dry November to February
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to rolling northern plains covered by sand; savanna in south, rugged hills in northeast
\Ilowest point:\i \JSenegal\j River 23 m
\Ihighest point:\i Hombori Tondo 1,155 m
\BNatural resources:\b gold, \Jphosphates\j, \Jkaolin\j, salt, \Jlimestone\j, uranium, \Jbauxite\j, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, tin, and copper deposits are known but not exploited
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dust-laden \Jharmattan\j haze common during dry seasons; recurring droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Nuclear Test Ban
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 22 September (1960)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 12 January 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Court (which was formally established on 9 March 1994); has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Alpha Oumar KONARE (since 8 June 1992) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held NA April 1992 (next to be held NA April 1997); Alpha KONARE was elected in runoff race against Montaga TALL
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ibrahima Boubacar KEITA (since NA March 1994) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 8 March 1992 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (116 total) Adema 76, CNID 9, US/RAD 8, Popular Movement for the Development of the Republic of West Africa 6, RDP 4, UDD 4, RDT 3, UFDP 3, PDP 2, UMDD 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Alliance for Democracy (Adema), Ibrahim Baubacar KEITA; National Congress for Democratic Initiative (CNID), Mountaga TALL; Sudanese Union/African Democratic Rally (US/RDA), Mamadou Madeira KEITA; Popular Movement for the Development of the Republic of West Africa; Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP), Almamy SYLLA; Union for Democracy and Development (UDD), Moussa Balla COULIBALY; Rally for Democracy and Labor (RDT); Union of Democratic Forces for Progress (UFDP), Dembo DIALLO; Party for Democracy and Progress (PDP), Idrissa TRAORE; Malian Union for Democracy and Development (UMDD); Movement for the Independence, the Renaissance and Integration of Africa (MIRIA), Mohammed Lamine TRAORE
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b United Movement and Fronts of Azawad (MFUA); Patriotic Movement of the Ghanda Kaye (MPGK)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Cheick Oumar DIARRAH
\Ichancery:\i 2130 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-2249, 939-8950
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador David RAWSON
\Iembassy:\i Rue Rochester NY and Rue Mohamed V, \JBamako\j
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 34, \JBamako\j
\Itelephone:\i [223] 22 54 70
\IFAX:\i [223] 22 37 12
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), yellow, and red; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Mali is among the poorest countries in the world, with 65% of its land area desert or semidesert. Economic activity is largely confined to the riverine area irrigated by the \JNiger\j. About 10% of the population is nomadic and some 80% of the labor force is engaged in agriculture and fishing. Industrial activity is concentrated on processing farm commodities. The economy is beginning to turn around after contracting through 1992-93, largely because of enhanced exports and import substitute production in the wake of the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of 12 January 1994. Post-devaluation \Jinflation\j peaked at 35% in 1994, and the government appears to be keeping on track with its IMF structural adjustment program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5.4 billion (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 641 km; note - linked to \JSenegal\j's rail system through Kayes
narrow gauge: 641 km 1.000-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 15,610 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,661 km
\Iunpaved:\i 13,949 km (1987 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,815 km navigable
\BPorts:\b Koulikoro
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 24
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 4
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 8 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 11,000 (1982 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b domestic system poor but improving; provides only minimal service
\Idomestic:\i network consists of microwave radio relay, open wire, and radiotelephone communications stations; expansion of microwave radio relay in progress
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 430,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 11,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air Force, Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Guard, National Police (Surete Nationale)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,925,205
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,100,599 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $66 million, 2.2% of GDP (1994)
#
"Malta (Atlas)",150,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of \JSicily\j (Italy)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 35 50 N, 14 35 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 320 sq km
\Iland area:\i 320 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i less than twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 140 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 25 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Malta and \JTunisia\j are discussing the commercial exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains; many coastal cliffs
\Ilowest point:\i Mediterranean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Dingli Cliffs 245 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jlimestone\j, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 38%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 59%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i very limited natural fresh water resources; increasing reliance on \Jdesalination\j
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b the country comprises an archipelago, with only the three largest islands (Malta, \JGozo\j, and Comino) being inhabited; numerous bays provide good harbors
\I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 17,766; female 24,285) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.01% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.79 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.73 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 78.11 years
\Imale:\i 75.77 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.6 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.17 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Maltese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Maltese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab, Sicilian, Norman, Spanish, Italian, English
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 98%
\BLanguages:\b Maltese (official), English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1985 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 84%
\Imale:\i 86%
\Ifemale:\i 82%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Malta
\Iconventional short form:\i Malta
\BData code:\b MT
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Valletta
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (administered directly from Valletta)
\BIndependence:\b 21 September 1964 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 21 September (1964)
\BConstitution:\b 1964 constitution substantially amended on 13 December 1974
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and Roman civil law; has accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ugo MIFSUD BONNICI (since 4 April 1994) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Representatives
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Dr. Edward (Eddie) FENECH ADAMI (since 12 May 1987) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Minister (since 14 May 1987) and Foreign Minister (since 1990) Dr. Guido DE MARCO
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president on advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Representatives: elections last held 22 February 1992 (next to be held by February 1997); results - NP 51.8%, MLP 46.5%; seats - (usually 65 total) MLP 36, NP 29; note - additional seats are given to the party with the largest popular vote to ensure a legislative majority; current \Itotal:\i 69 (NP 36, MLP 33 after adjustment)
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister; Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Nationalist Party (NP), Edward FENECH ADAMI; Malta Labor Party (MLP), Alfred SANT
\BInternational organization participation:\b C, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, NAM, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Albert Borg Olivier DE PUGET
\Ichancery:\i 2017 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-3611, 3612
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 387-5470
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Joseph R. PAOLINO, Jr.
\Iembassy:\i 2nd Floor, Development House, Saint Anne Street, Floriana, Malta
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 535, Valletta
\Itelephone:\i [356] 235960
\IFAX:\i [356] 243229
\BFlag:\b two equal vertical bands of white (hoist side) and red; in the upper hoist-side corner is a representation of the George Cross, edged in red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Significant resources are \Jlimestone\j, a favorable geographic location, and a productive labor force. Malta produces only about 20% of its food needs, has limited freshwater supplies, and has no domestic energy sources. Consequently, the economy is highly dependent on foreign trade and services. Manufacturing and tourism are the largest contributors to the economy. Manufacturing accounts for about 24% of GDP, with the \Jelectronics\j and textile industries major contributors and with the state-owned Malta drydocks employing about 4,300 people. In 1994, over 1 million tourists visited the island. Per capita GDP of $12,000 places Malta in the range of the less affluent EU countries.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 47 countries among which are \JGreece\j 425, \JCroatia\j 62, \JRussia\j 43, \JSwitzerland\j 39, \JItaly\j 32, \JNorway\j 25, Monaco 23, Georgia 23, UK 22, and \JGermany\j 19 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 191,876 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b automatic system satisfies normal requirements
\Idomestic:\i submarine cable and microwave radio relay between islands
\BConstitution:\b 1961, Isle of Man Constitution Act
\BLegal system:\b English law and local statute
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Lord of Mann Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), represented by Lieutenant Governor His Excellency Sir Timothy DAUNT (since NA 1995) who was appointed for a five-year term by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i President of the Legislative Council Sir Charles KERRUISH (since NA 1990); was elected by the Tynwald
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Tynwald
Legislative Council: consists of a 10-member body composed of the Lord Bishop of Sodor and Man, a nonvoting attorney general, and 8 others named by the House of Keys
House of Keys: elections last held NA November 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (24 total) independents 24
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court of Justice, justices are appointed by the Lord Chancellor of England on the nomination of the lieutenant governor
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b there is no party system; members sit as independents
\BFlag:\b red with the Three Legs of Man emblem (Trinacria), in the center; the three legs are joined at the thigh and bent at the knee; in order to have the toes pointing clockwise on both sides of the flag, a two-sided emblem is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Offshore banking, manufacturing, and tourism are key sectors of the economy. The government's policy of offering incentives to high-technology companies and financial institutions to locate on the island has paid off in expanding employment opportunities in high-income industries. As a result, agriculture and fishing, once the mainstays of the economy, have declined in their shares of GDP. Banking now contributes about 45% to GDP. Trade is mostly with the UK. The Isle of Man enjoys free access to EU markets.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $780 million (1994 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i manufacturing 11%, construction 11%, transport and communication 6%, retail distribution 9%, professional and scientific services 17%, public administration 7%, banking and finance 8%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 1% (1992 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $130.4 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $114.4 million, including capital expenditures of $18.1 million (1985 est.)
\BExchange rates:\b Manx pounds (úM) per US$1 - 0.6537 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); the Manx pound is at par with the British pound
ships by type: bulk 13, cargo 10, chemical tanker 4, container 12, liquefied gas tanker 8, oil tanker 18, passenger 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 2
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; UK owns 10 ships, \JSwitzerland\j 2, South Africa 2, Denmark 1, and Netherlands 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 41,000 (1995)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Marshall Islands (Atlas)",152,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of atolls and reefs in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Papua New Guinea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 9 00 N, 168 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 181.3 sq km
\Iland area:\i 181.3 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes the atolls of Bikini, Enewetak, and Kwajalein
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 370.4 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims US territory of Wake Island
\BClimate:\b wet season May to November; hot and humid; islands border typhoon belt
\BTerrain:\b low \Jcoral\j \Jlimestone\j and sand islands
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Likiep 10 m
\BNatural resources:\b phosphate deposits, marine products, deep seabed minerals
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 60%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 40%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional typhoons
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j
\BGeographic note:\b two archipelagic island chains of 30 atolls and 1,152 islands; Bikini and Enewetak are former US nuclear test sites; Kwajalein, the famous World War II battleground, is now used as a US missile test range
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 58,363 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 51% (male 15,043; female 14,435)
\I15-64 years:\i 47% (male 14,084; female 13,399)
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 657; female 745) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.85% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 45.75 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.28 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.88 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 46.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 63.81 years
\Imale:\i 62.25 years
\Ifemale:\i 65.45 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.83 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Marshallese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Marshallese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Micronesian
\BReligions:\b Christian (mostly Protestant)
\BLanguages:\b English (universally spoken and is the official language), two major Marshallese dialects from the Malayo-Polynesian family, Japanese
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 93%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 88%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of the Marshall Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Marshall Islands
\Iformer:\i Marshall Islands District (Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands)
\BData code:\b RM
\BType of government:\b constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of Free Association entered into force 21 October 1986
\BCapital:\b Majuro
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none
\BIndependence:\b 21 October 1986 (from the US-administered UN trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Proclamation of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, 1 May (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 1 May 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common, and customary laws
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Amata KABUA (since NA 1979) was elected for a four-year term by the Nitijela from among its own members; election last held 20 November 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President Amata KABUA was reelected
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet; president selects from among the members of Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Nitijela): elections last held 20 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (33 total) seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
government: Our Islands Party, President Amata KABUA
opposition: Ralik/Ratak Democratic Party (RRDP), Ramsey REIMERS
\Ichancery:\i 2433 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-5414
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 232-3236
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JHonolulu\j and Los Angeles
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Joan PLAISTED
\Iembassy:\i Oceanside, Long Island, Majuro
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1379, Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands 96960-1379; Majuro, 20521-4380 (pouch)
\Itelephone:\i [692] 247-4011
\IFAX:\i [692] 247-4012
\BFlag:\b blue with two stripes radiating from the lower hoist-side corner - orange (top) and white; there is a white star with four large rays and 20 small rays on the hoist side above the two stripes
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Agriculture and tourism are the mainstays of the economy. Agricultural production is concentrated on small farms, and the most important commercial crops are coconuts, tomatoes, melons, and breadfruit. A few \Jcattle\j ranches supply the domestic meat market. Small-scale industry is limited to handicrafts, fish processing, and copra. The tourist industry is the primary source of foreign exchange and employs about 10% of the labor force. The islands have few natural resources, and imports far exceed exports. The government is drafting economic reforms designed to increase revenue and compensate for reductions in US Government grants - in 1994, the US Government provided grants of $50 million, equal to 55% of the Marshall Islands' GDP. About 25% of the government's 1995/96 budget is devoted to debt repayment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $94 million (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 7 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 800 (1988 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b telex services
\Idomestic:\i islands interconnected by shortwave radiotelephone (used mostly for government purposes)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); US Government satellite communications system on Kwajalein
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular military forces (a coast guard may be established); Police Force
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Martinique (Atlas)",153,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas department of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 14 40 N, 61 00 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,060 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than six times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 350 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds; rainy season (June to October); vulnerable to devastating cyclones (hurricanes) every eight years on average; average temperature 17.3 degrees C; humid
\BTerrain:\b mountainous with indented coastline; dormant \Jvolcano\j
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Montagne Pelee 1,397 m
\BNatural resources:\b coastal scenery and beaches, cultivable land
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 8%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 30%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 26%
\Iother:\i 26%
\BIrrigated land:\b 60 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes, flooding, and volcanic activity (an average of one major natural disaster every five years)
\I65 years and over:\i 10% (male 16,542; female 22,590) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.1% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 16.92 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.85 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.73 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 78.81 years
\Imale:\i 76.07 years
\Ifemale:\i 81.68 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Martiniquais (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Martiniquais
\BEthnic divisions:\b African and African-white-Indian mixture 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 5%
\BLanguages:\b French, \JCreole\j patois
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 93%
\Imale:\i 92%
\Ifemale:\i 93%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Department of Martinique
\Iconventional short form:\i Martinique
\Ilocal long form:\i Departement de la Martinique
\Ilocal short form:\i Martinique
\BData code:\b MB
\BType of government:\b overseas department of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b \JFort-de-France\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French legal system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); Prefect Jean-Francois CORDET (since NA) was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Claude LISE (since 22 March 1992); President of the Regional Council Emile CAPGRAS (since 22 March 1992);
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Assembly
General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total) number of seats by party NA; note - the PPM won a plurality
Regional Assembly: elections last held on 22 March 1992 (next to be held by March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (41 total) RPR-UDF 16, MIM 9, PPM 9, PCM 5, independents 2
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) UDF 1, PPM 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 March 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) RPR 2, UDF 1, PPM 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alex URSULET; Union for a Martinique of Progress (UMP); Martinique Progressive Party (PPM), Aime CESAIRE; Socialist Federation of Martinique (FSM), Jean CRUSOL; Martinique Communist Party (PCM), George ERICHOT; Martinique Patriots (PM); Union for French Democracy (UDF), Miguel LAVENTURE; Martinique Independence Movement (MIM), Alfred MARIE-JEANNE; Republican Party (PR), Jean BAILLY
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Proletarian Action Group (GAP); Alhed Marie-Jeanne Socialist Revolution Group (GRS); Caribbean Revolutionary Alliance (ARC); Central Union for Martinique Workers (CSTM), Marc PULVAR; Frantz Fanon Circle; League of Workers and Peasants; Parti Martiniquais Socialiste (PMS); Association for the Protection of Martinique's Heritage (ecologist)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas department of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas department of France)
\BFlag:\b a light blue background is divided into four quadrants by a white cross; in the center of each rectangle is a white snake; the flag of \JFrance\j is used for official occasions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based on sugarcane, bananas, tourism, and light industry. Agriculture accounts for about 6% of GDP and the small industrial sector for 11%. Sugar production has declined, with most of the sugarcane now used for the production of rum. Banana exports are increasing, going mostly to \JFrance\j. The bulk of meat, vegetable, and grain requirements must be imported, contributing to a chronic trade deficit that requires large annual transfers of aid from \JFrance\j. Tourism has become more important than agricultural exports as a source of foreign exchange. The majority of the work force is employed in the service sector and in administration. Banana workers launched protests late in 1992 because of falling banana prices and fears of greater competition in the European market from other producers.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.95 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $10,000 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 6%
\Iindustry:\i 11%
\Iservices:\i 83% (1992 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 3.9% (1990)
\BLabor force:\b 121,600
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 10%, industry 17%, services 73% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 32.1% (1990)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $657 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 159,000 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b domestic facilities are adequate
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay to \JGuadeloupe\j, Dominica, and Saint Lucia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 74,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 10
\BTelevisions:\b 65,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Mauritania (Atlas)",154,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JSenegal\j and Western Sahara
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 20 00 N, 12 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,030,700 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,030,400 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than three times the size of New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,074 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 463 km, Mali 2,237 km, \JSenegal\j 813 km, Western Sahara 1,561 km
\BCoastline:\b 754 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b boundary with \JSenegal\j in dispute
\BClimate:\b desert; constantly hot, dry, dusty
\BTerrain:\b mostly barren, flat plains of the Sahara; some central hills
\Ilowest point:\i Sebkha de Ndrhamcha -3 m
\Ihighest point:\i Kediet Ijill 910 m
\BNatural resources:\b iron ore, \Jgypsum\j, fish, copper, phosphate
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 38%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 5%
\Iother:\i 56%
\BIrrigated land:\b 120 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i overgrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion aggravated by \Jdrought\j are contributing to \Jdesertification\j; very limited natural fresh water resources away from the \JSenegal\j which is the only perennial river
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind blows primarily in March and April; periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b most of the population concentrated along the \JSenegal\j River in the southern part of the country
\Bnote:\b there may be a new capital district of Nouakchott
\BIndependence:\b 28 November 1960 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 28 November (1960)
\BConstitution:\b 12 July 1991
\BLegal system:\b three-tier system: Islamic (Shari'a) courts, special courts, and state security courts (in the process of being eliminated)
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed TAYA (since 12 December 1984) was reelected for a six-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1998); results - President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed TAYA was reelected
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Cheikh El Afia Ould Mohamed KHOUNA (since NA January 1996) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral legislature
Senate (Majlis al-Shuyukh): elections last held 15 April 1994 (next to be held 12 April 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (56 total, with 17 up for election every two years) PRDS 16, UFD/NE 1
National Assembly (Majlis al-Watani): elections last held 6 and 13 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (79 total) UFD/NE 67, PMR 1, RDU 1, independents 10
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b legalized by constitution passed 12 July 1991, however, politics continue to be tribally based; emerging parties include Democratic and Social Republican Party (PRDS), led by President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid'Ahmed TAYA; Union of Democratic Forces-New Era (UFD/NE), headed by Ahmed Ould DADDAH; Assembly for Democracy and Unity (RDU), Ahmed Ould SIDI BABA; Popular Social and Democratic Union (UPSD), Mohamed Mahmoud Ould MAH; Mauritanian Party for Renewal (PMR), Hameida BOUCHRAYA; National Avant-Garde Party (PAN), Khattry Ould JIDDOU; Mauritanian Party of the Democratic Center (PCDM), Bamba Ould SIDI BADI
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Mauritanian Workers Union (UTM)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ismail Ould IYAHI
\Ichancery:\i 2129 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 232-5700
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dorothy Myers SAMPAS
\Iembassy:\i address NA, Nouakchott
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 222, Nouakchott
\Itelephone:\i [222] (2) 526-60, 526-63
\IFAX:\i [222] (2) 515-92
\BFlag:\b green with a yellow five-pointed star above a yellow, horizontal crescent; the closed side of the crescent is down; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b A majority of the population still depends on agriculture and livestock for a livelihood, even though most of the nomads and many subsistence farmers were forced into the cities by recurrent droughts in the 1970s and 1980s. \JMauritania\j has extensive deposits of iron ore, which account for almost 50% of total exports. The decline in world demand for this ore, however, has led to cutbacks in production. The nation's coastal waters are among the richest fishing areas in the world, but overexploitation by foreigners threatens this key source of revenue. The country's first deepwater port opened near Nouakchott in 1986. In recent years, \Jdrought\j and economic mismanagement have resulted in a substantial buildup of foreign debt. The government has begun the second stage of an economic reform program in consultation with the World Bank, the IMF, and major donor countries. Short-term growth prospects are gloomy because of the heavy debt service burden, rapid population growth, and vulnerability to climatic conditions.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.8 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 17,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poor system of cable and open-wire lines, minor microwave radio relay links, and radiotelephone communications stations (improvements being made)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 300,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 50,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Guard, National Police, Presidential Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 500,754
\Imales fit for military service:\i 244,546 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $33 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995)
#
"Mauritius (Atlas)",155,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 20 17 S, 57 33 E
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,860 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,850 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i almost 11 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Agalega Islands, Cargados Carajos Shoals (Saint Brandon), and Rodrigues
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 177 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims the island of Diego Garcia in UK-administered British Indian Ocean Territory; claims French-administered Tromelin Island
\BClimate:\b tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May)
\BTerrain:\b small coastal plain rising to discontinuous mountains encircling central plateau
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire 828 m
\BNatural resources:\b arable land, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 54%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 4%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 31%
\Iother:\i 7%
\BIrrigated land:\b 170 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclones (November to April); almost completely surrounded by reefs that may pose maritime hazards
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BReligions:\b Hindu 52%, Christian 28.3% (Roman Catholic 26%, Protestant 2.3%), Muslim 16.6%, other 3.1%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), \JCreole\j, French, \JHindi\j, \JUrdu\j, \JHakka\j, Bojpoori
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 82.9%
\Imale:\i 87.1%
\Ifemale:\i 78.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JMauritius\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JMauritius\j
\BData code:\b MP
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Port Louis
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 districts and 3 dependencies*; Agalega Islands*, Black River, Cargados Carajos*, Flacq, Grand Port, Moka, Pamplemousses, Plaines Wilhems, Port Louis, Riviere du Rempart, Rodrigues*, Savanne
\BIndependence:\b 12 March 1968 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 March (1968)
\BConstitution:\b 12 March 1968; amended 12 March 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system with elements of English common law in certain areas
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Cassam UTEEM (since 1 July 1992) and Vice President Rabindranath GHURBURRON (since 1 July 1992) were elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Navin RAMGOOLAM (since 27 December 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Paul BERENGER (since 27 December 1995) were appointed by the president and are responsible to the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly: elections last held on 20 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - MMM/MLP 65%, MSM/RMM 20%, other 15%; seats - (66 total; 62 elected, 4 appointed) MLP 35, MMM 25, allies of MLP and MMM on Rodrigues Island 2; appointed were Rodrigues Movement 2, Gaetan Duval Party 1, Hizballah 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
government coalition: MLP/MMM alliance - Mauritian Labor Party (MLP), Navin RAMGOOLAM; Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM), Paul BERENGER
opposition: Organization of the People of Rodrigues (OPR), Louis Serge CLAIR; Rodrigues Movement, Nicolas VONMALLY; Gaetan Duval Party, Gaetan DUVAL; Hizbullah, Imam Mustapha BEEHARRY; Militant Socialist Movement (MSM); Mauritian Militant Resurgence (MMR)
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b various labor unions
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Anund Priyay NEEWOOR
\Ichancery:\i Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 244-1491, 1492
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 966-0983
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Leslie M. ALEXANDER
\Iembassy:\i 4th Floor, Rogers House, John Kennedy Street, Port Louis
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [230] 208-2347, 208-2354, 208-9763 through 9767
\IFAX:\i [230] 208-9534
\BFlag:\b four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Since independence in 1968, \JMauritius\j has developed from a low income, agriculturally based economy to middle income diversified economy with growing industrial and tourist sectors. For most of the period, annual growth has been of the order of 5% to 6%. This remarkable achievement has been reflected in increased life expectancy, lowered infant mortality, and a much improved \Jinfrastructure\j. Sugarcane is grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area and accounts for 40% of export earnings. The government's development strategy centers on industrialization (with a view to modernization and to exports), agricultural diversification, and tourism. Economic performance in 1991-93 continued strong with solid real growth and low unemployment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $10.9 billion (1995 est.)
ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 9, container 4, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 4
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 65,000 (1985 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b small system with good service
\Idomestic:\i primarily microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); new microwave link to Reunion; HF radiotelephone links to several countries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 395,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 151,096 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National Police Force (includes the paramilitary Special Mobile Force or SMF, Special Support Units or SSU, and National Coast Guard)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 327,403
\Imales fit for military service:\i 166,466 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $11.2 million, 0.4% of GDP (FY92/93)
#
"Mayotte (Atlas)",156,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territorial collectivity of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the \JMozambique\j Channel, about one-half of the way from northern Madagascar to northern \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 50 S, 45 10 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 375 sq km
\Iland area:\i 375 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 185.2 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by \JComoros\j
\BClimate:\b tropical; marine; hot, humid, rainy season during northeastern monsoon (November to May); dry season is cooler (May to November)
\BTerrain:\b generally undulating, with deep ravines and ancient volcanic peaks
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Benara 660 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclones during rainy season
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b part of Comoro Archipelago
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 100,838 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 50% (male 25,099; female 24,881)
\I15-64 years:\i 48% (male 24,790; female 23,727)
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 1,152; female 1,189) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.78% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 47.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.12 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 75.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 58.7 years
\Imale:\i 56.43 years
\Ifemale:\i 61.05 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.63 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Mahorais (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Mahoran
\BEthnic divisions:\b NA
\BReligions:\b Muslim 99%, Christian (mostly Roman Catholic)
\BLanguages:\b Mahorian (a \JSwahili\j dialect), French
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territorial Collectivity of \JMayotte\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JMayotte\j
\BData code:\b MF
\BType of government:\b territorial collectivity of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b Mamoutzou
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territorial collectivity of France)
\BIndependence:\b none (territorial collectivity of France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Alain WEIL (since NA), who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Younoussa BAMANA (since NA 1976)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
General Council (Conseil General): elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (19 total) MPM 12, RPR 4, independents 3
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1995 (next to be held 24 September 2001); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) MPM 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - UDF-CDS 54.3%, RPR 44.3%; seats - (1 total) UDF-CDS 1
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Mahoran Popular Movement (MPM), Younoussa BAMANA; Party for the Mahoran Democratic Rally (PRDM), Daroueche MAOULIDA; Mahoran Rally for the Republic (RPR), Mansour KAMARDINE; Union for French Democracy (UDF), Maoulida AHMED; Center of Social Democrats (CDS)
\BInternational organization participation:\b FZ
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territorial collectivity of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territorial collectivity of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is based primarily on the agricultural sector, including fishing and livestock raising. \JMayotte\j is not self-sufficient and must import a large portion of its food requirements, mainly from \JFrance\j. The economy and future development of the island are heavily dependent on French financial assistance. \JMayotte\j's remote location is an obstacle to the development of tourism.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $54 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $600 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $37.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
\BIndustries:\b newly created lobster and shrimp industry
\BTelephone system:\b small system administered by French Department of Posts and Telecommunications
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone communications to \JComoros\j and other international connections
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 30,000 (1994 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 3,500 (1994 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Mexico (Atlas)",157,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between \JBelize\j and the US and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between \JGuatemala\j and the US
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 23 00 N, 102 00 W
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,972,550 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,923,040 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three times the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,538 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelize\j 250 km, \JGuatemala\j 962 km, US 3,326 km
\BCoastline:\b 9,330 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims Clipperton Island (French possession)
\BClimate:\b varies from tropical to desert
\BTerrain:\b high, rugged mountains, low coastal plains, high plateaus, and desert
\Icurrent issues:\i natural fresh water resources scarce and polluted in north, inaccessible and poor quality in center and extreme southeast; raw sewage and industrial effluents polluting rivers in urban areas; deforestation; widespread erosion; \Jdesertification\j; serious air \Jpollution\j in the national capital and urban centers along US-Mexico border
\Inatural hazards:\i tsunamis along the Pacific coast, destructive earthquakes in the center and south, and hurricanes on the Gulf and Caribbean coasts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location on southern border of US
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 1,911,968; female 2,274,784) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.87% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 26.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.58 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.97 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.94 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.84 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 25 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.67 years
\Imale:\i 70.07 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.45 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.03 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Mexican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Mexican
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo (Indian-Spanish) 60%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 30%, Caucasian or predominantly Caucasian 9%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b nominally Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 6%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish, various Mayan dialects
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 89.6%
\Imale:\i 91.8%
\Ifemale:\i 87.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i United Mexican States
\Iconventional short form:\i Mexico
\Ilocal long form:\i Estados Unidos Mexicanos
\Ilocal short form:\i Mexico
\BData code:\b MX
\BType of government:\b federal republic operating under a centralized government
\BCapital:\b Mexico
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 31 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Aguascalientes, Baja \JCalifornia\j, Baja \JCalifornia\j Sur, Campeche, Chiapas, \JChihuahua\j, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Colima, Distrito Federal*, \JDurango\j, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacan de Ocampo, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, \JPuebla\j, \JQueretaro\j de Arteaga, Quintana Roo, San Luis \JPotosi\j, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz-Llave, \JYucatan\j, Zacatecas
\BIndependence:\b 16 September 1810 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 16 September (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 5 February 1917
\BLegal system:\b mixture of US constitutional theory and civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory (but not enforced)
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (since 1 December 1994) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (PRI) 50.18%, Cuauhtemoc CARDENAS Solorzano (PRD) 17.08%, Diego FERNANDEZ DE CEVALLOS (PAN) 26.69%; other 6.049%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress (Congreso de la Union)
Senate (Camara de Senadores):
elections last held 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA July 1997 for one-quarter of the seats); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats in full Senate - (128 total; Senate expanded from 64 seats at the last election) PRI 93, PRD 25, PAN 10
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 24 August 1994 (next to be held NA July 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (500 total) PRI 300, PAN 119, PRD 71, PT 10
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), judges are appointed by the president with consent of the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b (recognized parties) Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), Santiago ONATE Laborde; National Action Party (PAN), Carlos CASTILLO; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Indalecio SAYAGO Herrera; Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Porfirio MUNOZ Ledo; Cardenist Front for the National Reconstruction Party (PFCRN), Rafael AGUILAR Talamantes; Democratic Forum Party (PFD), Pablo Emilio MADERO; Mexican Green Ecologist Party (PVEM), Jorge GONZALEZ Torres; Workers Party (PT), Alberto ANYA Gutierrez
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Roman Catholic Church; Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM); Confederation of Industrial Chambers (CONCAMIN); Confederation of National Chambers of Commerce (CONCANACO); National Peasant Confederation (CNC); Revolutionary Workers Party (PRT); Revolutionary Confederation of Workers and Peasants (CROC); Regional Confederation of Mexican Workers (CROM); Confederation of Employers of the Mexican Republic (COPARMEX); National Chamber of Transformation Industries (CANACINTRA); Coordinator for Foreign Trade Business Organizations (COECE); Federation of Unions Providing Goods and Services (FESEBES)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jesus SILVA Herzog Flores
\Ichancery:\i 1911 \JPennsylvania\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 728-1600
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, \JDallas\j, \JDenver\j, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Phoenix, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\Iconsulate(s):\i Albuquerque, Austin, \JBoston\j, Brownsville (Texas), Calexico (California), Corpus Christi, Del Rio (Texas), \JDetroit\j, Eagle Pass (Texas), Fresno (California), Loredo, McAllen (Texas), Midland (Texas), Nogales (Arizona), Oxnard (California), Philadelphia, Sacramento, St. Louis, Salt Lake City, San Bernardino, San Jose, Santa Ana, Seattle
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador James R. JONES
\Iembassy:\i Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, 06500 Mexico, Distrito Federal
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 3087, Laredo, TX 78044-3087
\Itelephone:\i [52] (5) 211-0042
\IFAX:\i [52] (5) 511-9980, 208-3373
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Ciudad Juarez, \JGuadalajara\j, Monterrey, Tijuana
\Iconsulate(s):\i Hermosillo, Matamoros, Merida, Nuevo Laredo
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and red; the coat of arms (an eagle perched on a \Jcactus\j with a snake in its beak) is centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Mexico has a free market economy with a mixture of modern and outmoded industry and agriculture, increasingly dominated by the private sector. Mexico entered 1996 on the heels of its worst recession since the 1930s. Economic activity contracted about 7% in 1995 in the aftermath of the peso \Jdevaluation\j in late 1994. Although Mexico City was able to correct imbalances in its external accounts, meet international payments obligations, and dramatically improve its trade balance in 1995, the domestic economy suffered harshly as the ZEDILLO administration stuck to a strict austerity program. The tight monetary and fiscal policies helped prevent spiraling \Jinflation\j and kept government spending under control but drove interest rates to record heights, making it difficult for most Mexicans to service their debts. At the same time, consumers' reduced purchasing power made buying even necessities difficult for some. Many small- and medium-sized firms were unable to survive under the twin burdens of high interest rates and depressed domestic demand for their goods. Business closures and cutbacks fueled unemployment; more than 1 million Mexicans lost their jobs. According to the government and most private sector observers, the recession bottomed out in the third quarter of 1995, but the difficult year fed growing dissatisfaction with the ruling party, led to a crisis of confidence in President ZEDILLO'S ability to lead, and spurred increased tensions within the ruling party. While the ZEDILLO administration is optimistic that 1996 will bring some recovery - the government is forecasting 3% growth and 21% \Jinflation\j - Mexico will face several key vulnerabilities, including the financial health of the banking sector, shaky investor confidence that could be easily jarred by more political or economic shocks, and increasingly emboldened \Jdissenters\j within the ruling party.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $721.4 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 31.7%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, hunting, and fishing 28%, commerce 14.6%, manufacturing 11.1%, construction 8.4%, transportation 4.7%, mining and quarrying 1.5%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 10% (1995 est.) plus considerable underemployment
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $56 billion (1995 est.)
\Iexpenditures:\i $54 billion (1995 est.), including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b food and beverages, \Jtobacco\j, chemicals, iron and steel, \Jpetroleum\j, mining, textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: -7.5% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivation of opium poppy and cannabis continues in spite of increasing government eradication; major supplier of heroin and marijuana to the US market; continues as the primary transshipment country for US-bound \Jcocaine\j from South America; increasingly involved in the production and distribution of methamphetamine
\BExports:\b $80 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.), includes in-bond industries
\Ipartners:\i US 85%, \JJapan\j 1.6%, EU 4.6% (1994 est.)
\BImports:\b $72 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.), includes in-bond industries
\Icommodities:\i metal-working machines, steel mill products, agricultural machinery, electrical equipment, car parts for assembly, repair parts for motor vehicles, \Jaircraft\j, and \Jaircraft\j parts
\Ipartners:\i US 69%, \JJapan\j 6%, EU 12% (1994 est.)
ships by type: cargo 1, chemical tanker 4, container 4, liquefied gas tanker 7, oil tanker 29, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea passenger 3 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,411
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 9
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 25
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 88
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 66
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 815
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 50
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 358 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 11,890,868 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b highly developed system with extensive microwave radio relay links; privatized in December 1990
\Idomestic:\i adequate \Jtelephone\j service for business and government, but the population is poorly served; domestic satellite system with 120 earth stations; extensive microwave radio relay network
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean); launched Solidaridad I satellite in November 1993 and Solidaridad II in October 1994, giving Mexico improved access to South America, Central America and much of the US as well as enhancing domestic communications; linked to Central American Microwave System of trunk connections
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 679, FM 0, shortwave 22
\BRadios:\b 22.5 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 238
\BTelevisions:\b 13.1 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National
\BDefense:\b (includes Army and Air Force), Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 23,945,962
\Imales fit for military service:\i 17,451,706
males reach military age (18) annually: 1,057,538 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $2.24 billion, 0.9% of GDP (1996)
#
"Micronesia, Federated States of (Atlas)",158,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to \JIndonesia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 55 N, 158 15 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 702 sq km
\Iland area:\i 702 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i four times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Pohnpei (Ponape), Truk (Chuuk) Islands, Yap Islands, and \JKosrae\j
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 6,112 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; heavy year-round rainfall, especially in the eastern islands; located on southern edge of the typhoon belt with occasional severe damage
\BTerrain:\b islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, \Jcoral\j atolls; volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, \JKosrae\j, and Truk
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection
\BGeographic note:\b four major island groups totaling 607 islands
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 125,377 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i 35% (est.)
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.34% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 27.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.22 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 11.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 35.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 67.99 years
\Imale:\i 66.02 years
\Ifemale:\i 69.99 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.96 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BIndependence:\b 3 November 1986 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Proclamation of the Federated States of \JMicronesia\j, 10 May (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 10 May 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common, and customary laws
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Bailey OLTER (since 21 May 1991) and Vice President Jacob NENA (since 21 May 1991) were elected by the Congress from among the four Senators-at-Large; election last held 11 May 1995 (next to be held NA May 1999); results - Bailey OLTER reelected to a second term as president; Jacob NENA reelected to a second term as vice president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Congress: elections last held 7 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (14 total) independents 14
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b no formal parties
\BInternational organization participation:\b AsDB, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, WHO, WMO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jesse B. MAREHALAU
\Ichancery:\i 1725 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 223-4383
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 223-4391
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JHonolulu\j and Tamuning (Guam)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador March Fong EU
\Iembassy:\i address NA, Kolonia
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1286, Pohnpei, Federated States of \JMicronesia\j 96941
\Itelephone:\i [691] 320-2187
\IFAX:\i [691] 320-2186
\BFlag:\b light blue with four white five-pointed stars centered; the stars are arranged in a diamond pattern
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity consists primarily of subsistence farming and fishing. The islands have few mineral deposits worth exploiting, except for high-grade phosphate. The potential for a tourist industry exists, but the remoteness of the location and a lack of adequate facilities hinder development. Financial assistance from the US is the primary source of revenue, with the US pledged to spend $1 billion in the islands in the 1990s. Geographical isolation and a poorly developed \Jinfrastructure\j are major impediments to long-term growth.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $205 million (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b GDP is supplemented by grant aid, averaging perhaps $100 million annually
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 1, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b 17,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 1,290 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Midway Islands (Atlas)",159,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, \Jatoll\j in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from \JHonolulu\j to \JTokyo\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 28 13 N, 177 22 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 5.2 sq km
\Iland area:\i 5.2 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about nine times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Eastern Island and Sand Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 15 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, but moderated by prevailing easterly winds
\BTerrain:\b low, nearly level
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 4 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, wildlife
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b a \Jcoral\j \Jatoll\j; closed to the public
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are 453 US military personnel (July 1995 est.)
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Midway Islands
\BData code:\b MQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US formerly administered by the US Navy, under Naval Facilities \JEngineering\j Command, Pacific Division; this facility has been operationally closed since 10 September 1993 and is currently undergoing transfer of accountability and responsibility to the US Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based on providing support services for remaining activities located on the islands. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
\BElectricity:\b supplied by US Military
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 32 km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPipelines:\b 7.8 km
\BPorts:\b Sand Island
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Moldova (Atlas)",160,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, northeast of \JRomania\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 47 00 N, 29 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 33,700 sq km
\Iland area:\i 33,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Hawaii
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,389 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JRomania\j 450 km, \JUkraine\j 939 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b certain territory of Moldova and \JUkraine\j - including Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina - are considered by \JBucharest\j as historically a part of \JRomania\j; this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940
\BClimate:\b moderate winters, warm summers
\BTerrain:\b rolling steppe, gradual slope south to Black Sea
\Icurrent issues:\i heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as DDT, has contaminated soil and \Jgroundwater\j; extensive soil erosion from poor farming methods
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change; signed, but not ratified - Air \JPollution\j
\Bnote:\b the large majority of churchgoers are ethnic Moldavian
\BLanguages:\b Moldovan (official, virtually the same as the Romanian language), Russian, Gagauz (a Turkish dialect)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 96%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 94%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Moldova
\Iconventional short form:\i Moldova
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Moldova
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i Soviet Socialist Republic of Moldova; Moldavia
\BData code:\b MD
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Chisinau
\BAdministrative divisions:\b previously divided into 40 rayons; new districts possible under new constitution in 1994
\BIndependence:\b 27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 August 1991
\BConstitution:\b new constitution adopted 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; Constitutional Court reviews legality of legislative acts and governmental decisions of resolution; it is unclear if Moldova accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j but accepts many UN and OSCE documents
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mircea SNEGUR (since 3 September 1990) was elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 8 December 1991 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - Mircea SNEGUR ran unopposed and won 98.17% of vote; note - President SNEGUR was named executive president by the Supreme Soviet on 3 September 1990 and was confirmed by popular election on 8 December 1991
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Andrei SANGHELI (since 1 July 1992; reappointed 5 April 1994 after elections for new legislature) was appointed by Parliament; First Deputy Prime Minister Ion GUTU (since NA April 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 27 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (104 total) PDAM 56, Socialist/Yedinstvo Bloc 28, Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc 11, FPCDM 9; note - seats as of June-July 1995 were as follows: PDAM 45, PSM/UN 28, Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc 11, PRCM 11, FPCDM 9
\Bnote:\b the comparative breakdown of seats by faction is approximate
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Democratic Popular Front (FPCDM - formerly Moldovan Popular Front), Iurie ROSCA, chairman; Socialist Unity Faction (US) of the Socialist Party of Moldova (PSM), Vladimir SOLONARI, leader; Social Democratic Party of Moldova (PSDM), Anatol TARAN, chairman; Agrarian Democratic Party of Moldova (PDAM), Dumitru MOTPAN, chairman; Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc, Mihai GHIMPU, leader; Liberal Party of Modova (PLM), Mircea RUSU, chairman; Socialist Party of Moldova (PSM), Valeriu SENIC and Victor MOREV, cochairmen; Party of Rivival and Conciliation of Moldova (PRCM), Mircea SNEGUR, chairman; Moldovan Party of Democratic Forces (PFDM), Valeriu MATEI, chairman; Party for Social Progress (PPSM), Eugen SOBOR, chairman; Communist Party (PCM), Vladimir VORONIN, first chairman; Yedinstvo Intermovement, Vladimir SOLONARI, chairman, note - this party may not be in existence now
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b United Council of Labor Collectives (UCLC), Igor SMIRNOV, chairman; The \JEcology\j Movement of Moldova (EMM), G. MALARCHUK, chairman; The Christian Democratic League of Women of Moldova (CDLWM), L. LARI, chairman; National Christian Party of Moldova (NCPM), D. TODIKE, M. BARAGA, V. NIKU, leaders; The Peoples Movement Gagauz Khalky (GKh), S. GULGAR, leader; The Democratic Party of Gagauzia (DPG), G. SAVOSTIN, chairman; The Alliance of Working
\BPeople:\b of Moldova (AWPM), G. POLOGOV, president; Christian Alliance for Greater \JRomania\j; Stefan the Great Movement; Liberal Convention of Moldova; Association of Victims of Repression; Christian Democratic Youth League
\Ichancery:\i Suites 329, 333, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 783-3012
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 783-3342
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John Todd STEWART
\Iembassy:\i Strada Alexei Mateevich #103, Chisinau 277014
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [373] (2) 23-37-72
\IFAX:\i [373] (2) 23-30-44
\BFlag:\b same color scheme as \JRomania\j - three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; emblem in center of flag is of a Roman eagle of gold outlined in black with a red beak and talons carrying a yellow cross in its beak and a green olive branch in its right talons and a yellow scepter in its left talons; on its breast is a shield divided horizontally red over blue with a stylized ox head, star, rose, and crescent all in black-outlined yellow
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Moldova enjoys a favorable climate and good farmland but has no major mineral deposits. As a result, the economy depends heavily on agriculture, featuring fruits, vegetables, wine, and \Jtobacco\j. Moldova must import all of its supplies of oil, coal, and natural gas. Energy shortages have contributed to sharp production declines since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. The Moldovan Government has been making steady progress on an ambitious economic reform agenda, and the IMF has called Moldova a model for the region. As part of its reform efforts, Chisinau has introduced a stable convertible currency, freed all prices, stopped issuing preferential credits to state enterprises and backed their steady privatization, removed export controls, and freed interest rates. Chisinau appears strongly committed to continuing these reforms in 1996. Published estimates probably overstated the decline in output in 1991-94; the $2,310 per capita figure for GDP thus is a minimum estimate.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $10.4 billion (1995 estimate extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $720 million (1995)
\Icommodities:\i foodstuffs, wine, \Jtobacco\j, textiles and footwear, machinery, chemicals
\BExternal debt:\b $550 million (of which $250 million to Russia)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $46 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b commitments, $1,335 million ($500 million disbursements), 1992-95
\BCurrency:\b the leu (plural lei) was introduced in late 1993
\BExchange rates:\b lei per US$1 - 4.5460 (January 1996), 4.4990 (1995), 4.2700 (1994), 3.6400 (1993), 0.4145 (1992), 0.0017 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,328 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 1,328 km 1.520-m gauge (1992)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,508 km
\Ipaved:\i 12,346 km
\Iunpaved:\i 2,162 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 424 km (1994)
\BPipelines:\b natural gas 310 km (1992)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 26
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 8 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 577,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b telecommunication system not well developed; 215,000 unsatisfied requests for \Jtelephone\j service (1991 est.)
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i international connections to other former Soviet republics by landline and microwave radio relay through \JUkraine\j and to other countries by leased connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - 1 Eutelsat and 1 Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 5, shortwave NA (1994)
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (one national and one private) (1995)
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,125,538
\Imales fit for military service:\i 888,757
males reach military age (18) annually: 37,183 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 203 million lei, 2.5% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Monaco (Atlas)",161,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, on the southern coast of \JFrance\j, near the border with \JItaly\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 43 44 N, 7 24 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.9 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1.9 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about three times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4.4 km
border country: \JFrance\j 4.4 km
\BCoastline:\b 4.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers
\BTerrain:\b hilly, rugged, rocky
\Ilowest point:\i Mediterranean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Agel 140 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b second smallest independent state in world (after Holy See); almost entirely urban
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 31,719 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 17% (male 2,737; female 2,685)
\I15-64 years:\i 63% (male 9,746; female 10,318)
\I65 years and over:\i 20% (male 2,288; female 3,945) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.59% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.66 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 12.11 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 7.38 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.94 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.58 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.87 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 78.07 years
\Imale:\i 74.38 years
\Ifemale:\i 81.93 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.7 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Monacan(s) or Monegasque(s)
\Iadjective:\i Monacan or Monegasque
\BEthnic divisions:\b French 47%, Monegasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), English, Italian, Monegasque
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Principality of Monaco
\BIndependence:\b 1419 (rule by the House of Grimaldi)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 19 November
\BConstitution:\b 17 December 1962
\BLegal system:\b based on French law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Prince RAINIER III (since NA November 1949) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Prince ALBERT Alexandre Louis Pierre (born 14 March 1958)
\Ihead of government:\i Minister of State Jaques DUPONT (since NA 1995) was appointed by the prince from a list of three candidates presented by the French Government
\Icabinet:\i Council of Government is under the authority of the prince
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Council (Conseil National): elections last held 24 and 31 January 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (18 total) Campora List 15, Medecin List 2, independent 1
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Monaco does not have an embassy in the US
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
honorary \Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico)
honorary \Iconsulate(s):\i \JDallas\j, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Monaco; the US Consul General in \JMarseille\j (France) is accredited to Monaco
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; similar to the flag of \JIndonesia\j which is longer and the flag of \JPoland\j which is white (top) and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Monaco, situated on the French Mediterranean coast, is a popular resort, attracting tourists to its casino and pleasant climate. The Principality has successfully sought to diversify into services and small, high-value-added, nonpolluting industries. The state has no income tax and low business taxes and thrives as a tax haven both for individuals who have established residence and for foreign companies that have set up businesses and offices. About 55% of Monaco's annual revenue comes from value-added taxes on hotels, banks, and the industrial sector; about 25% of revenue comes from tourism. Living standards are high, roughly comparable to those in prosperous French metropolitan areas.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $788 million (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $25,000 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.1% (1994)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $660 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $586 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.)
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 10,000 kW standby; power imported from \JFrance\j
\Iproduction:\i NA kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i NA kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b none
\BExports:\b $NA; full customs \Jintegration\j with \JFrance\j, which collects and rebates Monacan trade duties; also participates in EU market system through customs union with \JFrance\j
\BImports:\b $NA; full customs \Jintegration\j with \JFrance\j, which collects and rebates Monacan trade duties; also participates in EU market system through customs union with \JFrance\j
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural fresh water resources; policies of the former communist regime promoting rapid urbanization and industrial growth have raised concerns about their negative effects on the environment; the burning of soft coal and the concentration of factories in Ulaanbaatar have severely polluted the air; deforestation, overgrazing, the converting of virgin land to agricultural production have increased soil erosion from wind and rain; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i dust storms can occur in the spring
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; strategic location between China and \JRussia\j
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 11 July (1921)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 13 January 1992
\BLegal system:\b blend of Russian, Chinese, and Turkish systems of law; no constitutional provision for judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Punsalmaagiyn OCHIRBAT (since 3 September 1990) was nominated by parties in the State Great Hural and elected in general presidential elections for a four-year term; election last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Punsalmaagiyn OCHIRBAT (MNDP and MSDP) elected directly with 57.8% of the vote, other candidate Lodongiyn TUDEV (MPRP)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Putsagiyn JASRAY (since 3 August 1992) and Deputy Prime Ministers Lhamsuren ENEBISH (since NA October 1992) and Choijilsurengiyn PUREVDORJ (since NA September 1990) were appointed by the State Great Hural
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the State Great Hural
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
State Great Hural: elections held for the first time 28 June 1992 (next to be held NA June 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) MPRP 71, United Party of \JMongolia\j 4, MSDP 1
\Bnote:\b the People's Small Hural no longer exists
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, serves as appeals court for people's and provincial courts, but to date rarely overturns verdicts of lower courts, judges are nominated by the General Council of Courts for approval of the Great Hural
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party (MPRP), Budragchagiin DASH-YONDON, secretary general; Mongolian National Democratic Party (MNDP), D. GANBOLD, chairman; Mongolian Social Democratic Party (MSDP), B. BATBAYAR, chairman; United Party of \JMongolia\j, leader NA
\Bnote:\b opposition parties were legalized in May 1990
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jalbuugiyn CHOINHOR
\Ichancery:\i 2833 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 333-7117
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 298-9227
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Donald C. JOHNSON
\Iembassy:\i inner north side of the Big Ring, just west of the Selbe Gol, Ulaanbaatar
\Imailing address:\i c/o American Embassy \JBeijing\j, Micro Region 11, Big Ring Road; PSC 461, Box 300, FPO AP 96521-0002
\Itelephone:\i [976] (1) 329095, 329606
\IFAX:\i [976] (1) 320776
\BFlag:\b three equal, vertical bands of red (hoist side), blue, and red, centered on the hoist-side red band in yellow is the national emblem ("soyombo" - a columnar arrangement of abstract and geometric representation for fire, sun, moon, earth, water, and the yin-yang symbol)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JMongolia\j's severe climate, scattered population, and wide expanses of unproductive land have constrained economic development. Economic activity traditionally has been based on agriculture and the breeding of livestock. In past years extensive mineral resources had been developed with Soviet support; total Soviet assistance at its height amounted to 30% of GDP. The mining and processing of coal, copper, molybdenum, tin, \Jtungsten\j, and gold account for a large part of industrial production. Timber and fishing are also important sectors. The Mongolian leadership has been gradually making the transition from Soviet-style central planning to a market economy through privatization and price reform and has been soliciting support from international financial agencies and foreign investors. The economy, however, has still not recovered from the loss of Soviet aid. The country continues to suffer substantial economic hardships, with one-fourth of the population below the poverty line.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BBranches:\b Mongolian People's Army (includes Internal Security Forces and Frontier Guards), Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 638,560
\Imales fit for military service:\i 417,620
males reach military age (18) annually: 27,386 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $22.8 million, 1% of GDP (1992)
#
"Montserrat (Atlas)",163,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 45 N, 62 12 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 100 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.6 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 40 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; little daily or seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b volcanic islands, mostly mountainous, with small coastal lowland
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Chances Peak 914 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 20%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 10%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 40%
\Iother:\i 30%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i land erosion occurs on slopes that have been cleared for cultivation
\Inatural hazards:\i severe hurricanes (June to November); volcanic eruptions (there are seven active volcanoes on the island)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 12,771 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.28% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.08 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 11.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.65 years
\Imale:\i 73.89 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.46 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.93 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Montserratian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Montserratian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black, Europeans
\BReligions:\b Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist, other Christian denominations
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Montserrat
\BData code:\b MH
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Plymouth
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 3 parishes; Saint Anthony, Saint Georges, Saint Peter's
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday of June)
\BConstitution:\b present constitution came into force 19 December 1989
\BLegal system:\b English common law and statute law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Frank SAVAGE (since NA February 1993) was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Reuben T. MEADE (since NA October 1991)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council consists of the governor, the chief minister, three other ministries, the attorney general, and the finance secretary
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council: elections last held 8 October 1991 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (11 total, 7 elected) NPP 4, NDP 1, PLM 1, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Progressive Party (NPP), Reuben T. MEADE; People's Liberation Movement (PLM), Noel TUITT; National Development Party (NDP), Bertrand OSBORNE
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Montserratian coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms features a woman standing beside a yellow harp with her arm around a black cross
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is small and open, with economic activity centered on tourism and related services. Tourism accounts for roughly one-quarter of Montserrat's national income. The island's main export is electronic components which are mainly shipped to the US. The agriculture sector is small; cabbages, carrots, cucumbers, and onions are grown for the domestic market; additionally, some hot peppers and live plants are exported to the US and Europe. The threat of a volcanic eruption in late 1995 led to the repeated evacuation of Montserrat's capital, Plymouth, and deep ash from the \Jvolcano\j destroyed much of the yearend crops. As a result, production in 1995 dropped precipitously. The likely slow recovery of tourism and the continued danger of an eruption dim the prospects for rapid recovery in 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $55.6 million (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 0.5% (1994 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,500 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 4.8%
\Iindustry:\i 18.4%
\Iservices:\i 76.8% (1990 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 9.6% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 5,100
\Iby occupation:\i community, social, and personal services 40.5%, construction 13.5%, trade, restaurants, and hotels 12.3%, manufacturing 10.5%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 8.8%, other 14.4% (1983 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $15.7 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $15.6 million including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
\Icommodities:\i electronic components, plastic bags, apparel, hot peppers, live plants, \Jcattle\j
\Ipartners:\i US, Ireland
\BImports:\b $80.6 million (f.o.b., 1992)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transportation equipment, foodstuffs, manufactured goods, fuels, lubricants, and related materials
\Ipartners:\i NA
\BExternal debt:\b $10.2 million (December 1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 280 km
\Ipaved:\i 200 km
\Iunpaved:\i 80 km
\BPorts:\b Plymouth
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,000
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 8, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 6,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 2,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Police Force
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Morocco (Atlas)",164,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between \JAlgeria\j and Western Sahara
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 32 00 N, 5 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 446,550 sq km
\Iland area:\i 446,300 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,002 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 1,559 km, Western Sahara 443 km
\Bnote:\b excludes the length of the boundary between the places of sovereignty and Morocco
\BCoastline:\b 1,835 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims and administers Western Sahara, but sovereignty is unresolved and the UN is attempting to hold a referendum on the issue; the UN-administered cease-fire has been in effect since September 1991; \JSpain\j controls five places of sovereignty (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - the coastal enclaves of \JCeuta\j and Melilla which Morocco contests as well as the islands of Penon de Alhucemas, Penon de Velez de la Gomera, and Islas Chafarinas
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean, becoming more extreme in the interior
\BTerrain:\b northern coast and interior are mountainous with large areas of bordering plateaus, intermontane valleys, and rich coastal plains
\Ilowest point:\i Sebkha Tah -55 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jebel Toubkal 4,165 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jphosphates\j, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, lead, zinc, fish, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 18%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 28%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 12%
\Iother:\i 41%
\BIrrigated land:\b 12,650 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i land degradation/desertification (soil erosion resulting from farming of marginal areas, overgrazing, destruction of vegetation); water supplies contaminated by raw sewage; siltation of reservoirs; oil \Jpollution\j of coastal waters
\Inatural hazards:\i northern mountains geologically unstable and subject to earthquakes; periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location along Strait of \JGibraltar\j
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 613,712; female 668,197) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.05% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 27.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.77 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.08 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.92 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 43.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.52 years
\Imale:\i 67.53 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.61 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.58 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Moroccan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Moroccan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), \JBerber\j dialects, French often the language of business, government, and diplomacy
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 43.7%
\Imale:\i 56.6%
\Ifemale:\i 31%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of Morocco
\Iconventional short form:\i Morocco
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Maghrib
\BData code:\b MO
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b Rabat
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 36 provinces and 5 wilayas*; Agadir, Al Hoceima, Assa-Zag, Azilal, Beni Mellal, Ben Slimane, Boulemane, Casablanca*, Chaouen, El Jadida, El Kelaa des Srarhna, Er Rachidia, Essaouira, Es Smara, Fes*, Figuig, Guelmim, Ifrane, Kenitra, Khemisset, Khenifra, Khouribga, Laayoune, Larache, Marrakech*, Meknes*, Nador, Ouarzazate, Oujda, Rabat-Sale*, Safi, Settat, Sidi Kacem, Tanger, Tan-Tan, Taounate, Taroudannt, Tata, Taza, Tetouan, Tiznit
\BIndependence:\b 2 March 1956 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 3 March (1961) (anniversary of King HASSAN II's accession to the throne)
\BConstitution:\b 10 March 1972, revised 4 September 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law and French and Spanish civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of Supreme Court
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King HASSAN II (since 3 March 1961) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Abdellatif FILALI (since 29 May 1994) was appointed by the king
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Chamber of Representatives (Majlis Nawab): two-thirds elected by direct, universal suffrage and one-third by an electoral college of government, professional, and labor representatives; direct, popular elections last held 15 June 1993 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (333 total, 222 directly elected) USFP 48, IP 43, MP 33, RNI 28, UC 27, PND 14, MNP 14, PPS 6, PDI 3, SAP 2, PA 2, OADP 2; indirect, special interest elections last held 17 September 1993 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (333 total, 111 indirectly elected) UC 27, MP 18, RNI 13, MNP 11, PND 10, IP 7, Party of Shura and Istiqlal 6, USFP 4, PPS 4, CDT 4, UTM 3, UGTM 2, SAP 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed on the recommendation of the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, presided over by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
opposition: Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP), Mohammad al-YAZGHI; Istiqlal Party (IP), M'Hamed BOUCETTA; Party of Progress and \JSocialism\j (PPS), Ali YATA; Organization of Democratic and Popular Action (OADP), Mohamed Ben SAID
pro-government: Constitutional Union (UC), Maati BOUABID; Popular Movement (MP), Mohamed LAENSER; National Democratic Party (PND), Mohamed Arsalane EL-JADIDI; National Popular Movement (MNP), Mahjoubi AHARDANE
independents: National Rally of Independents (RNI), Ahmed OSMAN; Democracy and Istiqlal Party (PDI), leader NA; Action Party (PA), Abdullah SENHAJI; Non-Obedience Candidates (SAP), leader NA
labor unions and community organizations (indirect elections
only): Democratic Confederation of Labor (CDT), Nabir AMAOUI; General Union of Moroccan Workers (UGTM), Abderrazzak AFILAL; Moroccan Union of Workers (UTM), leader NA; Party of Shura and Istiqlal, leader NA
\Ichancery:\i 1601 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-7979 through 7982
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-0161
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Marc C. GINSBERG
\Iembassy:\i 2 Avenue de Marrakech, Rabat
\Imailing address:\i PSC 74, Box 003, APO AE 09718
\Itelephone:\i [212] (7) 76 22 65
\IFAX:\i [212] (7) 76 56 61
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JCasablanca\j
\BFlag:\b red with a green pentacle (five-pointed, linear star) known as Solomon's seal in the center of the flag; green is the traditional color of \JIslam\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Morocco faces the typical problems of developing countries - restraining government spending, reducing constraints on private activity and foreign trade, and keeping \Jinflation\j within bounds. Since the early 1980s the government has pursued an economic program toward these objectives with the support of the IMF, the World Bank, and the Paris Club of creditors. The economy has substantial assets to draw on: the world's largest phosphate reserves, diverse agricultural and fishing resources, a sizable tourist industry, a growing manufacturing sector, and remittances from Moroccans working abroad. A severe \Jdrought\j in 1992-93 depressed economic activity and held down exports. Real GDP contracted by 4.4% in 1992 and 1.1% in 1993. Despite these setbacks, initiatives to relax capital controls, strengthen the banking sector, and privatize state enterprises went forward in 1993-94. Favorable rainfall in 1994 boosted agricultural production by 40%. In 1995, Morocco suffered from a \Jdrought\j said to be the worst in 30 years. Servicing the large debt, high unemployment, and vulnerability to external economic forces remain long-term problems for Morocco.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $87.4 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -6.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $3,000 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 14.3%
\Iindustry:\i 32.2%
\Iservices:\i 53.5% (1993 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 5.4% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 7.4 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 50%, services 26%, industry 15%, other 9% (1985)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 16% (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $8.1 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $8.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b phosphate rock mining and processing, food processing, leather goods, textiles, construction, tourism
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of hashish; trafficking on the increase for both domestic and international drug markets; shipments of hashish mostly directed to Western Europe; transit point for \Jcocaine\j from South America destined for Western Europe
standard gauge: 1,907 km 1.435-m gauge (1003 km electrified; 246 km double track) (1994)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 59,474 km
\Ipaved:\i 29,440 km (including 73 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 30,034 km (1991 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 362 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 491 km (abandoned); natural gas 241 km
\BPorts:\b Agadir, Al Jadida, \JCasablanca\j, El Jorf Lasfar, Kenitra, Mohammedia, Nador, Rabat, Safi, Tangier; also Spanish-controlled \JCeuta\j and Melilla
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 15 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 270,100 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i good system composed of open-wire lines, cables, and microwave radio relay links; principal centers are \JCasablanca\j and Rabat; secondary centers are Fes, Marrakech, Oujda, Tangier, and Tetouan
\Iinternational:\i 5 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; microwave radio relay to \JGibraltar\j, \JSpain\j, and Western Sahara; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to \JAlgeria\j; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 20, FM 7, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Royal Moroccan Army, Royal Moroccan Navy, Royal Moroccan Air Force, Royal Gendarmerie, Auxiliary Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 7,541,745
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,782,028
males reach military age (18) annually: 330,344 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.38 billion, 4.1% of GDP (1995)
#
"Mozambique (Atlas)",165,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, bordering the \JMozambique\j Channel, between South Africa and \JTanzania\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 15 S, 35 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 801,590 sq km
\Iland area:\i 784,090 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,571 km
\Iborder countries:\i Malawi 1,569 km, South Africa 491 km, \JSwaziland\j 105 km, \JTanzania\j 756 km, \JZambia\j 419 km, Zimbabwe 1,231 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,470 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical to subtropical
\BTerrain:\b mostly coastal lowlands, uplands in center, high plateaus in northwest, mountains in west
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Monte Binga 2,436 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal, \Jtitanium\j, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 4%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 56%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 20%
\Iother:\i 20%
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,150 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i civil strife and recurrent \Jdrought\j in the hinterlands have resulted in increased migration to urban and coastal areas with adverse environmental consequences; \Jdesertification\j; \Jpollution\j of surface and coastal waters
\Inatural hazards:\i severe droughts and floods occur in central and southern provinces; devastating cyclones
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 184,606; female 243,595) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.65% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 45.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 18.97 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b by the end of 1994, an estimated 1.6 million Mozambican refugees, who fled to Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa in earlier years from the civil war, had returned; an estimated 100,000 refugees remain to be repatriated from those countries
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.89 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 125.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 44.34 years
\Imale:\i 43.21 years
\Ifemale:\i 45.5 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.23 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Mozambican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Mozambican
\BEthnic divisions:\b indigenous tribal groups 99.66% (Shangaan, Chokwe, Manyika, Sena, Makua, and others), Europeans 0.06%, Euro-Africans 0.2%, Indians 0.08%
\BReligions:\b indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 30%, Muslim 20%
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 25 June (1975)
\BConstitution:\b 30 November 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO (since 6 November 1986) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Pascoal MOCUMBI (since December 1994) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica): the members are elected by direct, universal, adult suffrage on a secret ballot for a term of five years; election last held 27-29 October 1994 (next to be held NA October 1999); results - percent vote by party NA, seats (250 total) FRELIMO won a slim majority
\Bnote:\b the presidential and legislative elections took place as called for in the 1992 peace accords; RENAMO participated in the elections
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president and judges elected by the Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Front for the Liberation of \JMozambique\j (FRELIMO), Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO, chairman; \JMozambique\j National Resistance (RENAMO), Afonso DHLAKAMA, president; Democratic Union (DU), Antonio PALANGE, General Secretary
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), black, and yellow with a red isosceles triangle based on the hoist side; the black band is edged in white; centered in the triangle is a yellow five-pointed star bearing a crossed rifle and hoe in black superimposed on an open white book
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of Africa's poorest countries, \JMozambique\j has failed to exploit the economic potential of its sizable agricultural, hydropower, and transportation resources. Indeed, national output, consumption, and investment declined throughout the first half of the 1980s because of internal disorders, lack of government administrative control, and a growing foreign debt. A sharp increase in foreign aid, attracted by an economic reform policy, resulted in successive years of economic growth in the late 1980s, but aid has declined steadily since 1989. Agricultural output is at only 75% of its 1981 level, and grain has to be imported. Industry operates at only 20%-40% of capacity. The economy depends heavily on foreign assistance to keep afloat. Peace accords between civil warring factions, signed in October 1992, improved chances of foreign investment, aided IMF-supported economic reforms, and supported continued economic recovery. Elections held in 1994 diverted government attention from the economy, resulting in slippage and delays in the economic reform program. Nonetheless, growth continued in 1994-95, and the economy should move forward in the late 1990s, given continued foreign help in meeting debt obligations. One key event in 1995 was the conclusion of negotiations with Enron of Houston, \JTexas\j, for a $700 million project to exploit the Pande natural gas fields.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $12.2 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 32 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 59,000 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair system of tropospheric scatter, open-wire lines, and microwave radio relay
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay and tropospheric scatter
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 29, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 700,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 44,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Naval Command, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Militia
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,767,855
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,162,388 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $84 million, 5.3% of GDP (1994)
#
"Myanmar (Atlas)",166,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between \JBangladesh\j and \JThailand\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 22 00 N, 98 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 678,500 sq km
\Iland area:\i 657,740 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,876 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBangladesh\j 193 km, China 2,185 km, India 1,463 km, Laos 235 km, \JThailand\j 1,800 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,930 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower \Jhumidity\j during winter (northeast monsoon, December to April)
\BTerrain:\b central lowlands ringed by steep, rugged highlands
\Ilowest point:\i Andaman Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Hkakabo Razi 5,881 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, timber, tin, \Jantimony\j, zinc, copper, \Jtungsten\j, lead, coal, some marble, \Jlimestone\j, precious stones, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 15%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 1%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 49%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10,180 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; industrial \Jpollution\j of air, soil, and water; inadequate sanitation and water treatment contribute to disease
\Inatural hazards:\i destructive earthquakes and cyclones; flooding and landslides common during rainy season (June to September); periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location near major Indian Ocean shipping lanes
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 4 January (1948)
\BConstitution:\b 3 January 1974 (suspended since 18 September 1988); national convention started on 9 January 1993 to draft a new constitution; chapter headings and three of 15 sections have been approved
\BLegal system:\b does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister and Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Gen. THAN SHWE (since 23 April 1992)
State Law and Order Restoration Council: military junta which assumed power 18 September 1988
\BLegislative branch:\b
People's Assembly (Pyithu Hluttaw): election last held 27 May 1990, but Assembly never convened; results - NLD 80%; seats - (485 total) NLD 396, NUP 10, other 79
\BJudicial branch:\b limited; remnants of the British-era legal system in place, but there is no guarantee of a fair public trial; the judiciary is not independent of the executive
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Union Solidarity and Development Association (USDA; pro-regime), THAN AUNG, secretary; National Unity Party (NUP), pro-regime, THA KYAW; National League for Democracy (NLD), AUNG SAN SUU KYI, general secretary; and eight minor legal parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Coalition Government of the Union of \JBurma\j (NCGUB), headed by the elected prime minister SEIN WIN - consists of individuals legitimately elected to the People's Assembly but not recognized by the military regime; the group fled to a border area and joined with insurgents in December 1990 to form a parallel government; Kachin Independence Army (KIA); United Wa State Army (UWSA); Karen National Union (KNU); several Shan factions, including the Mong Tai Army (MTA); All \JBurma\j Student Democratic Front (ABSDF)
\BFlag:\b red with a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing, all in white, 14 five-pointed stars encircling a cogwheel containing a stalk of rice; the 14 stars represent the 14 administrative divisions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JBurma\j has a mixed economy with about 75% private activity, mainly in agriculture, light industry, and transport, and with about 25% state-controlled activity, mainly in energy, heavy industry, and foreign trade. Government policy in the last seven years, 1989-95, has aimed at revitalizing the economy after three decades of tight central planning. Thus, private activity has markedly increased; foreign investment has been encouraged, so far with moderate success; and efforts continue to increase the efficiency of state enterprises. Published estimates of \JBurma\j's foreign trade are greatly understated because of the volume of black market trade. A major ongoing problem is the failure to achieve monetary and fiscal stability. Although \JBurma\j remains a poor Asian country, its rich resources furnish the potential for substantial long-term increases in income, exports, and living standards.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $47 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b world's largest illicit producer of opium (2,340 metric tons in 1995) and source for over 60% of US heroin imports; minor producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; \JRangoon\j's antinarcotic programs hindered by lack of resources, government commitment; growing role in methamphetamine production for regional consumption
\BExports:\b $879 million (FY94/95 est.)
\Icommodities:\i pulses and beans, teak, rice, hardwood
\Ipartners:\i \JSingapore\j, China, \JThailand\j, India, Hong Kong
\BImports:\b $1.5 billion (FY94/95 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery, transport equipment, construction materials, food products, consumer goods
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 17 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 122,195 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b meets minimum requirements for local and intercity service for business and government; international service is good
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1985 est.)
\Bnote:\b radiobroadcast coverage is limited to the most populous areas
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 88,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 11,759,636
fe\Imales age 15-49:\i 11,588,181
\Imales fit for military service:\i 6,291,986
fe\Imales fit for military service:\i 6,184,667
males reach military age (18) annually: 473,255
females reach military age (18) annually: 454,786 (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b both sexes liable for military service
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $135 million, NA% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Namibia (Atlas)",167,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between \JAngola\j and South Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 22 00 S, 17 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 825,418 sq km
\Iland area:\i 825,418 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than half the size of \JAlaska\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,824 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAngola\j 1,376 km, \JBotswana\j 1,360 km, South Africa 855 km, \JZambia\j 233 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,572 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of boundary with \JBotswana\j is indefinite; quadripoint with \JBotswana\j, \JZambia\j, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with \JBotswana\j over uninhabited Kasikili (Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River remained unresolved in December 1995, and the parties agreed to refer the matter to the ICJ
\BClimate:\b desert; hot, dry; rainfall sparse and erratic
\BTerrain:\b mostly high plateau; Namib Desert along coast; \JKalahari\j Desert in east
\Icurrent issues:\i very limited natural fresh water resources; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i prolonged periods of \Jdrought\j
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 28,599; female 38,155) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.93% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 37.29 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.98 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.75 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 47.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 64.48 years
\Imale:\i 62.85 years
\Ifemale:\i 66.16 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.1 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Namibian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Namibian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 86%, white 6.6%, mixed 7.4%
\Bnote:\b about 50% of the population belong to the Ovambo tribe and 9% to the Kavangos tribe; other ethnic groups are: Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama 5%, Caprivian 4%, \JBushmen\j 3%, Baster 2%, Tswana 0.5%
\BReligions:\b Christian 80% to 90%, Lutheran 50% at least, other Christian denominations 30%, native religions 10% to 20%
\BLanguages:\b English 7% (official), \JAfrikaans\j common language of most of the population and about 60% of the white population, German 32%, indigenous languages: Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1960 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 38%
\Imale:\i 45%
\Ifemale:\i 31%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JNamibia\j
\BIndependence:\b 21 March 1990 (from South African mandate)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 21 March (1990)
\BConstitution:\b ratified 9 February 1990; effective 12 March 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman-Dutch law and 1990 constitution
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Sam NUJOMA (since 21 March 1990) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 7-8 December 1994 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - Sam NUJOMA elected president; percent of vote NA
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president from the members of National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral legislature
National Council: elections last held 30 November-3 December 1992 (next to be held by December 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (26 total) SWAPO 19, DTA 6, UDF 1
National Assembly: elections last held 7-8 December 1994 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) SWAPO 53, DTA 15, UDF 2, MAG 1, DCN 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), Sam NUJOMA; SWAPO for Justice, Zacharia NJOMBA; DTA of \JNamibia\j (formerly Democratic Turnhalle Alliance) (DTA), Mishake MUYONGO; United Democratic Front (UDF), Justus GAROEB; Federal Convention of \JNamibia\j (FCN), Keiphas CONRADIE; Monitor Action Group (MAG), Kosie PRETORIUS; Workers Revolutionary Party (WRP); Southwest African National Union (SWANU), Hitjevi VEII; Democratic Coalition of \JNamibia\j (DCN), Moses K. KATJIUONGUA; National Patriotic Front (NPF), Moses K. KATJIUONGUA
\Imailing address:\i Private Bag 12029 Ausspannplatz, \JWindhoek\j
\Itelephone:\i [264] (61) 221601
\IFAX:\i [264] (61) 229792
\BFlag:\b a large blue triangle with a yellow sunburst fills the upper left section, and an equal green triangle (solid) fills the lower right section; the triangles are separated by a red stripe that is contrasted by two narrow white-edge borders
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is heavily dependent on the extraction and processing of minerals for export. Mining accounts for almost 25% of GDP. \JNamibia\j is the fourth-largest exporter of nonfuel minerals in Africa and the world's fifth-largest producer of uranium. Rich alluvial diamond deposits make \JNamibia\j a primary source for gem-quality diamonds. \JNamibia\j also produces large quantities of lead, zinc, tin, silver, and \Jtungsten\j. More than half the population depends on agriculture (largely subsistence agriculture) for its livelihood. \JNamibia\j must import some of its food.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5.8 billion (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 6.6% (1994 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $3,600 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 11% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 500,000
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 60%, industry and commerce 19%, services 8%, government 7%, mining 6% (1981 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 35% in urban areas (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $941 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $157 million (FY93/94)
narrow gauge: 2,382 km 1.067-m gauge; single track
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 54,186 km
\Ipaved:\i 4,056 km
\Iunpaved:\i 50,130 km (1987 est.)
\BPorts:\b \JLuderitz\j, Walvis Bay
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 108
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 14
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 10
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 17
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 58 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 89,722 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i good urban services; fair rural service; microwave radio relay links major towns; connections to other populated places are by open wire
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 40, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 195,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3
\BTelevisions:\b 27,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National
\BDefense:\b Force (Army), Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 377,687
\Imales fit for military service:\i 224,682 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $64 million, 2.1% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Nauru (Atlas)",168,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 32 S, 166 55 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 21 sq km
\Iland area:\i 21 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 30 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; monsoonal; rainy season (November to February)
\BTerrain:\b sandy beach rises to fertile ring around raised \Jcoral\j reefs with phosphate plateau in center
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location along plateau rim 61 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jphosphates\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural fresh water resources, roof storage tanks collect rainwater; phosphate mining threatens limited remaining land resources
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Marine Dumping; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b \JNauru\j is one of the three great phosphate rock islands in the Pacific Ocean - the others are Banaba (Ocean Island) in Kiribati and Makatea in French \JPolynesia\j; only 53 km south of Equator
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 10,273 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.33% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 18.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.1 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 40.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 66.68 years
\Imale:\i 64.3 years
\Ifemale:\i 69.18 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.08 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Nauruan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Nauruan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Nauruan 58%, other Pacific Islander 26%, Chinese 8%, European 8%
\BReligions:\b Christian (two-thirds Protestant, one-third Roman Catholic)
\BLanguages:\b Nauruan (official, a distinct Pacific Island language), English widely understood, spoken, and used for most government and commercial purposes
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JNauru\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JNauru\j
\Iformer:\i Pleasant Island
\BData code:\b NR
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b no official capital; government offices in Yaren District
\BIndependence:\b 31 January 1968 (from the Australia-, New Zealand-, and UK-administered UN trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 31 January (1968)
\BConstitution:\b 29 January 1968
\BLegal system:\b acts of the \JNauru\j Parliament and British common law
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Lagumot HARRIS (since 22 November 1995) was elected by Parliament; election last held 18 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1998)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president from among members of Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: election last held 18 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (18 total) independents 18
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BInternational organization participation:\b AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, ICAO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), \JInterpol\j, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UPU, WHO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JNauru\j does not have an embassy in the US
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JNauru\j; the US Ambassador to \JFiji\j is accredited to \JNauru\j
\BFlag:\b blue with a narrow, horizontal, yellow stripe across the center and a large white 12-pointed star below the stripe on the hoist side; the star indicates the country's location in relation to the Equator (the yellow stripe) and the 12 points symbolize the 12 original tribes of \JNauru\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Revenues come from the export of \Jphosphates\j, the reserves of which are expected to be exhausted by the year 2000. \JPhosphates\j have given Nauruans one of the highest per capita incomes in the Third World. Few other resources exist, so most necessities must be imported, including fresh water from \JAustralia\j. The rehabilitation of mined land and the replacement of income from \Jphosphates\j are serious long-term problems. Substantial amounts of phosphate income are invested in trust funds to help cushion the transition. However, dividends from the trusts have declined sharply since 1990 and the government has been borrowing from the trusts to finance fiscal deficits.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $100 million (1993 est.)
\Itotal:\i 3.9 km; note - used to haul \Jphosphates\j from the center of the island to processing facilities on the southwest coast
\BHighways:\b 27 km
\Ipaved:\i 21 km
\Iunpaved:\i 6 km (1986 est.)
\BPorts:\b \JNauru\j
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,000 (1989 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate local and international radiotelephone communications provided via Australian facilities
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 4,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1986 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular armed forces; Directorate of the \JNauru\j Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Navassa Island (Atlas)",169,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, about one-fourth of the way from \JHaiti\j to \JJamaica\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 25 N, 75 02 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 5.2 sq km
\Iland area:\i 5.2 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about nine times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 8 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by \JHaiti\j
\BClimate:\b marine, tropical
\BTerrain:\b raised \Jcoral\j and \Jlimestone\j plateau, flat to undulating; ringed by vertical white cliffs (9 to 15 meters high)
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on southwest side 77 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 10%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 90%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location 160 km south of the US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay, \JCuba\j; mostly exposed rock, but enough grassland to support \Jgoat\j herds; dense stands of fig-like trees, scattered \Jcactus\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited; note - transient Haitian fishermen and others camp on the island
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Navassa Island
\BData code:\b BQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Coast Guard
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Nepal (Atlas)",170,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, between China and India
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 28 00 N, 84 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 140,800 sq km
\Iland area:\i 136,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JArkansas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,926 km
\Iborder countries:\i China 1,236 km, India 1,690 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b varies from cool summers and severe winters in north to subtropical summers and mild winters in south
\BTerrain:\b Terai or flat river plain of the Ganges in south, central hill region, rugged \JHimalayas\j in north
\Ilowest point:\i Kanchan Kalan 70 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Everest 8,848 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jquartz\j, water, timber, hydropower potential, scenic beauty, small deposits of \Jlignite\j, copper, \Jcobalt\j, iron ore
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 17%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 13%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 33%
\Iother:\i 37%
\BIrrigated land:\b 9,430 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i the almost total dependence on wood for fuel and cutting down trees to expand agricultural land without replanting has resulted in widespread deforestation; soil erosion; water \Jpollution\j (use of contaminated water presents human health risks)
\Inatural hazards:\i severe thunderstorms, flooding, landslides, \Jdrought\j, and \Jfamine\j depending on the timing, intensity, and duration of the summer monsoons
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; strategic location between China and India; contains eight of world's 10 highest peaks
\BIndependence:\b 1768 (unified by Prithvi Narayan Shah)
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of His Majesty the King, 28 December (1945)
\BConstitution:\b 9 November 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on Hindu legal concepts and English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King BIRENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev (succeeded to the throne 31 January 1972 following the death of his father King MAHENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev, crowned king 24 February 1975) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince DIPENDRA Bir Bikram
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sher Bahadur DEUBA (since 12 September 1995); note - in 1994, the king appointed Man Mohan ADHIKARI to be prime minister using the standard criterion - he was the leader of the majority party in the House of Representatives following the last election; however, in September 1995, a parliamentary coalition of the Nepali Congress Party, the Rastriya Prajantra Party, the \JNepal\j Sadbhavana Party, and independents voted against Prime Minister ADHIKARI; Sher Bahadur DEUBA, the leader of the Nepali Congress Party, then formed the new government and was appointed the new prime minister by the king
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the king on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
National Council: consists of 60 members (50 appointed by House of Representatives and 10 by the king)
House of Representatives: elections last held 15 November 1994 (next to be held NA); results - NCP 33%, CPN/UML 31%, NDP 18%, Terai Rights Sadbhavana Party 3%, NWPP 1%; seats - (205 total) CPN/UML 88, NCP 83, NDP 20, NWPP 4, Terai Rights Sadbhavana Party 3, independents 7
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Sarbochha Adalat), chief justice is appointed by the king on recommendation of the Constitutional Council, the other judges are appointed by the king on the recommendation of the Judicial Council
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Communist Party of Nepal/United Marxist and Leninist (CPN/UML), Man Mohan ADHIKARI, president; Nepali Congress Party (NCP), Krishna Prasad BHATTARAI (president), Girija Prasad KOIRALA, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur DEUBA; National Democratic Party (NDP), leader NA; Terai Rights Sadbhavana (Goodwill) Party, Gajendra Narayan SINGH; \JNepal\j Workers and Peasants Party (NWPP), leader NA; \JNepal\j Sadbhavana Party, leader NA; Rastriya Prajantra Party, leader NA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b numerous small, left-leaning student groups in the capital; several small, radical Nepalese antimonarchist groups
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Basudev Prasad DHUNGANA
\Ichancery:\i 2131 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 667-4550
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sandra L. VOGELGESANG
\Iembassy:\i Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [977] (1) 411179
\IFAX:\i [977] (1) 419963
\BFlag:\b red with a blue border around the unique shape of two overlapping right triangles; the smaller, upper triangle bears a white stylized moon and the larger, lower triangle bears a white 12-pointed sun
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JNepal\j is among the poorest and least developed countries in the world. Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for over 80% of the population and accounting for about one-half of GDP. Industrial activity is limited, mainly involving the processing of agricultural produce (jute, sugarcane, \Jtobacco\j, and grain). Production of textiles and carpets has expanded recently and accounted for 85% of foreign exchange earnings in FY93/94. Apart from agricultural land and forests, exploitable natural resources are mica, hydropower, and tourism. Agricultural production in the late 1980s grew by about 5%, as compared with annual population growth of 2.6%. More than 40% of the population is undernourished. Since May 1991, the government has been moving forward with economic reforms particularly those that encourage trade and foreign investment, e.g., by eliminating business licenses and registration requirements in order to simplify investment procedures. The government has also been cutting public expenditures by reducing subsidies, privatizing state industries, and laying off civil servants. (In 1995 little progress was made in these areas because the communist government had trouble formulating and implementing policies.) The new coalition government is planning to pick up the pace of reforms in 1996, focusing primarily on raising revenues to develop the rural sector by increasing taxation and privatization. Prospects for foreign trade and investment, particularly in areas other than power development and tourism, will continue to remain poor because of the small size of the economy, its technological backwardness, its remoteness, and its susceptibility to natural disaster. The international community provides funding for 62% of \JNepal\j's developmental budget and for 34% of total budgetary expenditures.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $25.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic and international drug markets; transit point for heroin from Southeast Asia to the West
\BExports:\b $430 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) but does not include unrecorded border trade with India
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j in the form of heavy metals, organic compounds, and \Jnutrients\j such as nitrates and \Jphosphates\j; air \Jpollution\j from vehicles and refining activities; acid rain
\Inatural hazards:\i the extensive system of dikes and dams, protects nearly one-half of the total area from being flooded
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b located at mouths of three major European rivers (Rhine, Maas or Meuse, and Schelde)
\BNational holiday:\b Queen's Day, 30 April (1938)
\BConstitution:\b 17 February 1983
\BLegal system:\b civil law system incorporating French penal theory; judicial review in the Supreme Court of legislation of lower order rather than Acts of the States General; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen \JBEATRIX\j Wilhelmina Armgard (since 30 April 1980) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent WILLEM-ALEXANDER (born 27 April 1967), Prince of Orange, son of Queen \JBEATRIX\j
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Willem (Wim) KOK (since 22 August 1994) and Vice Prime Ministers Hans DIJKSTAL (since 22 August 1994) and Hans VAN MIERLO (since 22 August 1994) were appointed by the queen
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister
First Chamber (Eerste Kamer): members indirectly elected by the country's 12 provincial councils for four-year terms; election last held 9 June 1995 (next to be held 9 June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (75 total) number of seats by party NA
Second Chamber (Tweede Kamer): members directly elected for four-year terms; elections last held 3 May 1994 (next to be held in 1998); results - PvdA 24.3%, CDA 22.3%, VVD 20.4%, D'66 16.5%, other 16.5%; seats - (150 total) PvdA 37, CDA 34, VVD 31, D'66 24, other 24
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (De Hoge Raad), justices are nominated for life by the crown from a list compiled by the Second Chamber of the Staten Generaal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), Hans HELGERS; Labor (PvdA), Felix ROTTENBERG; Liberal (VVD), Frits BOLKESTEIN; Democrats '66 (D66), Hans VAN MIERLO; a host of minor parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b large multinational firms; Federation of Netherlands Trade Union Movement (comprising Socialist and Catholic trade unions) and a Protestant trade union; Federation of Catholic and Protestant Employers Associations; the nondenominational Federation of Netherlands Enterprises; and Interchurch Peace Council (IKV)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Adriaan JACOBOVITS DE SZEGED
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) 4200 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 244-5300
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 362-3430
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kirk Terry DORNBUSH
\Iembassy:\i Lange Voorhout 102, 2514 EJ The Hague
\Imailing address:\i PSC 71, Box 1000, APO AE 09715
\Itelephone:\i [31] (70) 310-9209
\IFAX:\i [31] (70) 361-4688
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAmsterdam\j
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and blue; similar to the flag of Luxembourg, which uses a lighter blue and is longer
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This highly developed and affluent economy is based on private enterprise. The government makes its presence felt, however, through many regulations, permit requirements, and welfare programs affecting most aspects of economic activity. The trade and financial services sector contributes over 50% of GDP. Industrial activity provides about 25% of GDP and is led by the food-processing, oil-refining, and metalworking industries. The highly mechanized agricultural sector employs only 4% of the labor force, but provides large surpluses for export and the domestic food-processing industry. Indeed, the Netherlands ranks third worldwide in value of agricultural exports, behind the US and \JFrance\j. High unemployment and a sizable budget deficit are currently the most serious economic problems. Many of the economic issues of the 1990s will reflect the course of European economic \Jintegration\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $301.9 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 73%, manufacturing and construction 23%, agriculture 4% (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 7.1% (fourth quarter 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $109.9 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $122.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
\BIndustries:\b agroindustries, metal and \Jengineering\j products, electrical machinery and equipment, chemicals, \Jpetroleum\j, fishing, construction, \Jmicroelectronics\j
\BIllicit drugs:\b important gateway for \Jcocaine\j, heroin, and hashish entering Europe; European producer of illicit amphetamines and other synthetic drugs
\BExports:\b $146 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i metal products, chemicals, processed food and \Jtobacco\j, agricultural products
\Ipartners:\i EU 73% (Germany 28%, Belgium-Luxembourg 13%, UK 9%), Central and Eastern Europe 2%, US 5% (1994)
\BImports:\b $133 billion (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i raw materials and semifinished products, consumer goods, transportation equipment, crude oil, food products
\Ipartners:\i EU 56% (Germany 21%, Belgium-Luxembourg 11%, UK 8.5%), US 8.6% (1994)
\BBranches:\b Royal Netherlands Army, Royal Netherlands Navy (includes Naval Air Service and Marine Corps), Royal Netherlands Air Force, Royal Constabulary
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 4,191,998
\Imales fit for military service:\i 3,670,253
males reach military age (20) annually: 94,013 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $8.2 billion, 2.1% of GDP (1995)
#
"Netherlands Antilles (Atlas)",172,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (part of the Dutch realm)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, two island groups in the Caribbean Sea - one includes Curacao and \JBonaire\j north of Venezuela and the other is east of the Virgin Islands
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 15 N, 68 45 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 960 sq km
\Iland area:\i 960 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i more than five times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes \JBonaire\j, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten (Dutch part of the island of Saint Martin)
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 364 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; ameliorated by northeast trade winds
\BTerrain:\b generally hilly, volcanic interiors
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Scenery 862 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jphosphates\j (Curacao only), salt (Bonaire only)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 92%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i Curacao and \JBonaire\j are south of Caribbean hurricane belt, so are rarely threatened; Sint Maarten, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are subject to hurricanes from July to October
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Whaling (extended from Netherlands)
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 208,968 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.03% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.98 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.29 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.72 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Seventh-Day Adventist
\BLanguages:\b Dutch (official), Papiamento a Spanish-Portuguese-Dutch-English \Jdialect\j predominates, English widely spoken, Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1981 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Netherlands \JAntilles\j
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Nederlandse Antillen
\BData code:\b NT
\BType of government:\b part of the Dutch realm; full autonomy in internal affairs granted in 1954
\BCapital:\b \JWillemstad\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (part of the Dutch realm)
\BIndependence:\b none (part of the Dutch realm)
\BNational holiday:\b Queen's Day, 30 April (1938)
\BConstitution:\b 29 December 1954, Statute of the Realm of the Netherlands, as amended
\BLegal system:\b based on Dutch civil law system, with some English common law influence
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen \JBEATRIX\j Wilhelmina Armgard (of the Netherlands since 30 April 1980) is a constitutional monarch, represented by Governor General Jaime SALEH (since NA October 1989), who was appointed for a six-year term by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Miguel POURIER (since 25 February 1994) was appointed by the Staten
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the Staten
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Staten: elections last held 25 February 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total) PAR 8, PNP 3, SPA 2, PDB 2, UPB 1, MAN 2, DP 1, WIPM 1, DP-St.E 1, DP-St.M 1, Nos Patria 1
\Bnote:\b the government of Prime Minister Miguel POURIER is a coalition of several parties
\BJudicial branch:\b Joint High Court of Justice
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b political parties are indigenous to each island
Bonaire: Patriotic Union of \JBonaire\j (UPB), Rudy ELLIS; Democratic Party of \JBonaire\j (PDB), Broertje JANJA
Curacao: Antillean Restructuring Party (PAR), Miguel POURIER; National People's Party (PNP), Maria LIBERIA-PETERS; New \JAntilles\j Movement (MAN), Domenico Felip Don MARTINA; Workers' Liberation Front (FOL), Wilson (Papa) GODETT; Socialist Independent (SI), George HUECK and Nelson MONTE; Democratic Party of Curacao (DP), Augustin DIAZ; Nos Patria, Chin BEHILIA
Saba: Windward Islands People's Movement (WIPM Saba), Ray HASSELL; Saba Democratic Labor Movement, Steve HASSELL; Saba Unity Party, Carmen SIMMONDS
Sint Eustatius: Democratic Party of Sint Eustatius (DP-St.E), Julian WOODLEY; Windward Islands People's Movement (WIPM); St. Eustatius Alliance (SEA), Ingrid WHITFIELD
Sint Maarten: Democratic Party of Sint Maarten (DP-St.M), Sarah WESTCOTT-WILLIAMS; Patriotic Movement of Sint Maarten (SPA), Vance JAMES; Serious Alternative People's Party (SAPP) Julian ROLLOCKS
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Consul General James L. WILLIAMS
consulate general(s): J.B. Gorsiraweg #1, Curacao
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 158, \JWillemstad\j, Curacao
\Itelephone:\i [599] (9) 61-3066
\IFAX:\i [599] (9) 61-6489
\BFlag:\b white with a horizontal blue stripe in the center superimposed on a vertical red band also centered; five white five-pointed stars are arranged in an oval pattern in the center of the blue band; the five stars represent the five main islands of \JBonaire\j, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tourism and offshore finance are the mainstays of this small economy, which is closely tied to the outside world. The islands enjoy a high per capita income and a well-developed \Jinfrastructure\j as compared with other countries in the region. Almost all consumer and capital goods are imported, with Venezuela and the US being the major suppliers. Poor soils and inadequate water supplies hamper the development of agriculture.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.92 billion (1994 est.)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 91%
\Imale:\i 92%
\Ifemale:\i 90%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of New Caledonia and Dependencies
\Iconventional short form:\i New Caledonia
\Ilocal long form:\i Territoire des Nouvelle-Caledonie et Dependances
\Ilocal short form:\i Nouvelle-Caledonie
\BData code:\b NC
\BType of government:\b overseas territory of \JFrance\j since 1956
\BCapital:\b \JNoumea\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 3 provinces named Iles Loyaute, Nord, and Sud
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j; a referendum on independence will be held in 1998)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b the 1988 Matignon Accords grant substantial autonomy to the islands; formerly under French law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by High Commissioner and President of the Council of Government Dominque BUR (since NA), who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the Territorial Assembly Pierre FROGIER (since NA) was elected by the members of the Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Consultative Committee
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Territorial Assembly: elections last held 9 July 1995 (next to be held NA July 2001); results - percent by party NA; seats - (54 total) RPCR 22, NCPT 7, other anti-independence parties 6, FLNKS 12, other pro-independence parties 7
French Senate: elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held NA September 2001); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) RPCR 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 March 1993 (next to be held 21 and 28 March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) RPCR 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b white-dominated Rassemblement pour la Caledonie dans la Republique (RPCR), conservative, Jacques LAFLEUR, president - affiliated to \JFrance\j's Rassemblement pour la Republique (RPR; also called South Province Party); Melanesian proindependence Kanaka Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), Rock WAMYTAN; Melanesian moderate Kanak Socialist Liberation (LKS), Nidoish NAISSELINE; National Front (FN), extreme right, Guy GEORGE; Caledonie Demain (CD), right-wing, Bernard MARANT; Union Oceanienne (UO), conservative, Michel HEMA; Front Uni de Liberation Kanak (FULK), proindependence, Clarence UREGEI; Union Caledonian (UC), Francois BURCK, president; "1999" (new party calling for an autonomous state), Philippe PENTECOST; Nouvelle-Caledonie Pour Toute (NCPT)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas territory of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas territory of France)
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands, blue (top), red, and green, with a yellow disk enclosing a black symbol centered to the hoist side; the flag of \JFrance\j is used for official occasions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b New Caledonia has more than 20% of the world's known nickel resources. In recent years, the economy has suffered because of depressed international demand for nickel, the principal source of export earnings. Only a negligible amount of the land is suitable for cultivation, and food accounts for about 25% of imports.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BExchange rates:\b Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 91.00 (January 1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.93 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc
\I65 years and over:\i 12% (male 177,182; female 233,684) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.12% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.72 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 3.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 77.01 years
\Imale:\i 73.96 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.21 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.01 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i New Zealander(s)
\Iadjective:\i New Zealand
\BEthnic divisions:\b European 88%, \JMaori\j 8.9%, Pacific Islander 2.9%, other 0.2%
\BReligions:\b Anglican 24%, Presbyterian 18%, Roman Catholic 15%, Methodist 5%, Baptist 2%, other Protestant 3%, unspecified or none 33% (1986)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), \JMaori\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i New Zealand
abbreviation: NZ
\BData code:\b NZ
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Wellington
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 93 counties, 9 districts*, and 3 town districts**; Akaroa, Amuri, Ashburton, Bay of Islands, Bruce, Buller, Chatham Islands, Cheviot, Clifton, Clutha, Cook, Dannevirke, Egmont, Eketahuna, Ellesmere, Eltham, Eyre, Featherston, Franklin, Golden Bay, Great Barrier Island, Grey, Hauraki Plains, Hawera*, Hawke's Bay, Heathcote, Hikurangi**, Hobson, Hokianga, Horowhenua, Hurunui, Hutt, Inangahua, Inglewood, Kaikoura, Kairanga, Kiwitea, Lake, Mackenzie, Malvern, Manaia**, Manawatu, Mangonui, Maniototo, Marlborough, Masterton, Matamata, Mount Herbert, Ohinemuri, Opotiki, Oroua, Otamatea, Otorohanga*, Oxford, Pahiatua, Paparua, Patea, Piako, Pohangina, Raglan, Rangiora*, Rangitikei, Rodney, Rotorua*, Runanga, Saint Kilda, Silverpeaks, Southland, Stewart Island, Stratford, Strathallan, Taranaki, Taumarunui, Taupo, Tauranga, Thames-Coromandel*, Tuapeka, Vincent, Waiapu, Waiheke, Waihemo, Waikato, Waikohu, Waimairi, Waimarino, Waimate, Waimate West, Waimea, Waipa, Waipawa*, Waipukurau*, Wairarapa South, Wairewa, Wairoa, Waitaki, Waitomo*, Waitotara, Wallace, Wanganui, Waverley**, Westland, Whakatane*, Whangarei, Whangaroa, Woodville
\Bnote:\b there may be a new administrative structure of 16 regions (Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Canterbury, \JGisborne\j, Hawke's Bay, Marlborough, Nelson, Northland, Otago, Southland, Taranaki, Tasman, Waikato, Wanganui-Manawatu, Wellington, West Coast) that are subdivided into 57 districts and 16 cities* (Ashburton, Auckland*, Banks Peninsula, Buller, Carterton, Central Hawke's Bay, Central Otago, Christchurch*, Clutha, Dunedin*, Far North, Franklin, \JGisborne\j, Gore, Grey, Hamilton*, Hastings, Hauraki, Horowhenua, Hurunui, Hutt*, Invercargill*, Kaikoura, Kaipara, Kapiti Coast, Kawerau, Mackenzie, Manawatu, Manukau*, Marlborough, Masterton, Matamata Piako, Napier*, Nelson*, New Plymouth, North Shore*, Opotiki, Otorohanga, Palmerston North*, Papakura*, Porirua*, Queenstown Lakes, Rangitikei, Rodney, Rotorua, Ruapehu, Selwyn, Southland, South Taranaki, South Waikato, South Wairarapa, Stratford, Tararua, Tasman, Taupo, Tauranga, Thames Coromandel, Timaru, Upper Hutt*, Waikato, Waimakariri, Waimate, Waipa, Wairoa, Waitakere*, Waitaki, Waitomo, Wanganui, Wellington*, Western Bay of Plenty, Westland, Whakatane, Whangarei)
Dependent areas: Cook Islands, Niue, Tokelau
\BIndependence:\b 26 September 1907 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British sovereignty)
\BConstitution:\b no formal, written constitution; consists of various documents, including certain acts of the UK and New Zealand Parliaments; Constitution Act 1986 was to have come into force 1 January 1987, but has not been enacted
\BLegal system:\b based on English law, with special land legislation and land courts for Maoris; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir Michael HARDIE BOYS (since 21 March 1996)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister James BOLGER (since 29 October 1990) and Deputy Prime Minister Donald McKINNON (since 2 November 1990) were appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council was appointed by the governor general on the recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Representatives (commonly called Parliament): elections last held 6 November 1993 (next must be called by November 1996); results - NP 35.2%, NZLP 34.7%, Alliance 18.3%, New Zealand First 8.3%; seats - (99 total) NP 50, NZLP 45, Alliance 2, New Zealand First Party 2
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court; Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Party (NP, government), James BOLGER; New Zealand Labor Party (NZLP, opposition), Helen CLARK; Alliance, Jim ANDERTON; Democratic Party, Dick RYAN; New Zealand Liberal Party, Hanmish MACINTYRE and Gilbert MYLES; Green Party, no official leader; Mana Motuhake, Sandra LEE; Socialist Unity Party (SUP, pro-Soviet), leader NA; New Zealand First, Winston PETERS; United New Zealand (UNZ), Clive MATTHEWSON; Conservative Party (formerly Right of Centre Party), Trevor ROGERS; Association of Consumers and Taxpayers, New Zealand (ACT), Richard PREBBLE; Christian Democrats, Graeme LEE; Christian Heritage Party (CH), Rev. Graham CAPILL
\Bnote:\b the New Zealand Liberal, New Labor, Democratic, and Mana Motuhake parties formed a coalition called the Alliance Party in September 1991; the Green Party joined the coalition in May 1992; the National Party government formed a coalition with the United New Zealand Party in February 1996; the coalition will be valid through the 1996 elections
\BInternational organization participation:\b ANZUS (US suspended security obligations to NZ on 11 August 1986), APEC, AsDB, \JAustralia\j Group, C, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, MTCR, NAM (guest), OECD, PCA, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lionel John WOOD
\Ichancery:\i 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 328-4800
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JApia\j (Western Samoa), Los Angeles
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Josiah Horton BEEMAN
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1190, Wellington; PSC 467, Box 1, FPO AP 96531-1001
\Itelephone:\i [64] (4) 472-2068
\IFAX:\i [64] (4) 472-3537
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Auckland
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant with four red five-pointed stars edged in white centered in the outer half of the flag; the stars represent the Southern Cross \Jconstellation\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Since 1984 the government has been reorienting an agrarian economy dependent on a guaranteed British market toward a more industrialized, open, free market economy that can compete on the global scene. The government has hoped that dynamic growth would boost real incomes, broaden and deepen the technological capabilities of the industrial sector, reduce inflationary pressures, and permit the expansion of welfare benefits. The initial results were mixed: \Jinflation\j is down from double-digit levels, but growth was sluggish in 1988-91. In 1992-93, growth picked up to 3% annually, a sign that the new economic approach was beginning to pay off. Business confidence strengthened in 1994, and export demand picked up in the Asia-Pacific region, resulting in 6.2% growth. Growth continued strong in 1995, and \Jinflation\j remains among the lowest in the industrial world. The government announced its first budget surplus in 16 years in FY94/95 and forecasts a surplus of $5.0 billion in FY97/98. The government intends to use the surplus to reduce the debt, increase social spending, and cut taxes - by $1.35 billion over two years beginning in 1996. Per capita GDP now is up to the levels of the big West European economies.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $62.3 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 21 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.7 million (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent international and domestic systems
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to \JAustralia\j and \JFiji\j; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 64, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.215 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 14 (1986 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 1.53 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b New Zealand Army, Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 927,212
\Imales fit for military service:\i 780,976
males reach military age (20) annually: 27,433 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $556 million, 1% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Nicaragua (Atlas)",175,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Costa Rica and \JHonduras\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 00 N, 85 00 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 129,494 sq km
\Iland area:\i 120,254 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New York State
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,231 km
\Iborder countries:\i Costa Rica 309 km, \JHonduras\j 922 km
\BCoastline:\b 910 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 25-nm security zone
continental shelf: natural prolongation
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b territorial disputes with \JColombia\j over the Archipelago de San Andres y \JProvidencia\j and Quita Sueno Bank; with respect to the maritime boundary question in the Golfo de Fonseca, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) referred the disputants to an earlier agreement in this century and advised that some tripartite resolution among El Salvador, \JHonduras\j, and \JNicaragua\j likely would be required; maritime boundary dispute with \JHonduras\j
\BClimate:\b tropical in lowlands, cooler in highlands
\BTerrain:\b extensive Atlantic coastal plains rising to central interior mountains; narrow Pacific coastal plain interrupted by volcanoes
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mogoton 2,438 m
\BNatural resources:\b gold, silver, copper, \Jtungsten\j, lead, zinc, timber, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 43%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 35%
\Iother:\i 12%
\BIrrigated land:\b 850 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; water \Jpollution\j
\Inatural hazards:\i destructive earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and occasionally severe hurricanes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 49,027; female 64,259) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.67% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 65.72 years
\Imale:\i 63.41 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.13 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.03 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Nicaraguan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Nicaraguan
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo (mixed Amerindian and white) 69%, white 17%, black 9%, Indian 5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant 5%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official)
\Bnote:\b English- and Indian-speaking minorities on Atlantic coast
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 65.7%
\Imale:\i 64.6%
\Ifemale:\i 66.6%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JNicaragua\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JNicaragua\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de \JNicaragua\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JNicaragua\j
\BData code:\b NU
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JManagua\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 15 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento), 2 autonomous regions* (regions autonomista, singular - region autonomista); Boaco, Carazo, Chinandega, Chontales, Esteli, \JGranada\j, Jinotega, Leon, Madriz, \JManagua\j, Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva \JSegovia\j, Atlantica Norte*, Atlantica Sur*, Rio San Juan, Rivas
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 9 January 1987
\BLegal system:\b civil law system; Supreme Court may review administrative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 16 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO (since 25 April 1990) was elected for a six-year term (amended to a five-year term in July 1995) by universal suffrage; Vice President Julia MENA Rivera (since 22 October 1995) replaced Virgilio GODOY, who resigned to run for the presidency in 1996 as required by law; election last held 25 February 1990 (next to be held 20 October 1996); results - Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO (UNO) 54.7%, Daniel ORTEGA Saavedra (FSLN) 40.8%, other 4.5%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional): elections last held 25 February 1990 (next to be held NA October 1996); results - UNO coalition 53.9%, Sandinista bloc 40.8%, PSC 1.6%, MUR 1.0%; seats - (92 total) UNO coalition 53 (Center Group 9, UDC 6, PSD 5, APC 5, PLC 5, PLI 4, PND 3, PAN 3, PNC 3, MDN 2, PCdeN 2, independents 6) and Sandinista bloc 39 (MRS 16, BUS-Sandinista 9, FSLN 8, Sandinista Group of Reflection 4, FSLN-independents 2)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges elected for a six-year term (amended to a seven-year term in July 1995) by the National Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
right: Liberal Constitutionalist Party (PLC), Arnold ALEMAN; Conservative Popular Alliance Party (APC), Myriam ARGUELLO; Independent Liberal Party for National Unity (PLIUN), Carlos GUERRA Gallardo; Conservative Action Movement (MAC); Conservative Party of \JNicaragua\j (PCN - formed in 1992 by the merger of the Conservative Social Party or PSC with the Democratic Conservative Party or PCD and the Conservative party of Labor or PCL), Fernando AGUERO; National Conservative Party (PNC), Adolfo CALERO, Noel VIDUARRE
center right: Neoliberal Party (PALI), Ricardo VEGA Garcia; Nicaraguan Resistance Party (PRN), Fabio GADEA, Enrique QUINONEZ; Independent Liberal Party (PLI), Wilfredo NAVARRO; National Project (PRONAL), Antonio LACAYO Oyanguren; Nicaraguan Democratic Alliance Party (PADENIC), Pedro MAYORGA Knilands; Nationalist Liberal Party (PLN), Roberto CASTILLO Quant; Party for Liberal Unity (PUL), Haroldo MONTEALEGRE; Fuerza '96, Francesco MAYORGA
center left: Christian Democratic Union (UDC), Luis Humberto GUZMAN; Nicaraguan Democratic Movement (MDN), Alfredo GUZMAN; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Adolfo JARQUIN; National Justice Party (PJN), Jorge DIAZ Cruz; National Action Party (PAN), Delvis MONTIEL; Renovating Action Movement (MAR), Pablo HERNANDEZ; Sandinista Renovation Movement (MRS), Sergio RAMIREZ; Social Christian Party (PCS), Erick RAMIREZ; Democratic Action Party (PAD), Eden PASTORA; "Up with Nicaragua" (Arriba Nicaragua), Alvaro ROBELO; National Democratic Party (PND), Alfredo CESAR Aquirre; Communist Party of \JNicaragua\j (PCdeN), Eli ALTIMIRANO Perez
left: Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), Daniel ORTEGA; Revolutionary Workers' Party (PRT), Bonifacio MIRANDA; Popular Action Movement-Marxist-Leninist (MAP-ML), Isidro TELLEZ; Nicaraguan Socialist Party (PSN), Gustavo TABLADA; Unidad Nicaraguense de Obreros, Campesinos, y Profesionales (UNOCP), Rosalio GONZALEZ Urbina; Central American Unionist Party (PUCA), Blanca ROJAS Echaverry
\Bnote:\b the UNO coalition that won the 1990 elections no longer exists; the different blocs that formerly were united under the UNO umbrella and their opposition to the Sandinistas now act and vote independently
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Workers Front (FNT) is a Sandinista umbrella group of eight labor unions: Sandinista Workers' Central (CST); Farm Workers Association (ATC); Health Workers Federation (FETASALUD); National Union of Employees (UNE); National Association of Educators of \JNicaragua\j (ANDEN); Union of Journalists of \JNicaragua\j (UPN); Heroes and Martyrs Confederation of Professional Associations (CONAPRO); and the National Union of Farmers and Ranchers (UNAG); Permanent Congress of Workers (CPT) is an umbrella group of four non-Sandinista labor unions: Confederation of Labor Unification (CUS); Autonomous Nicaraguan Workers' Central (CTN-A); Independent General Confederation of Labor (CGT-I); and Labor Action and Unity Central (CAUS); Nicaraguan Workers' Central (CTN) is an independent labor union; Superior Council of Private Enterprise (COSEP) is a confederation of business groups
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Roberto Genaro MAYORGA \JCortes\j
\Ichancery:\i 1627 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-6570
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John F. MAISTO
\Iembassy:\i Kilometer 4.5 Carretera Sur., \JManagua\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34021
\Itelephone:\i [505] (2) 666010 through 666013, 666015 through 18, 666026, 666027, 666032 through 33
\IFAX:\i [505] (2) 669074
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and blue with the national coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms features a triangle encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE \JNICARAGUA\j on the top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom; similar to the flag of El Salvador, which features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of \JHonduras\j, which has five blue stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Nicaraguan economy, devastated during the 1980s by economic mismanagement and civil war, is beginning to rebound. Since March 1991, when President CHAMORRO launched an ambitious economic stabilization program, \JNicaragua\j has had considerable success in reducing \Jinflation\j and obtaining substantial economic aid from abroad. Annual \Jinflation\j fell from more than 750% in 1991 to less than 5% in 1992. After rising again to an estimated 20% in 1993, the annual \Jinflation\j rate was 11.7% in 1994 and 11.4% in 1995. While economic growth was flat in 1992 and negative in 1993, the 1995 growth rate is about 4%, thanks to surges in most export categories. Recent legislation (November 1995) authorizing the privatization of the TELCOR telecommunications company and resolving the issue of property confiscated by the previous Sandinista government may reassure potential investors. The government's efforts to liberalize trade include a December 1995 decision to stop requiring exporters to bring their foreign exchange earnings into \JNicaragua\j. On the debt front, the Nicaraguan Government launched a successful debt buyback program in 1995, purchasing 73% of its $1.373 billion commercial debt inherited from previous governments. Progress also occurred on reducing bilateral debt in November 1995 as \JNicaragua\j reached an agreement with \JGermany\j, reducing \JNicaragua\j's $616 million debt to the former GDR by 80%. Debt reduction agreements with Paris Club creditors and rescheduling with the US also took place. Unemployment remains a pressing problem, however, with roughly half the country's population unemployed or underemployed.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.1 billion (1995 est.)
narrow gauge: 0 km 1.067-m gauge; note - part of the previous 376 km system was closed and dismantled in 1993 and, in 1994, the remainder was closed, the track and rolling stock being sold for scrap
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 26,000 km
\Ipaved:\i 4,000 km
\Iunpaved:\i 22,000 km (1993 est.)
\Bnote:\b there is a 368.5 km portion of the Pan-American Highway which is not included in the total
\BWaterways:\b 2,220 km, including 2 large lakes
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 56 km
\BPorts:\b Bluefields, \JCorinto\j, El Bluff, Puerto Cabezas, Puerto Sandino, Rama, San Juan del Sur
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 148
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 107
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 32 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 66,810 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b low-capacity microwave radio relay and wire system being expanded; connected to Central American Microwave System
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 45, FM 0, shortwave 3
\BRadios:\b 1.037 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 7 (1994 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 260,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 988,883
\Imales fit for military service:\i 608,753
males reach military age (18) annually: 47,786 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $28.1 million, NA% of GDP (1996)
#
"Niger (Atlas)",176,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, southeast of \JAlgeria\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 00 N, 8 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1.267 million sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,266,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,697 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 956 km, Benin 266 km, Burkina Faso 628 km, Chad 1,175 km, \JLibya\j 354 km, Mali 821 km, \JNigeria\j 1,497 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b \JLibya\j claims about 19,400 sq km in northern \JNiger\j; demarcation of international boundaries in Lake Chad, the lack of which has led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaiting ratification by \JCameroon\j, Chad, \JNiger\j, and \JNigeria\j; Burkina Faso and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with \JNiger\j
\BClimate:\b desert; mostly hot, dry, dusty; tropical in extreme south
\BTerrain:\b predominately desert plains and sand dunes; flat to rolling plains in south; hills in north
\Ilowest point:\i \JNiger\j River 200 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Greboun 1,944 m
\BNatural resources:\b uranium, coal, iron ore, tin, \Jphosphates\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 3%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 7%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 2%
\Iother:\i 88%
\BIrrigated land:\b 320 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i overgrazing; soil erosion; deforestation; \Jdesertification\j; wildlife populations (such as elephant, \Jhippopotamus\j, and lion) threatened because of poaching and habitat destruction
\Inatural hazards:\i recurring droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 117,337; female 104,810) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.99% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 54.46 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 24.57 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.12 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 117.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 40.66 years
\Imale:\i 41.05 years
\Ifemale:\i 40.25 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 7.44 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Nigerien(s)
\Iadjective:\i Nigerien
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JHausa\j 56%, Djerma 22%, Fula 8.5%, Tuareg 8%, Beri Beri (Kanouri) 4.3%, Arab, Toubou, and Gourmantche 1.2%, about 4,000 French expatriates
\BReligions:\b Muslim 80%, remainder indigenous beliefs and Christians
\BLanguages:\b French (official), \JHausa\j, Djerma
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\BNational holiday:\b Republic Day, 18 December (1958)
\BConstitution:\b the constitution of January 1993 was revised by national referendum on 12 May 1996
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Colonel Ibrahim BARE Mainassara (since 28 January 1996 when he ousted President Mahamane OUSMANE in a coup); Mahamane OUSMANE had been elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 March 1993 (next to be held 7 July 1996)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Boukary ADJI (since NA January 1996) appointed by President BARE
\Icabinet:\i National Salvation Council was appointed by President BARE
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elected by proportional representation for a five-year term; election last held 12 January 1995 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (83 total) MNSD-NASSARA 29, CDS 24, PNDS 12, ANDP-Z 9, UDFP 3, UDPS 2, PADN 2, PPN-RDA 1, UPDP 1; note - this National Assembly dissolved by President BARE after the coup on 28 January 1996
\BJudicial branch:\b State Court (Cour d'Etat); Court of Appeal (Cour d'Apel)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Movement of the Development Society (MNSD-NASSARA), Mamadou TANDJA, chairman; Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), Jacoub SANOUSSI; Nigerien Party for Democracy and \JSocialism\j (PNDS), Mahamadou ISSOUFOU; Nigerien Alliance for Democracy and Progress-Zamanlahia (ANDP-Z), Moumouni Adamou DJERMAKOYE; Union of Popular Forces for Democracy and Progress-Sawaba (UDFP), Djibo BAKARY, chairman; Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), Akoli DAOUEL; \JNiger\j Social Democrat Party (PADN), Malam Adji WAZIRI; \JNiger\j Progressive Party-African Democratic Rally (PPN-RDA), Dori ABDOULAI, chairman; Union of Patriots, Democrats, and Progressives (UPDP), Professor Andre SALIFOU, chairman
\Ichancery:\i 2204 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-4224 through 4227
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John S. DAVISON
\Iembassy:\i Rue Des Ambassades, Niamey
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 11201, Niamey
\Itelephone:\i [227] 72 26 61 through 72 26 64
\IFAX:\i [227] 73 31 67
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of orange (top), white, and green with a small orange disk (representing the sun) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of India, which has a blue spoked wheel centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JNiger\j is one of the world's poorest countries, with recent GDP growth barely matching the rapid growth of population. The economy is centered on subsistence agriculture, animal husbandry, and reexport trade, and increasingly less on uranium, its major export throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Uranium revenues dropped by almost 50% between 1983 and 1990 with the end of the uranium boom. Terms of trade with \JNigeria\j, \JNiger\j's largest regional trade partner, have improved dramatically since the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the African franc in January 1994; this \Jdevaluation\j boosted exports of livestock, peas, onions, and the products of \JNiger\j's small cotton industry. The government relies on bilateral and multilateral aid for operating expenses and public investment and is strongly induced to adhere to structural adjustment programs designed by the IMF and the World Bank.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,258 km
\Ipaved:\i 3,265 km
\Iunpaved:\i 7,993 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b \JNiger\j river is navigable 300 km from Niamey to Gaya on the Benin frontier from mid-December through March
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 23
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 6
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 11 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 14,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b small system of wire, radiotelephone communications, and microwave radio relay links concentrated in southwestern area
\Idomestic:\i wire, radiotelephone communications, and microwave radio relay; domestic satellite system with 3 earth stations and 1 planned
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 15, FM 5, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 500,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 38,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,920,244
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,035,218
males reach military age (18) annually: 92,132 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $32 million, 1.3% of GDP (FY92/93)
#
"Nigeria (Atlas)",177,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and \JCameroon\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 00 N, 8 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 923,770 sq km
\Iland area:\i 910,770 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,047 km
\Iborder countries:\i Benin 773 km, \JCameroon\j 1,690 km, Chad 87 km, \JNiger\j 1,497 km
\BCoastline:\b 853 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 30 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by \JCameroon\j, Chad, \JNiger\j, and \JNigeria\j; dispute with \JCameroon\j over land and maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been referred to the ICJ
\BClimate:\b varies; equatorial in south, tropical in center, arid in north
\BTerrain:\b southern lowlands merge into central hills and plateaus; mountains in southeast, plains in north
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Chappal Waddi 2,419 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, tin, columbite, iron ore, coal, \Jlimestone\j, lead, zinc, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 31%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 23%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 15%
\Iother:\i 28%
\BIrrigated land:\b 8,650 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil degradation; rapid deforestation; \Jdesertification\j; recent droughts in north severely affecting marginal agricultural activities
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 1,522,862; female 1,491,021) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.05% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 42.89 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 12.71 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 72.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 54.34 years
\Imale:\i 53.06 years
\Ifemale:\i 55.65 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.24 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Nigerian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Nigerian
\BEthnic divisions:\b
north: \JHausa\j and \JFulani\j
southwest: \JYoruba\j
southeast: Ibos non-Africans 27,000
\Bnote:\b \JHausa\j and \JFulani\j, \JYoruba\j, and Ibos together make up 65% of population
\BReligions:\b Muslim 50%, Christian 40%, indigenous beliefs 10%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), \JHausa\j, \JYoruba\j, Ibo, \JFulani\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 57.1%
\Imale:\i 67.3%
\Ifemale:\i 47.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Republic of \JNigeria\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JNigeria\j
\BData code:\b NI
\BType of government:\b military government; \JNigeria\j has been ruled by one military regime after another since 31 December 1983; on 1 October 1995, the present military government announced it will turn power over to democratically elected civilian authorities in October 1998
\BCapital:\b \JAbuja\j
\Bnote:\b on 12 December 1991 the capital was officially moved from Lagos to \JAbuja\j; many government offices remain in Lagos pending completion of facilities in \JAbuja\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 30 states and 1 territory*; Abia, \JAbuja\j Capital Territory*, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, \JNiger\j, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe; note - some new administrative units may have been created
\BIndependence:\b 1 October 1960 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 October (1960)
\BConstitution:\b 1979 constitution still in force; plan for 1989 constitution to take effect in 1993 was not implemented
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law, Islamic law, and tribal law
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council and Commander in Chief of Armed Forces and
\BDefense:\b Minister Gen. Sani ABACHA (since 17 November 1993); Vice Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council Oladipo DIYA (since 17 November 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Federal Executive Council
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly
Senate: suspended after military takeover of 17 November 1993
House of Representatives: suspended after military takeover of 17 November 1993
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed by the Armed Forces Ruling Council; Federal Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the federal government on the advice of the Advisory Judicial Committee
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Bnote:\b political party system suspended after the military takeover of 17 November 1993; the military regime has made successive promises to allow political parties to register at various times in 1996
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Zubair Mahmud KAZAURE
\Ichancery:\i 1333 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 986-8400
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Walter C. CARRINGTON
\Iembassy:\i 2 Eleke Crescent, Lagos
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 554, Lagos
\Itelephone:\i [234] (1) 261-0097
\IFAX:\i [234] (1) 261-0257
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The oil-rich Nigerian economy continues to be hobbled by political instability, corruption, and poor macroeconomic management. \JNigeria\j's unpopular military rulers failed to make significant progress in diversifying the economy away from overdependence on the capital intensive oil sector which provides almost all foreign exchange earnings and about 80% of budgetary revenues. Regime officials also appear divided on how to redress fundamental economic imbalances that result in troublesome \Jinflation\j, the steady depreciation of the naira, and the discouragement of investors. The government's domestic and international arrears continue to limit economic growth and prevent an agreement with the IMF and bilateral creditors on debt relief. The largely subsistence agricultural sector has failed to keep up with rapid population growth, and \JNigeria\j, once a large net exporter of food, now must import food.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $135.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b passenger and cargo air hub for West Africa; facilitates movement of heroin en route from Southeast and Southwest Asia to Western Europe and North America; increasingly a transit route for \Jcocaine\j from South America intended for West European, East Asian, and North American markets
\BExports:\b $9.9 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
\Icommodities:\i oil 98%, \Jcocoa\j, rubber
\Ipartners:\i US 52%, EC 34%
\BImports:\b $7.5 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
\Icommodities:\i machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, food and animals
ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 16, chemical tanker 3, oil tanker 12, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 66
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 6
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 10
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 10
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 8
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 18
with unpaved runways over 3,047 m: 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 12 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 492,204 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b average system limited by poor maintenance; major expansion in progress
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, and 20 domestic satellite earth stations carry intercity traffic
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); 1 coaxial submarine cable
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 35, FM 17, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 20 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 28
\BTelevisions:\b 3.8 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 23,739,192
\Imales fit for military service:\i 13,587,780
males reach military age (18) annually: 1,065,410 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $172 million, about 1% of GDP (1992)
#
"Niue (Atlas)",178,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (free association with New Zealand)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of \JTonga\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 02 S, 169 52 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 260 sq km
\Iland area:\i 260 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 64 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; modified by southeast trade winds
\BTerrain:\b steep \Jlimestone\j cliffs along coast, central plateau
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location near Mutalau settlement 68 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, arable land
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 61%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 4%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 19%
\Iother:\i 12%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i traditional methods of burning brush and trees to clear land for agriculture have threatened soil supplies which are not naturally very abundant
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons
\Iinternational agreements:\i signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b one of world's largest \Jcoral\j islands
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,174 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -0.62% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Niuean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Niuean
\BEthnic divisions:\b Polynesian (with some 200 Europeans, Samoans, and Tongans)
\BReligions:\b Ekalesia Nieue (Niuean Church) 75% - a Protestant church closely related to the London Missionary Society, Morman 10%, other 15% (mostly Roman Catholic, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses, Seventh-Day Adventist)
\BLanguages:\b Polynesian closely related to Tongan and Samoan, English
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Niue
\BData code:\b NE
\BType of government:\b self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand; Niue fully responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs
\BCapital:\b Alofi
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none
\BIndependence:\b 19 October 1974 (became a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand on 19 October 1974)
\BNational holiday:\b Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British sovereignty)
\BConstitution:\b 19 October 1974 (Niue Constitution Act)
\BLegal system:\b English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; the queen and New Zealand are represented by New Zealand High Commissioner Warren SEARELL (since NA August 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Premier Frank Fakaotimanava LUI (acting premier since NA December 1992, premier since 12 March 1993) was reelected by the Legislative Assembly; election last held 23 February 1996 (next to be held NA March 1999)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet consists of the premier and three ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly: elections last held 23 February 1996 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (20 total, 6 elected) NPP 9, independents 11
\BJudicial branch:\b Appeal Court of New Zealand; High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Niue Peoples Party (NPP), Young VIVIAN
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
\BFlag:\b yellow with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant; the flag of the UK bears five yellow five-pointed stars - a large one on a blue disk in the center and a smaller one on each arm of the bold red cross
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is heavily dependent on aid from New Zealand. Government expenditures regularly exceed revenues, with the shortfall made up by grants from New Zealand - the grants are used to pay wages to public employees. The agricultural sector consists mainly of subsistence gardening, although some cash crops are grown for export. Industry consists primarily of small factories to process passion fruit, lime oil, honey, and coconut cream. The sale of postage stamps to foreign collectors is an important source of revenue. The island in recent years has suffered a serious loss of population because of migration of Niueans to New Zealand.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.4 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,200 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 5% (1992)
\BLabor force:\b 1,000 (1981 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i most work on family plantations; paid work exists only in government service, small industry, and the Niue Development Board
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $5.5 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $6.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 276 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i single-line \Jtelephone\j system connects all villages on island
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1987 est.)
\BRadios:\b 1,000
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 312 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Police Force
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of New Zealand
#
"Norfolk Island (Atlas)",179,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Australia)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 29 02 S, 167 57 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 34.6 sq km
\Iland area:\i 34.6 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.2 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 32 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b subtropical, mild, little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b volcanic formation with mostly rolling plains
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Bates 319 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 25%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 75%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons (especially May to July)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,209 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -0.68% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Norfolk Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Norfolk Islander(s)
\BEthnic divisions:\b descendants of the Bounty mutineers, Australian, New Zealander
\BReligions:\b Anglican 39%, Roman Catholic 11.7%, Uniting Church in \JAustralia\j 16.4%, Seventh-Day Adventist 4.4%, none 9.2%, unknown 16.9%, other 2.4% (1986)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Norfolk a mixture of 18th century English and ancient Tahitian
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Norfolk Island
\Iconventional short form:\i Norfolk Island
\BData code:\b NF
\BType of government:\b territory of \JAustralia\j
\BCapital:\b Kingston (administrative center); Burnt Pine (commercial center)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Australia)
\BNational holiday:\b Pitcairners Arrival Day Anniversary, 8 June (1856)
\BConstitution:\b Norfolk Island Act of 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on the laws of \JAustralia\j, local ordinances and acts; English common law applies in matters not covered by either Australian or Norfolk Island law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; the queen and \JAustralia\j are represented by Administrator Alan Gardner KERR (since NA April 1992) who was appointed by the governor general of \JAustralia\j
\Ihead of government:\i Assembly President and Chief Minister John Terrence BROWN (since NA) was elected for not more than three years by the Legislative Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council is made up of executive members of the Legislative Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly: elections last held 20 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (9 total) independents 9
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of Australia)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of Australia)
\BFlag:\b three vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green with a large green Norfolk Island pine tree centered in the slightly wider white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The primary economic activity is tourism, which has brought a level of prosperity unusual among inhabitants of the Pacific islands. The number of visitors has increased steadily over the years and reached 29,000 in FY88/89. Revenues from tourism have given the island a favorable balance of trade and helped the agricultural sector to become self-sufficient in the production of beef, poultry, and eggs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 1,395 (1991 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $4.6 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $4.8 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93)
\BIndustries:\b tourism
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 7,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 8 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 3,160 kWh (1990)
\BAgriculture:\b Norfolk Island pine seed, Kentia palm seed, \Jcereals\j, vegetables, fruit; \Jcattle\j, poultry
\BExports:\b $1.5 million (f.o.b., FY91/92)
\Icommodities:\i postage stamps, seeds of the Norfolk Island pine and Kentia palm, small quantities of avocados
\Ipartners:\i \JAustralia\j, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe
\BImports:\b $17.9 million (c.i.f., FY91/92)
\Icommodities:\i NA
\Ipartners:\i \JAustralia\j, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b none
\BCurrency:\b 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
\BPorts:\b none; loading jetties at Kingston and Cascade
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,087 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone service with Sydney (Australia)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 900 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j
#
"Northern Mariana Islands (Atlas)",180,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (commonwealth in political union with the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the \JPhilippines\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 12 N, 145 45 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 477 sq km
\Iland area:\i 477 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes 14 islands including Saipan, \JRota\j, and \JTinian\j
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,482 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; moderated by northeast trade winds, little seasonal temperature variation; dry season December to June, rainy season July to October
\BTerrain:\b southern islands are \Jlimestone\j with level terraces and fringing \Jcoral\j reefs; northern islands are volcanic
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Agrihan 965 m
\BNatural resources:\b arable land, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 5% on Saipan
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 19%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i contamination of \Jgroundwater\j on Saipan by raw sewage contributes to disease
\Inatural hazards:\i active volcanoes on Pagan and Agrihan; typhoons (especially August to November)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 52,284 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.04% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.05 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 37.96 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 67.43 years
\Imale:\i 65.53 years
\Ifemale:\i 69.48 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.69 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i NA
\Iadjective:\i NA
\BEthnic divisions:\b Chamorro, Carolinians and other Micronesians, Caucasian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean
\BReligions:\b Christian (Roman Catholic majority, although traditional beliefs and taboos may still be found)
\BLanguages:\b English, Chamorro, Carolinian
\Bnote:\b 86% of population speaks a language other than English at home
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 96%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Northern Mariana Islands
\BData code:\b CQ
\BType of government:\b commonwealth in political union with the US; self-governing with locally elected governor, lieutenant governor, and legislature; federal funds to the Commonwealth administered by the US Department of the Interior, Office of Territorial and International Affairs
\BCapital:\b Saipan
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none
\BIndependence:\b none (commonwealth in political union with the US)
\BNational holiday:\b Commonwealth Day, 8 January (1978)
\BConstitution:\b Covenant Agreement effective 3 November 1986 and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
\BLegal system:\b based on US system except for customs, wages, \Jimmigration\j laws, and taxation
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal; indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do not vote in US presidential elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of the United States) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Froilan C. TENORIO (since NA January 1994) and Lieutenant Governor Jesus C. BORJA (since NA January 1994) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held in NA November 1993 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - Froilan C. TENORIO (Democrat) was elected governor with 56% of the vote
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Legislature
Senate: elections last held NA November 1993 (next to be held NA November 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (9 total) Republicans retained a majority of the seats
House of Representatives: elections last held NA November 1993 (next to be held NA November 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (18 total) Republicans retained a majority of the seats
US House of Representatives: the Commonwealth does not have a nonvoting delegate in Congress; instead, it has an elected official "resident representative" located in Washington, DC; seats - (1 total) Juan N. BABAUTA (Republican)
\BJudicial branch:\b Commonwealth Supreme Court; Superior Court; Federal District Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Republican Party, Benigno R. FITIAL, leader; Democratic Party, Dr. Carlos S. CAMACHO, chairman
\BFlag:\b blue with a white five-pointed star superimposed on the gray silhouette of a latte stone (a traditional foundation stone used in building) in the center, surrounded by a wreath
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy benefits substantially from financial assistance from the US. The rate of funding has declined as locally generated government revenues have grown. An agreement for the years 1986 to 1992 entitled the islands to $228 million for capital development, government operations, and special programs. A rapidly growing major source of income is the tourist industry, which now employs about 50% of the work force. Japanese tourists predominate. The agricultural sector is of minor importance and is made up of \Jcattle\j ranches and small farms producing coconuts, breadfruit, tomatoes, and melons. Industry is small scale, mostly handicrafts, light manufacturing, and garment production.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $524 million (1994 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1984)
\BRadios:\b 15,350 (1987 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\Bnote:\b there are 2 cable TV stations
\BTelevisions:\b 10,650 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Norway (Atlas)",181,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Sweden
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 62 00 N, 10 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 324,220 sq km
\Iland area:\i 307,860 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,515 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JFinland\j 729 km, Sweden 1,619 km, \JRussia\j 167 km
\BCoastline:\b 21,925 km (includes mainland 3,419 km, large islands 2,413 km, long fjords, numerous small islands, and minor indentations 16,093 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 10 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 4 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Queen Maud Land); maritime boundary dispute with \JRussia\j over portion of Barents Sea
\BClimate:\b temperate along coast, modified by North Atlantic Current; colder interior; rainy year-round on west coast
\BTerrain:\b glaciated; mostly high plateaus and rugged mountains broken by fertile valleys; small, scattered plains; coastline deeply indented by fjords; \Jarctic\j \Jtundra\j in north
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j; acid rain damaging forests and adversely affecting lakes, threatening fish stocks; air \Jpollution\j from vehicle emissions
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b about two-thirds mountains; some 50,000 islands off its much indented coastline; strategic location adjacent to sea lanes and air routes in North Atlantic; one of most rugged and longest coastlines in world; \JNorway\j and Turkey only \JNATO\j members having a land boundary with \JRussia\j
\BReligions:\b Evangelical Lutheran 87.8% (state church), other Protestant and Roman Catholic 3.8%, none 3.2%, unknown 5.2% (1980)
\BLanguages:\b Norwegian (official)
\Bnote:\b small Lapp- and Finnish-speaking minorities
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of \JNorway\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JNorway\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Kongeriket Norge
\Ilocal short form:\i Norge
\BData code:\b NO
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b Oslo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 19 provinces (fylker, singular - fylke); Akershus, Aust-Agder, Buskerud, Finnmark, Hedmark, Hordaland, More og Romsdal, Nordland, Nord-Trondelag, Oppland, Oslo, Ostfold, Rogaland, Sogn og Fjordane, Sor-Trondelag, Telemark, Troms, Vest-Agder, Vestfold
Dependent areas: Bouvet Island, Jan Mayen, Svalbard
\BIndependence:\b 26 October 1905 (from Sweden)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day, 17 May (1814)
\BConstitution:\b 17 May 1814, modified in 1884
\BLegal system:\b mixture of customary law, civil law system, and common law traditions; Supreme Court renders advisory opinions to legislature when asked; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King HARALD V (since 17 January 1991) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince HAAKON MAGNUS (born 20 July 1973)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Gro Harlem BRUNDTLAND (since 3 November 1990) was appointed by the king with the approval of the Storting
\Icabinet:\i State Council was appointed by the king with the approval of the Storting
\BLegislative branch:\b modified unicameral Parliament (Storting) which, for certain purposes, divides itself into two chambers
Storting: elections last held 13 September 1993 (next to be held NA September 1997); results - Labor 37.1%, Center Party 18.5%, Conservatives 15.6%, Christian People's 8.4%, Socialist Left 7.9%, Progress 6%, Left Party 3.6%, Red Electoral Alliance 1.2%; seats - (165 total) Labor 67, Center Party 32, Conservatives 18, Christian People's 13, Socialist Left 13, Progress 10, Left Party 1, Red Electoral Alliance 1, unawarded 10
\Bnote:\b for certain purposes, the Storting divides itself into two chambers and elects one-fourth of its membership to an upper house or Lagting
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Hoyesterett), justices appointed by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Labor Party, Thorbjorn JAGLAND; Conservative Party, Jan PETERSEN; Center Party, Anne ENGER LAHNSTEIN; Christian People's Party, Valgerd HAUGLAND; Socialist Left, Erik SOLHEIM; Norwegian Communist, Kare Andre NILSEN; Progress Party, Carl I. \JHAGEN\j; Liberal, Odd Einar DORUM; Left Party; Red Electoral Alliance, Erling FOLKVORD
\Ichancery:\i 2720 34th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 333-6000
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 337-0870
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Houston, Los Angeles, \JMinneapolis\j, New York, and San Francisco
\Iconsulate(s):\i Miami
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Thomas A. LOFTUS
\Iembassy:\i Drammensveien 18, 0244 Oslo
\Imailing address:\i PSC 69, Box 1000, APO AE 09707
\Itelephone:\i [47] 22 44 85 50
\IFAX:\i [47] 22 44 33 63
\BFlag:\b red with a blue cross outlined in white that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JNorway\j has a mixed economy involving a combination of free market activity and government intervention. The government controls key areas, such as the vital \Jpetroleum\j sector (through large-scale state enterprises), and extensively subsidizes agriculture, fishing, and areas with sparse resources. \JNorway\j also maintains an extensive welfare system that helps propel public sector expenditures to more than 50% of GDP and results in one of the highest average tax burdens in the world (46%). A small country with a high dependence on international trade, \JNorway\j is basically an exporter of raw materials and semiprocessed goods, with an abundance of small- and medium-sized firms, and is ranked among the major shipping nations. The country is richly endowed with natural resources - \Jpetroleum\j, hydropower, fish, forests, and minerals - and is highly dependent on its oil sector. \JNorway\j imports more than half its food needs. Economic growth, only 1.6% in 1993, moved up to 5.5% in 1994 and remained strong in 1995. Oslo opted to stay out of the EU during a referendum in November 1994.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $106.2 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 71%, industry 23%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 6% (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8% (including people in job-training programs; November 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $48.6 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $53 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j and gas, food processing, shipbuilding, pulp and paper products, metals, chemicals, timber, mining, textiles, fishing
Industrial production growth rate: 7.4% (1994)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 27,280,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 118 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 23,735 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b oats, other grains; beef, milk; livestock output exceeds value of crops; among world's top 10 fishing nations; fish catch of 1.76 million metric tons in 1989
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for drugs shipped via the \JCIS\j and Baltic states for the European market
\BExports:\b $34.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products 43%, metals and products 11%, foodstuffs (mostly fish) 9%, chemicals and raw materials 25%, natural gas 6.0%, ships 5.4%
\Ipartners:\i EU 77.8% (UK 20.8%, \JGermany\j 12.4%, \JFrance\j 8.12%), Sweden 9.4%, US 6.7%, \JJapan\j 1.9% (1994)
\BImports:\b $27.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment and manufactured consumer goods 54%, chemicals and other industrial inputs 39%, foodstuffs 6%
\Ipartners:\i EU 68.9% (Germany 13.9%, UK 10.4%, Denmark 7.4%), Sweden 15%, US 7.4%, \JJapan\j 6.0% (1994)
\Bnote:\b the government has created an internal register, the Norwegian International Ship Register (NIS), as a subset of the Norwegian register; ships on the NIS enjoy many benefits of flags of convenience and do not have to be crewed by Norwegians (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 102
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 12
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 11
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 60
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2.39 million (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b high-quality domestic and international \Jtelephone\j, telegraph, and telex services
\Idomestic:\i NA domestic satellite earth stations
\Iinternational:\i 2 buried coaxial cable systems; 4 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - NA Eutelsat, NA Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - \JNorway\j shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, \JFinland\j, \JIceland\j, and Sweden)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 46, FM 493 (350 private and 143 government), shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Norwegian Army, Royal Norwegian Navy (includes Coast Artillery and Coast Guard), Royal Norwegian Air Force, Home Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,125,302
\Imales fit for military service:\i 937,309
males reach military age (20) annually: 28,328 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.7 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1995)
#
"Oman (Atlas)",182,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf, between Yemen and UAE
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 00 N, 57 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 212,460 sq km
\Iland area:\i 212,460 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Kansas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,374 km
\Iborder countries:\i Saudi \JArabia\j 676 km, UAE 410 km, Yemen 288 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,092 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b no defined boundary with most of UAE, but Administrative Line in far north
\BClimate:\b dry desert; hot, humid along coast; hot, dry interior; strong southwest summer monsoon (May to September) in far south
\BTerrain:\b vast central desert plain, rugged mountains in north and south
\Ilowest point:\i Arabian Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal ash Sham 2,980 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, copper, \Jasbestos\j, some marble, \Jlimestone\j, \Jchromium\j, \Jgypsum\j, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 93%
\BIrrigated land:\b 410 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i rising soil \Jsalinity\j; beach \Jpollution\j from oil spills; very limited natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i summer winds often raise large sandstorms and dust storms in interior; periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location with small foothold on Musandam Peninsula controlling Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 26,623; female 32,427) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.53% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 37.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.44 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 1.84 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.19 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.82 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 27.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.53 years
\Imale:\i 68.59 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.57 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.09 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Omani(s)
\Iadjective:\i Omani
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab, \JBaluchi\j, South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi), African
\BReligions:\b Ibadhi Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim, Shi'a Muslim, Hindu
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), English, \JBaluchi\j, \JUrdu\j, Indian dialects
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Sultanate of Oman
\Iconventional short form:\i Oman
\Ilocal long form:\i Saltanat Uman
\Ilocal short form:\i Uman
\BData code:\b MU
\BType of government:\b monarchy
\BCapital:\b Muscat
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 regions (mintaqah, singular - mintaqat) and 2 governorates* (muhafazah, singular - muhafazat) Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah, Al Wusta, Ash Sharqiyah, Az Zahirah, Masqat, Musandam*, Zufar*
\BIndependence:\b 1650 (expulsion of the Portuguese)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 18 November (1940)
\BConstitution:\b none
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and Islamic law; ultimate appeal to the sultan; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Sultan and Prime Minister QABOOS bin Said Al Said (since 23 July 1970) is a hereditary monarch;
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the sultan
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Consultative Council (Majlis ash Shura): a 60-member body with advisory powers only
\BJudicial branch:\b none; traditional Islamic judges and a nascent civil court system, administered by region
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b NA
\BInternational organization participation:\b ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GCC, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Abdallah bin Muhammad bin Aqil al-DHAHAB
\Ichancery:\i 2535 Belmont Road, NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 387-1980 through 1982
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 745-4933
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Frances D. COOK
\Iembassy:\i address NA, Muscat
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 202, Code No. 115, Medinat Qaboos, Muscat
\Itelephone:\i [968] 698989
\IFAX:\i [968] 699779
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of white (top, double width), red, and green (double width) with a broad, vertical, red band on the hoist side; the national emblem (a khanjar dagger in its sheath superimposed on two crossed swords in scabbards) in white is centered at the top of the vertical band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic performance is closely tied to the fortunes of the oil industry. \JPetroleum\j accounts for nearly 90% of export earnings, about 75% of government revenues, and roughly 40% of GDP. Oman has proved oil reserves of 4 billion barrels, equivalent to about 20 years' supply at the current rate of extraction. Agriculture is carried on at a subsistence level and the general population depends on imported food. The government is encouraging private investment, both domestic and foreign, as a prime force for further economic development.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $19.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 4, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b 1.043 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\BTelevisions:\b 1.195 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary (includes Royal Oman Police)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 532,113
\Imales fit for military service:\i 301,747 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.82 billion, 13.7% of GDP (1996)
#
"Pacific Ocean (Atlas)",183,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b body of water between \JAntarctica\j, Asia, \JAustralia\j, and the Western Hemisphere
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 00 N, 160 00 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 165.384 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 18 times the size of the US; the largest ocean (followed by the Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the \JArctic\j Ocean); covers about one-third of the global surface; larger than the total land area of the world
\Bnote:\b includes Bali Sea, Bellingshausen Sea, Bering Sea, Bering Strait, \JCoral\j Sea, East China Sea, Flores Sea, Gulf of \JAlaska\j, Gulf of Tonkin, Java Sea, Philippine Sea, Ross Sea, Savu Sea, Sea of \JJapan\j, Sea of Okhotsk, South China Sea, Tasman Sea, \JTimor\j Sea, and other tributary water bodies
\BCoastline:\b 135,663 km
\BInternational disputes:\b some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
\BClimate:\b planetary air pressure systems and resultant wind patterns exhibit remarkable uniformity in the south and east; trade winds and westerly winds are well-developed patterns, modified by seasonal fluctuations; tropical cyclones (hurricanes) may form south of Mexico from June to October and affect Mexico and Central America; continental influences cause climatic uniformity to be much less pronounced in the eastern and western regions at the same latitude in the North Pacific Ocean; the western Pacific is monsoonal - a rainy season occurs during the summer months, when moisture-laden winds blow from the ocean over the land, and a dry season during the winter months, when dry winds blow from the Asian land mass back to the ocean; tropical cyclones (typhoons) may strike southeast and East Asia from May to December
\BTerrain:\b surface currents in the northern Pacific are dominated by a clockwise, warm-water gyre (broad circular system of currents) and in the southern Pacific by a counterclockwise, cool-water gyre; in the northern Pacific, sea ice forms in the Bering Sea and Sea of Okhotsk in winter; in the southern Pacific, sea ice from \JAntarctica\j reaches its northernmost extent in October; the ocean floor in the eastern Pacific is dominated by the East Pacific Rise, while the western Pacific is dissected by deep trenches, including the Marianas Trench, which is the world's deepest
\Ilowest point:\i Marianas Trench -10,924 m
\Ihighest point:\i sea level 0 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil and gas fields, polymetallic nodules, sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, fish
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i endangered marine species include the \Jdugong\j, sea lion, sea \Jotter\j, seals, turtles, and whales; oil \Jpollution\j in Philippine Sea and South China Sea
\Inatural hazards:\i surrounded by a zone of violent volcanic and \Jearthquake\j activity sometimes referred to as the "Pacific Ring of Fire"; subject to tropical cyclones (typhoons) in southeast and east Asia from May to December (most frequent from July to October); tropical cyclones (hurricanes) may form south of Mexico and strike Central America and Mexico from June to October (most common in August and September); southern shipping lanes subject to icebergs from \JAntarctica\j; occasional El Nino phenomenon occurs off the coast of \JPeru\j, when the trade winds slacken and the warm Equatorial Countercurrent moves south, killing the plankton that is the primary food source for anchovies; consequently, the anchovies move to better feeding grounds, causing resident marine birds to starve by the thousands because of the loss of their food source; ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme north from October to May and in extreme south from May to October; persistent fog in the northern Pacific can be a maritime hazard from June to December
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b the major choke points are the Bering Strait, Panama Canal, \JLuzon\j Strait, and the \JSingapore\j Strait; the Equator divides the Pacific Ocean into the North Pacific Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean; dotted with low \Jcoral\j islands and rugged volcanic islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean
\BGovernment:\b
\BData code:\b none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Pacific Ocean is a major contributor to the world economy and particularly to those nations its waters directly touch. It provides low-cost sea transportation between East and West, extensive fishing grounds, offshore oil and gas fields, minerals, and sand and gravel for the construction industry. In 1985 over half (54%) of the world's fish catch came from the Pacific Ocean, which is the only ocean where the fish catch has increased every year since 1978. Exploitation of offshore oil and gas reserves is playing an ever-increasing role in the energy supplies of \JAustralia\j, NZ, China, US, and \JPeru\j. The high cost of recovering offshore oil and gas, combined with the wide swings in world prices for oil since 1985, has slowed but not stopped new drillings.
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b \JBangkok\j (Thailand), Hong Kong, Kao-hsiung (Taiwan), Los Angeles (US), Manila (Philippines), Pusan (South Korea), San Francisco (US), Seattle (US), Shanghai (China), \JSingapore\j, Sydney (Australia), Vladivostok (Russia), Wellington (NZ), \JYokohama\j (Japan)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Iinternational:\i several submarine cables with network nodal points on \JGuam\j and Hawaii
#
"Pakistan (Atlas)",184,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea, between India and \JIran\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 30 00 N, 70 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 803,940 sq km
\Iland area:\i 778,720 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,774 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 2,430 km, China 523 km, India 2,912 km, \JIran\j 909 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,046 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b status of Kashmir with India; border dispute with \JAfghanistan\j (Durand Line); water-sharing problems over the Indus (Wular Barrage) with upstream riparian India
\BClimate:\b mostly hot, dry desert; temperate in northwest; \Jarctic\j in north
\BTerrain:\b flat Indus plain in east; mountains in north and northwest; Balochistan plateau in west
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i K2 (Mt. Godwin-Austen) 8,611 m
\BNatural resources:\b land, extensive natural gas reserves, limited \Jpetroleum\j, poor quality coal, iron ore, copper, salt, \Jlimestone\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 23%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 6%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 67% (1993)
\BIrrigated land:\b 170,000 sq km (1992)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from raw sewage, industrial wastes, and agricultural runoff; limited natural fresh water resources; a majority of the population does not have access to potable water; deforestation; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent earthquakes, occasionally severe especially in north and west; flooding along the Indus after heavy rains (July and August)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b controls Khyber Pass and Bolan Pass, traditional invasion routes between Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 2,621,721; female 2,597,018) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.24% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 36.16 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 11.22 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 96.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 58.46 years
\Imale:\i 57.7 years
\Ifemale:\i 59.25 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.25 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Pakistani(s)
\Iadjective:\i Pakistani
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JPunjabi\j, Sindhi, Pashtun (Pathan), Baloch, Muhajir (immigrants from India and their descendants)
\BReligions:\b Muslim 97% (Sunni 77%, Shi'a 20%), Christian, Hindu, and other 3%
\BLanguages:\b \JPunjabi\j 48%, Sindhi 12%, Siraiki (a \JPunjabi\j variant) 10%, Pashtu 8%, \JUrdu\j (official) 8%, Balochi 3%, Hindko 2%, Brahui 1%, English (official and lingua franca of Pakistani elite and most government ministries), Burushaski, and other 8%
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 37.8%
\Imale:\i 50%
\Ifemale:\i 24.4%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Islamic Republic of \JPakistan\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JPakistan\j
\Iformer:\i West \JPakistan\j
\BData code:\b PK
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Islamabad
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 4 provinces, 1 territory*, and 1 capital territory**; Balochistan, Federally Administered Tribal Areas*, Islamabad Capital Territory**, North-West Frontier, Punjab, Sindh
\Bnote:\b the Pakistani-administered portion of the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region includes Azad Kashmir and the Northern Areas
\BIndependence:\b 14 August 1947 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b \JPakistan\j Day, 23 March (1956) (proclamation of the republic)
\BConstitution:\b 10 April 1973, suspended 5 July 1977, restored with amendments 30 December 1985
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law with provisions to accommodate \JPakistan\j's stature as an Islamic state; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal; separate electorates and reserved parliamentary seats for non-Muslims
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Sardar Farooq LEGHARI (since 13 November 1993) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 13 November 1993 (next to be held no later than 14 October 1998); results - LEGHARI was elected by Parliament and the four provincial assemblies
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Benazir BHUTTO (since 19 October 1993) was elected by the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was elected by the National Assembly
Senate: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (87 total) PPP 22, PML/N 17; Tribal Area Representatives (nonparty) 8, ANP 6, PML/J 5, JWP 5, MQM/A 5, JUI/F 2, PKMAP 2, JI 2, NPP 2, BNM/H 1, BNM/M 1, JUP/NI 1, JUP/NO 1, JAH 1, JUI/S 1, PML/F 1, PNP 1, independents 2, vacant 1
National Assembly: elections last held 6 October 1993 (next to be held by October 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (217 total) PPP 92, PML/N 75, PML/J 6, IJM-Islamic Democratic Front 4, ANP 3, PKMAP 4, PIF 3, JWP 2, MDM 2, BNM/H 1, BNM/M 1, NDA 1, NPP 1, PKQP 1, religious minorities 10 reserved seats, independents 9, results pending 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judicial chiefs are appointed by the president; Federal Islamic (Shari'at) Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
government: \JPakistan\j People's Party (PPP), Benazir BHUTTO; \JPakistan\j Muslim League, Junejo faction (PML/J), Hamid Nasir CHATTHA; National People's Party (NPP), Ghulam Mustapha JATOI; Pakhtun Khwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP), Mahmood Khan ACHAKZAI; Balochistan National Movement, Hayee Group (BNM/H), Dr. HAYEE Baluch; National Democratic Alliance (NDA); Pakhtun Quami Party (PKQP), Mohammed AFZAL Khan
opposition: \JPakistan\j Muslim League, Nawaz Sharif faction (PML/N), Nawaz SHARIF; Awami National Party (ANP), Ajmal Khan KHATTAK; \JPakistan\j Islamic Front (PIF); Balochistan National Movement, Mengal Group (BNM/M), Sardar Akhtar MENGAL; Mohajir Quami Movement, Altaf faction (MQM/A), Altaf HUSSAIN; Jamiat-al-Hadith (JAH); Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP), Akbar Khan BUGTI
frequently shifting: Mutaheda Deeni Mahaz (MDM), Maulana Sami-ul-HAQ, the MDM includes Jamiat Ulema-i-Pakistan, Niazi faction (JUP/NI) and Anjuman Sepah-i-Sahaba \JPakistan\j (ASSP); Islami-Jamhoori-Mahaz (IJM-Islamic Democratic Front) includes Jamiat Ulema-i-Islami, Fazlur Rehman group (JUI/F); \JPakistan\j Muslim League, Functional Group (PML/F), Pir PAGARO; \JPakistan\j National Party (PNP); Milli Yakjheti Council (MYC) is an umbrella organization which includes Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), Qazi Hussain AHMED, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam, Sami-ul-Haq faction (JUI/S), Tehrik-I-Jafria \JPakistan\j (TJP), Allama Sajid NAQVI, and Jamiat Ulema-i-Pakistan, Noorani faction (JUP/NO)
\Bnote:\b political alliances in \JPakistan\j can shift frequently
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b military remains important political force; ulema (clergy), landowners, industrialists, and small merchants also influential
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1048, Unit 6220, APO AE 09812-2200
\Itelephone:\i [92] (51) 826161 through 826179
\IFAX:\i [92] (51) 214222
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JKarachi\j, \JLahore\j
\Iconsulate(s):\i \JPeshawar\j
\BFlag:\b green with a vertical white band (symbolizing the role of religious minorities) on the hoist side; a large white crescent and star are centered in the green field; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JPakistan\j is a poor, highly populated Third World country struggling to make the difficult transition to the modern world of high technology and internationalized markets. Prime Minister Benazir BHUTTO has been under pressure from the IMF and other donors to continue the economic reforms and austerity measures begun by her predecessor, caretaker Prime Minister Moeen QURESHI (July-October 1993). The IMF suspended a $1.5 billion Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility (ESAF) in mid-1995 because \JPakistan\j slowed the pace of economic reform. Islamabad's most recent budget - announced in June 1995 - reversed some reforms agreed to by the IMF earlier that year, including a slowing of tariff reform. In mid-December 1995, however, the IMF approved a $600 million standby arrangement and urged \JPakistan\j to move forward with economic liberalization. Islamabad has agreed to new economic targets with the IMF, which could lay the basis for a return to an ESAF in 1996. Little progress was made in the privatization of large state-owned units in 1995. The sale of the power plant Kot Addu - scheduled for April 1995 - was stalled by opposition from labor unions. The sale of a 26% share of United Bank Limited and the \JPakistan\j Telecommunications Corporation to strategic investors was due to take place in 1995 but has been pushed back to 1996. On the plus side real GDP grew 4.7% in 1995, up from 3.9% in 1994: GDP should grow even faster in 1996 as a result of an above average cotton crop. Secondly, Islamabad reduced the budget deficit to 5.6% of GDP at the end of FY94/95, down from 8% two years earlier. Thirdly, \JPakistan\j attracted $1.6 billion in foreign direct and portfolio investment in FY94/95, more than double inflows of $650 million in the previous fiscal year; financial agreements were reached on five power projects in 1995, including the 1,300-MW $1.8 billion Hab River project. Despite these improvements, the economy remains vulnerable to crisis. Foreign exchange reserves fell dramatically in 1995, reaching a low of about $1 billion in early December 1995 - only five weeks of import cover - before rising to $1.5 billion by yearend. The trade deficit rose to $2 billion for the first six months of FY94/95, triple the deficit of $600 million during the same period in FY93/94. The government responded to this situation with a package of stabilization reforms on 28 October 1995 which included a 7% \Jdevaluation\j of the rupee, supplementary duties of 10% on many imports, and higher \Jpetroleum\j prices. Islamabad hopes these moves will help make its exports more competitive. For the long run, \JPakistan\j must deal with serious problems of deteriorating \Jinfrastructure\j, low \Jliteracy\j levels, and persistent law and order problems in \JKarachi\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $274.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b major illicit producer of opium and hashish for the international drug trade; remains world's fourth largest opium producer (155 metric tons in 1995); major center for processing Afghan heroin and key transit area for Southwest Asian heroin moving to Western market
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j, US, \JGermany\j, UK, Saudi \JArabia\j, \JMalaysia\j, South Korea
\BExternal debt:\b $26 billion (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $697 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b $2.5 billion (includes bilateral and multilateral aid but no US commitments) (FY93/94); $3 billion (includes bilateral and multilateral aid but no US commitments) (FY94/95)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 8 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 6 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.572 million (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b the domestic system is mediocre, but adequate for government and business use, in part because major businesses have established their own private systems; since 1988, the government has promoted investment in the national telecommunications system on a priority basis; despite major improvements in trunk and urban systems, telecommunication services are still not readily available to the major portion of the population
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean); microwave radio relay to neighboring countries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 26, FM 8, shortwave 11
\BRadios:\b 11.3 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 29
\BTelevisions:\b 2.08 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Civil Armed Forces, National Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 30,519,339
\Imales fit for military service:\i 18,720,175
males reach military age (17) annually: 1,437,208 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.1 billion, 5.3% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"Palau (Atlas)",185,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the \JPhilippines\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 7 30 N, 134 30 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 458 sq km
\Iland area:\i 458 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,519 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm
extended fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b wet season May to November; hot and humid
\BTerrain:\b varying geologically from the high, mountainous main island of Babelthuap to low, \Jcoral\j islands usually fringed by large barrier reefs
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate facilities for disposal of solid waste; threats to the marine \Jecosystem\j from sand and \Jcoral\j dredging and illegal fishing practices that involve the use of dynamite
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons (June to December)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b includes World War II battleground of Beliliou (Peleliu) and world-famous rock islands; archipelago of six island groups totaling over 200 islands in the Caroline chain
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 16,952 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.71% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 21.61 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 25.07 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.01 years
\Imale:\i 69.14 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.02 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.79 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Palauan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Palauan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Palauans are a composite of Polynesian, Malayan, and Melanesian races
\BReligions:\b Christian (Catholics, Seventh-Day \JAdventists\j, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses, the Assembly of God, the Liebenzell Mission, and Latter-Day Saints), Modekngei religion (one-third of the population observes this religion which is indigenous to Palau)
\BLanguages:\b English (official in all of Palau's 16 states), Sonsorolese (official in the state of Sonsoral), Angaur and Japanese (in the state of Anguar), Tobi (in the state of Tobi), Palauan (in the other 13 states)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 92%
\Imale:\i 93%
\Ifemale:\i 90%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Palau
\Iconventional short form:\i Palau
\Ilocal long form:\i Beluu er a \JBelau\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JBelau\j
\Iformer:\i Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
\BData code:\b PS
\BType of government:\b constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of Free Association entered into force 1 October 1994
\BCapital:\b \JKoror\j
\Bnote:\b a new capital is being built about 20 km northeast in eastern Babelthuap
\BAdministrative divisions:\b there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 16 states: Aimeliik, Airai, Angaur, Kayangel, \JKoror\j, Melekeok, Ngaraard, Ngardmau, Ngaremlengui, Ngatpang, Ngchesar, Ngerchelong, Ngiwal, Peleliu, Sonsorol, Tobi
\BIndependence:\b 1 October 1994 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day, 9 July (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1981
\BLegal system:\b based on Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common, and customary laws
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Kuniwo NAKAMURA (since 1 January 1993) and Vice President Tommy E. REMENGESAU Jr. (since 1 January 1993) were elected for four-year terms by popular vote; election last held 4 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Kuniwo NAKAMURA 50.7%, Johnson TORIBIONG 49.3%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament (Olbiil Era Kelulau or OEK)
Senate: elections last held 4 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (14 total) number of seats by party NA
House of Delegates: elections last held 4 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (16 total) number of seats by party NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; National Court; Court of Common Pleas
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Palau Nationalist Party, Polycarp BASILIUS
\BInternational organization participation:\b ESCAP (associate), SPC, SPF, UN, WHO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Isaac Ngewakl SOALADAOB
\Ichancery:\i 2000 L Street NW, Suite 407, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 452-6814
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 452-6281
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Richard G. WATKINS
\Iembassy:\i address NA, \JKoror\j
\Imailing address:\i P.O. Box 6028, Republic of Palau 96940
\Itelephone:\i [680] 488-2920, 2990
\IFAX:\i [680] 488-2911
\BFlag:\b light blue with a large yellow disk (representing the moon) shifted slightly to the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy consists primarily of subsistence agriculture and fishing. The government is the major employer of the work force, relying heavily on financial assistance from the US. The population, in effect, enjoys a per capita income of $5,000, twice that of the \JPhilippines\j and much of \JMicronesia\j. Long-run prospects for the tourist sector have been greatly bolstered by the expansion of air travel in the Pacific and the rapidly rising prosperity of leading East Asian countries. Reducing budgeted operating expenditures - which have increased 56% from 1989 to 1993 - will be the biggest challenge for the government over the next several years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $81.8 million (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b GDP numbers reflect US spending
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $5,000 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 20% (1986)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $17 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $57 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, craft items (from shell, wood, pearls), some commercial fishing and agriculture
\Icommodities:\i trochus (type of shellfish), \Jtuna\j, copra, handicrafts
\Ipartners:\i US, \JJapan\j
\BImports:\b $24.6 million (c.i.f., 1989)
\Icommodities:\i NA
\Ipartners:\i US
\BExternal debt:\b about $100 million (1989)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b the compact of "free association" with the US, entered into after the end of the UN trusteeship on 1 October 1994, provides Palau with $500 million in US aid over 15 years in return for furnishing military facilities
\BCurrency:\b 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b US currency is used
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 61 km
\Ipaved:\i 36 km
\Iunpaved:\i 25 km
\BPorts:\b \JKoror\j
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,500 (1988 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 9,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 1,600 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Palmyra Atoll (Atlas)",186,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, \Jatoll\j in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American \JSamoa\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 5 52 N, 162 06 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 11.9 sq km
\Iland area:\i 11.9 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 20 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 14.5 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b equatorial, hot, and very rainy
\BTerrain:\b very low
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 2 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 100%
\Iother:\i 0%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b about 50 islets covered with dense vegetation, coconut trees, and balsa-like trees up to 30 meters tall
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Palmyra \JAtoll\j
\BData code:\b LQ
\BType of government:\b incorporated territory of the US; privately owned, but administered by the Office of Territorial and International Affairs, US Department of the Interior
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BHighways:\b much of the road and many causeways built during World War II are unserviceable and overgrown
\BPorts:\b West Lagoon
\BAirports:\b airstrip has been overgrown by vegetation and is no longer serviceable
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Panama (Atlas)",187,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between \JColombia\j and Costa Rica
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 9 00 N, 80 00 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 78,200 sq km
\Iland area:\i 75,990 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than South Carolina
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 555 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JColombia\j 225 km, Costa Rica 330 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,490 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid, cloudy; prolonged rainy season (May to January), short dry season (January to May)
\BTerrain:\b interior mostly steep, rugged mountains and dissected, upland plains; coastal areas largely plains and rolling hills
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from agricultural runoff threatens fishery resources; deforestation of tropical rain forest; land degradation
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location on eastern end of isthmus forming land bridge connecting North and South America; controls Panama Canal that links North Atlantic Ocean via Caribbean Sea with North Pacific Ocean
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 71,823; female 77,189) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.64% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.2 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.42 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.42 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.93 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 29.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.92 years
\Imale:\i 71.19 years
\Ifemale:\i 76.75 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.71 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Panamanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Panamanian
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo (mixed Indian and European ancestry) 70%, West Indian 14%, white 10%, Indian 6%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 15%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), English 14%
\Bnote:\b many Panamanians bilingual
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 90.8%
\Imale:\i 91.4%
\Ifemale:\i 90.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Panama
\Iconventional short form:\i Panama
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Panama
\Ilocal short form:\i Panama
\BData code:\b PM
\BType of government:\b constitutional republic
\BCapital:\b Panama
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 territory* (comarca); Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Herrera, Los Santos, Panama, San Blas*, Veraguas
\BIndependence:\b 3 November 1903 (from \JColombia\j; became independent from \JSpain\j 28 November 1821)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 November (1903)
\BConstitution:\b 11 October 1972; major reforms adopted April 1983
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court of Justice; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Ernesto PEREZ BALLADARES Gonzalez Revilla (since 1 September 1994), First Vice President Tomas Gabriel ALTAMIRANO DUQUE (since 1 September 1994), Second Vice President Felipe Alejandro VIRZI Lopez (since 1 September 1994) were elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held 8 May 1994 (next to be held 9 May 1999); results - Ernesto PEREZ BALLADARES (PRD) 33%, Mireya MOSCOSO DE GRUBER (PA) 29%, Ruben BLADES (MPE) 17%, Ruben Dario CARLES (MOLIRENA) 16%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): legislators from outlying rural districts are chosen on a plurality basis while districts located in more populous towns and cities elect multiple legislators by means of a proportion-based formula; elections last held 8 May 1994 (next to be held 9 May 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) PRD 32, PS 4, \JPALA\j 1, PA 14, MPE 6, MOLIRENA 4, PLA 3, PRC 3, PL 2, PDC 1, UDI 1, MORENA 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), nine judges appointed for 10-year terms; five superior courts; three courts of appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
governing coalition: Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Gerardo GONZALEZ; Liberal Republican Party (PLR), Rodolfo CHIARI; Labor Party (PALA), Carlos Lopez GUEVARA
other parties: Solidarity Party (PS), Samuel LEWIS GALINDO; Nationalist Republican Liberal Movement (MOLIRENA), Delia CARDENAS; Authentic Liberal Party (PLA), Arnulfo ESCALONA; Arnulfista Party (PA), Mireya MOSCOSO DE GRUBER; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Ruben AROSEMENA; Liberal Party (PL), Roberto ALEMAN Zubieta; Papa Egoro Movement (MPE), Gloria YOUNG; Civic Renewal Party (PRC), Tomas HERRERA; National Unity Mission Party (MUN), Jose Manuel PAREDES; Independent Democratic Union (UDI), Jacinto CARDENAS; National Renovation Movement (MORENA), Pedro VALLERINO
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Council of Organized Workers (CONATO); National Council of Private Enterprise (CONEP); Panamanian Association of Business Executives (APEDE); National Civic Crusade; Chamber of Commerce; Panamanian Industrialists Society (SIP); Workers Confederation of the Republic of Panama (CTRP)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ricardo Alberto ARIAS
\Ichancery:\i 2862 McGill Terrace NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-1407
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico), Tampa
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador William John HUGHES
\Iembassy:\i Avenida Balboa and Calle 38, Apartado 6959, Panama City 5
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy Panama, Unit 0945, APO AA 34002
\Itelephone:\i [507] 227-1377
\IFAX:\i [507] 227-1964
\BFlag:\b divided into four, equal rectangles; the top quadrants are white (hoist side) with a blue five-pointed star in the center and plain red, the bottom quadrants are plain blue (hoist side) and white with a red five-pointed star in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Because of its key geographic location, Panama's economy is service-based, heavily weighted toward banking, commerce, and tourism. The manufacturing and agriculture sectors have become inefficient under protectionist policies. After fast growth during the early 1990s, the economy has slowed down in the last two years, with GDP growth at 2.8% in 1994 and in 1995. The slowdown has been due mostly to a reduction in construction activities and stagnation in the Colon Free Zone and financial services, the three fastest growing sectors early in the decade. To counter the slowdown, the PEREZ BALLADARES administration has launched an economic reform program designed to reverse unemployment, attract foreign investment, cut back the size of government, and modernize the economy. In 1995, Panama reached an agreement in principle to reschedule its commercial debt - one of the highest in the world in per capita terms - which will allow the country to reenter international financial markets. Panama should complete all requirements to join the World Trade Organization (WTrO) in 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $13.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.8% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $5,100 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 10%
\Iindustry:\i 16%
\Iservices:\i 74% (1995 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 1.1% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 979,000 (1994 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i government and community services 31.8%, agriculture, hunting, and fishing 26.8%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels 16.4%, manufacturing and mining 9.4%, construction 3.2%, transportation and communications 6.2%, finance, insurance, and real estate 4.3%
\Bnote:\b shortage of skilled labor, but an oversupply of unskilled labor
\BUnemployment rate:\b 13.8% (1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.86 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.86 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\BIndustries:\b construction, \Jpetroleum\j refining, brewing, cement and other construction materials, sugar milling
Industrial production growth rate: 0.4% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b major \Jcocaine\j transshipment point and major drug money laundering center; minor producer of \Jcoca\j leaf; active eradication program
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 83 countries among which are \JJapan\j 1,212, \JGreece\j 360, Hong Kong 263, \JTaiwan\j 203, South Korea 198, US 160, China 152, \JSingapore\j 118, UK 79, \JSwitzerland\j 67, and \JNorway\j 58 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 99
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 14
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 60
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 18 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 273,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b domestic and international facilities well developed
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i 1 coaxial submarine cable; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to the Central American Microwave System
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 91, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 564,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 23
\BTelevisions:\b 420,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Panamanian Public Forces (PPF; includes the National Police, National Maritime Service, National Air Service, and Institutional Protective Service); Judicial Technical Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 705,427
\Imales fit for military service:\i 484,571 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $78 million, NA% of GDP (1995); note - for police and security forces
#
"Papua New Guinea (Atlas)",188,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, group of islands including the eastern half of the island of New Guinea between the \JCoral\j Sea and the South Pacific Ocean, east of \JIndonesia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 00 S, 147 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 461,690 sq km
\Iland area:\i 451,710 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 820 km
border country: \JIndonesia\j 820 km
\BCoastline:\b 5,152 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; northwest monsoon (December to March), southeast monsoon (May to October); slight seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with coastal lowlands and rolling foothills
\Icurrent issues:\i rain forest subject to deforestation as a result of growing commercial demand for tropical timber; \Jpollution\j from mining projects
\Inatural hazards:\i active volcanism; situated along the Pacific "Rim of Fire"; the country is subject to frequent and sometimes severe earthquakes; mud slides
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b shares island of New Guinea with \JIndonesia\j; one of world's largest swamps along southwest coast
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 22%, Lutheran 16%, Presbyterian/Methodist/London Missionary Society 8%, Anglican 5%, Evangelical Alliance 4%, Seventh-Day Adventist 1%, other Protestant sects 10%, indigenous beliefs 34%
\BLanguages:\b English spoken by 1%-2%, \Jpidgin\j English widespread, Motu spoken in Papua region
\Bnote:\b 715 indigenous languages
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 72.2%
\Imale:\i 81%
\Ifemale:\i 62.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Independent State of Papua New Guinea
\Iconventional short form:\i Papua New Guinea
abbreviation: PNG
\BData code:\b PP
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Port Moresby
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 20 provinces; Central, Chimbu, Eastern Highlands, East New Britain, East Sepik, Enga, Gulf, Madang, Manus, Milne Bay, Morobe, National Capital, New Ireland, Northern, North Solomons, Sandaun, Southern Highlands, Western, Western Highlands, West New Britain
\BIndependence:\b 16 September 1975 (from the Australian-administered UN trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 16 September (1975)
\BConstitution:\b 16 September 1975
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 19 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Wiwa KOROWI (since 11 November 1991), who was appointed by the National Executive Council
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sir Julius CHAN (since 30 August 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister Chris HAIVETA (since 7 September 1994) were appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i National Executive Council was appointed by the governor general on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Parliament (sometimes referred to as the House of Assembly): elections last held 13-26 June 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (109 total) Pangu Party 24, PDM 17, PPP 10, PAP 10, independents 30, others 18; note - association with political parties is fluid
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, the chief justice is appointed by the governor general on the proposal of the National Executive Council after consultation with the minister responsible for justice, other judges are appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Papua New Guinea United Party (Pangu Party), Chris HAIVETA; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Paias WINGTI; People's Action Party (PAP), Akoka DOI; People's Progress Party (PPP), Sir Julius CHAN; United Party (UP), Paul TORATO; Papua Party (PP), Galeva KWARARA; National Party (NP), Paul PORA; Melanesian Alliance (MA), Fr. John MOMIS
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kepas Isimel WATANGIA
\Ichancery:\i 3rd floor, 1615 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 745-3680
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 745-3679
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Richard W. TEARE
\Iembassy:\i Douglas Street, Port Moresby
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1492, Port Moresby
\Itelephone:\i [675] 321-1455
\IFAX:\i [675] 321-3423
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally from upper hoist-side corner; the upper triangle is red with a soaring yellow bird of paradise centered; the lower triangle is black with five white five-pointed stars of the Southern Cross \Jconstellation\j centered
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Papua New Guinea is richly endowed with natural resources, but exploitation has been hampered by the rugged terrain and the high cost of developing an \Jinfrastructure\j. Agriculture provides a subsistence livelihood for the bulk of the population. Mining of numerous deposits, including copper and gold, accounts for about 60% of export earnings. Budgetary support from \JAustralia\j and development aid under World Bank auspices have helped sustain the economy. In 1995, Port Moresby reached agreement with the IMF and World Bank on a structural adjustment program. PNG will receive loans totaling $350 million over the next two years from a variety of lenders including the Fund, the Bank, the Australian Government, and the Japanese Export-Import Bank. The loans will be provided only if Port Moresby implements significant reforms to liberalize trade and investment policies, reduce the public sector, and promote sustainable development of the \Jforestry\j sector. At the start of 1996, Port Moresby is looking primarily to the exploitation of mineral and \Jpetroleum\j resources to drive economic development but new prospecting in Papua New Guinea has slumped as other mineral-rich countries have stepped up their competition for international investment. Output from current projects will probably begin to taper off in 1996, but no new large ventures are being developed to succeed them.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $10.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,400 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 15% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 1.941 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 64% (1993 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.86 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b copra crushing, palm oil processing, plywood production, wood chip production; mining of gold, silver, and copper; construction, tourism
\Ipartners:\i \JAustralia\j, \JJapan\j, US, \JSingapore\j, New Zealand
\BImports:\b $1.4 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, fuels, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i \JAustralia\j, \JJapan\j, UK, New Zealand, Netherlands
\BExternal debt:\b $3.2 billion (1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $291 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 kina (K) = 100 toea
\BExchange rates:\b kina (K) per US$1 - 0.7552 (October 1995), 0.9950 (1994), 1.0221 (1993), 1.0367 (1992), 1.0504 (1991); note - the government floated the kina on 10 October 1994
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 19,088 km
\Ipaved:\i 640 km
\Iunpaved:\i 18,448 km (1988 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 10,940 km
\BPorts:\b Kieta, Lae, Madang, Port Moresby, Rabaul
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 51 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 63,212 (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b services are adequate and being improved; facilities provide radiotelephone and telegraph, coastal radio, aeronautical radio, and international radio communication services
\Idomestic:\i mostly radiotelephone
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to \JAustralia\j and \JGuam\j; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); international radio communication service
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 31, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 298,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 10,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Papua New Guinea
\BDefense:\b Force (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Special Operations Unit)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,143,015
\Imales fit for military service:\i 635,923 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $40 million, 0.9% of GDP (1995)
#
"Paracel Islands (Atlas)",189,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, group of small islands and reefs in the South China Sea, about one-third of the way from central Vietnam to the northern \JPhilippines\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 30 N, 112 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i NA sq km
\Iland area:\i NA sq km
\Icomparative area:\i NA
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 518 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b occupied by China, but claimed by \JTaiwan\j and Vietnam
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b NA
\Ilowest point:\i South China Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Rocky Island 14 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are scattered Chinese garrisons
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Paracel Islands
\BData code:\b PF
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b small Chinese port facilities on Woody Island and Duncan Island being expanded
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (on Woody Island) (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i occupied by China
#
"Paraguay (Atlas)",190,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central South America, northeast of Argentina
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 23 00 S, 58 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 406,750 sq km
\Iland area:\i 397,300 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,920 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 1,880 km, \JBolivia\j 750 km, \JBrazil\j 1,290 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of the boundary with \JBrazil\j, just west of Salto del Guaira (Guaira Falls) on the Rio Parana, has not been determined
\BClimate:\b subtropical; substantial rainfall in the eastern portions, becoming semiarid in the far west
\BTerrain:\b grassy plains and wooded hills east of Rio \JParaguay\j; Gran Chaco region west of Rio \JParaguay\j mostly low, marshy plain near the river, and dry forest and thorny scrub elsewhere
\Ilowest point:\i junction of Rio \JParaguay\j and Rio Parana 46 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro San Rafael 850 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydropower, timber, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, \Jlimestone\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 20%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 39%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 35%
\Iother:\i 5%
\BIrrigated land:\b 670 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation (an estimated 2 million hectares of forest land have been lost from 1958-85); water \Jpollution\j; inadequate means for waste disposal present health risks for many urban residents
\Inatural hazards:\i local flooding in southeast (early September to June); poorly drained plains may become boggy (early October to June)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; lies between Argentina, \JBolivia\j, and \JBrazil\j
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 106,121; female 124,713) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.67% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 30.97 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.85 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 23.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.84 years
\Imale:\i 72.33 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.43 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.15 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Paraguayan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Paraguayan
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo (mixed Spanish and Indian) 95%, whites plus Amerindians 5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 90%, Mennonite and other Protestant denominations
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), \JGuarani\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 92.1%
\Imale:\i 93.5%
\Ifemale:\i 90.6%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JParaguay\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JParaguay\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica del \JParaguay\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JParaguay\j
\BData code:\b PA
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Asuncion
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 17 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alto \JParaguay\j, Alto Parana, Amambay, Boqueron, Caaguazu, Caazapa, Canindeyu, Central, Concepcion, Cordillera, Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, Paraguari, Presidente Hayes, San Pedro
\BIndependence:\b 14 May 1811 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Days, 14-15 May (1811)
\BConstitution:\b promulgated 20 June 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on Argentine codes, Roman law, and French codes; judicial review of legislative acts in Supreme Court of Justice; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory up to age 60
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Juan Carlos WASMOSY (since 15 August 1993) and Vice President Roberto Angel SEIFART (since 15 August 1993) were elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - Juan Carlos WASMOSY 40.09%, Domingo LAINO 32.06%, Guillermo CABALLERO VARGAS 23.04%
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was nominated by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Congress (Congreso)
Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (45 total) \JColorado\j Party 20, PLRA 17, EN 8
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held by May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (80 total) \JColorado\j Party 38, PLRA 33, EN 9
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), judges appointed on the proposal of the Counsel of Magistrates (Consejo de la Magistratura)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JColorado\j Party, Luis Maria ARGANA, president; Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA), Domingo LAINO; National Encounter (EN), Guillermo CABALLERO VARGAS; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Miguel MONTANER; Febrerista Revolutionary Party (PRF), Euclides ACEVEDO; Popular Democratic Party (PDP), Hugo RICHER
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Confederation of Workers (CUT); Roman Catholic Church
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jorge PRIETO CONTI
\Ichancery:\i 2400 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-6960 through 6962
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 234-4508
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Robert E. SERVICE
\Iembassy:\i 1776 Avenida Mariscal Lopez, Casilla Postal 402, Asuncion
\Imailing address:\i Unit 4711, APO AA 34036-0001
\Itelephone:\i [595] (21) 213-715
\IFAX:\i [595] (21) 213-728
\BFlag:\b three equal, horizontal bands of red (top), white, and blue with an emblem centered in the white band; unusual flag in that the emblem is different on each side; the obverse (hoist side at the left) bears the national coat of arms (a yellow five-pointed star within a green wreath capped by the words REPUBLICA DEL \JPARAGUAY\j, all within two circles); the reverse (hoist side at the right) bears the seal of the treasury (a yellow lion below a red Cap of Liberty and the words Paz y Justicia (Peace and Justice) capped by the words REPUBLICA DEL \JPARAGUAY\j, all within two circles)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JParaguay\j has a market economy marked by a large informal sector. The formal economy is largely oriented toward services, but 45% of the population derive their living from agricultural activity, often on a subsistence basis. The economy has grown an average of 3% to 4% over the past five years. Population has increased at 3% a year over the same period leaving per capita income nearly stagnant. The informal sector is marked by both reexport of imported consumer goods (electronics, whiskeys, perfumes, cigarettes and office equipment) to neighboring countries as well as by the activities of thousands of microenterprises and urban street vendors. The Paraguayan Government has stated publicly that it will continue its economic reform agenda in close coordination with its Mercosur (Southern Cone Common Market) partners. In 1995, the government also promised to undertake efforts to formalize the financial sector, after a financial shock forced the bail-out of the second and third largest banks. \JParaguay\j's continued \Jintegration\j into Mercosur also offers potential for growth; it is closely linked with the success of foreign investment promotion. Non-traditional exports, such as finished agricultural products, light manufactures, and small consumer items, are growing rapidly. Government reform efforts, including privatization, have continued, but with little success in 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $17 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; transshipment point for Bolivian \Jcocaine\j headed for Europe and the US
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; overgrazing of the slopes of the costa and sierra leading to soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j; air \Jpollution\j in Lima; \Jpollution\j of rivers and coastal waters from municipal and mining wastes
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 497,775; female 593,712) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.74% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.13 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.76 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.84 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 52.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.13 years
\Imale:\i 66.97 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.04 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Peruvian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Peruvian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Indian 45%, mestizo (mixed Indian and European ancestry) 37%, white 15%, black, Japanese, Chinese, and other 3%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), \JQuechua\j (official), Aymara
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 88.7%
\Imale:\i 94.5%
\Ifemale:\i 83%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JPeru\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JPeru\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica del \JPeru\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JPeru\j
\BData code:\b PE
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Lima
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 24 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 constitutional province* (provincia constitucional); Amazonas, Ancash, Apurimac, \JArequipa\j, Ayacucho, Cajamarca, Callao*, Cusco, Huancavelica, Huanuco, Ica, Junin, La Libertad, Lambayeque, Lima, Loreto, Madre de Dios, Moquegua, Pasco, Piura, Puno, San Martin, Tacna, Tumbes, Ucayali
\Bnote:\b the 1979 constitution mandated the creation of regions (regiones, singular - region) to function eventually as autonomous economic and administrative entities; so far, 12 regions have been constituted from 23 of the 24 departments - Amazonas (from Loreto), Andres Avelino Caceres (from Huanuco, Pasco, Junin), \JArequipa\j (from Arequipa), Chavin (from Ancash), Grau (from Tumbes, Piura), Inca (from Cusco, Madre de Dios, Apurimac), La Libertad (from La Libertad), Los Libertadores-Huari (from Ica, Ayacucho, Huancavelica), Mariategui (from Moquegua, Tacna, Puno), Nor Oriental del Maranon (from Lambayeque, Cajamarca, Amazonas), San Martin (from San Martin), Ucayali (from Ucayali); formation of another region has been delayed by the reluctance of the constitutional province of Callao to merge with the department of Lima; because of inadequate funding from the central government and organizational and political difficulties, the regions have yet to assume major responsibilities; the 1993 constitution retains the regions but limits their authority; the 1993 constitution also reaffirms the roles of departmental and municipal governments
\BIndependence:\b 28 July 1821 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 28 July (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 31 December 1993
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Alberto Kenyo FUJIMORI Fujimori (since 28 July 1990) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 9 April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Alberto FUJIMORI 64.42%, Javier PEREZ de CUELLAR 21.80%, Mercedes CABANILLAS 4.11%, other 9.67%
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\Bnote:\b Prime Minister Alberto PANDOLFI Arbulu (since 3 April 1996) does not exercise executive power; this power is in the hands of the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Congress: elections last held 9 April 1995 (next to be held NA April 2000); results - C90/NM 52.1%, UPP 14%, 11 other parties 33.9%; seats - (120 total, when installed on 28 July 1995) C90/NM 67, UPP 17, APRA 8, FIM 6, (CODE)-Pais Posible 5, AP 4, PPC 3, Renovacion 3, IU 2, OBRAS 2, MIA 1, FRENATRACA 1, FREPAP 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), judges are appointed by the National Council of the Judiciary
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Change 90-New Majority (C90/NM), Alberto FUJIMORI; Union for \JPeru\j (UPP), Javier PEREZ de CUELLAR; American Popular Revolutionary Alliance (APRA), Agustin MANTILLA Campos; Independent Moralizing Front (FIM), Fernando OLIVERA Vega; Democratic Coordinator (CODE) - Pais Posible, Jose BARBA Caballero and Alejandro TOLEDO; Popular Action Party (AP), Raul DIEZ CANSECO; Popular Christian Party (PPC), Luis BEDOYA Reyes; Renovacion, Rafael REY Rey; Civic Works Movement (OBRAS), Ricardo BELMONT; United Left (IU), Agustin HAYA de la TORRE; Independent Agrarian Movement (MIA), Rolando SALVATERRIE; \JPeru\j 2000-National Front of Workers and Peasants (FRENATRACA), Roger CACARES; Popular Agricultural Front (FREPAP), Ezequiel ATAUCUSI
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b leftist guerrilla groups include Shining Path, Abimael GUZMAN Reynoso (imprisoned); Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement, Nestor SERPA and Victor POLAY (imprisoned)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ricardo V. LUNA \JMENDOZA\j
\Ichancery:\i 1700 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 833-9860 through 9869
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 659-8124
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paterson (New Jersey), and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alvin P. ADAMS, Jr.
\Iembassy:\i Avenida Encalada, Cuadra 17, Monterrico, Lima
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1995, Lima 1; American Embassy (Lima), APO AA 34031
\Itelephone:\i [51] (12) 21-1202
\IFAX:\i [51] (12) 21-3543
\BFlag:\b three equal, vertical bands of red (hoist side), white, and red with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms features a shield bearing a \Jllama\j, cinchona tree (the source of quinine), and a yellow cornucopia spilling out gold coins, all framed by a green wreath
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Peruvian economy has become increasingly market-oriented, with major privatizations completed since 1990 in the mining, electricity, and telecommunications industries. In the 1980s, the economy suffered from hyperinflation, declining per capita output, and mounting external debt. \JPeru\j was shut off from IMF and World Bank support in the mid-1980s because of its huge debt arrears. An austerity program implemented shortly after the FUJIMORI government took office in July 1990 contributed to a third consecutive yearly contraction of economic activity, but the slide came to a halt late that year, and in 1991 output rose 2.4%. After a burst of \Jinflation\j as the austerity program eliminated government price subsidies, monthly price increases eased to the single-digit level and by December 1991 dropped to the lowest increase since mid-1987. Lima obtained a financial rescue package from multilateral lenders in September 1991, although it faced $14 billion in arrears on its external debt. By working with the IMF and World Bank on new financial conditions and arrangements, the government succeeded in ending its arrears by March 1993. In 1992, GDP fell by 2.8%, in part because a warmer-than-usual El Nino current resulted in a 30% drop in the fish catch, but the economy rebounded as strong foreign investment helped push growth to 6% in 1993, about 13% in 1994, and 6.8% in 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $87 billion (1995 est.)
\Iexpenditures:\i $9.3 billion including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b mining of metals, \Jpetroleum\j, fishing, textiles, clothing, food processing, cement, auto assembly, steel, shipbuilding, metal fabrication
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 4,190,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 11.2 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 448 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcoffee\j, cotton, sugarcane, rice, wheat, potatoes, plantains, \Jcoca\j; poultry, red meats, dairy products, wool; fish catch of 6.9 million metric tons (1990)
\BIllicit drugs:\b world's largest \Jcoca\j leaf producer with about 115,300 hectares under cultivation in 1995; source of supply for most of the world's \Jcoca\j paste and \Jcocaine\j base; at least 85% of \Jcoca\j cultivation is for illicit production; most of \Jcocaine\j base is shipped to Colombian drug dealers for processing into \Jcocaine\j for the international drug market, but exports of finished \Jcocaine\j are increasing
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 273, FM 0, shortwave 144
\BRadios:\b 5.7 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 140
\BTelevisions:\b 2 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (Ejercito Peruano), Navy (Marina de Guerra del \JPeru\j; includes Naval Air, Marines, and Coast Guard), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea del Peru), National Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 6,441,513
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,347,460
males reach military age (20) annually: 255,067 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $998 million, 1.6% of GDP (1996)
#
"Philippines (Atlas)",192,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 00 N, 122 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 300,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 298,170 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JArizona\j
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 36,289 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
continental shelf: to depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: irregular \Jpolygon\j extending up to 100 nm from coastline as defined by 1898 treaty; since late 1970s has also claimed polygonal-shaped area in South China Sea up to 285 nm in breadth
\BInternational disputes:\b involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, \JMalaysia\j, \JTaiwan\j, Vietnam, and possibly \JBrunei\j; claims Malaysian state of \JSabah\j
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; northeast monsoon (November to April); southwest monsoon (May to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with narrow to extensive coastal lowlands
\Icurrent issues:\i uncontrolled deforestation in watershed areas; soil erosion; air and water \Jpollution\j in Manila; increasing \Jpollution\j of coastal mangrove swamps which are important fish breeding grounds
\Inatural hazards:\i astride typhoon belt, usually affected by 15 and struck by five to six cyclonic storms per year; landslides, active volcanoes, destructive earthquakes, tsunamis
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Tropical Timber 94
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 1,165,810; female 1,429,908) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.18% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 29.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.06 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.82 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 35.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 65.91 years
\Imale:\i 63.14 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.83 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.69 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Filipino(s)
\Iadjective:\i Philippine
\BEthnic divisions:\b Christian Malay 91.5%, Muslim Malay 4%, Chinese 1.5%, other 3%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 83%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 5%, Buddhist and other 3%
\BLanguages:\b Pilipino (official, based on Tagalog), English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 94.6%
\Imale:\i 95%
\Ifemale:\i 94.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of the \JPhilippines\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JPhilippines\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republika ng Pilipinas
\Ilocal short form:\i Pilipinas
\BData code:\b RP
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Manila
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 72 provinces and 61 chartered cities*; Abra, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Aklan, Albay, Angeles*, Antique, Aurora, Bacolod*, Bago*, Baguio*, Bais*, Basilan, Basilan City*, Bataan, Batanes, Batangas, Batangas City*, Benguet, Bohol, Bukidnon, Bulacan, Butuan*, Cabanatuan*, Cadiz*, Cagayan, Cagayan de Oro*, Calbayog*, Caloocan*, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Camiguin, Canlaon*, Capiz, Catanduanes, Cavite, Cavite City*, Cebu, Cebu City*, Cotabato*, Dagupan*, Danao*, Dapitan*, Davao City* Davao, Davao del Sur, Davao Oriental, Dipolog*, Dumaguete*, Eastern Samar, General Santos*, Gingoog*, Ifugao, Iligan*, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Iloilo City*, Iriga*, Isabela, Kalinga-Apayao, La Carlota*, Laguna, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Laoag*, Lapu-Lapu*, La Union, Legaspi*, Leyte, Lipa*, Lucena*, Maguindanao, Mandaue*, Manila*, Marawi*, Marinduque, Masbate, \JMindoro\j Occidental, \JMindoro\j Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Mountain, Naga*, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, North Cotabato, Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Olongapo*, Ormoc*, Oroquieta*, Ozamis*, Pagadian*, \JPalawan\j, Palayan*, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Pasay*, Puerto Princesa*, Quezon, Quezon City*, Quirino, Rizal, Romblon, Roxas*, Samar, San Carlos* (in Negros Occidental), San Carlos* (in Pangasinan), San Jose*, San Pablo*, Silay*, Siquijor, Sorsogon, South Cotabato, Southern Leyte, Sultan Kudarat, Sulu, Surigao*, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, Tacloban*, Tagaytay*, Tagbilaran*, Tangub*, Tarlac, Tawitawi, Toledo*, Trece Martires*, Zambales, Zamboanga*, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur
\BIndependence:\b 4 July 1946 (from US)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 June (1898) (from Spain)
\BConstitution:\b 2 February 1987, effective 11 February 1987
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish and Anglo-American law; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Fidel Valdes RAMOS (since 30 June 1992) and Vice President Joseph Ejercito ESTRADA (since 30 June 1992) were elected for six-year terms by popular vote; election last held 11 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - Fidel Valdes RAMOS won 23.6% of the vote, a narrow plurality
\Icabinet:\i Executive Secretary was appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission of Appointments
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Congress (Kongreso)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 8 May 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (24 total) LDP 14, Lakas/NUCD 5, NPC 2, LP 1, PRP 1, independent 1
House of Representatives (Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan): elections last held 8 May 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (204 total) Lakas/NUCD 129, LDP 29, NPC (opposition) 25, LP 6, PDP 3, KBL/NPC 1, results pending 11
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, justices are appointed for four-year terms by the president on recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Filipino Struggle (Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino, LDP), Edgardo ANGARA;
\BPeople:\b Power-National Union of Christian Democrats (Lakas ng EDSA-NUCD or Lakas-NUCD); Raul MANGLAPUS, president and Jose DE VENECIA, secretary general; Liberal Party (LP), Raul DAZA; National People's Coalition (NPC), Eduardo COJUANGCO; People's Reform Party (PRP), Miriam DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO; New Society Movement (Kilusan Bagong Lipunan, KBL), Imelda MARCOS; Nacionalista Party (NP), Salvador H. LAUREL, president; Filipino Democratic Party (Partido Demokratikong Philipinas or PDP), Jose COJUANGCO, is part of the ruling coalition with the LDP
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a white equilateral triangle based on the hoist side; in the center of the triangle is a yellow sun with eight primary rays (each containing three individual rays) and in each corner of the triangle is a small yellow five-pointed star
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Philippine economy, primarily a mixture of agriculture and light industry, continued its third year of recovery in 1995, led by growth in exports and investments. Officials have targeted 5%-6% growth for 1996 after achieving 4.8% growth in 1995. The government is continuing its economic reforms to enable the \JPhilippines\j to move closer to the development of the newly industrialized countries of East Asia. The strategy includes improving \Jinfrastructure\j and plans to overhaul the tax system to bolster government revenues.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $179.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 4.8% (1995)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,530 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 22%
\Iindustry:\i 30%
\Iservices:\i 48%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 8.1% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 24.12 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 46%, industry and commerce 16%, services 18.5%, government 10%, other 9.5% (1989)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 9.5% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $14.1 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $13.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\BAgriculture:\b rice, coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples, mangoes; pork, eggs, beef; fish catch of 2 million metric tons annually
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; growers are producing more and better quality cannabis despite government eradication efforts; transit point for Southwest Asian and Golden Triangle heroin bound for the US
\BExports:\b $17.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i \Jelectronics\j, textiles, coconut products, copper, fish
\Ipartners:\i US 39%, \JJapan\j 15%, \JGermany\j 5%, Hong Kong 5%, UK 5% (1994)
\BImports:\b $26.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i raw materials 40%, capital goods 25%, \Jpetroleum\j products 10%
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 24%, US 18%, \JSingapore\j 7%, \JTaiwan\j 6%, South Korea 5% (1994)
\BWaterways:\b 3,219 km; limited to shallow-draft (less than 1.5 m) vessels
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products 357 km
\BPorts:\b Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Guimaras Island, Iligan, Iloilo, Jolo, Legaspi, Manila, Masao, Puerto Princesa, San Fernando, Subic Bay, Zamboanga
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; \JJapan\j owns 22 ships, Hong Kong 4, \JSwitzerland\j 1, \JTaiwan\j 1, Denmark 1, and UK 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 235
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 7
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 25
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 31
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 104
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 63 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 887,229 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b good international radiotelephone and submarine cable services; domestic and interisland service adequate
\Idomestic:\i domestic satellite system with 11 earth stations
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to Hong Kong, \JGuam\j, \JSingapore\j, \JTaiwan\j, and \JJapan\j; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 261, FM 55, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 9.03 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 29
\BTelevisions:\b 7 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Coast Guard and Marine Corps), Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 18,722,509
\Imales fit for military service:\i 13,221,513
males reach military age (20) annually: 767,056 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995)
#
"Pitcairn Islands (Atlas)",193,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from \JPeru\j to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 25 04 S, 130 06 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 47 sq km
\Iland area:\i 47 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 51 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, hot, humid, modified by southeast trade winds; rainy season (November to March)
\BTerrain:\b rugged volcanic formation; rocky coastline with cliffs
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pawala Valley Ridge 347 m
\BNatural resources:\b miro trees (used for handicrafts), fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation (only a small portion of the original forest remains because of burning and clearing for settlement)
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons (especially November to March)
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 56 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Pitcairn Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Pitcairn Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b descendants of the Bounty mutineers
\BReligions:\b Seventh-Day Adventist 100%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Tahitian/English \Jdialect\j
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, and Oeno Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Pitcairn Islands
\BData code:\b PC
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Adamstown
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday in June)
\BConstitution:\b Local Government Ordinance of 1964
\BLegal system:\b local island by-laws
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal with three years residency
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by UK High Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor (non-resident) of the Pitcairn Islands Robert John ALSTON (since NA August 1994); Commissioner (non-resident) G. D. HARRAWAY (since NA; is the liaison person between the governor and the Island Council)
\Ihead of government:\i Island Magistrate and Chairman of the Island Council Jay WARREN (since NA); the island magistrate is elected every three years
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Island Council: elections take place each December; election last held NA December 1995 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (11 total, 5 elected) all independents
\BJudicial branch:\b Island Court, island magistrate presides over the court and is elected every three years
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b NA
\BInternational organization participation:\b SPC
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Pitcairn Islander coat of arms centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms is yellow, green, and light blue with a shield featuring a yellow anchor
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The inhabitants exist on fishing and subsistence farming. The fertile soil of the valleys produces a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including \Jcitrus\j, sugarcane, watermelons, bananas, yams, and beans. Bartering is an important part of the economy. The major sources of revenue are the sale of postage stamps to collectors and the sale of handicrafts to passing ships.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 14 able-bodied men (1993)
\Iby occupation:\i no business community in the usual sense; some public works; subsistence farming and fishing
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $588,000
\Iexpenditures:\i $583,000, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993/94 est.)
\BIndustries:\b postage stamps, handicrafts
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 110 kW
\Iproduction:\i 300,000 kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 5,360 kWh (1990)
\BAgriculture:\b wide variety of fruits and vegetables
\BExports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i fruits, vegetables, curios
\Ipartners:\i NA
\BImports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i fuel oil, machinery, building materials, flour, sugar, other foodstuffs
\Ipartners:\i NA
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA bilateral commitments (1992-93), $84,000
\BCurrency:\b 1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
\BTelephone system:\b party line \Jtelephone\j service on the island
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Poland (Atlas)",194,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, east of \JGermany\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 52 00 N, 20 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 312,683 sq km
\Iland area:\i 304,510 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,888 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelarus\j 605 km, Czech Republic 658 km, \JGermany\j 456 km, \JLithuania\j 91 km, \JRussia\j (Kaliningrad Oblast) 206 km, \JSlovakia\j 444 km, \JUkraine\j 428 km
\BCoastline:\b 491 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: defined by international treaties
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate with cold, cloudy, moderately severe winters with frequent precipitation; mild summers with frequent showers and thundershowers
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat plain; mountains along southern border
\Ilowest point:\i Raczki Elblaskie -2 m
\Ihighest point:\i Rysy 2,499 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal, sulfur, copper, natural gas, silver, lead, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 48%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 13%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 29%
\Iother:\i 10% (1992)
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,000 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i situation has improved since 1989 due to decline in heavy industry and increased environmental concern by postcommunist governments; air \Jpollution\j nonetheless remains serious because of sulfur dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants, and the resulting acid rain has caused forest damage; water \Jpollution\j from industrial and municipal sources is also a problem, as is disposal of hazardous wastes
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JBiodiversity\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b historically, an area of conflict because of flat terrain and the lack of natural barriers on the North European Plain
\BIndependence:\b 11 November 1918 (independent republic proclaimed)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day, 3 May (1791)
\BConstitution:\b interim "small constitution" came into effect in December 1992 replacing the communist-imposed constitution of 22 July 1952; new democratic constitution being drafted
\BLegal system:\b mixture of Continental (Napoleonic) civil law and holdover communist legal theory; changes being gradually introduced as part of broader democratization process; limited judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Aleksander KWASNIEWSKI (since 23 December 1995) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election first round held 5 November 1995, second round held 19 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - second round Aleksander KWASNIEWSKI 51.7%, Lech WALESA 48.3%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Wlodimierz CIMOSZEWICZ (since 7 February 1996), Deputy Prime Ministers Roman JAGIELINSKI (since NA), Grzegorz KOLODKO (since NA), and Miroslaw PIETRIEWICZ (since NA) were appointed by the Sejm
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers is responsible to the president and the Sejm; the prime minister appointed and the Sejm approved the Council of Ministers
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly (Zgromadzenie Narodowe)
Senate (Senat): elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than 19 September 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) post-communist parties (PSL 34, SLD 37), post-Solidarity parties (UW 6, NSZZ 12, BBWR 2), non-communist, non-Solidarity (independents 7, unaffiliated 1, vacant 1)
Sejm: elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than 19 September 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (460 total) post-communist parties (SLD 171, PSL 132), post-Solidarity parties (UW 74, UP 41, BBWR 16), non-communist, non-Solidarity (KPN 22)
\Bnote:\b four seats are constitutionally assigned to ethnic German parties
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the National Council of Judiciary
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
post-Communist: Democratic Left Alliance (SLD) (Social Democracy of Poland), Jozef OLEKSY; Polish Peasant Party (PSL), Waldemar PAWLAK
post-Solidarity parties: Freedom Union (UW; Democratic Union and Liberal Democratic Congress merged to form Freedom Union), Leszek BALCEROWICZ; Christian-National Union (ZCHN), Marian PILKA; Center Alliance Party (PC), Jaroslaw KACZYNSKI; Peasant Alliance (PL), Gabriel JANOWSKI; Solidarity \JCaucus\j (NSZZ), Marian KRZAKLEWSKI; Union of Labor (UP), Ryszard BUGAJ; Christian-Democratic Party (PCHD), Pawel LACZKOWSKI; Conservative Party, Aleksander HALL; Nonparty Reform Bloc (BBWR)
non-Communist, non-Solidarity: Confederation for an Independent \JPoland\j (KPN), Leszek MOCZULSKI; German Minority (MN), Georg PORYLKA; Union of Real Politics (UPR), Janusz KORWIN-MIKKE; Democratic Party (SD), Antoni MACKIEWICZ
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b powerful Roman Catholic Church; Solidarity (trade union); All \JPoland\j Trade Union Alliance (OPZZ), trade union
\Ichancery:\i 2640 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-3800 through 3802
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-6271
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Nicholas Andrew REY
\Iembassy:\i Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31, Warsaw
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy Warsaw, Unit 1340, APO AE 09213-1340
\Itelephone:\i [48] (2) 628-30-41
\IFAX:\i [48] (2) 628-82-98
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Krakow
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; similar to the flags of \JIndonesia\j and Monaco which are red (top) and white
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b In 1995, \JPoland\j continued to make good progress in the difficult transition to a market economy that began on 1 January 1990, when the new democratic government instituted "shock therapy" by decontrolling prices, slashing subsidies, and drastically reducing import barriers. Although real GDP fell sharply in 1990 and 1991, in 1992 \JPoland\j became the first country in the region to resume economic growth with a 2.6% increase. Growth advanced to 3.8% in 1993, 5.2% in 1994, and 6.5% in 1995. Most of the growth since 1991 had come from the booming private sector, which now accounts for about 60% of GDP, due in large part to the creation of new private firms. The slow pace of privatization picked up somewhat in 1995, as 512 smaller state enterprises were transferred to private National Investment Funds under the Mass Privatization Program, but large-scale industry remains largely in state hands. Industrial production increased 10.2% in 1995, following a 13.2% rise in 1994, yet remains about 13% below the 1989 level. \JInflation\j, which had approached 1,200% annually in early 1990, fell to 21.6% in December 1995, as the government held the 1995 budget deficit to less than 3% of GDP. After peaking at 16.9% in July 1994, unemployment gradually fell to 14.9% in December 1995 - although the rate still approaches 30% in some regions. The trade and current account balances officially are in deficit but in fact both have comfortable surpluses because of large, unrecorded sales to cross-border visitors. Prospects for 1996 are good, with the government promising to push privatization and social welfare reform. Economic growth should remain above 5%, with \Jinflation\j dropping below 20% by yearend 1996 and unemployment continuing its slow decline. As for external debt, the burden was sharply reduced by reschedulings and write-offs of both private and official debt during 1991-94.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $226.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of opium for domestic consumption and amphetamines for the international market; transshipment point for Asian and Latin American illicit drugs to Western Europe; producer of precursor chemicals
\BExports:\b $22.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i intermediate goods 27.5%, machinery and transport equipment 19.8%, miscellaneous manufactures 20.5%, foodstuffs 11.6%, fuels 9.1% (1994)
\Irecipient:\i Western governments and institutions pledged $22 billion in grants and loans during 1990-94, but much of the money has not been disbursed
\BCurrency:\b 1 zloty (Zl) = 100 groszy
\BExchange rates:\b zlotych (Zl) per US$1 - 2.55 (January 1996) 2.4250 (1995); note - a currency reform on 1 January 1995 replaced 10,000 old zlotys with 1 new zloty; 22,723 (1994), 18,115 (1993), 13,626 (1992), 10,576 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 25,166 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 656 km 1.520-m gauge
standard gauge: 22,655 km 1.435-m gauge (11,496 km electrified; 8,978 km double track)
narrow gauge: 1,855 km various gauges including 1.000-m, 0.785-m, 0.750-m, and 0.600-m (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 367,000 km (excluding farm, factory, and forest roads)
\Ipaved:\i 235,247 km (including 257 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 131,753 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,997 km navigable rivers and canals (1991)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,986 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 360 km; natural gas 4,600 km (1992)
\Bnote:\b \JPoland\j owns an additional 18 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 179,913 DWT operating under the registries of The \JBahamas\j, \JLiberia\j, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Vanuatu, and Cyprus (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 134
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 30
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 27
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 5
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 10
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 32
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 18 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5 million (1994)
\BTelephone system:\b underdeveloped and outmoded system; government aims to have 10 million phones in service by the year 2000
\Idomestic:\i cable, open wire, and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - NA Intelsat, NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions), and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 27, FM 27, shortwave 0
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion; air \Jpollution\j caused by industrial and vehicle emissions; water \Jpollution\j, especially in coastal areas
\Inatural hazards:\i \JAzores\j subject to severe earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b \JAzores\j and Madeira Islands occupy strategic locations along western sea approaches to Strait of \JGibraltar\j
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 601,913; female 866,969) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.02% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.53 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.69 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.92 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.31 years
\Imale:\i 71.52 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.31 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.36 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Portuguese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Portuguese
\BEthnic divisions:\b homogeneous Mediterranean stock in mainland, \JAzores\j, Madeira Islands; citizens of black African descent who immigrated to mainland during decolonization number less than 100,000
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant denominations 1%, other 2%
\BLanguages:\b Portuguese
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
Dependent areas: Macau (scheduled to become a Special Administrative Region of China on 20 December 1999)
\BIndependence:\b 1140 (independent republic proclaimed 5 October 1910)
\BNational holiday:\b Day of \JPortugal\j, 10 June (1580)
\BConstitution:\b 25 April 1976, revised 30 October 1982 and 1 June 1989
\BLegal system:\b civil law system; the Constitutional Tribunal reviews the constitutionality of legislation; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jorge SAMPAIO (since 9 March 1996) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 January 1996 (next to be held NA January 2001); results - Jorge SAMPAIO (Socialist) 53.8%, Anibal CAVACO SILVA (Conservative) 46.2%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Antonio Manuel de Oliviera GUTERRES (since 28 October 1995) was appointed by the president following the October 1995 legislative elections
Council of State: acts as a consultative body to the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica): elections last held 1 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1999); results - PSD 34.0%, PS 43.8%, CDU 8.6%, CDS/PP 9.1%; seats - (230 total) PSD 88, PS 112, CDU 15, CDS/PP 15
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Supremo Tribunal de Justica), judges appointed for life by the Conselho Superior da Magistratura
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party (PSD), Marcelo Rebelo DE SOUSA; Portuguese Socialist Party (PS), Antonio GUTERRES; Party of Democratic Renewal (PRD), Pedro CANAVARRO; Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), Carlos CARVALHAS; Social Democratic Center (CDS), Manuel MONTEIRO; National Solidarity Party (PSN), Manuel SERGIO; Center Democratic Party (CDS); United Democratic Coalition (CDU; communists)
\BFlag:\b two vertical bands of green (hoist side, two-fifths) and red (three-fifths) with the Portuguese coat of arms centered on the dividing line
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JPortugal\j's short-term economic fundamentals are strong - the economy grew by 2.8% in 1995, with similar growth expected in 1996 and 1997, and unemployment is among the lowest in the EU. The Socialist government has pledged its dedication both to meeting the Maastricht monetary convergence criteria and to increasing social spending, including provision of a guaranteed minimum income. The government's 1996 budget, passed in March 1996, includes a budget deficit target of 4.2%, to be attained largely through cuts in non-social-service government spending and income from an ambitious privatization program. As for the long run, \JPortugal\j hopes for a steady modernization of its capital plant, its work force, and its \Jinfrastructure\j in order to catch up with the productivity and income levels of the Big Four economies of Western Europe.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $116.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b important gateway country for Latin American \Jcocaine\j entering the European market; transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to Europe
\BExports:\b $18.9 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i clothing and footwear, machinery, cork and paper products, hides
\Ipartners:\i EU 75.1%, other developed countries 12.4% (US 5.2%) (1995)
\BImports:\b $24.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, \Jpetroleum\j, textiles
\Ipartners:\i EU 71%, other developed countries 10.9% (US 2.5%), less developed countries 12.9% (1995)
ships by type: bulk 7, cargo 35, chemical tanker 5, container 5, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 12, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1
\Bnote:\b \JPortugal\j has created a captive register on Madeira for Portuguese-owned ships; ships on the Madeira Register (MAR) will have taxation and crewing benefits of a flag of convenience; \JPortugal\j owns an additional 25 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 155,776 DWT operating under the registries of Panama and Malta (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 67
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 8
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 18
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 30
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,236,411 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i generally adequate integrated network of coaxial cables, open wire, microwave radio relay, and domestic satellite earth stations
\Iinternational:\i 6 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), NA Eutelsat; tropospheric scatter to \JAzores\j; note - an earth station for Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region) is planned
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 57, FM 66 (repeaters 22), shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Republican Guard, Fiscal Guard, Public Security Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,498,965
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,014,653
males reach military age (20) annually: 83,427 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.9 billion, 2.4% of GDP (1995)
#
"Puerto Rico (Atlas)",196,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (commonwealth associated with the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of the Dominican Republic
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 15 N, 66 30 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 9,104 sq km
\Iland area:\i 8,959 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than three times the size of Rhode Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 501 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine, mild, little seasonal temperature variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with coastal plain belt in north; mountains precipitous to sea on west coast; sandy beaches along most coastal areas
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro de Punta 1,338 m
\BNatural resources:\b some copper and nickel, potential for onshore and offshore oil
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 9%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 41%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 20%
\Iother:\i 22%
\BIrrigated land:\b 390 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i the recent \Jdrought\j has caused water levels in reservoirs to drop and prompted water rationing for more than one-half of the population
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b important location along the Mona Passage - a key shipping lane to the Panama Canal; San Juan is one of the biggest and best natural harbors in the Caribbean; many small rivers and high central mountains ensure land is well watered; south coast relatively dry; fertile coastal plain belt in north
\I65 years and over:\i 10% (male 174,274; female 217,988) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.18% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.56 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.46 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.94 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 12.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.38 years
\Imale:\i 71.13 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.89 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.94 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Puerto Rican(s) (US citizens)
\Iadjective:\i Puerto Rican
\BEthnic divisions:\b Hispanic
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant denominations and other 15%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish, English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 89%
\Imale:\i 90%
\Ifemale:\i 88%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
\Iconventional short form:\i Puerto Rico
\BData code:\b RQ
\BType of government:\b commonwealth associated with the US
\BCapital:\b San Juan
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (commonwealth associated with the US); note - there are 78 municipalities
\BIndependence:\b none (commonwealth associated with the US)
\BNational holiday:\b US Independence Day, 4 July (1776)
\BConstitution:\b ratified 3 March 1952; approved by US Congress 3 July 1952; effective 25 July 1952
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish civil code
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal; indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do not vote in US presidential elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of the US) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Pedro ROSSELLO (since 2 January 1993) was elected for a four-year term by direct suffrage; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - Pedro ROSSELLO (PNP) 50%, Victoria MUNOZ (PPD) 46%, Fernando MARTIN (PIP) 4%
Senate: elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (29 total) PNP 20, PPD 8, PIP 1
House of Representatives: elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (53 total) PNP 36, PPD 16, PIP 1
US House of Representatives: elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) PNP 1 (Carlos Romero BARCELO); note - Puerto Rico elects one representative to the US House of Representatives
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, justices appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate; Superior Courts, justices appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate; Municipal Courts, justices appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Republican Party of Puerto Rico, Luis FERRE; Popular Democratic Party (PPD), Hector ACEVEDO; New Progressive Party (PNP), Pedro ROSSELLO; Puerto Rican Socialist Party (PSP) has been disbanded (1994); Puerto Rican Independence Party (PIP), Ruben BERRIOS Martinez; Puerto Rican Communist Party (PCP), leader(s) unknown
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Armed Forces for National Liberation (FALN); Volunteers of the Puerto Rican Revolution; Boricua Popular Army (also known as the Macheteros); Armed Forces of Popular Resistance
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (commonwealth associated with the US)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (commonwealth associated with the US)
\BFlag:\b five equal horizontal bands of red (top and bottom) alternating with white; a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bears a large white five-pointed star in the center; design based on the US flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Puerto Rico has one of the most dynamic economies in the Caribbean region. Industry has surpassed agriculture as the primary sector of economic activity and income. Encouraged by duty-free access to the US and by tax incentives, US firms have invested heavily in Puerto Rico since the 1950s. US minimum wage laws apply. Important industries include pharmaceuticals, \Jelectronics\j, textiles, \Jpetrochemicals\j, and processed foods. Sugar production has lost out to dairy production and other livestock products as the main source of income in the agricultural sector. Tourism has traditionally been an important source of income for the island, with estimated arrivals of nearly 3.9 million tourists in 1993.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $29.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $7,800 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 2.9% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 1.2 million (1993)
\Iby occupation:\i government 22%, manufacturing 17%, trade 20%, construction 6%, communications and transportation 5%, other 30% (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 16% (1994)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $5.1 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $5.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
narrow gauge: 96 km 1.000-m gauge, rural, narrow-gauge system for hauling sugarcane; no passenger service
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i 13,762 km (1982 est.)
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Guanica, Guayanilla, Guayama, Playa de Ponce, San Juan
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 23
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 8
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,166,231 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern system, integrated with that of the US by high-capacity submarine cable and Intelsat with high-speed data capability
\Idomestic:\i digital \Jtelephone\j system with about 1 million lines (1990 est.); cellular \Jtelephone\j service
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat; submarine cable to US
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 50, FM 63, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2.565 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\Bnote:\b cable \Jtelevision\j available with US programs (1990 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 952,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b paramilitary National Guard, Police Force
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Qatar (Atlas)",197,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi \JArabia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 25 30 N, 51 15 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 11,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 11,000 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 60 km
border country: Saudi \JArabia\j 60 km
\BCoastline:\b 563 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b territorial dispute with \JBahrain\j over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary with \JBahrain\j; 1965 boundary with Saudi \JArabia\j, renegotiated and revised in 1992, but not official depiction
\BClimate:\b desert; hot, dry; humid and sultry in summer
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat and barren desert covered with loose sand and gravel
\Ilowest point:\i Persian Gulf 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Qurayn Aba al Bawl 103 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 95%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited natural fresh water resources are increasing dependence on large-scale \Jdesalination\j facilities
\Inatural hazards:\i haze, dust storms, sandstorms common
\Iinternational agreements:\i signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location in central Persian Gulf near major \Jpetroleum\j deposits
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 6,609; female 3,169) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.39% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 21.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 3.6 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 6.43 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 2.41 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 2.09 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.8 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 19.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.35 years
\Imale:\i 70.75 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.84 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.28 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Qatari(s)
\Iadjective:\i Qatari
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian 18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 95%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 79.4%
\Imale:\i 79.2%
\Ifemale:\i 79.9%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i State of \JQatar\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JQatar\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Dawlat \JQatar\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JQatar\j
\Bnote:\b pronounced gutter
\BData code:\b QA
\BType of government:\b traditional monarchy
\BCapital:\b Doha
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 municipalities (baladiyat, singular - baladiyah); Ad Dawhah, Al Ghuwayriyah, Al Jumayliyah, Al Khawr, Al Wakrah, Ar Rayyan, Jarayan al Batnah, Ash Shamal, Umm Salal
\BIndependence:\b 3 September 1971 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 September (1971)
\BConstitution:\b provisional constitution enacted 2 April 1970
\BLegal system:\b discretionary system of law controlled by the amir, although civil codes are being implemented; Islamic law is significant in personal matters
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Amir and Prime Minister HAMAD bin Khalifa Al Thani (since 27 June 1995 when, as crown prince, he ousted his father, Amir KHALIFA bin Hamad Al Thani, in a bloodless coup) is an absolute monarch; Deputy Prime Minister ABDALLAH bin Khalifa Al Thani (since NA July 1995); note - Amir HAMAD who also holds the positions of minister of defense and commander-in-chief of the armed forces, has not yet selected a new crown prince
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the amir
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura): the constitution calls for elections for part of this consultative body, but no elections have been held since 1970, when there were partial elections to the body; Council members have had their terms extended every four years since; seats - (30 total)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador ABD AL-RAHMAN bin Saud bin Fahd Al Thani
\Ichancery:\i Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 338-0111
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Patrick N. THEROS
\Iembassy:\i 149 Armed Bin Ali St., Fariq Bin Omran (opposite the \Jtelevision\j station), Doha
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 2399, Doha
\Itelephone:\i [974] 864701 through 864703
\IFAX:\i [974] 861669
\BFlag:\b maroon with a broad white serrated band (nine white points) on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Oil is the backbone of the economy and accounts for more than 30% of GDP, roughly 75% of export earnings, and 70% of government revenues. Proved oil reserves of 3.3 billion barrels should ensure continued output at current levels for about 25 years. Oil has given \JQatar\j a per capita GDP comparable to the leading West European industrial countries. Production and export of natural gas are becoming increasingly important. Long-term goals feature the development of off-shore \Jpetroleum\j and the diversification of the economy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $10.7 billion (1994 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 160,717 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern system centered in Doha
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter to \JBahrain\j; microwave radio relay to Saudi \JArabia\j and UAE; submarine cable to \JBahrain\j and UAE; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 201,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 205,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Public Security
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 220,635
\Imales fit for military service:\i 115,403
males reach military age (18) annually: 4,115 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Reunion (Atlas)",198,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas department of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 06 S, 55 36 E
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,510 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,500 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Rhode Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 201 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, but moderates with elevation; cool and dry from May to November, hot and rainy from November to April
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged and mountainous; fertile lowlands along coast
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Piton des Neiges 3,069 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, arable land
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 16%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 35%
\Iother:\i 41% (1993)
\BIrrigated land:\b 60 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic, devastating cyclones (December to April); Piton de la Fournaise on the southeastern coast is an active \Jvolcano\j
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 15,610; female 22,294) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.93% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 74.77 years
\Imale:\i 71.71 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.98 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.72 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Reunionese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Reunionese
\BEthnic divisions:\b French, African, \JMalagasy\j, Chinese, Pakistani, Indian
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 94%, Hindu, \JIslam\j, Buddhist
\BLanguages:\b French (official), \JCreole\j widely used
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 79%
\Imale:\i 76%
\Ifemale:\i 80%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Department of Reunion
\Iconventional short form:\i Reunion
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile de la Reunion
\BData code:\b RE
\BType of government:\b overseas department of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b Saint-Denis
\BAdministrative divisions:\b overseas department of \JFrance\j; there are no first-order divisions as defined by the US Government but there are four arrondissements, 24 communes, and 47 cantons
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas department of France)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Pierre STEINMETZ (since NA) who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Christophe PAYET (since NA)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council
General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) PCR 12, PS 12, UDF 11, RPR 5, others 7
Regional Council: elections last held 25 June 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (45 total) UPF 17, Free-Dom Movement 13, PCR 9, PS 6
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (3 total) RPR 1, FRA 1, independent 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (5 total) PS 1, PCR 1, UPF 1, RPR 1, UDF-CDS 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeals (Cour d'Appel)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alain DEFAUD; Union for French Democracy (UDF), Gilbert GERARD; Communist Party of Reunion (PCR), Elie HOARAU; France-Reunion Future (FRA), Andre THIEN AH KOON; Socialist Party (PS), Jean-Claude FRUTEAU; Social Democrats (CDS), leader NA; Union for \JFrance\j (UPF - includes RPR and UDF); Free-Dom Movement, Marguerite SUDRE
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas department of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas department of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy has traditionally been based on agriculture. Sugarcane has been the primary crop for more than a century, and in some years it accounts for 85% of exports. The government has been pushing the development of a tourist industry to relieve high unemployment, which recently amounted to one-third of the labor force. The gap in Reunion between the well-off and the poor is extraordinary and accounts for the persistent social tensions. The white and Indian communities are substantially better off than other segments of the population, often approaching European standards, whereas indigenous groups suffer the poverty and unemployment typical of the poorer nations of the African continent. The outbreak of severe rioting in February 1991 illustrates the seriousness of socioeconomic tensions. The economic well-being of Reunion depends heavily on continued financial assistance from \JFrance\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.7% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 242,169 (1993)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 30%, industry 21%, services 49% (1981)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate system; principal center is Saint-Denis
\Idomestic:\i modern open wire and microwave radio relay network
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone communication to \JComoros\j, \JFrance\j, Madagascar; new microwave route to \JMauritius\j; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 13, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Gendarmerie)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 176,609
\Imales fit for military service:\i 90,784
males reach military age (18) annually: 5,728 (1996 est.)
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Romania (Atlas)",199,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between \JBulgaria\j and \JUkraine\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 46 00 N, 25 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 237,500 sq km
\Iland area:\i 230,340 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Oregon
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,508 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBulgaria\j 608 km, \JHungary\j 443 km, Moldova 450 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 476 km (all with Serbia), \JUkraine\j (north) 362 km, \JUkraine\j (south) 169 km
\BCoastline:\b 225 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b certain territory of Moldova and \JUkraine\j - including Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina - are considered by \JBucharest\j as historically a part of \JRomania\j; this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940
\BClimate:\b temperate; cold, cloudy winters with frequent snow and fog; sunny summers with frequent showers and thunderstorms
\BTerrain:\b central Transylvanian Basin is separated from the Plain of Moldavia on the east by the Carpathian Mountains and separated from the Walachian Plain on the south by the Transylvanian Alps
\Ilowest point:\i Black Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Moldoveanu 2,544 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j (reserves declining), timber, natural gas, coal, iron ore, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 43%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 19%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 28%
\Iother:\i 7%
\BIrrigated land:\b 34,500 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion and degradation; water \Jpollution\j; air \Jpollution\j in south from industrial effluents; contamination of Danube delta wetlands
\Inatural hazards:\i earthquakes most severe in south and southwest; geologic structure and climate promote landslides
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b controls most easily traversable land route between the Balkans, Moldova, and \JUkraine\j
\BIndependence:\b 1881 (from Turkey; republic proclaimed 30 December 1947)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day of \JRomania\j, 1 December (1990)
\BConstitution:\b 8 December 1991
\BLegal system:\b former mixture of civil law system and communist legal theory; is now based on the Constitution of \JFrance\j's Fifth Republic
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ion ILIESCU (since 20 June 1990, previously President of Provisional Council of National Unity since 23 December 1989) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 27 September 1992, with runoff between top two candidates on 11 October 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Ion ILIESCU 61.4%, Emil CONSTANTINESCU 38.6%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Nicolae VACAROIU (since NA November 1992) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate (Senat): elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - PSDR 34.3%, CDR 18.2%, DP-FSN 12.6%, others 34.9%; seats - (143 total) PSDR 49, CDR 26, DP-FSN 18, PUNR 13, UDMR 12, PRM 6, PAC 6, PDAR 5, PSM 5, PL-93 2, other 1
House of Deputies (Adunarea Deputatilor): elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - PSDR 34.0%, CDR 16.4%, DP-FSN 12.3%, others 37.3%; seats - (341 total) PSDR 116, CDR 56, DP-FSN 42, PUNR 29, UDMR 27, PL-93 19, PRM 15, PSM 13, PAC 5, other 19
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice, judges are appointed by the president on recommendation of the Superior Council of Magistrates
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party (DP-FSN), Petre ROMAN; Social Democratic Party of \JRomania\j (PSDR), Adrian NASTASE; Democratic Union of Hungarians in \JRomania\j (UDMR), Bela MARKO; National Liberal Party (PNL), Mircea IONESCU-QUINTUS; National Peasants' Christian and Democratic Party (PNTCD), Ion DIACONESCU; Romanian National Unity Party (PUNR), Gheorghe FUNAR; Socialist Labor Party (PSM), Ilie VERDET; Agrarian Democratic Party of \JRomania\j (PDAR), Victor SURDU; The Democratic Convention (CDR), Emil CONSTANTINESCU; \JRomania\j Mare Party (PRM), Corneliu Vadim TUDOR; Civic Alliance Party (PAC), Nicolae MANOLESCU, chairman; Liberal Party 1993 (PL-93)
\Bnote:\b numerous other small parties exist but almost all failed to gain representation in the most recent election
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b various human rights and professional associations
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mircea Dan GEOANA
\Ichancery:\i 1607 23rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-4846, 4848, 4851
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 232-4748
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alfred H. MOSES
\Iembassy:\i Strada Tudor Arghezi 7-9, \JBucharest\j
\Imailing address:\i American Consulate General (Bucharest), Unit 1315, APO AE 09213-1315
\Itelephone:\i [40] (1) 210 01 49, 210 40 42
\IFAX:\i [40] (1) 210 03 95
branch office: Cluj-Napoca
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; the national coat of arms that used to be centered in the yellow band has been removed; now similar to the flags of \JAndorra\j and Chad
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JRomania\j, one of the poorer East European countries moving away from the command economy, posted its third straight year of growth in 1995. \JBucharest\j also was successful in reducing its \Jinflation\j rate to 25% - less than half the 1994 rate - because of tight monetary and fiscal policies, while unemployment fell to 9% as the private sector hired more workers. Despite these successes on the economic front, \JRomania\j has lagged much of Central and Eastern Europe in the restructuring process. The private sector accounted for only 40% of GDP in 1995 with over 90% of industry remaining in state hands. Privatization is slated to pick up in 1996, but \JBucharest\j faces other economic problems that could stall recovery, including a growing budget deficit, limited reform of the agricultural and energy sectors, and accumulated decay of the \Jinfrastructure\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $105.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 5.4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,600 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 19.6%
\Iindustry:\i 36.3%
\Iservices:\i 44.1% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 25% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 11.3 million (1992)
\Iby occupation:\i industry 38%, agriculture 28%, other 34% (1989)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8.9% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $5.35 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $6.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b mining, timber, construction materials, \Jmetallurgy\j, chemicals, machine building, food processing, \Jpetroleum\j production and refining
Industrial production growth rate: 3.3% (1994 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American \Jcocaine\j transiting the Balkan route
\BExports:\b $6.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i textiles and footwear 23.8%, metals and metal products 17.3%, fuels and mineral products 11.6%, machinery and transport equipment 14.8%, chemicals 7.9%, food and agricultural goods 6.5%, other 18.1% (1994)
\Ipartners:\i developing countries 30.3%, East and Central Europe 8.4%, \JRussia\j 3.4%, OECD 57.9% (EU 50%, US 3.1%) (1994)
\BImports:\b $7.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i fuels and minerals 26.8%, machinery and transport equipment 25.1%, textiles and footwear 12.3%, food and agricultural goods 9.3%, chemicals 7.9%, other 18.6% (1994)
\Ipartners:\i OECD 60% (EU 44.5%, US 6.5%), East and Central Europe 6.1%, developing countries 16.6%, \JRussia\j 13.8%, other 3.5% (1994)
\BExternal debt:\b $4.7 billion (1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $81 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 leu (L) = 100 bani
\BExchange rates:\b lei (L) per US$1 - 2,599.24 (January 1996), 2,033.28 (1995), 1,655.09 (1994), 760.05 (1993), 307.95 (1992), 76.39 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,374 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 60 km 1.524-m gauge
standard gauge: 10,887 km 1.435-m gauge (3,866 km electrified; 3,060 km double track)
narrow gauge: 427 km 0.760-m gauge (1994)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 153,014 km
\Ipaved:\i 78,037 km (including 113 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 74,977 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,724 km (1984)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 2,800 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 1,429 km; natural gas 6,400 km (1992)
\Bnote:\b \JRomania\j owns an additional 15 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,078,490 DWT operating under the registries of \JLiberia\j, Malta, Cyprus, and The \JBahamas\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 156
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 4
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 9
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 14
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 17
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 108 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2.3 million (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i poor service; 89% of \Jtelephone\j network is automatic; trunk network is microwave radio relay; roughly 3,300 villages with no service (February 1990 est.)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat; new digital international direct-dial exchanges are in \JBucharest\j (1993 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 12, FM 5, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 4.64 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 13 (1990 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 4.58 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Paramilitary Forces, Civil
\BDefense:\b
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,572,383
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,693,376
males reach military age (20) annually: 198,125 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $885 million, 3.0% of GDP (1995)
#
"Russia (Atlas)",200,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Asia (that part west of the Urals is sometimes included with Europe), bordering the \JArctic\j Ocean, between Europe and the North Pacific Ocean
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 60 00 N, 100 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 17,075,200 sq km
\Iland area:\i 16,995,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than 1.8 times the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 19,913 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAzerbaijan\j 284 km, \JBelarus\j 959 km, China (southeast) 3,605 km, China (south) 40 km, \JEstonia\j 290 km, \JFinland\j 1,313 km, Georgia 723 km, Kazakstan 6,846 km, North Korea 19 km, \JLatvia\j 217 km, \JLithuania\j (Kaliningrad Oblast) 227 km, \JMongolia\j 3,441 km, \JNorway\j 167 km, \JPoland\j (Kaliningrad Oblast) 206 km, \JUkraine\j 1,576 km
\BCoastline:\b 37,653 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b inherited disputes from former USSR including sections of the boundary with China; islands of Etorofu, Kunashiri, and Shikotan and the Habomai group occupied by the Soviet Union in 1945, administered by \JRussia\j, claimed by \JJapan\j; maritime dispute with \JNorway\j over portion of the Barents Sea; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined; potential dispute with \JUkraine\j over \JCrimea\j; \JEstonia\j claims over 2,000 sq km of Russian territory in the Narva and Pechora regions; the Abrene section of the border ceded by the \JLatvian\j Soviet Socialist Republic to \JRussia\j in 1944; has made no territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (but has reserved the right to do so) and does not recognize the claims of any other nation
\BClimate:\b ranges from steppes in the south through humid continental in much of European \JRussia\j; subarctic in \JSiberia\j to \Jtundra\j climate in the polar north; winters vary from cool along Black Sea coast to frigid in \JSiberia\j; summers vary from warm in the steppes to cool along \JArctic\j coast
\BTerrain:\b broad plain with low hills west of Urals; vast coniferous forest and \Jtundra\j in \JSiberia\j; uplands and mountains along southern border regions
\Ilowest point:\i Caspian Sea -28 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount El'brus 5,633 m
\BNatural resources:\b wide natural resource base including major deposits of oil, natural gas, coal, and many strategic minerals, timber
\Bnote:\b formidable obstacles of climate, terrain, and distance hinder exploitation of natural resources
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NEGL%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 45%
\Iother:\i 42%
\BIrrigated land:\b 56,000 sq km (1992)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from heavy industry, emissions of coal-fired electric plants, and transportation in major cities; industrial and agricultural \Jpollution\j of inland waterways and sea coasts; deforestation; soil erosion; soil contamination from improper application of agricultural chemicals; scattered areas of sometimes intense radioactive contamination
\Inatural hazards:\i \Jpermafrost\j over much of \JSiberia\j is a major impediment to development; volcanic activity in the Kuril Islands; volcanoes and earthquakes on the Kamchatka Peninsula
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b largest country in the world in terms of area but unfavorably located in relation to major sea lanes of the world; despite its size, much of the country lacks proper soils and climates (either too cold or too dry) for agriculture
\Bnote:\b the autonomous republics of \JChechnya\j and Ingushetia were formerly the autonomous republic of Checheno-Ingushetia (the boundary between \JChechnya\j and Ingushetia has yet to be determined); the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg are federal cities; an administrative division has the same name as its administrative center (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
\BIndependence:\b 24 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, June 12 (1990)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 12 December 1993
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Boris Nikolayevich YEL'TSIN (since 12 June 1991) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage under the constitution of 12 December 1993, but subsequent presidents, beginning with the 16 June 1996 election, will serve a four-year term; election last held 12 June 1991 (next to be held 16 June 1996); results - percent of vote NA; note - no vice president; if the president dies in office, cannot exercise his powers because of ill health, is impeached, or resigns, the premier succeeds him; the premier serves as acting president until a new presidential election is held, which must be within three months
\Ihead of government:\i Premier and Chairman of the Russian Federation Government Viktor Stepanovich CHERNOMYRDIN (since 14 December 1992), First Deputy Premiers and First Deputy Chairmen of the Government Oleg SOSKOVETS (since 30 April 1993) and Vladimir KADANNIKOV (since 25 January 1996) were appointed by the president on approval of the Dumas
Security Council: originally established as a presidential advisory body in June 1991, but restructured in March 1992, with responsibility for managing individual and state security
Presidential Administration: drafts presidential edicts and provides staff and policy support to the entire executive branch
\Icabinet:\i Ministries of the Government or "Government" was appointed by the president
Group of Assistants: schedules president's appointments, processes presidential edicts and other official documents, and houses the president's press service and primary speechwriters
Council of Heads of Republics: includes the leaders of the 21 ethnic-based Republics
Council of Heads of Administrations: includes the leaders of the 66 autonomous territories and regions, and the mayors of Moscow and St. Petersburg
Presidential Council: prepares policy papers for the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Assembly
Federation Council: 178 seats, filled ex-officio by the top executive and legislative officials in each of the 89 federal administrative units (oblasts, krays, republics, autonomous okrugs and oblasts, and the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg)
State \JDuma\j: elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - percent of vote received by parties clearing the 5% threshold entitling them to a proportional share of the 225 party list seats: Communist Party of the Russian Federation 22.3%, Liberal Democratic Party of \JRussia\j 11.2%, Our Home Is \JRussia\j 10.1%, Yabloko Bloc 6.9%; seats - (450 total - half elected in single-member districts and half elected from national party lists) Communist Party of the Russian Federation 157, Independents 78, Our Home Is \JRussia\j 55, Liberal Democratic Party of \JRussia\j 51, Yabloko Bloc 45, Agrarian Party of \JRussia\j 20, \JRussia\j's Democratic Choice 9, Power To the People 9, Congress of Russian Communities 5, Forward, Russia! 3, Women of \JRussia\j 3, other parties 15
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, judges are appointed by the Federation Council on recommendation of the president; Supreme Court (highest court for criminal, civil, and administrative cases), judges are appointed by the Federation Council on recommendation of the president; Superior Court of \JArbitration\j (highest court that resolves economic disputes), judges are appointed by the Federation Council on recommendation of the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
pro-market democrats: Our Home Is \JRussia\j, Viktor CHERNOMYRDIN; Yabloko Bloc, Grigoriy YAVLINSKIY; \JRussia\j's Democratic Choice Party, Yegor GAYDAR; Forward, Russia!, Boris FEDOROV
centrists/special interest parties: Congress of Russian Communities, Yuriy SKOKOV; Women of \JRussia\j, Alevtina FEDULOVA and Yekaterina LAKHOVA
anti-market and/or ultranationalist parties: Communist Party of the Russian Federation, Gennadiy ZYUGANOV; Liberal Democratic Party of \JRussia\j, Vladimir ZHIRINOVSKIY; Agrarian Party, Mikhail LAPSHIN; Power To the People Nikolay RYZHKOV and Sergey BABURIN; Russian Communist Workers' Party, Viktor ANPILOV and Viktor TYULKIN
\Bnote:\b some 269 political parties, blocs, and associations tried to gather enough signatures to run slates of candidates in the 17 December 1995 \JDuma\j elections; 43 succeeded
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Yuliy Mikhaylovich VORONTSOV
\Ichancery:\i 2650 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 298-5700 through 5704
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 298-5735
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York, San Francisco, and Seattle
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Thomas R. PICKERING
\Iembassy:\i Novinskiy Bul'var 19/23, Moscow
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09721
\Itelephone:\i [7] (095) 252-24-51 through 59
\IFAX:\i [7] (095) 956-42-61
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Yekaterinburg
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JRussia\j, a vast country with a wealth of natural resources, a well-educated population, and a diverse industrial base, continues to experience formidable difficulties in moving from its old centrally planned economy to a modern-market economy. The break-up of the USSR into 15 successor states in late 1991 destroyed major economic links that have been only partially replaced. As a result of these dislocations and the failure of the government to implement a rigorous and consistent reform program, output in \JRussia\j has dropped by one-third since 1990 (instead of the one-half previously estimated). On the one hand, President YEL'TSIN's government has made substantial strides in converting to a market economy since launching its economic reform program in January 1992 by freeing nearly all prices, slashing defense spending, eliminating the old centralized distribution system, completing an ambitious voucher privatization program in 1994, establishing private financial institutions, and decentralizing foreign trade. On the other hand, \JRussia\j has made little progress in a number of key areas that are needed to provide a solid foundation for the transition to a market economy; and the strong showing of the communists and nationalists in the \JDuma\j elections in December 1995 casts a shadow over prospects for further reforms. In 1995, the new cash privatization program went slower than planned. The state claims that the nonstate sector produced approximately 70% of GDP in 1995, up from 62% in 1994, although these figures apparently include many enterprises that have only nominally moved out of state control. Moscow has been slow to develop the legal framework necessary to fully support a market economy and to encourage foreign investment. Stockholder rights remain ill-defined and the \JDuma\j has yet to adopt a land code that would allow development of land markets as sources of needed capital. \JRussia\j's securities market remains largely unregulated and suffers from the lack of a comprehensive securities law. In addition, Moscow has yet to develop a social safety net that would allow faster restructuring by relieving enterprises of the burden of providing social benefits for their workers. Most rank-and-file Russians perceive they are worse off because of growing crime and health problems, the drop in real wages, the great rise in wage arrears, and the widespread threat of unemployment. The number of Russians living below the official poverty level rose by 10% to 36.6 million people, or 25% of the population. The decline in output slowed during 1995, and some sectors showed signs of a turnaround; analysts forecast the resumption of growth in 1996 - at a low rate. Russian official data, which fail to capture a considerable portion of private sector output and employment, show that GDP declined by 4% in 1995, as compared with a 15% decline in 1994. Despite continued declines in agricultural and industrial production, unemployment climbed only slowly to about 8% of the work force by yearend because government policies aimed at softening the impact of reforms have created incentives for enterprises to keep workers on the rolls even as production slowed to a crawl. Moscow renewed tightened financial policies in early 1995 and succeeded in reducing monthly consumer price \Jinflation\j from 18% in January to about 3% in December, the lowest monthly rate since the beginning of reform. According to official trade statistics, \JRussia\j ran a $19.9 billion trade surplus for 1995, up from $15.9 billion in 1994. It continued to shift its trade away from the other former Soviet republics toward the West, with the \JCIS\j countries' share of Russian trade falling to 22% in 1995.
Russia made good progress with official and commercial creditors in 1995 in resolving the issue of its $105 billion in Soviet-era debts. When completed, these Paris Club and London Club rescheduling agreements will reduce \JRussia\j's repayment liabilities from $20 billion to less than $5 billion annually through the end of the decade. Capital flight reportedly continued to be a problem in 1995, with billions of additional dollars in assets being moved abroad, primarily to bank accounts in Europe.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $796 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $5,300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 6%
\Iindustry:\i 41%
\Iservices:\i 53%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 7% monthly average (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 85 million (1993)
\Iby occupation:\i production and economic services 83.9%, government 16.1%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8.2% (December 1995) with considerable additional underemployment
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b complete range of mining and extractive industries producing coal, oil, gas, chemicals, and metals; all forms of machine building from rolling mills to high-performance \Jaircraft\j and space vehicles; shipbuilding; road and rail transportation equipment; communications equipment; agricultural machinery, tractors, and construction equipment; electric power generating and transmitting equipment; medical and scientific instruments; consumer durables, textiles, foodstuffs, handicrafts
Industrial production growth rate: -3% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 213,100,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 876 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 5,800 kWh (1994)
\BAgriculture:\b grain, sugar beets, \Jsunflower\j seed, vegetables, fruits (because of its northern location does not grow \Jcitrus\j, cotton, tea, and other warm climate products); meat, milk
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for domestic consumption; government has active eradication program; used as transshipment point for Asian and Latin American illicit drugs to Western Europe and Latin America
\BExports:\b $77.8 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, natural gas, wood and wood products, metals, chemicals, and a wide variety of civilian and military manufactures
\Ipartners:\i Europe, North America, \JJapan\j, Third World countries, \JCuba\j
\BImports:\b $57.9 billion (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment, consumer goods, medicines, meat, grain, sugar, semifinished metal products
\Ipartners:\i Europe, North America, \JJapan\j, Third World countries, \JCuba\j
\BExternal debt:\b $130 billion (yearend 1995)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $2.8 billion (1993)
\Bnote:\b US commitments, including Ex-Im (1990-95), $14 billion (1990-95); other countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1990-95), $125 billion
\BCurrency:\b 1 ruble (R) = 100 kopeks
\BExchange rates:\b rubles per US$1 - 4,640 (29 December 1995), 3,550 (29 December 1994), 1,247 (27 December 1993)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 154,000 km; note - 87,000 km in common carrier service (38,000 km electrified); 67,000 km serve specific industries and are not available for common carrier use
\Ibroad gauge:\i 154,000 km 1.520-m gauge (1 January 1994)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 934,000 km (including 445,000 km which serve specific industries or farms and are not available for common carrier use)
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km (1994 est.)
\BWaterways:\b total navigable routes in general use 101,000 km; routes with navigation guides serving the Russian River Fleet 95,900 km; routes with night navigational aids 60,400 km; man-made navigable routes 16,900 km (1 January 1994)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 48,000 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 15,000 km; natural gas 140,000 km (30 June 1993)
\Bnote:\b \JRussia\j owns an additional 163 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,276,829 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, Cyprus, \JLiberia\j, Panama, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, \JHonduras\j, The \JBahamas\j, and Vanuatu (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,517
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 54
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 202
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 108
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 115
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 151
with unpaved runways over 3,047 m: 25
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 45
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 134
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 291
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 1,392 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 25.4 million (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b total pay phones for long distant calls 34,100; enlisting foreign help, by means of joint ventures, to speed up the modernization of its telecommunications system; in 1992, only 661,000 new telephones were installed compared with 855,000 in 1991, and in 1992 the number of unsatisfied applications for telephones reached 11,000,000; expanded access to international electronic mail service available via Sprint network; the inadequacy of Russian telecommunications is a severe handicap to the economy, especially with respect to international connections
\Idomestic:\i NMT-450 analog cellular \Jtelephone\j networks are operational and growing in Moscow and St. Petersburg; intercity fiber-optic cable installation remains limited
\Iinternational:\i international traffic is inadequately handled by a system of satellites, landlines, microwave radio relay, and outdated submarine cables; much of this traffic passes through the international gateway switch in Moscow which carries most of the international traffic for the other countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States; a new Russian Intersputnik satellite will link Moscow and St. Petersburg with \JRome\j from whence calls will be relayed to destinations in Europe and overseas; satellite earth stations - NA Intelsat, 4 Intersputnik (2 Atlantic Ocean Region and 2 Indian Ocean Region), NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean Region), and NA Orbita
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there are about 1,050 (including AM, FM, and shortwave) radio broadcast stations throughout the country
\BRadios:\b 50 million (1993 est.)(radio receivers with multiple speaker systems for program diffusion 74,300,000)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 7,183
\BTelevisions:\b 54.85 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air Forces, Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Strategic Rocket Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 38,673,991
\Imales fit for military service:\i 30,224,738
males reach military age (18) annually: 1,105,004 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
\Bnote:\b the Intelligence Community estimates that defense spending in \JRussia\j fell by about 20% in real terms in 1995, reducing Russian defense outlays to about one-fifth of peak Soviet levels in the late 1980s
#
"Rwanda (Atlas)",201,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Africa, east of Zaire
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 2 00 S, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 26,340 sq km
\Iland area:\i 24,950 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 893 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBurundi\j 290 km, \JTanzania\j 217 km, \JUganda\j 169 km, Zaire 217 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate; two rainy seasons (February to April, November to January); mild in mountains with frost and snow possible
\BTerrain:\b mostly grassy uplands and hills; relief is mountainous with altitude declining from west to east
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation results from uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel; overgrazing; soil exhaustion; soil erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts; the volcanic Virunga mountains are in the northwest along the border with Zaire
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; predominantly rural population
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 6,853,359 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b genocide and civil war in 1994 killed more than 1 million Rwandans and forced more than 2 million to flee to neighboring countries
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 78,854; female 110,603) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 16.49% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 38.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 20.33 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 146.43 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b since April 1994, more than two million refugees have fled the civil strife between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in \JRwanda\j and crossed into Zaire, \JBurundi\j, and \JTanzania\j; close to 800,000 Rwandan Tutsis who fled civil strife in earlier years have returned to \JRwanda\j, and 90,000 of the Hutu refugees are going home despite the perceived danger of doing so; the ethnic violence continues and in 1996 could produce further refugee flows as well as discourage returns
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.71 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 118.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 40.12 years
\Imale:\i 39.72 years
\Ifemale:\i 40.53 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.99 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Rwandan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Rwandan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Hutu 80%, Tutsi 19%, Twa (Pygmoid) 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 65%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 1%, indigenous beliefs and other 25%
\BLanguages:\b Kinyarwanda (official), French (official), Kiswahili (Swahili) used in commercial centers
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 60.5%
\Imale:\i 69.8%
\Ifemale:\i 51.6%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JRwanda\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JRwanda\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republika y'u \JRwanda\j
\Ilocal short form:\i \JRwanda\j
\BData code:\b RW
\BType of government:\b republic; presidential system
\BIndependence:\b 1 July 1962 (from Belgium-administered UN trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 18 June 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on German and Belgian civil law systems and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Pasteur BIZIMUNGU (since 19 July 1994); installed by force by the Tutsi Rwandan Patriotic Front; no date set for elections; president is normally elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; Vice President Maj. Gen. Paul KAGAME (since NA)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Celestin RWIGEMA (since NA September 1995) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): sworn in on 25 November 1994; seats - (70 total) RPF 19, MDR 13, PSD 13, PL 13, PDC 6, PSR 2, PDI 2, other 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, consists of the Court of Cassation and the Council of State in joint session
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b significant parties include: Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), Alexis KANYARENGWE, chairman; Democratic Republican Movement (MDR); Liberal Party (PL); Democratic and Socialist Party (PSD); Christian Democratic Party (PDC); Islamic Democratic Party (PDI); Rwandan Socialist Party (PSR); National Movement for Democracy and Development (MRND), former ruling party
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b \JRwanda\j Patriotic Army (RPA), the RPF military wing, Maj. Gen. Paul KAGAME, commander; Rally for the Democracy and Return (RDR)
\BInternational organization participation:\b ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC, CEPGL, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Theogene RUDASINGWA
\Ichancery:\i 1714 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 232-2882
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 232-4544
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Robert GRIBBIN III
\Iembassy:\i Boulevard de la Revolution, Kigali
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 28, Kigali
\Itelephone:\i [250] 756 01 through 03, 721 26, 771 47
\IFAX:\i [250] 721 28
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of red (hoist side), yellow, and green with a large black letter R centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j; similar to the flag of Guinea, which has a plain yellow band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JRwanda\j is a poor African nation suffering bitterly from ethnic-based civil war. The agricultural sector dominates the economy; \Jcoffee\j and tea normally make up 80%-90% of total exports. The amount of fertile land is limited, however, and deforestation and soil erosion continue to create problems. Manufacturing focuses mainly on the processing of agricultural products. Weak international prices since 1986 have caused the economy to contract and per capita GDP to decline. A structural adjustment program with the World Bank began in October 1990. Ethnic-based insurgency since 1990 has devastated wide areas, especially in the north, and displaced hundreds of thousands of people. A peace accord in mid-1993 temporarily ended most of the fighting, but resumption of large-scale civil warfare in April 1994 in the capital city Kigali and elsewhere has been taking thousands of lives and severely affecting short-term economic prospects. The economy suffers massively from failure to maintain the \Jinfrastructure\j, looting, neglect of important cash crops, and lack of health care facilities. GDP in 1994 may have dropped by as much as half. The further decline of GDP in 1995 was much smaller and was more than offset by aid from the outside. Because of the severe damage to real property and the decline in public discipline, recovery of domestic production toward previous levels is proceeding slowly.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.8 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b in October 1990 \JRwanda\j launched a Structural Adjustment Program with the IMF; since September 1991, the EC has given $46 million and the US $25 million in support of this program (1993)
\BWaterways:\b Lac Kivu navigable by shallow-draft barges and native craft
\BPorts:\b Cyangugu, Gisenyi, Kibuye
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 7
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 3
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 6,400 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j system does not provide service to the general public but is intended for business and government use
\Idomestic:\i the capital, Kigali, is connected to the centers of the prefectures by microwave radio relay; the remainder of the network depends on wire and HF radiotelephone
\Iinternational:\i international connections employ microwave radio relay to neighboring countries and satellite communications to more distant countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) in Kigali (includes telex and telefax service)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 630,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,582,656
\Imales fit for military service:\i 805,722 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $112.5 million, 7% of GDP (1992)
#
"Saint Helena (Atlas)",202,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, west of \JAngola\j, about two-thirds of the way from South America to Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 56 S, 5 42 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 410 sq km
\Iland area:\i 410 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i nearly two times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes \JAscension\j, Gough Island, Inaccessible Island, Nightingale Island, and Tristan da Cunha
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 60 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; marine; mild, tempered by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b rugged, volcanic; small scattered plateaus and plains
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Queen Mary's Peak 2,060 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 7%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 7%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 3%
\Iother:\i 83%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i active volcanism on Tristan da Cunha
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b Napoleon Bonaparte's place of exile and burial (his remains were taken to Paris in 1840); harbors at least 40 species of plants unknown anywhere else in the world; \JAscension\j is a breeding ground for sea turtles and sooty terns
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 6,782 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.31% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 9.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.33 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 35.14 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.34 years
\Imale:\i 73.28 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.16 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.12 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Saint Helenian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Saint Helenian
\BEthnic divisions:\b NA
\BReligions:\b Anglican (majority), Baptist, Seventh-Day Adventist, Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b age 20 and over can read and write (1987 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Saint Helena
\BData code:\b SH
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Jamestown
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 1 administrative area and 2 dependencies*; Ascension*, Saint Helena, Tristan da Cunha*
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen, 10 June 1989 (second Saturday in June)
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1989
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Governor and Commander in Chief David Leslie SMALLMAN (since NA 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council consists of the governor, three ex-officio officers, and five elected members of the Legislative Council
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council: elections last held NA July 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (15 total, 12 elected) independents 15
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Saint Helenian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield features a rocky coastline and three-masted sailing ship
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy depends primarily on financial assistance from the UK. The local population earns some income from fishing, the raising of livestock, and sales of handicrafts. Because there are few jobs, a large proportion of the work force has left to seek employment overseas.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 2,416 (1991 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i professional, technical, and related workers 8.7%, managerial, administrative, and clerical 12.8%, sales people 8.1%, farmer, fishermen, etc. 5.4%, craftspersons, production process workers 14.7%, others 50.3% (1987)
\Bnote:\b a large proportion of the work force has left to seek employment overseas
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $11.2 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $11 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jmaize\j, potatoes, vegetables; timber production being developed; crawfishing on Tristan da Cunha
\BExports:\b $27,400 (f.o.b., FY92/93)
\Icommodities:\i fish (frozen and salt-dried skipjack, tuna), handicrafts
\Ipartners:\i South Africa, UK
\BImports:\b $9.8 million (c.i.f., FY92/93)
\Icommodities:\i food, beverages, \Jtobacco\j, fuel oils, animal feed, building materials, motor vehicles and parts, machinery and parts
\Ipartners:\i UK, South Africa
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Saint Helenian pound (úS) = 100 pence
\BExchange rates:\b Saint Helenian pounds (úS) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the Saint Helenian pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km (mainland 118 km, \JAscension\j NA km, Tristan da Cunha NA km)
\Ipaved:\i 180.7 km (mainland 98 km, \JAscension\j 80 km, Tristan da Cunha 2.70 km)
\Iunpaved:\i NA km (mainland 20 km, \JAscension\j NA km, Tristan da Cunha NA km)
\BPorts:\b \JGeorgetown\j, Jamestown
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 550
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i automatic network; HF radiotelephone to \JAscension\j, then into worldwide submarine cable and satellite networks
\Iinternational:\i major coaxial submarine cable relay point between South Africa, \JPortugal\j, and UK at \JAscension\j; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2,500 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Saint Kitts and Nevis (Atlas)",203,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, about one-third of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 20 N, 62 45 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 269 sq km
\Iland area:\i 269 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 135 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b subtropical tempered by constant sea breezes; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November)
\BTerrain:\b volcanic with mountainous interiors
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Liamuiga 1,156 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 22%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 17%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 3%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 17%
\Iother:\i 41%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes (July to October)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 41,369 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 35% (male 7,371; female 7,026)
\I15-64 years:\i 58% (male 12,090; female 12,057)
\I65 years and over:\i 7% (male 1,162; female 1,663) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.98% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -4.28 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 18.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 66.86 years
\Imale:\i 63.84 years
\Ifemale:\i 70.06 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.52 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Kittsian(s), Nevisian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Kittsian, Nevisian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black African
\BReligions:\b Anglican, other Protestant sects, Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
\Iconventional short form:\i Saint Kitts and Nevis
\Iformer:\i Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis
\BData code:\b SC
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b Basseterre
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 parishs; Christ Church Nichola Town, Saint Anne Sandy Point, Saint George Basseterre, Saint George Gingerland, Saint James Windward, Saint John Capisterre, Saint John Figtree, Saint Mary Cayon, Saint Paul Capisterre, Saint Paul Charlestown, Saint Peter Basseterre, Saint Thomas Lowland, Saint Thomas Middle Island, Trinity Palmetto Point
\BIndependence:\b 19 September 1983 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 19 September (1983)
\BConstitution:\b 19 September 1983
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Dr. Cuthbert Montraville SEBASTIAN (since 1 January 1996), previously Governor General of the West Indies Associated States (since NA November 1981)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Dr. Denzil DOUGLAS (since 6 July 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Sam CONDOR (since 6 July 1995) were appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general in consultation with the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 3 July 1995 (next to be held by July 2000); results - SKLNP 58%, PAM 41%; seats - (14 total, 11 elected) SKNLP 7, PAM 1, NRP 1, CCM 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based on Saint Lucia)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Action Movement (PAM), Dr. Kennedy SIMMONDS; Saint Kitts and Nevis Labor Party (SKNLP), Dr. Denzil DOUGLAS; Nevis Reformation Party (NRP), Joseph PARRY; Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), Vance AMORY
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Erstein Mallet EDWARDS
\Ichancery:\i 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 686-2636
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 686-5740
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Saint Kitts and Nevis; US interests are monitored by the embassy in \JBridgetown\j, \JBarbados\j
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally from the lower hoist side by a broad black band bearing two white five-pointed stars; the black band is edged in yellow; the upper triangle is green, the lower triangle is red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy has traditionally depended on the growing and processing of sugarcane; decreasing world prices have hurt the industry in recent years. Tourism and export-oriented manufacturing have begun to assume larger roles. Most food is imported. The newly elected government has undertaken a program designed to revitalize the faltering sugar sector. It is also working to improve revenue collection in order to better fund social programs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $220 million (1995 est.)
\Ipartners:\i US 45%, Caricom nations 18.8%, UK 12.5%, Canada 4.2%, \JJapan\j 4.2%, (1994)
\BExternal debt:\b $45.3 million (1994 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.7000 (fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 58 km
narrow gauge: 58 km 0.762-m gauge on Saint Kitts to serve sugarcane plantations (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 300 km
\Ipaved:\i 125 km
\Iunpaved:\i 175 km
\BPorts:\b Basseterre, Charlestown
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,800 (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b good interisland VHF/UHF/SHF radiotelephone connections and international link via Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Martin (Guadeloupe and Netherlands Antilles)
\Idomestic:\i interisland links are handled by VHF/UHF/SHF radiotelephone
\Iinternational:\i international calls are carried by radiotelephone to Antigua and Barbuda and from there switched to submarine cable or to Intelsat, or carried to Saint Martin (Guadeloupe and Netherlands Antilles) by radiotelephone and switched to Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 25,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4
\BTelevisions:\b 9,500 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal Saint Kitts and Nevis Police Force, Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Saint Lucia (Atlas)",204,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 53 N, 60 68 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 620 sq km
\Iland area:\i 610 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 158 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season from January to April, rainy season from May to August
\BTerrain:\b volcanic and mountainous with some broad, fertile valleys
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Gimie 950 m
\BNatural resources:\b forests, sandy beaches, minerals (pumice), mineral springs, geothermal potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 20%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 13%
\Iother:\i 54%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion, particularly in the northern region
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes and volcanic activity
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 157,862 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 34% (male 27,068; female 26,491)
\I15-64 years:\i 61% (male 47,470; female 48,612)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 3,136; female 5,085) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.14% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 22.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -4.62 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.62 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 20 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.09 years
\Imale:\i 66.52 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.91 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.31 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Saint Lucian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Saint Lucian
\BEthnic divisions:\b African descent 90.3%, mixed 5.5%, East Indian 3.2%, white 0.8%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 90%, Protestant 7%, Anglican 3%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French patois
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 67%
\Imale:\i 65%
\Ifemale:\i 69%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Saint Lucia
\BData code:\b ST
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JCastries\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 11 quarters; Anse La Raye, \JCastries\j, Choiseul, Dauphin, Dennery, Gros Islet, Laborie, Micoud, Praslin, Soufriere, Vieux Fort
\BIndependence:\b 22 February 1979 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 22 February (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 22 February 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Stanislaus Anthony JAMES (since 10 October 1988)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister John George Melvin COMPTON (since 3 May 1982) was appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of an 11-member body, six appointed on the advice of the prime minister, three on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and two after consultation with religious, economic, and social groups
House of Assembly: elections last held 27 April 1992 (next to be held by April 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (17 total) UWP 11, SLP 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, \Jjurisdiction\j extends to \JAnguilla\j, Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, \JGrenada\j, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b United Workers' Party (UWP), Vaughn LEWIS; Saint Lucia Labor Party (SLP), Julian HUNTE; Progressive Labor Party (PLP), Jon ODLUM; Citizen's Democratic Party (CDP) Calixte GEORGE
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dr. Joseph Edsel EDMUNDS
\Ichancery:\i 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 364-6792 through 6795
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 364-6728
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Saint Lucia; the Ambassador to Saint Lucia resides in \JBridgetown\j (Barbados)
\BFlag:\b blue with a gold isosceles triangle below a black arrowhead; the upper edges of the arrowhead have a white border
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Though foreign investment in manufacturing and information processing in recent years has increased Saint Lucia's industrial base, the economy remains vulnerable due to its heavy dependence on banana production, which is subject to periodic droughts and tropical storms. Indeed, the destructive effect of Tropical Storm Iris in mid-1995 caused the loss of 20% of the year's banana crop. Increased competition from Latin American bananas will probably further reduce market prices, exacerbating Saint Lucia's need to diversify its economy in coming years, e.g., by expanding tourism, manufacturing, and construction.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $640 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,080 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 13.8%
\Iindustry:\i 17.4%
\Iservices:\i 68.8% (1992 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 0.8% (1993)
\BLabor force:\b 43,800
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 43.4%, services 38.9%, industry and commerce 17.7% (1983 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 25% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $121 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $127 million, including capital expenditures of $104 million (1992 est.)
\Ipartners:\i UK 56%, US 22%, Caricom countries19% (1991)
\BImports:\b $276 million (f.o.b., 1992)
\Icommodities:\i manufactured goods 21%, machinery and transportation equipment 21%, food and live animals, chemicals, fuels
\Ipartners:\i US 34%, Caricom countries 17%, UK 14%, \JJapan\j 7%, Canada 4% (1991)
\BExternal debt:\b $222.7 million (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.7000 (fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 760 km
\Ipaved:\i 500 km
\Iunpaved:\i 260 km
\BPorts:\b \JCastries\j, Vieux Fort
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 26,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i system is automatically switched
\Iinternational:\i direct microwave radio relay link with Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; tropospheric scatter to \JBarbados\j; international calls beyond these countries are carried by Intelsat from Martinique
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 104,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 cable
\BTelevisions:\b 26,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $5.0 million, 2.0% of GDP (1991); note - for police forces
#
"Saint Pierre and Miquelon (Atlas)",205,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territorial collectivity of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Newfoundland (Canada)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 46 50 N, 56 20 E
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 242 sq km
\Iland area:\i 242 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes eight small islands in the Saint Pierre and the Miquelon groups
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 120 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and \JFrance\j; in 1992 an \Jarbitration\j panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone area of 12,348 sq km to settle the dispute
\BClimate:\b cold and wet, with much mist and fog; spring and autumn are windy
\BTerrain:\b mostly barren rock
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Morne de la Grande Montagne 240 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, deepwater ports
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 83%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i persistent fog throughout the year can be a maritime hazard
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b vegetation scanty
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 6,809 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.77% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 12.82 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.59 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 9.95 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 76.34 years
\Imale:\i 74.76 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.25 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.65 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
\Iadjective:\i French
\BEthnic divisions:\b Basques and Bretons (French fishermen)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 99%
\BLanguages:\b French
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 99%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territorial Collectivity of Saint Pierre and Miquelon
\Iconventional short form:\i Saint Pierre and Miquelon
\Ilocal long form:\i Departement de Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
\Ilocal short form:\i Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
\BData code:\b SB
\BType of government:\b territorial collectivity of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b Saint-Pierre
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territorial collectivity of France)
\BIndependence:\b none (territorial collectivity of \JFrance\j; has been under French control since 1763)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Rene MAURICE (since NA) who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Gerard GRIGNON (since NA)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
General Council: elections last held NA April 1994 (next to be held NA April 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (19 total, 15 from Saint Pierre, 4 from Miquelon) Socialist Party (PS) holds majority of seats
French Senate: elections last held NA September 1995 (next to be held NA September 2004); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) RPR 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) UDF 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Superior Tribunal of Appeals (Tribunal Superieur d'Appel)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Socialist Party (PS); Rassemblement pour la Republique (RPR); Union pour la Democratie Francaise (UDF)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territorial collectivity of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territorial collectivity of France)
\BFlag:\b a yellow sailing ship rides on a dark blue background with a black wave line under the ship; on the hoist side, a vertical band is divided into three parts: the top part is red with a green diagonal cross extending to the corners overlaid by a white cross dividing the square into four sections; the middle part has a white background with an ermine pattern; the third part has a red background with two stylized yellow lions outlined in black, one on top of the other; the flag of \JFrance\j is used for official occasions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The inhabitants have traditionally earned their livelihood by fishing and by servicing fishing fleets operating off the coast of Newfoundland. The economy has been declining, however, because the number of ships stopping at Saint Pierre has dropped steadily over the years. In 1992, an \Jarbitration\j panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone of 12,348 sq km to settle a longstanding territorial dispute with Canada, although it represents only 25% of what \JFrance\j had sought. The islands are heavily subsidized by \JFrance\j. Imports come primarily from Canada and \JFrance\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $68 million (1994 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $10,000 (1994 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 2,980 (1994)
\Iby occupation:\i NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 9.6% (1994)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $28 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $28 million, including capital expenditures of $7.8 million (1992 est.)
\BIndustries:\b fish processing and supply base for fishing fleets; tourism
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 10,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 50 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 6,013 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b vegetables; \Jcattle\j, sheep, pigs; fish catch of 20,500 metric tons (1989)
\BExports:\b $13.74 million (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i fish and fish products, fox and mink pelts
\Ipartners:\i US 58%, \JFrance\j 17%, UK 11%, Canada, \JPortugal\j (1990)
\BImports:\b $42 million (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i meat, clothing, fuel, electrical equipment, machinery, building materials
\Ipartners:\i Canada, \JFrance\j, US, Netherlands, UK
\Bnote:\b new airport to open June 1996 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,300 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone communication with most countries in the world; 1 earth station in French domestic satellite system
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 6,300 (1990 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 2,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Atlas)",206,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 15 N, 61 12 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 340 sq km
\Iland area:\i 340 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 84 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to November)
\BTerrain:\b volcanic, mountainous
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Soufriere 1,234 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 38%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 12%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 6%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 41%
\Iother:\i 3%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jpollution\j of coastal waters and shorelines from discharges by pleasure yachts and other effluents; in some areas \Jpollution\j is severe enough to make swimming prohibitive
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes; Soufriere \Jvolcano\j on the island of Saint Vincent is a constant threat
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b the administration of the islands of the Grenadines group is divided between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and \JGrenada\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 118,344 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 33% (male 19,742; female 19,106)
\I15-64 years:\i 62% (male 36,576; female 36,381)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 2,702; female 3,837) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.64% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 19.36 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.4 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -7.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 16.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.94 years
\Imale:\i 71.43 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.49 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.04 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Saint Vincentian(s) or Vincentian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
\BEthnic divisions:\b African descent, white, East Indian, \JCarib\j Indian
\BReligions:\b Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Seventh-Day Adventist
\BLanguages:\b English, French patois
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 96%
\Imale:\i 96%
\Ifemale:\i 96%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
\BData code:\b VC
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b \JKingstown\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 parishes; Charlotte, Grenadines, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint Patrick
\BIndependence:\b 27 October 1979 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 October (1979)
\BConstitution:\b 27 October 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General David JACK (since 29 September 1989)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister James F. MITCHELL (since 30 July 1984); the governor general appoints the leader of the majority party to the position of prime minister; Deputy Prime Minister Carlyle DOUGAN (since 17 September 1995) was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Assembly: elections last held 21 February 1994 (next to be held NA July 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total, 15 elected representatives and 6 appointed senators) NDP 12, ULP 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based on Saint Lucia)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b New Democratic Party (NDP), James F. MITCHELL; United People's Movement (UPM), Adrian SAUNDERS; National Reform Party (NRP), Joel MIGUEL; Unity Labor Party (ULP),Vincent BEACHE - formed by the coalition of Saint Vincent Labor Party (SVLP) and the Movement for National Unity (MNU)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kingsley C.A. LAYNE
\Ichancery:\i 1717 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Suite 102, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-7806, 7846
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 462-7807
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; the Ambassador to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines resides in \JBridgetown\j (Barbados)
\BFlag:\b three vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold (double width), and green; the gold band bears three green diamonds arranged in a V pattern
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Agriculture, dominated by banana production, is the most important sector of the economy. The services sector, based mostly on a growing tourist industry, is also important. The government has been relatively unsuccessful at introducing new industries, and high unemployment rates of 35%-40% continue. The continuing dependence on a single crop represents the biggest obstacle to the islands' development; tropical storms wiped out substantial portions of crops in both 1994 and 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $240 million (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 24 countries among which are \JCroatia\j 42, \JRussia\j 14, \JSlovenia\j 9, China 9, \JGermany\j 2, \JSerbia\j 2, Hong Kong 2, \JLatvia\j 1, \JUkraine\j 1, and \JPoland\j 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 6
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 6,189 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i islandwide, fully automatic \Jtelephone\j system; VHF/UHF radiotelephone from Saint Vincent to the other islands of the Grenadines
\Iinternational:\i VHF/UHF radiotelephone from Saint Vincent to \JBarbados\j; new SHF radiotelephone to \JGrenada\j and to Saint Lucia; access to Intelsat earth station in Martinique through Saint Lucia
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 76,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 cable
\BTelevisions:\b 20,600 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, Coast Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"San Marino (Atlas)",207,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Europe, an enclave in central \JItaly\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 43 46 N, 12 25 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 60 sq km
\Iland area:\i 60 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 39 km
border country: \JItaly\j 39 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean; mild to cool winters; warm, sunny summers
\BTerrain:\b rugged mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Fiume Ausa 55 m
\Ihighest point:\i Monte Titano 749 m
\BNatural resources:\b building stone
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 17%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 83%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Air \JPollution\j
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; smallest independent state in Europe after the Holy See and Monaco; dominated by the \JApennines\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 24,521 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 16% (male 1,978; female 1,967)
\I15-64 years:\i 68% (male 8,401; female 8,249)
\I65 years and over:\i 16% (male 1,648; female 2,278) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.82% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.81 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.79 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 5.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.72 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 81.32 years
\Imale:\i 77.34 years
\Ifemale:\i 85.3 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.52 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Sammarinese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Sammarinese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Sammarinese, Italian
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b Italian
\BLiteracy:\b age 10 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 96%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 95%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of San Marino
\Iconventional short form:\i San Marino
\Ilocal long form:\i Repubblica di San Marino
\Ilocal short form:\i San Marino
\BData code:\b SM
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b San Marino
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 municipalities (castelli, singular - castello); Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore, Chiesanuova, Domagnano, Faetano, Fiorentino, Monte Giardino, San Marino, Serravalle
\BIndependence:\b 301 AD (by tradition)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Foundation of the Republic, 3 September
\BConstitution:\b 8 October 1600; electoral law of 1926 serves some of the functions of a constitution
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system with Italian law influences; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
co-chiefs of state: Captain Regent Piero Paolo GASPERONI and Captain Regent Pietro BUGLI (for the period 1 April-30 September 1996) were elected by the Great and General Council for a six-month term
\Ihead of government:\i Secretary of State for Foreign and Political Affairs Gabriele GATTI (since NA July 1986) was elected for a five-year term by the Great and General Council; election last held NA 1993 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Icabinet:\i Congress of State was elected for a five-year term by the Great and General Council
\Bnote:\b the popularly elected parliament (Great and General Council) selects two of its members to serve as the Captains Regent (Co-Chiefs of State) for a six-month period; they preside over meetings of the Great and General Council and its cabinet (Congress of State) which has ten other members, all selected by the Great and General Council; assisting the Captains Regent are three Secretaries of State - Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, and Finance - and several additional secretaries; the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs has assumed many of the prerogatives of a prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Great and General Council: (Consiglio Grande e Generale) elections last held 30 May 1993 (next to be held by NA May 1998); results - PDCS 41.4%, PSS 23.7%, PDP 18.6%, AP 7.7%, MD 5.3%, RC 3.3%; seats - (60 total) PDCS 26, PSS 14, PDP 11, AP 4, MD 3, RC 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Council of Twelve (Consiglio dei XII)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Democratic Party (PDCS), Cesare GASPERONI, secretary general; Democratic Progressive Party (PDP - formerly San Marino Communist Party (PSS)), Stefano MACINA, secretary general; San Marino Socialist Party (PSS), Maurizio RATTINI, secretary general; Democratic Movement (MD), Massimo TONTI; Popular Alliance (AP), Tito MASI; Communist Refoundation (RC), Paolo GIOVAGNOLI
\BInternational organization participation:\b CE, ECE, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WToO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b San Marino does not have an embassy in the US
honorary \Iconsulate(s) general:\i Washington and New York
honorary \Iconsulate(s):\i \JDetroit\j
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in San Marino; the US Consul General in Florence (Italy) is accredited to San Marino
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and light blue with the national coat of arms superimposed in the center; the coat of arms has a shield (featuring three towers on three peaks) flanked by a wreath, below a crown and above a scroll bearing the word LIBERTAS (Liberty)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The tourist sector contributes over 50% of GDP. In 1993 more than 3 million tourists visited San Marino. The key industries are banking, wearing apparel, \Jelectronics\j, and \Jceramics\j. Main agricultural products are wine and cheeses. The per capita level of output and standard of living are comparable to those of \JItaly\j, which supplies much of its food.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $380 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.4% (1993 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $15,800 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 5.5% (1993)
\BLabor force:\b 14,874 (1993 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i industry 40%, agriculture 2%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 4.9% (December 1993)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $320 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $320 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BExports:\b trade data are included with the statistics for \JItaly\j; \Icommodities:\i building stone, lime, wood, chestnuts, wheat, wine, baked goods, hides, and \Jceramics\j
\BImports:\b trade data are included with the statistics for \JItaly\j; \Icommodities:\i wide variety of consumer manufactures, food
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Italian lire (Lit) = 100 centesimi; note - also mints its own coins
\BRailways:\b 0 km; note - there is a 1.5 km cable railway connecting the city of San Marino to Borgo Maggiore
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 220 km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b none
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 22,300 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i automatic \Jtelephone\j system completely integrated into Italian system
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay and cable connections to Italian network; no satellite earth stations
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA (1 private radio broadcast station)
\BRadios:\b 12,535 (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1991 est.)
\Bnote:\b receives broadcasts from \JItaly\j
\BTelevisions:\b 7,500 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Voluntary Military Force, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $3.7 million (1% of GDP) (1992 est.)
#
"Sao Tome and Principe (Atlas)",208,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, island in the Atlantic Ocean, straddling the Equator, west of \JGabon\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 N, 7 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 960 sq km
\Iland area:\i 960 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i more than five times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 209 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; one rainy season (October to May)
\BTerrain:\b volcanic, mountainous
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pico de Sao Tome 2,024 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 20%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 1%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 75%
\Iother:\i 3%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion and exhaustion
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 144,128 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 40% (male 29,103; female 28,633)
\I15-64 years:\i 55% (male 39,749; female 39,960)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 2,973; female 3,710) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.58% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 34.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.55 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 61.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 63.87 years
\Imale:\i 61.95 years
\Ifemale:\i 65.83 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.33 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Sao Tomean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Sao Tomean
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestico, angolares (descendants of Angolan slaves), forros (descendants of freed slaves), servicais (contract laborers from \JAngola\j, \JMozambique\j, and Cape Verde), tongas (children of servicais born on the islands), Europeans (primarily Portuguese)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic, Evangelical Protestant, Seventh-Day Adventist
\BLanguages:\b Portuguese (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1991 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 73%
\Imale:\i 85%
\Ifemale:\i 62%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe
\Iconventional short form:\i Sao Tome and Principe
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Democratica de Sao Tome e Principe
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 July (1975)
\BConstitution:\b approved March 1990; effective 10 September 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on Portuguese law system and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Miguel TROVOADA (since 4 April 1991) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 3 March 1991 (next to be held 30 June 1996); results - Miguel TROVOADA was elected without opposition in Sao Tome's first multiparty presidential election
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Armindo UAZ de ALMEIDA (since 29 December 1995) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the proposal of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National People's Assembly: (Assembleia Popular Nacional) parliament dissolved by President TROVOADA in July 1994; early elections held 2 October 1994 (next to be held NA); results - MLSTP 27%, PCD-GR 25.5%, ADI 25.5%; seats - (55 total) MLSTP 27, PCD-GR 14, ADI 14
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the National Peoples Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Party for Democratic Convergence-Reflection Group (PCD-GR), Daniel Lima Dos Santos DAIO, secretary general; Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe (MLSTP), Carlos da GRACA; Christian Democratic Front (FDC), Alphonse Dos \JSANTOS\j; Democratic Opposition Coalition (CODO), leader NA; Independent Democratic Action (ADI), Patrice TROVOADA; other small parties
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Sao Tome and Principe does not have an embassy in the US, but does have a Permanent Mission to the UN, headed by First Secretary Domingos AUGUSTO Ferreira, located at 122 East 42nd Street, Suite 1604, New York, NY 10168, \Jtelephone\j [1] (212) 697-4211
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Sao Tome and Principe; the Ambassador to \JGabon\j is accredited to Sao Tome and Principe on a nonresident basis and makes periodic visits to the islands
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of green (top), yellow (double width), and green with two black five-pointed stars placed side by side in the center of the yellow band and a red isosceles triangle based on the hoist side; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This small poor island economy has remained dependent on \Jcocoa\j since independence 20 years ago. Since then, however, \Jcocoa\j production has gradually declined because of \Jdrought\j and mismanagement, so that by 1987 annual output had fallen from 10,000 tons to 3,900 tons. As a result, a shortage of \Jcocoa\j for export has created a serious balance-of-payments problem. Production of less important crops, such as \Jcoffee\j, copra, and palm kernels, has also declined. The value of imports generally exceeds that of exports by a ratio of 3 to 1 or more. The emphasis on \Jcocoa\j production at the expense of other food crops has meant that Sao Tome has to import 90% of food needs. It also has to import all fuels and most manufactured goods. Over the years, Sao Tome has been unable to service its external debt and has had to depend on concessional aid and debt rescheduling. Considerable potential exists for development of a tourist industry, and the government has taken steps to expand facilities in recent years. The government also has attempted to reduce price controls and subsidies and to encourage market-based mechanisms, e.g., to facilitate the distribution of imported food. Annual GDP growth has hovered around 1.5% since 1991.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $138 million (1994 est.)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 33,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1992 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Security Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 34,986
\Imales fit for military service:\i 18,343 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Saudi Arabia (Atlas)",209,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, north of Yemen
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 25 00 N, 45 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,960,582 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,960,582 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than one-fourth the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,415 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JIraq\j 814 km, Jordan 728 km, \JKuwait\j 222 km, Oman 676 km, \JQatar\j 60 km, UAE 457 km, Yemen 1,458 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,640 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 18 nm
continental shelf: not specified
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b large section of boundary with Yemen not defined; location and status of boundary with UAE is not final, defacto boundary reflects 1974 agreement; Kuwaiti ownership of Qaruh and Umm al Maradim islands is disputed by Saudi \JArabia\j; 1965 boundary with \JQatar\j, renegotiated and revised in 1992, but not official depiction
\BClimate:\b harsh, dry desert with great extremes of temperature
\BTerrain:\b mostly uninhabited, sandy desert
\Ilowest point:\i Persian Gulf 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal Sawda' 3,133 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas, iron ore, gold, copper
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 39%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 1%
\Iother:\i 59%
\BIrrigated land:\b 4,350 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jdesertification\j; depletion of underground water resources; the lack of perennial rivers or permanent water bodies has prompted the development of extensive seawater \Jdesalination\j facilities; coastal \Jpollution\j from oil spills
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent sand and dust storms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b extensive coastlines on Persian Gulf and Red Sea provide great leverage on shipping (especially crude oil) through Persian Gulf and Suez Canal
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 227,789; female 215,068) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.45% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 38.32 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.36 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 1.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.51 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.27 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 46.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69 years
\Imale:\i 67.25 years
\Ifemale:\i 70.84 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.45 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Saudi(s)
\Iadjective:\i Saudi or Saudi Arabian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab 90%, Afro-Asian 10%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 100%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 62.8%
\Imale:\i 71.5%
\Ifemale:\i 50.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of Saudi \JArabia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i Saudi \JArabia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Mamlakah al Arabiyah as Suudiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Arabiyah as Suudiyah
\BData code:\b SA
\BType of government:\b monarchy
\BCapital:\b \JRiyadh\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 13 provinces (mintaqah, singular - mintaqat); Al Bahah, Al Hudud Ash Shamaliyah, Al Jawf, Al Madinah, Al Qasim, Ar Riyad, Ash Sharqiyah (Eastern Province), 'Asir, Hail, Jizan, Makkah, Najran, Tabuk
\BIndependence:\b 23 September 1932 (unification)
\BNational holiday:\b Unification of the Kingdom, 23 September (1932)
\BConstitution:\b none; governed according to Shari'a (Islamic law)
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law, several secular codes have been introduced; commercial disputes handled by special committees; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i King and Prime Minister FAHD bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud (since 13 June 1982) is an absolute monarch; Crown Prince and First Deputy Prime Minister ABDALLAH bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud (half-brother to the king, heir to the throne since 13 June 1982, regent from 1 January to 22 February 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers is dominated by royal family members appointed by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b a consultative council composed of 60 members and a chairman who are appointed by the king for a term of four years
\BFlag:\b green with large white Arabic script (that may be translated as There is no God but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God) above a white horizontal saber (the tip points to the hoist side); green is the traditional color of \JIslam\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This is a well-to-do oil-based economy with strong government controls over major economic activities. About 40% of GDP comes from the private sector. Economic (as well as political) ties with the US are especially strong. The \Jpetroleum\j sector accounts for roughly 75% of budget revenues, 35% of GDP, and 90% of export earnings. Saudi \JArabia\j has the largest reserves of \Jpetroleum\j in the world (26% of the proved total), ranks as the largest exporter of \Jpetroleum\j, and plays a leading role in OPEC. For the 1990s the government intends to bring its budget, which has been in deficit since 1983, back into balance, and to encourage private economic activity. Roughly four million foreign workers play an important role in the Saudi economy, for example, in the oil and banking sectors. For over a decade, Saudi \JArabia\j's domestic and international outlays have outstripped its income, and the government has cut its foreign assistance and is beginning to rein in domestic programs. For 1996, the country looks to its policies of maintaining moderate fiscal reforms, restraining public spending, and encouraging non-oil exports.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $189.3 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 24 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.46 million (1993)
\BTelephone system:\b modern system
\Idomestic:\i extensive microwave radio relay and coaxial and fiber-optic cable systems
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay to \JBahrain\j, Jordan, \JKuwait\j, \JQatar\j, UAE, Yemen, and \JSudan\j; coaxial cable to \JKuwait\j and Jordan; submarine cable to Djibouti, \JEgypt\j and \JBahrain\j; satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (3 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Arabsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 43, FM 13, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 5 million (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 80
\BTelevisions:\b 4.5 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Land Force (Army), Navy, Air Force, Air
\BDefense:\b Force, National Guard, Coast Guard, Frontier Forces, Public Security Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,405,828
\Imales fit for military service:\i 3,005,900
males reach military age (18) annually: 165,010 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $12.1 billion, 8.5% of GDP (1996)
#
"Senegal (Atlas)",210,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and \JMauritania\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 14 00 N, 14 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 196,190 sq km
\Iland area:\i 192,000 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than South Dakota
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,640 km
\Iborder countries:\i The Gambia 740 km, Guinea 330 km, Guinea-Bissau 338 km, Mali 419 km, \JMauritania\j 813 km
\BCoastline:\b 531 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of the boundary with The Gambia is indefinite; boundary with \JMauritania\j in dispute
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; rainy season (December to April) has strong southeast winds; dry season (May to November) dominated by hot, dry, \Jharmattan\j wind
\BTerrain:\b generally low, rolling, plains rising to foothills in southeast
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location in the Futa Jaldon foothills 581 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, \Jphosphates\j, iron ore
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Marine Dumping
\BGeographic note:\b The Gambia is almost an enclave of \JSenegal\j
\BIndependence:\b 20 August 1960 (from \JFrance\j; The Gambia and \JSenegal\j signed an agreement on 12 December 1981 that called for the creation of a loose confederation to be known as Senegambia, but the agreement was dissolved on 30 September 1989)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 4 April (1960)
\BConstitution:\b 3 March 1963, revised 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in Supreme Court, which also audits the government's accounting office; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Abdou DIOUF (since 1 January 1981) was elected for a seven-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 21 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 2000); results - Abdou DIOUF (PS) 58.4%, Abdoulaye WADE (PDS) 32.03%, other 9.57%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Habib THIAM (since 7 April 1991) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister in consultation with the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - PS 70%, PDS 23%, other 7%; seats - (120 total) PS 84, PDS 27, LD-MPT 3, Let Us Unite \JSenegal\j 3, PIT 2, UDS-R 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Socialist Party (PS), President Abdou DIOUF; Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS), Abdoulaye WADE; Democratic League-Labor Party Movement (LD-MPT), Dr. Abdoulaye BATHILY; Independent Labor Party (PIT), Amath DANSOKHO; Senegalese Democratic Union-Renewal (UDS-R), Mamadou Puritain FALL; Let Us Unite \JSenegal\j (coalition of African Party for Democracy and \JSocialism\j and National Democratic Rally); other small uninfluential parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b students; teachers; labor; Muslim Brotherhoods
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mamadou Mansour SECK
\Ichancery:\i 2112 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-0540, 0541
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mark JOHNSON
\Iembassy:\i Avenue Jean XXIII at the corner of Avenue Kleber, \JDakar\j
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 49, \JDakar\j
\Itelephone:\i [221] 23 42 96, 23 34 24
\IFAX:\i [221] 22 29 91
\BFlag:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), yellow, and red with a small green five-pointed star centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b In 1994 \JSenegal\j embarked on its most concerted structural adjustment effort yet to exploit the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the currencies of the 14 Francophone African nations on 12 January of that year. After years of foot-dragging, the government has passed a liberalized labor code which should lower the cost of labor and improve the manufacturing sector's competitiveness. Inroads also have been made in closing tax loopholes, eliminating monopoly power in several sectors, and privatizing state owned firms. At the same time, the government is holding the line on current fiscal expenditure under the watchful eyes of international organizations on which it depends for substantial support. The IMF, in mid-1995, announced that the government met most economic targets as called for in its Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility agreement and released the second $50 million tranche. The country's narrow resource base, environmental degradation, and untamed population growth will continue to hold back improvement in living standards over the medium term.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $14.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 4.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,600 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 6.1% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 2.509 million (77% are engaged in subsistence farming; 175,000 wage earners)
\Iby occupation:\i private sector 40%, government and parapublic 60%
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $876 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $197.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b agricultural and fish processing, phosphate mining, \Jpetroleum\j refining, construction materials
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 230,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 720 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 79 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b peanuts, \Jmillet\j, corn, \Jsorghum\j, rice, cotton, tomatoes, green vegetables; \Jcattle\j, poultry, pigs; fish catch of 409,000 metric tons in 1992
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin moving to Europe and North America; illicit cultivator of cannabis
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 8, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 850,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 61,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police (Surete Nationale)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,864,239
\Imales fit for military service:\i 973,170
males reach military age (18) annually: 90,154 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $82 million, 2.1% of GDP (1996 est.)
#
"Serbia and Montenegro (Atlas)",211,0,0,0
Note: \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j have asserted the formation of a joint independent state, but this entity has not been formally recognized as a state by the US; the US view is that the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) has dissolved and that none of the successor republics represents its continuation.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between \JAlbania\j and Bosnia and Herzegovina
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 44 00 N, 21 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 102,350 sq km
\Iland area:\i 102,136 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Kentucky
\Bnote:\b \JSerbia\j has a total area and a land area of 88,412 sq km making it slightly larger than Maine; \JMontenegro\j has a total area of 13,938 sq km and a land area of 13,724 sq km making it slightly larger than Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,246 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlbania\j 287 km (114 km with \JSerbia\j, 173 km with Montenegro), Bosnia and Herzegovina 527 km (312 km with \JSerbia\j, 215 km with Montenegro), \JBulgaria\j 318 km, \JCroatia\j (north) 241 km, \JCroatia\j (south) 25 km, \JHungary\j 151 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 221 km, \JRomania\j 476 km
\Bnote:\b the internal boundary between \JMontenegro\j and \JSerbia\j is 211 km
\BCoastline:\b 199 km (Montenegro 199 km, \JSerbia\j 0 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b disputes with Bosnia and Herzegovina and \JCroatia\j over Serbian populated areas; \JAlbanian\j majority in \JKosovo\j seeks independence from Serbian republic
\BClimate:\b in the north, continental climate (cold winter and hot, humid summers with well distributed rainfall); central portion, continental and Mediterranean climate; to the south, Adriatic climate along the coast, hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall inland
\BTerrain:\b extremely varied; to the north, rich fertile plains; to the east, \Jlimestone\j ranges and basins; to the southeast, ancient mountain and hills; to the southwest, extremely high shoreline with no islands off the coast
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jpollution\j of coastal waters from sewage outlets, especially in tourist-related areas such as \JKotor\j; air \Jpollution\j around \JBelgrade\j and other industrial cities; water \Jpollution\j from industrial wastes dumped into the Sava which flows into the Danube
\Inatural hazards:\i destructive earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b controls one of the major land routes from Western Europe to Turkey and the Near East; strategic location along the Adriatic coast
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b
\Itotal population:\i 10,614,558 (July 1996 est.)
Montenegro: 635,442 (July 1996 est.)
Serbia: 9,979,116 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
Montenegro - \I0-14 years:\i 22% (male 71,075; female 67,402)
Montenegro - \I15-64 years:\i 67% (male 215,889; female 213,290)
Montenegro - \I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 27,868; female 39.918) (July 1996 est.)
Serbia - \I0-14 years:\i 21% (male 1,104,274; female 1,026,994)
Serbia - \I15-64 years:\i 66% (male 3,332,809; female 3,293,788)
Serbia - \I65 years and over:\i 13% (male 515,001; female 706,250) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b
Montenegro: 0.39% (1996 est.)
Serbia: 0.39% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b
Montenegro: 11.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
Serbia: 13.98 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b
Montenegro: 7.76 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
Serbia: 10.25 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b
Montenegro: -0.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
Serbia: 0.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
Montenegro - \Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
Montenegro - \Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
Montenegro - \I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
Montenegro - \I65 years and over:\i 0.7 male(s)/female
Montenegro - \Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
Serbia - \Iat birth:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
Serbia - \Iunder 15 years:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
Serbia - \I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
Serbia - \I65 years and over:\i 0.73 male(s)/female
Serbia - \Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b
Montenegro: 27.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Srbija-Crna Gora
\Bnote:\b \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j has self-proclaimed itself the "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia," but the US view is that the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) has dissolved and that none of the successor republics represents its continuation
\BIndependence:\b 11 April 1992 (Federal Republic of Yugoslavia formed as self-proclaimed successor to the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia - SFRY)
\BNational holiday:\b St. Vitus Day, 28 June
\BConstitution:\b 27 April 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 16 years of age, if employed; 18 years of age, universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Zoran LILIC (since 25 June 1993) was elected for a four-year term by the Federal Assembly; note - Slobodan MILOSEVIC is president of \JSerbia\j (since 9 December 1990); Momir BULATOVIC is president of \JMontenegro\j (since 23 December 1990); Federal Assembly elected Zoran LILIC on 25 June 1993
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Radoje KONTIC (since 29 December 1992) was nominated by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Jovan ZEBIC (since NA March 1993), Uros KLIKOVAC (since 15 September 1994), and Nikola SAINOVIC (since 15 September 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Federal Executive Council
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Assembly
Chamber of Republics: elections last held 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (40 total, 20 Serbian, 20 Montenegrin) seats by party NA; note - seats are filled on a proportional basis to reflect the composition of the legislatures of the republics of \JMontenegro\j and \JSerbia\j
Chamber of Citizens: elections last held 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of votes by party NA; seats - (138 total, 108 Serbian, 30 Montenegrin) SPS 47, SRS 34, Depos 20, DPSCG 17, DS 5, SP 5, NS 4, DZVM 3, other 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Savezni Sud (Federal Court), judges are elected by the Federal Assembly; Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the Federal Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Serbian Socialist Party (SPS, former Communist Party), Slobodan MILOSEVIC; Serbian Radical Party (SRS), Vojislav SESELJ; Serbian Renewal Movement (SPO), Vuk DRASKOVIC, president; Democratic Party (DS), Zoran DJINDJIC; Democratic Party of \JSerbia\j (Depos), Vojlslav KOSTUNICA; Democratic Party of Socialists of \JMontenegro\j (DPSCG), Momir BULATOVIC, president; People's Party of \JMontenegro\j (NS), Milan PAROSKI; Liberal Alliance of \JMontenegro\j, Slavko PEROVIC; Democratic Community of Vojvodina Hungarians (DZVM), Andras AGOSTON; League of Communists-Movement for Yugoslavia (SK-PJ), Dragan ATANASOVSKI; Democratic Alliance of \JKosovo\j (LDK), Dr. Ibrahim RUGOVA, president; Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Sulejman UGLJANIN; Civic Alliance of \JSerbia\j (GSS), Vesna PESIC, chairman; Socialist Party of \JMontenegro\j (SP), leader NA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b NA
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b the US and \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j do not maintain full diplomatic relations; the Embassy of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia continues to function in the US
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Counselor, Charge d'Affaires ad interim Zoran POPOVIC
\Ichancery:\i 2410 \JCalifornia\j St. NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-6566
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US and \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j do not maintain full diplomatic relations
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Chief of Mission Rudolf V. PERINA
\Iembassy:\i address NA, \JBelgrade\j
\Imailing address:\i Unit 1310, APO AE 09213-1310
\Itelephone:\i [381] (11) 645655
\IFAX:\i [381] (11) 645332
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The swift collapse of the Yugoslav federation in 1991 has been followed by highly destructive warfare, the destabilization of republic boundaries, and the breakup of important interrepublic trade flows. \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j faces major economic problems; output has dropped sharply, particularly in 1993. Like the other former Yugoslav republics, it depended on its sister republics for large amounts of energy supplies and manufactures. Wide differences in climate, mineral resources, and levels of technology among the republics accentuated this interdependence, as did the communist practice of concentrating much industrial output in a small number of giant plants. The breakup of many of the trade links, the sharp drop in output as industrial plants lost suppliers and markets, and the destruction of physical assets in the fighting all have contributed to the economic difficulties of the republics. One singular factor in the economic situation of \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j is the continuation in office of a communist government that is primarily interested in political and military mastery, not economic reform. Hyperinflation ended with the establishment of a new currency unit in June 1993; prices were relatively stable in 1994. Reliable statistics are hard to come by; the GDP estimate of $2,000 per capita is extremely rough. The economy is recovering extremely slowly following the suspension of UN sanctions in December 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $20.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin moving to Western Europe on the Balkan route
\BExports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i prior to the breakup of the federation, Yugoslavia exported machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, food and live animals, raw materials
\Ipartners:\i prior to the imposition of UN sanctions trade partners were the other former Yugoslav republics, \JItaly\j, \JGermany\j, other EC, the FSU countries, East European countries, US
\BImports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i prior to the breakup of the federation, Yugoslavia imported machinery and transport equipment, fuels and lubricants, manufactured goods, chemicals, food and live animals, raw materials including coking coal for the steel industry
\Ipartners:\i prior to the imposition of UN sanctions trade partners were the other former Yugoslav republics, the FSU countries, EC countries (mainly \JItaly\j and Germany), East European countries, US
\BExternal debt:\b $4.2 billion (1993 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Yugoslav New Dinar (YD) = 100 paras
\BExchange rates:\b Yugoslav New Dinars (YD) per US $1 - official rate: 1.5; black market rate: 2 to 3 (early 1995)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,960 km
standard gauge: 3,960 km 1.435-m gauge (1,341 km electrified) (1992)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 46,019 km
\Ipaved:\i 26,949 km
\Iunpaved:\i 19,070 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA km
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 415 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 130 km; natural gas 2,110 km
\BPorts:\b Bar, \JBelgrade\j, \JKotor\j, Novi Sad, Pancevo, Tivat
\BMerchant Marine:\b
Montenegro: total 21 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 326,133 GRT/544,600 DWT (controlled by Montenegrin beneficial owners)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 26, FM 9, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 2.015 million
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 1 million
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b People's Army (includes Ground Forces with internal and border troops, Naval Forces, and Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces), Civil
\BDefense:\b
\BManpower availability:\b
Montenegro - \Imales age 15-49:\i 173,942
Montenegro - \Imales fit for military service:\i 140,728
Montenegro - males reach military age (19) annually: 5,226
Serbia - \Imales age 15-49:\i 2,546,549
Serbia - \Imales fit for military service:\i 2,041,239 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 245 billion dinars, 4% to 6% of GDP (1992 est.); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Seychelles (Atlas)",212,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 35 S, 55 40 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 455 sq km
\Iland area:\i 455 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 491 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims Tromelin Island
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May)
\BTerrain:\b Mahe Group is granitic, narrow coastal strip, rocky, hilly; others are \Jcoral\j, flat, elevated reefs
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Morne Seychellois 905 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, copra, \Jcinnamon\j trees
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 4%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 18%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 18%
\Iother:\i 60%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i no natural fresh water resources, catchments collect rain water
\Inatural hazards:\i lies outside the \Jcyclone\j belt, so severe storms are rare; short droughts possible
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b 40 granitic and about 50 coralline islands
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 77,575 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 31% (male 12,005; female 11,835)
\I15-64 years:\i 63% (male 24,003; female 24,946)
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 1,669; female 3,117) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.76% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 21.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.54 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 12.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.24 years
\Imale:\i 64.23 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.09 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Seychellois (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i \JSeychelles\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b Seychellois (mixture of Asians, Africans, Europeans)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 90%, Anglican 8%, other 2%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French (official), \JCreole\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1971 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 58%
\Imale:\i 56%
\Ifemale:\i 60%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JSeychelles\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSeychelles\j
\BData code:\b SE
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Victoria
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 23 administrative districts; Anse aux Pins, Anse Boileau, Anse Etoile, Anse Louis, Anse Royale, Baie Lazare, Baie Sainte Anne, Beau Vallon, Bel Air, Bel Ombre, Cascade, Glacis, Grand' Anse (on Mahe Island), Grand' Anse (on Praslin Island), La Digue, La Riviere Anglaise, Mont Buxton, Mont Fleuri, Plaisance, Pointe Larue, Port Glaud, Saint Louis, Takamaka
\BIndependence:\b 29 June 1976 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 18 June (1993) (adoption of new constitution)
\BConstitution:\b 18 June 1993
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law, French civil law, and customary law
\BSuffrage:\b 17 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President \JFrance\j Albert RENE (since 5 June 1977) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 20-23 July 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - President \JFrance\j Albert RENE (SPPF) reelected with 59.5% of the vote, Sir James MANCHAM (DP) 36.72%
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
People's Assembly (Assemblee du Peuple): elections last held 20-23 July 1993 (next to be held NA); results - SPPF 82%, DP 15%, UO 3%; seats - (33 total, 22 elected, 11 awarded) seats elected - SPPF 21, DP 1; seats awarded - SPPF 6, DP 4, UO 1
\Bnote:\b the 11 awarded seats are apportioned according to the share of each party in the total vote
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal; Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b ruling party - \JSeychelles\j People's Progressive Front (SPPF), \JFrance\j Albert RENE; Democratic Party (DP), Sir James MANCHAM; United Opposition (UO), Wavel RAMKALAWAN - a coalition of the following parties: \JSeychelles\j Party (PS), Wavel RAMKALAWAN; \JSeychelles\j Democratic Movement (MSPD), Jacques HONDOUL; \JSeychelles\j Liberal Party (SLP), Ogilvie BERLOUIS; New Democratic Party , Christopher GILL (former member of DP)
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b trade unions; Roman Catholic Church
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Marc Michael R. MARENGO
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) 820 Second Avenue, Suite 900F, New York, NY 10017
\Itelephone:\i [1] (212) 687-9766, 9767
\IFAX:\i [1] (212) 922-9177
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Carl Burton STOKES
\Iembassy:\i 4th Floor, Victoria House, Box 251, Victoria, Mahe
\Imailing address:\i Box 148, Victoria; Unit 62501, APO AE 09815-2501
\Itelephone:\i [248] 225256
\IFAX:\i [248] 225189
\BFlag:\b five oblique bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, red, white, and green (bottom) radiating from the bottom of the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Since independence in 1976, per capita output has grown to roughly seven times the old near-subsistence level, led by the tourist sector, which employs about 30% of the labor force and provides more than 70% of hard currency earnings. In recent years the government has encouraged foreign investment in order to upgrade hotels and other services. At the same time, the government has moved to reduce the high dependence on tourism by promoting the development of farming, fishing, and small-scale manufacturing. The vulnerability of the tourist sector was illustrated by the sharp drop in 1991-92 due largely to the Gulf war. Although the industry has rebounded, the government recognizes the continuing need for upgrading the sector in the face of stiff international competition.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $430 million (1993 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 8,300 (1982 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i radiotelephone communications between islands in the archipelago
\Iinternational:\i direct radiotelephone communications with adjacent island countries and African coastal countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 34,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 8,200 (1991 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Coast Guard, Marines, National Guard, Presidential Protection Unit, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 21,547
\Imales fit for military service:\i 10,883 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Sierra Leone (Atlas)",213,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and \JLiberia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 30 N, 11 30 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 71,740 sq km
\Iland area:\i 71,620 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than South Carolina
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 958 km
\Iborder countries:\i Guinea 652 km, \JLiberia\j 306 km
\BCoastline:\b 402 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; summer rainy season (May to December); winter dry season (December to April)
\BTerrain:\b coastal belt of mangrove swamps, wooded hill country, upland plateau, mountains in east
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Loma Mansa (Bintimani) 1,948 m
\BNatural resources:\b diamonds, \Jtitanium\j ore, \Jbauxite\j, iron ore, gold, chromite
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 25%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 31%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 29%
\Iother:\i 13%
\BIrrigated land:\b 340 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i rapid population growth pressuring the environment; overharvesting of timber, expansion of \Jcattle\j grazing, and slash-and-burn agriculture have resulted in deforestation and soil exhaustion; civil war depleting natural resources; overfishing
\Inatural hazards:\i dry, sand-laden \Jharmattan\j winds blow from the Sahara (November to May); sandstorms, dust storms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 75,066; female 71,559) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 4.14% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 47.13 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 18.24 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 12.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.92 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 135.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 47.47 years
\Imale:\i 44.56 years
\Ifemale:\i 50.47 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.36 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Sierra Leonean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Sierra Leonean
\BEthnic divisions:\b 13 native African tribes 99% (Temne 30%, Mende 30%, other 39%), \JCreole\j, European, Lebanese, and Asian 1%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 60%, indigenous beliefs 30%, Christian 10%
\BLanguages:\b English (official, regular use limited to literate minority), Mende (principal vernacular in the south), Temne (principal vernacular in the north), Krio (the language of the re-settled ex-slave population of the \JFreetown\j area and is lingua franca)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write in English, Mende, Temne, or Arabic (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 31.4%
\Imale:\i 45.4%
\Ifemale:\i 18.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Sierra Leone
\Iconventional short form:\i Sierra Leone
\BData code:\b SL
\BType of government:\b constitutional democracy
\BCapital:\b \JFreetown\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 3 provinces and 1 area*; Eastern, Northern, Southern, Western*
\BIndependence:\b 27 April 1961 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Republic Day, 27 April (1961)
\BConstitution:\b 1 October 1991; subsequently amended several times
\BLegal system:\b based on English law and customary laws indigenous to local tribes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Ahmad Tejan KABBAH (inaugurated 29 March 1996); election held 26-27 February 1996 (next to be held NA 2000)
\Icabinet:\i Ministers of State appointed by the president with the approval of the House of Representatives; the cabinet is responsible to the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Representatives: elections last held NA February 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (80 total, 68 elected, 12 filled by paramount chiefs elected in separate elections) SLPP 27, UNPP 17, PDP 12, APC 5, NUP 4, DCP 3; note - first elections since the former House of Representatives was shut down by the military coup of 29 April 1992
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b 15 parties registered for the February 1996 elections; National Peoples Party (NPP), Andrew TURAY; Democratic Center Party (DCP), Abu KOROMA; Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), Edward KAMARA, chairman; Coalition for Progress Party (CPP), Geredine WILLIAMS-SARHO; National Unity Movement (NUM); United National Peoples Party (UNPP); Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Thaimu BANGURA, chairman; All Peoples Congress (APC), S. A. T. KOROMA, chairman; National Republican Party (NRP); Social Democratic Party (SDP); Peoples National Convention (PNC), I. B. KARGBO, chairman; National Unity Party (NUP), A. O. D. GEORGE, chairman; Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP), Paul DUNBAR, chairman; National Democratic Alliance (NDA); National Alliance for Democracy Party (NADP)
\Ichancery:\i 1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-9261
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John L. HIRSCH
\Iembassy:\i Corner of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Streets, \JFreetown\j
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [232] (22) 226481 through 226485
\IFAX:\i [232] (22) 225471
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of light green (top), white, and light blue
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Sierra Leone has substantial mineral, agricultural, and fishery resources. However, the economic and social \Jinfrastructure\j is not well developed, and serious social disorders continue to push down production, exports, and the value of the leone. Agriculture employs about two-thirds of the working population, with subsistence agriculture dominating the sector. Manufacturing consists mainly of the processing of raw materials and of light manufacturing for the domestic market. The mining of diamonds, \Jbauxite\j, and rutile is the major source of hard currency. The government has worked hard to meet its IMF- and World Bank-mandated stabilization targets, holding down fiscal deficits, and retiring much of its domestic debt - but at a steep cost in terms of forgone capital investments and social spending. Moreover, the economic \Jinfrastructure\j has nearly collapsed due to neglect and war-related disruptions in the mining and agricultural export sectors. The continuing civil war in \JLiberia\j has led to a large influx of refugees, who place additional burdens on Sierra Leone's fragile economy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1994 est.)
\Itotal:\i 84 km used on a limited basis because the mine at Marampa is closed
narrow gauge: 84 km 1.067-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,674 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,284 km
\Iunpaved:\i 10,390 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 800 km; 600 km navigable year round
\BPorts:\b Bonthe, \JFreetown\j, Pepel
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 17,526 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b marginal \Jtelephone\j and telegraph service
\Idomestic:\i national microwave radio relay system made unserviceable by military activities
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 980,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 45,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Police, Security Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,019,093
\Imales fit for military service:\i 494,451 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 2.6% of GDP (FY92/93)
#
"Singapore (Atlas)",214,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, islands between \JMalaysia\j and \JIndonesia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 22 N, 103 48 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 632.6 sq km
\Iland area:\i 622.6 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than three times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 193 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: within and beyond territorial sea, as defined in treaties and practice
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b two islands in dispute with \JMalaysia\j
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid, rainy; no pronounced rainy or dry seasons; thunderstorms occur on 40% of all days (67% of days in April)
\BTerrain:\b lowland; gently undulating central plateau contains water catchment area and nature preserve
\Ilowest point:\i \JSingapore\j Strait 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Bukit Timah 166 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, deepwater ports
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 4%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 7%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 5%
\Iother:\i 84%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i industrial \Jpollution\j; limited natural fresh water resources; limited land availability presents waste disposal problems
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change
\BGeographic note:\b focal point for Southeast Asian sea routes
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 97,882; female 121,684) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.9% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 16.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 7.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 4.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 78.13 years
\Imale:\i 75.07 years
\Ifemale:\i 81.39 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.65 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Singaporean(s)
\Iadjective:\i \JSingapore\j
\BEthnic divisions:\b Chinese 76.4%, Malay 14.9%, Indian 6.4%, other 2.3%
\BReligions:\b Buddhist (Chinese), Muslim (Malays), Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Taoist, Confucianist
\BLanguages:\b Chinese (official), Malay (official and national), Tamil (official), English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 91.1%
\Imale:\i 95.9%
\Ifemale:\i 86.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JSingapore\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSingapore\j
\BData code:\b SN
\BType of government:\b republic within Commonwealth
\BCapital:\b \JSingapore\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none
\BIndependence:\b 9 August 1965 (from Malaysia)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 9 August (1965)
\BConstitution:\b 3 June 1959, amended 1965 (based on preindependence State of \JSingapore\j Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President ONG Teng Cheong (since 1 September 1993) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 28 August 1993 (next to be held NA August 1999); results - ONG Teng Cheong was elected with 59% of the vote in the country's first popular election for president
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister GOH Chok Tong (since 28 November 1990) and Deputy Prime Ministers LEE Hsien Loong (since 28 November 1990) and Tony TAN Keng Yam (since 1 August 1995) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president, responsible to Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 31 August 1991 (next to be held by 31 August 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (81 total) PAP 77, SDP 3, WP 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chief justice is appointed by the president with the advice of the prime minister, other judges are appointed by the president with the advice of the chief justice
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
government: People's Action Party (PAP), GOH Chok Tong, secretary general
opposition: \JSingapore\j Democratic Party (SDP), CHEE Soon Juan; Workers' Party (WP), J. B. JEYARETNAM; National Solidarity Party (NSP), leader NA; Barisan Sosialis (BS, Socialist Front), leader NA; \JSingapore\j People's Party (SPP), SIN Kek Tong
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sellapan Rama NATHAN
\Ichancery:\i 3501 International Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 537-3100
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 537-0876
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Timothy A. CHORBA
\Iembassy:\i 30 Hill Street, \JSingapore\j 0617
\Imailing address:\i FPO AP 96534
\Itelephone:\i [65] 3380251
\IFAX:\i [65] 3384550
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; near the hoist side of the red band, there is a vertical, white crescent (closed portion is toward the hoist side) partially enclosing five white five-pointed stars arranged in a circle
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JSingapore\j has an open entrepreneurial economy with strong service and manufacturing sectors and excellent international trading links derived from its entrepot history. The economy registered 8.9% growth in 1995, with prospects for 7%-8% growth in 1996. In 1995, the manufacturing and financial and business services sectors led economic growth. Rising labor costs continue to be a threat to \JSingapore\j's competitiveness, and the government's strategy to address this problem includes increasing productivity, improving \Jinfrastructure\j, and encouraging higher value-added industries. In applied technology, per capita output, investment, and labor discipline, \JSingapore\j has key attributes of a developed country.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $66.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 8.9% (1995)
\BGDP per capita:\b $22,900 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NEGL%
\Iindustry:\i 28%
\Iservices:\i 72%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 1.7% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 1.649 million (1994)
\Iby occupation:\i financial, business, and other services 33.5%, manufacturing 25.6%, commerce 22.9%, construction 6.6%, other 11.4% (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 2.6% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $17.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $12.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $4.5 billion (FY95/96 est.)
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 22 countries among which are \JJapan\j 39, Hong Kong 27, Denmark 24, \JGermany\j 20, Sweden 14, \JThailand\j 14, \JBelgium\j 12, \JNorway\j 9, \JIndonesia\j 7, and US 7 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 8
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.23 million (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b good domestic facilities; good international service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to \JMalaysia\j (Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia), \JIndonesia\j, and the \JPhilippines\j; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean), and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 13, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 1.05 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, People's
\BDefense:\b Force, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,025,300
\Imales fit for military service:\i 752,382 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.9 billion, 4.3% of GDP (1995 est.)
#
"Slovakia (Atlas)",215,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, south of \JPoland\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 48 40 N, 19 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 48,845 sq km
\Iland area:\i 48,800 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about twice the size of New Hampshire
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,355 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 91 km, Czech Republic 215 km, \JHungary\j 515 km, \JPoland\j 444 km, \JUkraine\j 90 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b Gabcikovo Dam dispute with \JHungary\j; unresolved property issues with Czech Republic over redistribution of former Czechoslovak federal property
\BTerrain:\b rugged mountains in the central and northern part and lowlands in the south
\Ilowest point:\i Bodrok River 94 m
\Ihighest point:\i Gerlachovka 2,655 m
\BNatural resources:\b brown coal and \Jlignite\j; small amounts of iron ore, copper and \Jmanganese\j ore; salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i NA%
\Iforest and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from metallurgical plants presents human health risks; acid rain damaging forests
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 11% (male 234,377; female 365,719) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.34% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 12.62 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.64 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 10.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 73.01 years
\Imale:\i 69.01 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.21 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.65 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Slovak(s)
\Iadjective:\i Slovak
\BEthnic divisions:\b Slovak 85.7%, Hungarian 10.7%, Gypsy 1.5% (the 1992 \Jcensus\j figures underreport the Gypsy/Romany community, which could reach 500,000 or more), Czech 1%, Ruthenian 0.3%, Ukrainian 0.3%, German 0.1%, Polish 0.1%, other 0.3%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 60.3%, atheist 9.7%, Protestant 8.4%, Orthodox 4.1%, other 17.5%
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia)
\BNational holiday:\b Slovak Constitution Day, 1 September (1992)
\BConstitution:\b ratified 1 September 1992, fully effective 1 January 1993
\BLegal system:\b civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j; legal code modified to comply with the obligations of Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Michal KOVAC (since 8 February 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the National Parliament; election last held 8 February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Vladimir MECIAR (since 12 December 1994) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Parliament (Narodni Rada): elections last held 30 September-1 October 1994 (next to be held by October 1998); results - HZDS 35%, SDL 10.4%, Hungarian coalition (Hungarian Christian Democrats, Hungarian Civic Party, Coexistence) 10.2%, KDH 10.1%, DU 8.6%, ZRS 7.3%, SNS 5.4%; seats - (150 total) governing coalition 83 (HZDS 61, ZRS 13, SNS 9), opposition 67 (SDL 18, Hungarian coalition 17, KDH 17, DU 15)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are elected by the National Parliament
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Movement for a Democratic \JSlovakia\j (HZDS), Vladimir MECIAR, chairman; Common Choice/Party of the Democratic Left (SDL), Peter WEISS, chairman; Hungarian Christian Democrats, Vojtech BUGAR; Hungarian Civic Party; Coexistence, Miklos DURAY, chairman; Christian Democratic Movement (KDH), Jan CARNOGURSKY; Democratic Union (DU), Jozef MORAVCIK, chairman; Association of Slovak Workers (ZRS), Jan LUPTAK, chairman; Slovak National Party (SNS), Jan SLOTA, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Green Party; Social Democratic Party of \JSlovakia\j; Slovak Christian Union
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Branislav LICHARDUS
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) Suite 380, 2201 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 965-5161
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 965-5166
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ralph JOHNSON
\Iembassy:\i Hviezdoslavovo Namestie 4, 81102 Bratislava
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [42] (7) 533-0861, 533-3338
\IFAX:\i [42] (7) 533-5439
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red superimposed with the Slovak cross in a shield centered on the hoist side; the cross is white centered on a background of red and blue
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Since its separation from the Czech Republic on 1 January 1993, \JSlovakia\j has continued the difficult transformation from a centrally controlled economy to a modern market-oriented economy. Macroeconomic performance improved steadily in 1994 and 1995 - with 4.8% and 6% growth, respectively. But privatization progressed only in fits and starts. Strong export performance boosted growth in both years, with consumption and investment rebounding. Unemployment fell to 12.8% in November 1995, the lowest level since mid-1993, and \Jinflation\j dropped from 26% in 1993 to 7.5% in 1995. The federal government deficit fell from 7% of GDP in 1993 to less than 2% in 1994-95, as growth boosted revenues. Positive international financial performance led Standard & Poor's to raise its rating of the National Bank of \JSlovakia\j's foreign currency debt to just one step below investment grade. The trade and current accounts are both in surplus, and foreign currency reserves held by the central bank have climbed to $3.5 billion. Foreign debt of $4.6 billion - about the same as \JRomania\j's - is the lowest in Central and Eastern Europe and the second lowest per capita. Bratislava made the Slovak crown convertible for current account transactions on 1 October 1995. \JSlovakia\j continued to have difficulty attracting foreign investment, however, because of perceived political uncertainty and vacillations in privatization policy. The government as well as the OECD projects 5% growth in 1996 and 1997.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $39 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i industry 33.2%, agriculture 12.2%, construction 10.3%, communication and other 44.3% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 13% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $6.1 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $6.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b metal and metal products; food and beverages; electricity, gas, coke, oil, and nuclear fuel; chemicals and manmade fibers; machinery; paper and printing; earthenware and \Jceramics\j; transport vehicles; textiles; electrical and optical apparatus; rubber products
Industrial production growth rate: 7.8% (January-August 1995)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is 1 station of NA type
\BRadios:\b 1.1 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 1.6 million (1994 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,442,321
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,104,901
males reach military age (18) annually: 48,695 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $430 million, 3.0% of GDP (1995)
#
"Slovenia (Atlas)",216,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between \JCroatia\j and \JItaly\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 46 00 N, 15 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 20,256 sq km
\Iland area:\i 20,256 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Jersey
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,207 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 324 km, \JCroatia\j 546 km, \JItaly\j 235 km, \JHungary\j 102 km
\BCoastline:\b 46.6 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime border dispute with \JCroatia\j over direct access to the sea in the Adriatic; the border issue is currently under negotiation
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean climate on the coast, continental climate with mild to hot summers and cold winters in the plateaus and valleys to the east
\BTerrain:\b a short coastal strip on the Adriatic, an \Jalpine\j mountain region adjacent to \JItaly\j, mixed mountain and valleys with numerous rivers to the east
\Icurrent issues:\i Sava River polluted with domestic and industrial waste; \Jpollution\j of coastal waters with heavy metals and toxic chemicals; forest damage near Koper from air \Jpollution\j (originating at metallurgical and chemical plants) and resulting acid rain
\Inatural hazards:\i flooding and earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JBiodiversity\j, Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 13% (male 91,819; female 161,869) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -0.27% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 8.27 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.4 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.57 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.57 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.09 years
\Imale:\i 71.4 years
\Ifemale:\i 79 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.13 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Slovene(s)
\Iadjective:\i Slovenian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Slovene 91%, Croat 3%, Serb 2%, Muslim 1%, other 3%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 96% (including 2% Uniate), Muslim 1%, other 3%
\BLanguages:\b Slovenian 91%, Serbo-Croatian 7%, other 2%
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JSlovenia\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSlovenia\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republika Slovenije
\Ilocal short form:\i Slovenija
\BData code:\b SI
\BType of government:\b emerging democracy
\BCapital:\b \JLjubljana\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 60 provinces (pokajine, singular - pokajina) Ajdovscina, Brezice, Celje, Cerknica, Crnomelj, Dravograd, Gornja Radgona, Grosuplje, Hrastnik Lasko, Idrija, Ilirska Bistrica, Izola, Jesenice, Kamnik, Kocevje, Koper, Kranj, Krsko, Lenart, Lendava, Litija, Ljubljana-Bezigrad, Ljubljana-Center, Ljubljana-Moste-Polje, Ljubljana-Siska, Ljubljana-Vic-Rudnik, Ljutomer, Logatec, Maribor, Metlika, Mozirje, Murska Sobota, Nova Gorica, Novo Mesto, Ormoz, Pesnica, Piran, Postojna, Ptuj, Radlje Ob Dravi, Radovljica, Ravne Na Koroskem, Ribnica, Ruse, Sentjur Pri Celju, Sevnica, Sezana, Skofja Loka, Slovenj Gradec, Slovenska Bistrica, Slovenske Konjice, Smarje Pri Jelsah, Tolmin, Trbovlje, Trebnje, Trzic, Velenje, Vrhnika, Zagorje Ob Savi, Zalec
\BIndependence:\b 25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
\BNational holiday:\b National Statehood Day, 25 June (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 23 December 1991, effective 23 December 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal (16 years of age, if employed)
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Milan KUCAN (since 22 April 1990) was reelected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 6 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Milan KUCAN reelected
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Janez DRNOVSEK (since 14 May 1992) was nominated by the president and elected by the National Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was nominated by the prime minister and elected by the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral; advisory National Council
National Assembly: elections last held 6 December 1992 (next to be held Fall 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (90 total) LDS 22, SKD 15, ZLSD 14, SNS 12, SLS 10, DSS 6, ZS 5, SDSS 4, Hungarian minority 1, Italian minority 1; note - seating as of January 1996 is as follows: LDS 30, SKD 15, ZLSD 14, SLS 12, DSS 4, SDSS 4, SNS 4, SND 3, Hungarian minority 1, Italian minority 1, independents 2
National Council: the Council is an advisory body with no direct legislative powers; in the election of 6 December 1992, 40 members were elected to represent local, professional, and socioeconomic interests (next election to be held NA Fall 1996)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are elected by the National Assembly on recommendation of the Judicial Council; Constitutional Court, judges elected for nine-year terms by the National Assembly and nominated by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Democratic (LDS), Janez DRNOVSEK, chairman; Slovene Christian Democrats (SKD), Lozje PETERLE, chairman; Social Democratic Party of \JSlovenia\j (SDSS), Janez JANSA, chairman; Slovene People's Party (SLS), Marjan PODOBNIK, chairman; United List (former Communists and allies - ZLSD), Janez KOCIJANCIC, chairman; Slovene National Party (SNS), Zmago JELINCIC, chairman; Democratic Party (DSS), Tone PERSAK, chairman; Greens of \JSlovenia\j (ZS), Dusan PLUT, chairman, note - Greens merged with the LDS; Slovene National Right (SND), Saso LAP, chairman
\Bnote:\b parties have changed as of the December 1992 elections
\Ichancery:\i 1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 667-5363
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 667-4563
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Victor JACKOVICH
\Iembassy:\i address NA, \JLjubljana\j
\Imailing address:\i P.O. Box 254, Prazakova 4, 61000 \JLjubljana\j; American Embassy, \JLjubljana\j, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7140
\Itelephone:\i [386] (61) 301-427, 472, 485
\IFAX:\i [386] (61) 301-401
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red with the Slovenian seal (a shield with the image of Triglav in white against a blue background at the center, beneath it are two wavy blue lines depicting seas and rivers, and around it, there are three six-sided stars arranged in an inverted triangle); the seal is located in the upper hoist side of the flag centered in the white and blue bands
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JSlovenia\j appears to be making a solid economic recovery, fulfilling the promise it showed at the time of Yugoslavia's breakup. Its per capita GDP is now the highest in Central and Eastern Europe and not far below the levels in the poorer West European countries. \JSlovenia\j has benefited from strong ties to Western Europe and suffered comparatively small physical damage during Yugoslavia's breakup. The beginning was difficult, however. Real GDP fell 15% in 1991-92, while \Jinflation\j soared to 200% in 1992 and unemployment reached 9%. The turning point came in 1993, when real GDP grew 1%, unemployment leveled off, and \Jinflation\j slowed dramatically. In 1994, real GDP rose 5.5%, tapering off to an estimated 4.8% in 1995, while \Jinflation\j and unemployment both were down to about 8% by late 1995. The government gets good marks from foreign observers for fiscal policy - the budget deficit has not exceeded 1% of GDP in any year since 1991, and the current account balance has remained in surplus throughout the transition period, with the exception of 1995. The Slovene privatization program, which began in 1994, involves about 1,400 firms, but only 412 have been privatized. The rest are expected to reach private hands by end-1996, but that does not include firms in so-called strategic industries, such as telecommunications and energy. Foreign investment jumped to an estimated $150 million in 1995 from $83.7 million in 1994. With \Jinflation\j and unemployment expected to continue edging down, the outlook for 1996 is generally good. A slowdown in Western Europe - which buys 70% of \JSlovenia\j's exports - could hurt exports, however, lowering GDP growth to about 4% and perhaps pushing the current account into a small deficit.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $22.6 billion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 2%, manufacturing and mining 46%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8% (December 1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $6.6 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $6.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
\BIndustries:\b ferrous \Jmetallurgy\j and rolling mill products, aluminum reduction and rolled products, lead and zinc smelting, \Jelectronics\j (including military electronics), trucks, electric power equipment, wood products, textiles, chemicals, machine tools
standard gauge: 1,201 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified 499 km) (1994)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,794 km
\Ipaved:\i 13,314 km (including 187 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 1,480 km (1994 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 290 km; natural gas 305 km
\BPorts:\b Izola, Koper, Piran
\BMerchant Marine:\b
\Itotal:\i 14 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 229,727 GRT/290,456 DWT (controlled by Slovenian owners)
ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 1, container 4
\Bnote:\b ships operate under the flags of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, \JSingapore\j, \JLiberia\j, and Antigua and Barbuda; no ships remain under the Slovenian flag (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 14
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 5
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 527,800 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 5, shortwave 0
\Bnote:\b there are more than 20 regional and local radio broadcast stations
\BRadios:\b 596,100 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 7
\Bnote:\b there are more than 20 local cable \Jtelevision\j broadcast stations
\BTelevisions:\b 454,400 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Slovene
\BDefense:\b Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 525,925
\Imales fit for military service:\i 419,456
males reach military age (19) annually: 15,350 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 13.5 billion tolars, 3.6% of GDP (1995 est.); note - conversion of the military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Solomon Islands (Atlas)",217,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 S, 159 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 28,450 sq km
\Iland area:\i 27,540 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 5,313 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
continental shelf: 200 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged mountains with some low \Jcoral\j atolls
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; much of the surrounding \Jcoral\j reefs are dead or dying
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons, but they are rarely destructive; geologically active region with frequent earth tremors; volcanic activity
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 6,129; female 6,035) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.35% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 37.91 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.41 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 25.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.14 years
\Imale:\i 68.67 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.74 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.43 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Solomon Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Solomon Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b Melanesian 93%, Polynesian 4%, Micronesian 1.5%, European 0.8%, Chinese 0.3%, other 0.4%
\BReligions:\b Anglican 34%, Roman Catholic 19%, Baptist 17%, United (Methodist/Presbyterian) 11%, Seventh-Day Adventist 10%, other Protestant 5%, traditional beliefs 4%
\BLanguages:\b Melanesian \Jpidgin\j in much of the country is lingua franca, English spoken by 1%-2% of population
\Bnote:\b 120 indigenous languages
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Solomon Islands
\Iformer:\i British Solomon Islands
\BData code:\b BP
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JHoniara\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 provinces and 1 town*; Central, \JGuadalcanal\j, Honiara*, Isabel, Makira, Malaita, Temotu, Western
\Bnote:\b there may be two new provinces of Choiseul (Lauru) and Rennell/Bellona and the administrative unit of \JHoniara\j may have been abolished
\BIndependence:\b 7 July 1978 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 7 July (1978)
\BConstitution:\b 7 July 1978
\BLegal system:\b common law
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Moses PITAKAKA (since 10 June 1994) who was appointed for up to five years by the queen on the advice of Parliament
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Solomon MAMALONI (since 7 November 1994) was elected by and from Parliament; Deputy Prime Minister Danny PHILIP (since NA October 1995) was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister from among the members of Parliament
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister from among the members of Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Parliament: elections last held 26 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) GNUR 21, PAP 7, NAPSI 5, SILP 4, UP 4, independents 6
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Unity and Reconciliation Group (GNUR), Solomon MAMALONI; People's Alliance Party (PAP); National Action Party (NAPSI), leader NA; Solomon Islands Labor Party (SILP), leader NA; United Party (UP), leader NA; Nationalist Front for Progress (NFP), Andrew NORI; Labor Party (LP), Joses TUHANUKU; Christian Fellowship, leader NA
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Solomon Islands do not have an embassy in the US; the ambassador to the US traditionally resides in \JHoniara\j (Solomon Islands)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Solomon Islands (embassy closed July 1993); the ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to the Solomon Islands
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally by a thin yellow stripe from the lower hoist-side corner; the upper triangle (hoist side) is blue with five white five-pointed stars arranged in an X pattern; the lower triangle is green
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The bulk of the population depend on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and \Jforestry\j for at least part of their livelihood. Most manufactured goods and \Jpetroleum\j products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped mineral resources such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. The government of the Solomon Islands is nearing financial insolvency. In mid-1995 the central bank suspended interest and principal payments on government bonds and treasury bills held by financial institutions and the general public. The government has taken no steps to restrain expenditure or address the deficit, which is expected to be considerably higher than the $20 million forecasted in the 1996 budget.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1992 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 8% (1992 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,590 (1992 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 13% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 26,842
\Iby occupation:\i services 41.5%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 23.7%, commerce, transport, and finance 21.7%, construction, manufacturing, and mining 13.1% (1992 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $81.3 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $101.9 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b copra, fish (tuna)
Industrial production growth rate: -3.8% (1991 est.)
\Bnote:\b in addition, there are 800 km of private logging and plantation roads of varied surface (1982 est.)
\BPorts:\b Aola Bay, \JHoniara\j, Lofung, Noro, Viru Harbor, Yandina
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 30
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 18
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 38,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 2,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular military forces; Solomon Islands National Reconnaissance and Surveillance Force; Royal Solomon Islands Police (RSIP)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Somalia (Atlas)",218,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of \JEthiopia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 00 N, 49 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 637,660 sq km
\Iland area:\i 627,340 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,366 km
\Iborder countries:\i Djibouti 58 km, \JEthiopia\j 1,626 km, \JKenya\j 682 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,025 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
territorial sea: 200 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b southern half of boundary with \JEthiopia\j is a Provisional Administrative Line; territorial dispute with \JEthiopia\j over the Ogaden
\BClimate:\b principally desert; December to February - northeast monsoon, moderate temperatures in north and very hot in south; May to October - southwest monsoon, torrid in the north and hot in the south, irregular rainfall, hot and humid periods (tangambili) between monsoons
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to undulating plateau rising to hills in north
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Shimbiris 2,450 m
\BNatural resources:\b uranium and largely unexploited reserves of iron ore, tin, \Jgypsum\j, \Jbauxite\j, copper, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 46%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 14%
\Iother:\i 38%
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,600 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jfamine\j; use of contaminated water contributes to human health problems; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i recurring droughts; frequent dust storms over eastern plains in summer
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location on Horn of Africa along southern approaches to Bab el Mandeb and route through Red Sea and Suez Canal
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 9,639,151 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b this estimate was derived from an official \Jcensus\j taken in 1987 by the Somali Government with the cooperation of the UN and the US Bureau of the \JCensus\j; population estimates are updated year by year between \Jcensus\j years by factoring growth rates into them, and by taking account of refugee movements, and of losses due to \Jfamine\j; lower estimates of \JSomalia\j's population in mid-1996 (on the order of 6.0 to 6.5 million) have been made by aid and relief agencies, based on the number of persons being fed; population counting in \JSomalia\j is complicated by the large numbers of nomads and by refugee movements in response to \Jfamine\j and clan warfare
\BIndependence:\b 1 July 1960 (from a merger of British Somaliland, which became independent from the UK on 26 June 1960, and Italian Somaliland, which became independent from the Italian-administered UN trusteeship on 1 July 1960, to form the Somali Republic)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BConstitution:\b 25 August 1979, presidential approval 23 September 1979
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b \JSomalia\j has no functioning government; the United Somali Congress (USC) ousted the regime of Major General Mohamed SIAD Barre on 27 January 1991; the present political situation is one of anarchy, marked by interclan fighting and random banditry
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b the United Somali Congress (USC) ousted the former regime on 27 January 1991; formerly the only party was the Somali Revolutionary Socialist Party (SRSP), headed by former President and Commander in Chief of the Army Major General Mohamed SIAD Barre
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b numerous clan and subclan factions are currently vying for power
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JSomalia\j does not have an embassy in the US (ceased operations on 8 May 1991)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JSomalia\j; US interests are represented by the US Embassy in \JNairobi\j at Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue; mail address: P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, \JNairobi\j; APO AE 09831; \Itelephone:\i [254] (2) 334141; FAX [254] (2) 340838
\BFlag:\b light blue with a large white five-pointed star in the center; design based on the flag of the UN (Italian Somaliland was a UN trust territory)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of the world's poorest and least developed countries, \JSomalia\j has few resources. Moreover, much of the economy has been devastated by the civil war. Agriculture is the most important sector, with livestock accounting for about 40% of GDP and about 65% of export earnings. Nomads and seminomads, who are dependent upon livestock for their livelihood, make up a large portion of the population. Crop production generates only 10% of GDP and employs about 20% of the work force. The main export crop is bananas; sugar, \Jsorghum\j, and corn are grown for the domestic market. The small industrial sector is based on the processing of agricultural products and accounts for less than 10% of GDP; most facilities have been shut down because of the civil strife. The greatly increased political turmoil of 1991-93 resulted in a substantial drop in agricultural output, with widespread \Jfamine\j. In 1994 economic conditions stabilized in the countryside, followed in 1995 by slight improvements. However, ongoing civil strife in \JMogadishu\j and outlying areas is interfering with any substantial recovery.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA
\BLabor force:\b 3.7 million (very few are skilled laborers)(1993 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture (mostly pastoral nomadism) 71%, industry and services 29%
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b a few small industries, including sugar refining, textiles, \Jpetroleum\j refining (mostly shut down)
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 75,000 kW prior to the civil war, but now largely shut down due to war damage; some localities operate their own generating plants, providing limited municipal power; note - UN and relief organizations use their own portable power systems
ships by type: cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 52
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 6
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 15
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 20 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 9,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b the public telecommunications system was completely destroyed or dismantled by the civil war factions; all relief organizations depend on their own private systems
\Idomestic:\i recently, local cellular \Jtelephone\j systems have been established in \JMogadishu\j and in several other population centers
\Iinternational:\i international connections are available from \JMogadishu\j by satellite
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA (there are at least five radio broadcast stations of NA type)
\BRadios:\b 350,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (Somalia's only TV station was demolished during the civil strife, sometime in 1991)
\BTelevisions:\b 113,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA; note - no functioning central government military forces; clan militias continue to battle for control of key economic or political prizes
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,333,994
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,301,954 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"South Africa (Atlas)",219,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, at the southern tip of the continent of Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 29 00 S, 24 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1,219,912 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1,219,912 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly less than twice the size of \JTexas\j
\Bnote:\b includes Prince Edward Islands (Marion Island and Prince Edward Island)
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,750 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBotswana\j 1,840 km, \JLesotho\j 909 km, \JMozambique\j 491 km, \JNamibia\j 855 km, \JSwaziland\j 430 km, Zimbabwe 225 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,798 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b \JSwaziland\j has asked South Africa to open negotiations on reincorporating some nearby South African territories that are populated by ethnic Swazis or that were long ago part of the Swazi Kingdom
\BClimate:\b mostly semiarid; subtropical along east coast; sunny days, cool nights
\BTerrain:\b vast interior plateau rimmed by rugged hills and narrow coastal plain
\Icurrent issues:\i lack of important arterial rivers or lakes requires extensive water conservation and control measures; growth in water usage threatens to outpace supply; \Jpollution\j of rivers from agricultural runoff and urban discharge; air \Jpollution\j resulting in acid rain; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i prolonged droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b South Africa completely surrounds \JLesotho\j and almost completely surrounds \JSwaziland\j
\BNational holiday:\b Freedom Day, 27 April (1994)
\BConstitution:\b 27 April 1994 (interim constitution, replacing the constitution of 3 September 1984); note - on 8 May 1996, the Constitutional Assembly voted 421 to two to pass a new constitution which, after certification by the Constitutional Court, will gradually go into effect over a three-year period and come into full force with the next national elections in April 1999
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman-Dutch law and English common law; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Nelson MANDELA (since 10 May 1994); Deputy Executive Presidents Thabo MBEKI (since 10 May 1994) and Frederik W. DE KLERK (since 10 May 1994) were elected by the National Assembly
\Bnote:\b any political party that wins 20% or more of the National Assembly votes in a general election is entitled to name a deputy executive president; moreover, any party that wins 20 or more seats in the National Assembly is entitled to become a member of the governing coalition; currently, the ANC, the IFP, and the NP constitute a Government of National Unity (GNU)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 26-29 April 1994 (next to be held NA April 1999); results - ANC 62.6%, NP 20.4%, IFP 10.5%, FF 2.2%, DP 1.7%, PAC 1.2%, ACDP 0.5%, other 0.9%; seats - (400 total) ANC 252, NP 82, IFP 43, FF 9, DP 7, PAC 5, ACDP 2
Senate: the Senate is composed of members who are nominated by the nine provincial parliaments (which are elected in parallel with the National Assembly) and has special powers to protect regional interests, including the right to limited self-determination for ethnic minorities; seats - (90 total) ANC 61, NP 17, FF 4, IFP 5, DP 3
\Bnote:\b when the National Assembly meets in joint session with the Senate to consider the provisions of the constitution, the combined group is referred to as the Constitutional Assembly
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b African National Congress (ANC), Nelson MANDELA, president; National Party (NP), Frederik W. DE KLERK, president; Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Mangosuthu BUTHELEZI, president; Freedom Front (FF), Constand VILJOEN, president; Democratic Party (DP), Tony LEON, president; Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC), Clarence MAKWETU, president; African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), Kenneth MESHOE, president
\Bnote:\b in addition to these seven parties which received seats in the National Assembly, 11 other parties won votes in the national elections in April 1994
\BFlag:\b two equal width horizontal bands of red (top) and blue separated by a central green band which splits into a horizontal Y, the arms of which end at the corners of the hoist side, embracing a black isoceles triangle from which the arms are separated by narrow yellow bands; the red and blue bands are separated from the green band and its arms by narrow white stripes
\Bnote:\b prior to 26 April 1994, the flag was actually four flags in one - three miniature flags reproduced in the center of the white band of the former flag of the Netherlands, which has three equal horizontal bands of orange (top), white, and blue; the miniature flags are a vertically hanging flag of the old Orange Free State with a horizontal flag of the UK adjoining on the hoist side and a horizontal flag of the old \JTransvaal\j Republic adjoining on the other side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Many of the white one-seventh of the South African population enjoy incomes, material comforts, and health and educational standards equal to those of Western Europe. In contrast, most of the remaining population suffers from the poverty patterns of the Third World, including unemployment and lack of job skills. The main strength of the economy lies in its rich mineral resources, which provide two-thirds of exports. Economic developments for the remainder of the 1990s will be driven largely by the new government's attempts to improve black living conditions, to set the country on a steady export-led growth path, and to cut back the enormous numbers of unemployed. The economy in recent years has absorbed less than 5% of the more than 300,000 workers entering the labor force annually. Local economists estimate that the economy must grow between 5% and 6% in real terms annually to absorb all of the new entrants, much less reduce the accumulated total.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $215 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $4,800 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 8.7% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 14.2 million economically active (1996)
\Iby occupation:\i services 35%, agriculture 30%, industry 20%, mining 9%, other 6%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 32.6% (1996 est.); an additional 11% underemployment
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $30.5 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $38 billion, including capital expenditures of $2.6 billion (FY94/95 est.)
\BIndustries:\b mining (world's largest producer of \Jplatinum\j, gold, chromium), \Jautomobile\j assembly, metalworking, machinery, textile, iron and steel, chemical, \Jfertilizer\j, foodstuffs
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment center for heroin and \Jcocaine\j; \Jcocaine\j consumption on the rise; world's largest market for illicit methaqualone, usually imported illegally from India through various east African countries; illicit cultivation of marijuana
\BExports:\b $27.9 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i gold 27%, other minerals and metals 20%-25%, food 5%, chemicals 3% (1994)
\Ipartners:\i \JItaly\j, \JJapan\j, US, \JGermany\j, UK, other EU countries, Hong Kong
\Bnote:\b current aid pledges include US $600 million over three years ending in 1996; UK $150 million over three years; \JAustralia\j $21 million over three years; \JJapan\j $1.3 billion over two years ending in 1996; EU $833 million over five years
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 280 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 5,206,235 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b the system is the best developed, most modern, and has the highest capacity in Africa
\Idomestic:\i consists of carrier-equipped open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay links, fiber-optic cable, and radiotelephone communication stations; key centers are Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, \JJohannesburg\j, Port Elizabeth, and \JPretoria\j
\Iinternational:\i 1 submarine cable; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 14, FM 286, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 12.1 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 67 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 3.45 million (1990 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b South African National
\BDefense:\b Force (SANDF; includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Medical Services), South African Police Service (SAPS)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 10,686,976
\Imales fit for military service:\i 6,502,265
males reach military age (18) annually: 424,854 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $2.9 billion, 2.2% of GDP (FY95/96)
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of the tip of South America
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 54 30 S, 37 00 W
\BMap references:\b Antarctic Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 4,066 sq km
\Iland area:\i 4,066 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Rhode Island
\Bnote:\b includes Shag Rocks, Clerke Rocks, Bird Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b NA km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b administered by the UK, claimed by Argentina
\BClimate:\b variable, with mostly westerly winds throughout the year, interspersed with periods of calm; nearly all precipitation falls as snow
\BTerrain:\b most of the islands, rising steeply from the sea, are rugged and mountainous; South Georgia is largely barren and has steep, glacier-covered mountains; the South Sandwich Islands are of volcanic origin with some active volcanoes
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Paget 2,915 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (largely covered by permanent ice and snow with some sparse vegetation consisting of grass, moss, and lichen)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i the South Sandwich Islands have prevailing weather conditions that generally make them difficult to approach by ship; they are also subject to active volcanism
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b the north coast of South Georgia has several large bays, which provide good \Janchorage\j; \Jreindeer\j, introduced early in this century, live on South Georgia
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous population; there is a small military garrison on South Georgia, and the British Antarctic Survey has a biological station on Bird Island; the South Sandwich Islands are uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i none
\BData code:\b SX
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b none; Grytviken on South Georgia is the garrison town
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Liberation Day, 14 June (1982)
\BConstitution:\b 3 October 1985
\BLegal system:\b English common law
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Commissioner David Everard TATHAM (since August 1992; resident at Stanley, Falkland Islands)
\BLegislative branch:\b no elections
\BJudicial branch:\b none
\BFlag:\b the flag of the UK is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Some fishing takes place in adjacent waters. There is a potential source of income from harvesting fin fish and \Jkrill\j. The islands receive income from postage stamps produced in the UK.
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $291,777
\Iexpenditures:\i $451,000, including capital expenditures of $NA (1988 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 900 kW
\Iproduction:\i 2 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i NA kWh (1992)
\BTransportation:\b
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Grytviken
\BAirports:\b none
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i coastal radiotelephone station at Grytviken
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 0, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Spain (Atlas)",220,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean Sea, and North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of \JFrance\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 00 N, 4 00 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 504,750 sq km
\Iland area:\i 499,400 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Oregon
\Bnote:\b includes Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, and five places of sovereignty (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - \JCeuta\j, Mellila, Islas Chafarinas, Penon de Alhucemas, and Penon de Velez de la Gomera
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,903.2 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAndorra\j 65 km, \JFrance\j 623 km, \JGibraltar\j 1.2 km, \JPortugal\j 1,214 km
\Bnote:\b excludes the length of the boundary between the places of sovereignty and Morocco
\BCoastline:\b 4,964 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b \JGibraltar\j question with UK; \JSpain\j controls five places of sovereignty (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - the coastal enclaves of \JCeuta\j and Melilla, which Morocco contests, as well as the islands of Penon de Alhucemas, Penon de Velez de la Gomera, and Islas Chafarinas
\BClimate:\b temperate; clear, hot summers in interior, more moderate and cloudy along coast; cloudy, cold winters in interior, partly cloudy and cool along coast
\BTerrain:\b large, flat to dissected plateau surrounded by rugged hills; \JPyrenees\j in north
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pico de Teide on Canary Islands 3,718 m
\Icurrent issues:\i \Jpollution\j of the Mediterranean Sea from raw sewage and effluents from the offshore production of oil and gas; air \Jpollution\j; deforestation; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location along approaches to Strait of \JGibraltar\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1986 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 96%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 94%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of \JSpain\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSpain\j
\Ilocal short form:\i Espana
\BData code:\b SP
\BType of government:\b parliamentary monarchy
\BCapital:\b Madrid
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 17 autonomous communities (comunidades autonomas, singular - comunidad autonoma); Andalucia, Aragon, Asturias, Canarias, Cantabria, Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y Leon, Cataluna, Communidad Valencia, Extremadura, \JGalicia\j, Islas Baleares, La \JRioja\j, Madrid, \JMurcia\j, Navarra, Pais Vasco
\Bnote:\b there are five places of sovereignty on and off the coast of Morocco (Ceuta, Mellila, Islas Chafarinas, Penon de Alhucemas, and Penon de Velez de la Gomera) with administrative status unknown
\BIndependence:\b 1492 (expulsion of the Moors and unification)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 12 October
\BConstitution:\b 6 December 1978, effective 29 December 1978
\BLegal system:\b civil law system, with regional applications; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King JUAN CARLOS I (since 22 November 1975) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jose Maria AZNAR (since 5 May 1996) was proposed by the king and voted into office by the National Assembly on 4 May 1996; AZNAR's Popular Party defeated Felipe GONZALEZ Marques's Socialist Workers Party in the 3 March 1996 legislative election; Deputy Prime Minister (vacant)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was designated by the prime minister
Council of State: is the supreme consultative organ of the government
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral The General Courts or National Assembly (Las \JCortes\j Generales)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 3 March 1996 (next to be held by March 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (256 total) PP 132, PSOE 96, CiU 11, PNV 6, IU 2, others 9
Congress of Deputies (Congreso de los Diputados): elections last held 3 March 1996 (next to be held by March 2000); results - PP 38.9%, PSOE 37.5%, IU 10.7%, CiU 4.6%; seats - (350 total) PSOE 141, PP 156, IU 21, CiU 16, other 16
principal national parties, from right to left: Popular Party (PP), Jose Maria AZNAR Lopez; Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE), Felipe GONZALEZ Marquez, secretary general; Spanish Communist Party (PCE), Julio ANGUITA Gonzalez; United Left (IU - a coalition of parties including the PCE, a branch of the PSOE, and other small parties), Julio ANGUITA Gonzalez
chief regional parties: Convergence and Union (CiU), Jordi PUJOL, secretary general (a coalition of the Democratic Convergence of \JCatalonia\j (CDC), Pere ESTEVE, and the Democratic Union of \JCatalonia\j (UDC), Josep Antoni DURAN LLEIDA); Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), Xabier ARZALLUS Antia and Jose Antonio ARDANZA; Basque United
\BPeople:\b (HB or Herri Batasuna, ETA's political wing), Juan Cruz IDIGORAS; Canarian Coalition (CC), a coalition of five parties
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b on the extreme left, the Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA) and the First of October Antifascist Resistance Group (GRAPO) use \Jterrorism\j to oppose the government; free labor unions (authorized in April 1977); Workers Confederation (CC.OO); the Socialist General Union of Workers (UGT), and the smaller independent Workers Syndical Union (USO); business and landowning interests; the Catholic Church; Opus Dei; university students
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jaime De OJEDA Eiseley
\Ichancery:\i 2375 \JPennsylvania\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 452-0100, 728-2340
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 833-5670
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Richard N. GARDNER
\Iembassy:\i Serrano 75, 28006 Madrid
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09642
\Itelephone:\i [34] (1) 577-4000, 577-2301
\IFAX:\i [34] (1) 577-5735
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBarcelona\j
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of red (top), yellow (double width), and red with the national coat of arms on the hoist side of the yellow band; the coat of arms includes the royal seal framed by the Pillars of Hercules, which are the two promontories (Gibraltar and Ceuta) on either side of the eastern end of the Strait of \JGibraltar\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JSpain\j, with a mixed capitalist economy and a per capita GDP two-thirds that of the four leading economies of Western Europe, has shared with these countries the recession of the early 1990s, the gradual upturn of 1994-95, and the ongoing controversies over the timing and terms of European economic union. Reduction of the budget deficit - at 5.9% of GDP in 1995 - to meet the Maastricht monetary convergence criterion of 3% by 1997 remains the primary goal of Spanish economic policy, but political pressures had kept the Socialist government from implementing the full range of reforms necessary to meet this goal. \JSpain\j's official unemployment rate of 23% is the highest in the EU, and the troubled Socialists had been reluctant to cut social spending. Parliament rejected the administration's proposed 1996 budget because of political wrangling - not because of great differences with the substance of the spending plan - forcing the government to continue spending at 1995 levels and use piecemeal decrees to raise consumption taxes to a level consistent with \Jinflation\j. The conservative opposition Popular Party, now in power after ending 13 years of Socialist rule in the spring of 1996, has promised to cut government spending, loosen regulations on financial markets, and lower taxes to spur job creation. The conservatives have stated support for \JSpain\j's role in the EU but also have cautioned against harming \JSpain\j's economy by moving too quickly to meet the criteria for monetary union.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $565 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $14,300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 3.6%
\Iindustry:\i 33.6%
\Iservices:\i 62.8% (1995 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 4.3% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 11.837 million
\Iby occupation:\i services 59%, industry 21%, agriculture 11%, construction 9% (1993 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 22.8% (yearend 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $96.8 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $122.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $5.7 billion (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b textiles and apparel (including footwear), food and beverages, metals and metal manufactures, chemicals, shipbuilding, automobiles, machine tools, tourism
Industrial production growth rate: 7% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 43,800,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 148 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 3,545 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b grain, vegetables, olives, wine grapes, sugar beets, \Jcitrus\j; beef, pork, poultry, dairy products; fish catch of 1.4 million metric tons is among top 20 nations
\BIllicit drugs:\b key European gateway country for Latin American \Jcocaine\j and North African hashish entering the European market; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin
\BExports:\b $85 billion (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i cars and trucks, semifinished manufactured goods, foodstuffs, machinery
\Ipartners:\i EU 68.7%, US 4.9%, other developed countries 7.9% (1994)
\Ibroad gauge:\i 12,139 km 1.668-m gauge (6,510 km electrified; 2,295 km double track)
standard gauge: 488 km 1.435-m gauge (488 km electrified)
narrow gauge: 1,716 km (privately owned: 1,669 km 1.000-m gauge, 489 km electrified; 28 km 0.914-m gauge, 28 km electrified; government owned: 19 km 1.000-m gauge, all electrified)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 331,961 km
\Ipaved:\i 328,641 km (including 2,700 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 3,320 km (1991 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,045 km, but of minor economic importance
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 265 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 1,794 km; natural gas 1,666 km
\BPorts:\b Aviles, \JBarcelona\j, \JBilbao\j, Cadiz, Cartagena, Castellon de la Plana, \JCeuta\j, \JHuelva\j, La Coruna, Las Palmas (Canary Islands), Malaga, Melilla, Pasajes, Puerto de Gijon, Santa Cruz de \JTenerife\j (Canary Islands), Santander, Tarragona, Valencia, \JVigo\j
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 12 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 12.6 million (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b generally adequate, modern facilities
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i 22 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), NA Eutelsat, NA Inmarsat, and NA Marecs; tropospheric scatter to adjacent countries
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 190, FM 406 (repeaters 134), shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Civil Guard, National Police, Coastal Civil Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 10,360,209
\Imales fit for military service:\i 8,370,197
males reach military age (20) annually: 341,670 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $6.3 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995)
#
"Spratly Islands (Atlas)",221,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, group of reefs in the South China Sea, about two-thirds of the way from southern Vietnam to the southern \JPhilippines\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 38 N, 111 55 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i NA sq km but less than 5 sq km
\Iland area:\i less than 5 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i NA
\Bnote:\b includes 100 or so islets, \Jcoral\j reefs, and sea mounts scattered over the South China Sea
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 926 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BInternational disputes:\b all of the Spratly Islands are claimed by China, \JTaiwan\j, and Vietnam; parts of them are claimed by \JMalaysia\j and the \JPhilippines\j; in 1984, \JBrunei\j established an exclusive economic zone, which encompasses Louisa Reef, but has not publicly claimed the island
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b flat
\Ilowest point:\i South China Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Southwest Cay 4 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, \Jguano\j, undetermined oil and natural gas potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i typhoons; serious maritime hazard because of numerous reefs and shoals
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strategically located near several primary shipping lanes in the central South China Sea; includes numerous small islands, atolls, shoals, and \Jcoral\j reefs
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are scattered garrisons
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Spratly Islands
\BData code:\b PG
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is limited to commercial fishing. The proximity to nearby oil- and gas-producing sedimentary basins suggests the potential for oil and gas deposits, but the region is largely unexplored, and there are no reliable estimates of potential reserves; commercial exploitation has yet to be developed.
\BIndustries:\b none
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 4
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i about 50 small islands or reefs are occupied by China, \JMalaysia\j, the \JPhilippines\j, \JTaiwan\j, and Vietnam
#
"Sri Lanka (Atlas)",222,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of India
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 7 00 N, 81 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 65,610 sq km
\Iland area:\i 64,740 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,340 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical monsoon; northeast monsoon (December to March); southwest monsoon (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, flat to rolling plain; mountains in south-central interior
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pidurutalagala 2,524 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jlimestone\j, \Jgraphite\j, mineral sands, gems, \Jphosphates\j, clay
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 16%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 17%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 7%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 37%
\Iother:\i 23%
\BIrrigated land:\b 5,600 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened by poaching; coastal degradation from mining activities and increased \Jpollution\j; freshwater resources being polluted by industrial wastes and sewage runoff
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional cyclones and tornadoes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location near major Indian Ocean sea lanes
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 18,553,074 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b since the outbreak of hostilities between the government and armed Tamil separatists in the mid-1980s, several hundred thousand Tamil civilians have fled the island; as of late 1992, nearly 115,000 were housed in refugee camps in south India, another 95,000 lived outside the Indian camps, and more than 200,000 Tamils have sought political asylum in the West
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 553,940; female 569,899) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.13% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.89 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.8 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.78 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 20.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.35 years
\Imale:\i 69.77 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.06 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.05 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Sri Lankan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Sri Lankan
\BEthnic divisions:\b \JSinhalese\j 74%, Tamil 18%, Moor 7%, Burgher, Malay, and Vedda 1%
\BReligions:\b Buddhist 69%, Hindu 15%, Christian 8%, Muslim 8%
\BLanguages:\b Sinhala (official and national language) 74%, Tamil (national language) 18%
\Bnote:\b English is commonly used in government and is spoken by about 10% of the population
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 90.2%
\Imale:\i 93.4%
\Ifemale:\i 87.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
\Iconventional short form:\i Sri Lanka
\Iformer:\i Ceylon
\BData code:\b CE
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Colombo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 provinces; Central, North Central, North Eastern, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western
\BIndependence:\b 4 February 1948 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence and National Day, 4 February (1948)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 16 August 1978
\BLegal system:\b a highly complex mixture of English common law, Roman-Dutch, Muslim, \JSinhalese\j, and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Chandrika Bandaranaike KUMARATUNGA (since 12 November 1994) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; note - Sirimavo BANDARANAIKE is the prime minister; in Sri Lanka the president is considered to be both the chief of state and the head of the government, this is in contrast to the more common practice of dividing the roles between the president and the prime minister when both offices exist; election last held 9 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - Chandrika Bandaranaike KUMARATUNGA ( People's Alliance) 62%, Srima DISSANAYAKE (United National Party) 37%, other 1%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president in consultation with the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 16 August 1994 (next to be held by August 2000); results - PA 49.0%, UNP 44.0%, SLMC 1.8%, TULF 1.7%, SLPF 1.1%, EPDP 0.3%, UPF 0.3%, PLOTE 0.1%, other 1.7%; seats - (225 total) PA 105, UNP 94, EPDP 9, SLMC 7, TULF 5, PLOTE 3, SLPF 1, UPF 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the Judicial Service Commission
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC), C. G. Kumar PONNAMBALAM; Ceylon Workers Congress (CLDC), S. THONDAMAN; Communist Party, K. P. SILVA; Communist Party/Beijing (CP/B), N. SHANMUGATHASAN; Democratic People's Liberation Front (DPLF), leader NA; Democratic United National Front (DUNF), G. M. PREMACHANDRA; Eelam People's Democratic Party (EPDP), Douglas DEVANANDA; Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRL), Suresh PREMACHANDRAN; Eelam Revolutionary Organization of Students (EROS), Shankar RAJI; Lanka Socialist Party/Trotskyite (LSSP, or Lanka Sama Samaja Party), Colin R. DE SILVA; Liberal Party (LP), Chanaka AMARATUNGA; New Socialist Party (NSSP, or Nava Sama Samaja Party), Vasudeva NANAYAKKARA; People's Alliance (PA), Chandrika Bandaranaike KUMARATUNGA; People's Liberation Organization of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE), Dharmalingam SIDARTHAN; People's United Front (MEP, or Mahajana Eksath Peramuna), Dinesh GUNAWARDENE; Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), Sirimavo BANDARANAIKE; Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), M. H. M. ASHRAFF; Sri Lanka People's Party (SLMP, or Sri Lanka Mahajana Party), Ossie ABEYGUNASEKERA; Sri Lanka Progressive Front (SLPF), leader NA; Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO), leader NA; Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), M. SIVASITHAMBARAM; United National Party (UNP), Dingiri Banda WIJETUNGA; Upcountry People's Front (UPF), leader NA; several ethnic Tamil and Muslim parties, represented in either parliament or provincial councils
\Bnote:\b the United Socialist Alliance (USA), which was formed in 1987 and included the NSSP, LSSP, SLMP, CP/M, and CP/B, was defunct as of 1993, following the formation of the People's Alliance Party (PA)
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and other smaller Tamil separatist groups; other radical chauvinist \JSinhalese\j groups; Buddhist \Jclergy\j; \JSinhalese\j Buddhist lay groups; labor unions
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jayantha Cudah Bandara DHANAPALA
\Ichancery:\i 2148 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-4025 through 4028
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 232-7181
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador A. Peter BURLEIGH
\Iembassy:\i 210 Galle Road, Colombo 3
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 106, Colombo
\Itelephone:\i [94] (1) 448007
\IFAX:\i [94] (1) 437345
\BFlag:\b yellow with two panels; the smaller hoist-side panel has two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and orange; the other panel is a large dark red rectangle with a yellow lion holding a sword, and there is a yellow bo leaf in each corner; the yellow field appears as a border that goes around the entire flag and extends between the two panels
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Industry - dominated by the fast-growing apparel industry - has surpassed agriculture as the main source of export earnings. The economy has been plagued by high rates of unemployment since the late 1970s. Economic growth accelerated in 1991-94 as domestic conditions began to improve and conditions for foreign investment brightened. In 1995, however, the government's emphasis on populist measures and its preoccupation with the stepped-up Tamil insurgency have clouded Sri Lanka's economic prospects and discouraged foreign investors. A further problem for 1996 is the need to curb government overspending.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $65.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b very inadequate domestic service, good international service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i submarine cables to \JIndonesia\j and Djibouti; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 12, FM 5, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.525 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 5
\BTelevisions:\b 865,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,085,306
\Imales fit for military service:\i 3,960,070
males reach military age (18) annually: 180,825 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $640 million, 4.4% of GDP (1996)
#
"Sudan (Atlas)",223,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between \JEgypt\j and Eritrea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,505,810 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2.376 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than one-quarter the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,687 km
\Iborder countries:\i Central African Republic 1,165 km, Chad 1,360 km, \JEgypt\j 1,273 km, Eritrea 605 km, \JEthiopia\j 1,606 km, \JKenya\j 232 km, \JLibya\j 383 km, \JUganda\j 435 km, Zaire 628 km
\BCoastline:\b 853 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 18 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b administrative boundary with \JKenya\j does not coincide with international boundary; administrative boundary with \JEgypt\j does not coincide with international boundary creating the "Hala'ib Triangle," a barren area of 20,580 sq km, tensions over this disputed area began to escalate in 1992 and remain high
\BClimate:\b tropical in south; arid desert in north; rainy season (April to October)
\BTerrain:\b generally flat, featureless plain; mountains in east and west
\Ilowest point:\i Red Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Kinyeti 3,187 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j; small reserves of iron ore, copper, \Jchromium\j ore, zinc, \Jtungsten\j, mica, silver, gold
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 5%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 24%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 20%
\Iother:\i 51%
\BIrrigated land:\b 18,900 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate supplies of potable water; wildlife populations threatened by excessive hunting; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i dust storms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b largest country in Africa; dominated by the Nile and its tributaries
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 387,961; female 298,298) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.48% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 41.08 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 11.46 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 5.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.3 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 76 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 55.12 years
\Imale:\i 54.2 years
\Ifemale:\i 56.09 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.89 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Sudanese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Sudanese
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 52%, Arab 39%, Beja 6%, foreigners 2%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 70% (in north), indigenous beliefs 25%, Christian 5% (mostly in south and Khartoum)
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), Nubian, Ta Bedawie, diverse dialects of Nilotic, Nilo-Hamitic, Sudanic languages, English
\Bnote:\b program of Arabization in process
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 46.1%
\Imale:\i 57.7%
\Ifemale:\i 34.6%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of the \JSudan\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSudan\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Jumhuriyat as-Sudan
\Ilocal short form:\i As-Sudan
\Iformer:\i Anglo-Egyptian \JSudan\j
\BData code:\b SU
\BType of government:\b transitional - previously ruling military junta; presidential and National Assembly elections held in March 1996; new constitution to be drafted by the National Assembly
\BCapital:\b \JKhartoum\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 states (wilayat, singular - wilayat or wilayah*); A'ali an Nil (Upper Nile), Al Wusta*, Al Istiwa'iyah* (Equatoria), Al Khartum, Ash Shamaliyah*, Ash Sharqiyah*, Bahr al Ghazal, Darfur, Kurdufan
\Bnote:\b on 14 February 1994, the 9 states comprising \JSudan\j were divided into 26 new states; the following spellings have been reported but not approved by the US Board on Geographic Names (Bahr Aljebal, Blue Nile, Bohayrat, East Equatoria, Gedarif, Gezira, Jungle, Kassala, \JKhartoum\j, North, North Bahr Alghazal, North Darfur, North Kordofan, Red Sea, River Nile, Sinnar, South Darfur, South Kordofan, Unity, Upper Nile, Warab, West Bahr Alghazal, West Darfur, West Kordofan, West Equatoria, White Nile)
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1956 (from \JEgypt\j and UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 January (1956)
\BConstitution:\b 12 April 1973, suspended following coup of 6 April 1985; interim constitution of 10 October 1985 suspended following coup of 30 June 1989; new constitution to be drafted following national elections held in March 1996
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and Islamic law; as of 20 January 1991, the now defunct Revolutionary Command Council imposed Islamic law in the northern states; the council is still studying criminal provisions under Islamic law; Islamic law applies to all residents of the northern states regardless of their religion; some separate religious courts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal, but noncompulsary
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Lt. General Umar Hasan Ahmad al-BASHIR (since 16 October 1993) was elected to a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 6-17 March 1996 (next to be held NA 2001); results - President al-BASHIR won 75.7% of the vote and defeated about forty other candidates; First Vice President Major General al-Zubayr Muhammad SALIH (since 19 October 1993), Second Vice President (Police) Maj. General George KONGOR AROP (since NA February 1994)
\Bnote:\b al-BASHIR, as chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council for National Salvation (RCC), assumed power on 30 June 1989 and served concurrently as chief of state, chairman of the RCC, prime minister, and minister of defense until 16 October 1993 when he was appointed president by the RCC; upon its dissolution on 16 October 1993, the RCC's executive and legislative powers were devolved to the president and the Transitional National Assembly (TNA), \JSudan\j's appointed legislative body, which has since been replaced by the National Assembly which was elected in March 1996
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president; note - on 30 October 1993, President al-BASHIR announced a new, predominantly civilian cabinet, consisting of 20 federal ministers, most of whom retained their previous cabinet positions; on 9 February 1995, he abolished three ministries and redivided their portfolios to create several new ministries; these changes increased National Islamic Front presence at the ministerial level and consolidated its control over the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; President al-BASHIR's government is dominated by members of \JSudan\j's National Islamic Front, a fundamentalist political organization formed from the Muslim Brotherhood in 1986; front leader Hasan al-TURABI dominates much of \JKhartoum\j's overall domestic and foreign policies; President al-BASHIR is expected to name a new cabinet following the elections held in March 1996
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 6-17 March 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (400 total, 275 directly elected, and 125 elected by a supra assembly of interest groups known as the National Congress); note - March 1996 elections were held on a nonparty basis and parties are to be banned in the new National Assembly
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; Special Revolutionary Courts
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none; banned following 30 June 1989 coup
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b National Islamic Front, Hasan al-TURABI
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador-designate \JMahdi\j IBRAHIM
\Ichancery:\i 2210 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 338-8565 through 8570
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 667-2406
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i operations in \JKhartoum\j were suspended in February 1996; Ambassador to \JSudan\j Timothy M. CARNEY and several members of the mission have relocated to \JNairobi\j, \JKenya\j and operate out of the US Embassy there; the embassy is located at the corner of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue; \Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, APO AE 09831; \Itelephone:\i [254] (2) 334141; \IFAX:\i [254] (2) 340838
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with a green isosceles triangle based on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JSudan\j is buffeted by civil war, chronic political instability, adverse weather, high \Jinflation\j, a drop in remittances from abroad, and counterproductive economic policies. The private sector's main areas of activity are agriculture and trading, with most private industrial investment predating 1980. Agriculture employs 80% of the work force. Industry mainly processes agricultural items. Sluggish economic performance over the past decade, attributable largely to declining annual rainfall, has reduced levels of per capita income and consumption. A large foreign debt and huge arrearages continue to cause difficulties. In 1990 the International Monetary Fund took the unusual step of declaring \JSudan\j noncooperative because of its nonpayment of arrearages to the Fund. After \JSudan\j backtracked on promised reforms in 1992-93, the IMF threatened to expel \JSudan\j from the Fund. To avoid expulsion, \JKhartoum\j agreed to make payments on its arrears to the Fund, liberalize exchange rates, and reduce subsidies, measures it has partially implemented. The government's continued prosecution of the civil war and its growing international isolation continued to inhibit growth in the nonagricultural sectors of the economy during 1995. Agricultural production in 1995, while fairly good, was not up to the bumper crop level of 1994.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $25 billion (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b the market rate is a unified exchange rate determined by a committee of local bankers, without official intervention, and is quoted uniformly by all commercial banks
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\Bnote:\b prior to July 1995, \JSudan\j had a fiscal year that began on 1 July and ended on 30 June; as a transition to their new fiscal year, a six-month budget was implemented for 1 July - 31 December 1995; the new calendar year (1 January - 31 December) fiscal year became effective 1 January 1996
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,516 km
narrow gauge: 4,800 km 1.067-m gauge; 716 km 1.6096-m gauge plantation line
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 19,885 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,989 km
\Iunpaved:\i 17,896 km (1986 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 5,310 km navigable
\BPipelines:\b refined products 815 km
\BPorts:\b Juba, \JKhartoum\j, Kusti, Malakal, Nimule, Port \JSudan\j, Sawakin
ships by type: cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 56
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 8
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 25 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 77,215 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b large, well-equipped system by African standards, but barely adequate and poorly maintained by modern standards
\Idomestic:\i consists of microwave radio relay, cable, radiotelephone communications, tropospheric scatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 11, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 6.67 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3
\BTelevisions:\b 2.06 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Popular
\BDefense:\b Force Militia
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 7,152,884
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,399,445
males reach military age (18) annually: 329,460 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Suriname (Atlas)",224,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between French Guiana and \JGuyana\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 00 N, 56 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 163,270 sq km
\Iland area:\i 161,470 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Georgia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,707 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 597 km, French Guiana 510 km, \JGuyana\j 600 km
\BCoastline:\b 386 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims area in French Guiana between Litani Rivier and Riviere Marouini (both headwaters of the Lawa Rivier); claims area in \JGuyana\j between New (Upper Courantyne) and Courantyne/Koetari Rivers (all headwaters of the Courantyne)
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b mostly rolling hills; narrow coastal plain with swamps
\Ilowest point:\i unnamed location in the coastal plain -2 m
\Ihighest point:\i Wilhelmina Gebergte 1,286 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, hydropower potential, fish, shrimp, \Jbauxite\j, iron ore, and small amounts of nickel, copper, \Jplatinum\j, gold
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NEGL%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 97%
\Iother:\i 3%
\BIrrigated land:\b 590 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation as foreign producers obtain timber concessions
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b mostly tropical rain forest; great diversity of flora and fauna which for the most part is not threatened because of the lack of development; relatively small population most of which lives along the coast
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 9,930; female 11,335) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.6% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.84 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.88 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 29.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.04 years
\Imale:\i 67.51 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.7 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.68 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Surinamer(s)
\Iadjective:\i Surinamese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Hindustani (also known locally as "East" Indians; their ancestors emigrated from northern India in the latter part of the 19th century) 37%, \JCreole\j (mixed European and African ancestry) 31%, \JJavanese\j 15.3%, "Bush Black" (also known as "Bush Creole" whose ancestors were brought to the country in the 17th and 18th centuries as slaves) 10.3%, Amerindian 2.6%, Chinese 1.7%, Europeans 1%, other 1.1%
\BReligions:\b Hindu 27.4%, Muslim 19.6%, Roman Catholic 22.8%, Protestant 25.2% (predominantly Moravian), indigenous beliefs 5%
\BLanguages:\b Dutch (official), English (widely spoken), Sranang Tongo (Surinamese, sometimes called Taki-Taki, is native language of Creoles and much of the younger population and is lingua franca among others), Hindustani (a \Jdialect\j of Hindi), \JJavanese\j
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\BIndependence:\b 25 November 1975 (from Netherlands)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 25 November (1975)
\BConstitution:\b ratified 30 September 1987
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Ronald R. VENETIAAN (since 16 September 1991) and Prime Minister Jules R. AJODHIA (since 16 September 1991), who is also the vice president, were elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly; election last held 6 September 1991 (next to be held NA May 1996); results - elected by the National Assembly - Ronald VENETIAAN (NF) 80% (645 votes), Jules WIJDENBOSCH (NDP) 14% (115 votes), Hans PRADE (DA '91) 6% (49 votes)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president from among the members of the National Assembly
\Bnote:\b Commander in Chief of the National Army maintains significant power
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 25 May 1991 (next to be held NA May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (51 total) NF 30, NDP 10, DA '91 9, independents 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, justices nominated for life
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b The New Front (NF), a coalition of four parties (NPS, VHP, KTPI, SPA), leader Ronald R. VENETIAAN; Progressive Reform Party (VHP), Jaggernath LACHMON; National Party of Suriname (NPS), Ronald VENETIAAN; Party of National Unity and Solidarity (KTPI), Willy SOEMITA; Suriname Labor Party (SPA), Fred DERBY; Democratic Alternative '91 (DA '91), a coalition of two parties (AF, and BEP) formed in January 1991, Winston JESSURUN; Alternative Forum (AF), Gerard BRUNINGS; Party for Brotherhood and Unity in Politics (BEP), Caprino ALLENDY; Pendawa Lima, Marsha JAMIN; National Democratic Party (NDP), Desire BOUTERSE; Progressive Workers' and Farm Laborers' Union (PALU), Ir Iwan KROLIS; The Alliance, a combination of three parties (DP, HPP, PVF), Ernie BRUNINGS; Democratic Party (DP), Ernie BRUNINGS; Reformed Progressive Party (HPP), Harry KISOENSINGH; Party of the Federation of Land Workers PVF), Jwan SITAL
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Surinamese Liberation Army (SLA), Ronnie BRUNSWIJK, Johan "Castro" WALLY; Union for Liberation and Democracy, Kofi AFONGPONG; Mandela Bushnegro Liberation Movement, Leendert ADAMS; Tucayana Amazonica, Alex JUBITANA, Thomas SABAJO
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Willem A. UDENHOUT
\Ichancery:\i Suite 108, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 244-7488, 7490 through 7492
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 244-5878
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Roger R. GAMBLE
\Iembassy:\i Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat 129, Paramaribo
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1821, American Embassy Paramaribo, Department of State, Washington, DC, 20521-3390
\Itelephone:\i [597] 472900, 477881, 476459
\IFAX:\i [597] 420800
\BFlag:\b five horizontal bands of green (top, double width), white, red (quadruple width), white, and green (double width); there is a large yellow five-pointed star centered in the red band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is dominated by the \Jbauxite\j industry, which accounts for upwards of 15% of GDP and more than 65% of export earnings. Following a dismal year in 1994 which saw the value of the Surinamese currency plummet by about 80%, \Jinflation\j rise to more than 600%, and national output fall for the fifth consecutive year, nearly all economic indicators improved in 1995. The VENETIAAN government unified the exchange rate and the currency gained some of its lost value. In addition, \Jinflation\j fell to double digits and tax revenues increased sufficiently to nearly erase the budget deficit. The release of substantial development aid from the Netherlands - which had been held up due to the government's failure to initiate economic reforms - also helped buoy the economy. Suriname's economic prospects for the medium term will depend on continued implementation of needed economic restructuring; the outcome of the national elections in May 1996 will be an important factor in determining future government policy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BExchange rates:\b Surinamese guilders, gulden, or florins (Sf.) per US$1 - central bank midpoint rate: 402.32 (December 1995), 442.23 (1995), 134.12 (1994); parallel rate: 412 (December 1995), 510 (December 1994), 109 (January 1994)
\Bnote:\b beginning July 1994, the central bank midpoint exchange rate was unified and became market determined
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 166 km (single track)
standard gauge: 80 km 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 86 km 1.000-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,470 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,162 km
\Iunpaved:\i 3,308 km (1990)
\BWaterways:\b 1,200 km; most important means of transport; oceangoing vessels with drafts ranging up to 7 m can navigate many of the principal waterways
\BPorts:\b Albina, Moengo, New Nickerie, Paramaribo, Paranam, Wageningen
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 14, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b 290,256 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 59,598 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National Army (includes small Navy and Air Force elements), Civil Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 119,010
\Imales fit for military service:\i 70,400 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Svalbard (Atlas)",225,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of Norway)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, islands between the \JArctic\j Ocean, Barents Sea, \JGreenland\j Sea, and Norwegian Sea, north of \JNorway\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 78 00 N, 20 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JArctic\j Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 62,049 sq km
\Iland area:\i 62,049 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than West Virginia
\Bnote:\b includes Spitsbergen and Bjornoya (Bear Island)
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,587 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm unilaterally claimed by \JNorway\j but not recognized by \JRussia\j
territorial sea: 4 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b focus of maritime boundary dispute in the Barents Sea between \JNorway\j and \JRussia\j
\BClimate:\b \Jarctic\j, tempered by warm North Atlantic Current; cool summers, cold winters; North Atlantic Current flows along west and north coasts of Spitsbergen, keeping water open and navigable most of the year
\BTerrain:\b wild, rugged mountains; much of high land ice covered; west coast clear of ice about one-half of the year; fjords along west and north coasts
\Ilowest point:\i \JArctic\j Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Newtontoppen 1,717 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal, copper, iron ore, phosphate, zinc, wildlife, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (no trees and the only bushes are crowberry and cloudberry)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i ice floes often block up the entrance to Bellsund (a transit point for coal export) on the west coast and occasionally make parts of the northeastern coast inaccessible to maritime traffic
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b northernmost part of the Kingdom of \JNorway\j; consists of nine main islands; glaciers and snowfields cover 60% of the total area
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,715 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -4.01% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BEthnic divisions:\b Russian and Ukrainian 62%, Norwegian 38%, other NEGL% (1994)
\BLanguages:\b Russian, Norwegian
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Svalbard
\BData code:\b SV
\BType of government:\b territory of \JNorway\j administered by the Ministry of Industry, Oslo, through a governor (sysselmann) residing in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen; by treaty (9 February 1920) sovereignty was given to \JNorway\j
\BCapital:\b Longyearbyen
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of Norway)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BExecutive branch:\b
Chief of State: King HARALD V (of \JNorway\j since 17 January 1991) is a hereditary monarch
Head of \BGovernment:\b
Governor Ann-Krisitin OLSEN (since NA) and Assistant Governor Jan-Atle HANSEN (since NA September 1993) are responsible to the Polar Department of the Ministry of Justice
\Bnote:\b Norwegian inhabitants participate in Norwegian national elections
\BEconomic overview:\b Coal mining is the major economic activity on Svalbard. By treaty (9 February 1920), the nationals of the treaty powers have equal rights to exploit mineral deposits, subject to Norwegian regulation. Although US, UK, Dutch, and Swedish coal companies have mined in the past, the only companies still mining are Norwegian and Russian. The settlements on Svalbard are essentially company towns. The Norwegian state-owned coal company employs nearly 60% of the Norwegian population on the island, runs many of the local services, and provides most of the local \Jinfrastructure\j. There is also some trapping of seal, polar bear, fox, and \Jwalrus\j.
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $11.6 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $11.6 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 of NA type (for communication with Norwegian mainland only)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1 (repeaters 2), shortwave 0
\Bnote:\b there are five meteorological/radio stations
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i demilitarized by treaty (9 February 1920)
#
"Swaziland (Atlas)",226,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, between \JMozambique\j and South Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 26 30 S, 31 30 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 17,360 sq km
\Iland area:\i 17,200 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than New Jersey
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 535 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JMozambique\j 105 km, South Africa 430 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b \JSwaziland\j has asked South Africa to open negotiations on reincorporating some nearby South African territories that are populated by ethnic Swazis or that were long ago part of the Swazi Kingdom
\BClimate:\b varies from tropical to near temperate
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains and hills; some moderately sloping plains
\Ilowest point:\i Great Usutu River 21 m
\Ihighest point:\i Emlembe 1,862 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jasbestos\j, coal, clay, cassiterite, hydropower, forests, small gold and diamond deposits, quarry stone, and talc
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 11%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NEGL
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 62%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 7%
\Iother:\i 20%
\BIrrigated land:\b 640 sq km (1993 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i limited access to potable water; wildlife populations being depleted because of excessive hunting; overgrazing; soil degradation; soil erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; almost completely surrounded by South Africa
\BNational holiday:\b Somhlolo (Independence) Day, 6 September (1968)
\BConstitution:\b none; constitution of 6 September 1968 was suspended 12 April 1973; a new constitution was promulgated 13 October 1978, but has not been formally presented to the people
\BLegal system:\b based on South African Roman-Dutch law in statutory courts and Swazi traditional law and custom in traditional courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b NA; note - no suffrage before September 1993; 55 of the 65 seats in the House of Assembly were filled by popular vote in the elections of September and October 1993; of a population of less than 1 million, the electorate numbered 283,693
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King MSWATI III (since 25 April 1986) is a hereditary monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Prince Jameson Mbilini DLAMINI (since 12 November 1993); appointed by the king
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet; designated by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament is advisory
Senate: consists of 30 members (10 appointed by the House of Assembly and 20 appointed by the king)
House of Assembly: elections last held 26 September and 11 October 1993 (next to be held NA); results - balloting is done on a nonparty basis; of the total of 65 seats, 10 are appointed by the king and 55 are elected by secret, popular vote; candidates for election are nominated by the local council of each \Jconstituency\j and for each \Jconstituency\j the three candidates with the most votes in the first round of voting are narrowed to a single winner by a second round
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, judges are appointed by the king; Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Bnote:\b political parties are banned by the constitution promulgated on 13 October 1978; illegal parties are prohibited from holding large public gatherings
illegal parties: Peoples' United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Mario MASUKU; \JSwaziland\j Youth Congress (SWAYOCO), Benedict TSABEDZE; \JSwaziland\j Communist Party (SWACOPA), Mphandlana SHONGWE; \JSwaziland\j Liberation Front (FROLISA); Convention for Full Democracy in \JSwaziland\j (COFUDESWA), Sabelo DLAMINI; \JSwaziland\j National Front (SWANAFRO); Ngwane Socialist Revolutionary Party (NGWASOREP)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mary Madzandza KHANYA
\Ichancery:\i 3400 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 362-6683, 6685
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 244-8059
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John T. SPROTT
\Iembassy:\i Central Bank Building, Warner Street, \JMbabane\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 199, \JMbabane\j
\Itelephone:\i [268] 46441 through 46445
\IFAX:\i [268] 45959
\BFlag:\b three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (triple width), and blue; the red band is edged in yellow; centered in the red band is a large black and white shield covering two spears and a staff decorated with feather tassels, all placed horizontally
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This small landlocked economy is based largely on subsistence agriculture, which occupies more than 60% of the population. Manufacturing features a number of agroprocessing factories. Mining has declined in importance in recent years; high-grade iron ore deposits were depleted by 1978, and health concerns cut world demand for \Jasbestos\j. Exports of sugar and \Jforestry\j products are the main earners of hard currency. Surrounded by South Africa, except for a short border with \JMozambique\j, \JSwaziland\j is heavily dependent on South Africa, from which it receives 90% of its imports and to which it sends about half of its exports. Remittances from Swazi workers in South African mines supplement domestically produced income by as much as 20%. Overgrazing, soil depletion, and drougth persist as problems for the future.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.6 billion (1995 est.)
\Ipartners:\i South Africa 50%, EU countries, Canada
\BImports:\b $827 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i motor vehicles, machinery, transport equipment, \Jpetroleum\j products, foodstuffs, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i South Africa 90%, \JSwitzerland\j, UK 2.6%
\BExternal debt:\b $240 million (1992)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 lilangeni (E) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b emalangeni (E) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1996), 3.6266 (1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991), 2.5863 (1990); note - the Swazi emalangeni is at par with the South African rand
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 297 km; note - includes 71 km which are not in use
narrow gauge: 297 km 1.067-m gauge (single track)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,960 km
\Ipaved:\i 804 km
\Iunpaved:\i 2,156 km (1993 est.)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 17
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 10
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 30,364 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i system consists of carrier-equipped, open-wire lines and low-capacity, microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 7, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 129,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 10
\BTelevisions:\b 12,500 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Umbutfo \JSwaziland\j
\BDefense:\b Force (Army), Royal \JSwaziland\j Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 220,097
\Imales fit for military service:\i 127,285 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $22 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94)
#
"Sweden (Atlas)",227,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and \JSkagerrak\j, between \JFinland\j and \JNorway\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 62 00 N, 15 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 449,964 sq km
\Iland area:\i 410,928 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,205 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JFinland\j 586 km, \JNorway\j 1,619 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,218 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: agreed boundaries or midlines
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate in south with cold, cloudy winters and cool, partly cloudy summers; subarctic in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat or gently rolling lowlands; mountains in west
\Icurrent issues:\i acid rain damaging soils and lakes; \Jpollution\j of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea
\Inatural hazards:\i ice floes in the surrounding waters, especially in the Gulf of Bothnia, can interfere with maritime traffic
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location along Danish Straits linking Baltic and North Seas
\BIndependence:\b 6 June 1523, Gustav VASA was elected king; 6 June 1809, a constitutional monarchy was established
\BNational holiday:\b Day of the Swedish Flag, 6 June
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1975
\BLegal system:\b civil law system influenced by customary law; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King CARL XVI GUSTAF (since 19 September 1973) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Princess VICTORIA Ingrid Alice Desiree, daughter of the King (born 14 July 1977)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Goran PERSSON (since 21 March 1996) was elected by the Riksdag
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Riksdag): elections last held 18 September 1994 (next to be held NA September 1998); results - Social Democrats 45.4%, Moderate Party (Conservatives) 22.3%, Center Party 7.7%, Liberals 7.2%, Left Party 6.2%, Greens 5.8%, Christian Democrats 4.1%, New Democracy Party 1.2%; seats - (349 total) Social Democrats 162, Moderate Party (Conservatives) 80, Center Party 27, Liberals 26, Left Party 22, Greens 18, Christian Democrats 14; note - the New Democracy Party did not receive a seat because parties require a minimum of 4.0% of votes for a seat in parliament
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Hogsta Domstolen), judges are appointed by the government (prime minister and cabinet)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party, Goran PERSSON; Moderate Party (conservative), Carl BILDT; Liberal People's Party, Maria LEISSNER; Center Party, Olof JOHANSSON; Christian Democratic Party, Alf SVENSSON; New Democracy Party, Vivianne FRANZEN; Left Party (VP; Communist), \JGudrun\j SCHYMAN; Communist Workers' Party, Rolf HAGEL; Green Party, no formal leader but party spokesperson is Briger SCHLAUG
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Carl Henrik Sihver LILJEGREN
\Ichancery:\i 1501 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 467-2600
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 467-2699
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Thomas L. SIEBERT
\Iembassy:\i Strandvagen 101, S-115 89 Stockholm
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [46] (8) 783 53 00
\IFAX:\i [46] (8) 661 19 64
\BFlag:\b blue with a yellow cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Aided by peace and \Jneutrality\j during World War I through World War II, Sweden has achieved an enviable standard of living under a mixed system of high-tech \Jcapitalism\j and extensive welfare benefits. It has a modern distribution system, excellent internal and external communications, and a skilled labor force. Timber, hydropower, and iron ore constitute the resource base of an economy heavily oriented toward foreign trade. Privately-owned firms account for about 90% of industrial output, of which the \Jengineering\j sector accounts for 50% of output and exports. In 1993, agriculture accounted for only 2% of GDP and 2% of the jobs. In recent years, however, this extraordinarily favorable picture has been clouded by budgetary difficulties, \Jinflation\j, growing unemployment, and a gradual loss of competitiveness in international markets. In November 1992, Sweden broke its tie to the EC's ECU (European Currency Unit), and depreciation of the krona has boosted export competitiveness and helped lift Sweden out of its 1991-93 recession. To curb the budget deficit and bolster confidence in the economy, the government adopted an adjustment program in November 1994 that aims to eliminate the government budget deficit and to stabilize the debt to GDP ratio. Sweden has harmonized its economic policies with those of the EU, which it joined at the start of 1995.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $177.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $20,100 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 2%
\Iindustry:\i 27%
\Iservices:\i 71% (1993)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 2.6% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 4.552 million (84% unionized, 1992)
\Iby occupation:\i community, social and personal services 38.3%, mining and manufacturing 21.2%, commerce, hotels, and restaurants 14.1%, banking, insurance 9.0%, communications 7.2%, construction 7.0%, agriculture, fishing, and \Jforestry\j 3.2% (1991)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 7.8% (December 1995) plus about 6% in training programs
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $109.4 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $146.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96)
\BIndustries:\b iron and steel, precision equipment (bearings, radio and \Jtelephone\j parts, armaments), wood pulp and paper products, processed foods, motor vehicles
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j shipped via the former Soviet Republics and Baltic states for the European market
\BExports:\b $61.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery, motor vehicles, paper products, pulp and wood, iron and steel products, chemicals, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i EU 59.1% (Germany 13.2%, UK 10.2%, Denmark 6.9%, \JFrance\j 5.1%), \JNorway\j 8.1%, \JFinland\j 4.8%, US 8.0% (1994)
\BImports:\b $51.8 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, chemicals, motor vehicles, foodstuffs, iron and steel, clothing
\Ipartners:\i EU 62.6% (Germany 18.4%, UK 9.5%, Denmark 6.6%, \JFrance\j 5.5%), \JFinland\j 6.3%, \JNorway\j 6.1%, US 8.5% (1994)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 4 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 7.41 million (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent domestic and international facilities; automatic system
\Idomestic:\i coaxial and multiconductor cable carry most voice traffic; parallel microwave radio relay network carries some additional \Jtelephone\j channels
\Iinternational:\i 5 submarine coaxial cables; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean regions); note - Sweden shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, \JFinland\j, \JIceland\j, and Norway)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 360 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Swedish Army, Royal Swedish Navy, Swedish Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,133,816
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,867,031
males reach military age (19) annually: 51,357 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $5.8 billion, 2.5% of GDP (FY94/95)
#
"Switzerland (Atlas)",228,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, east of \JFrance\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 47 00 N, 8 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 41,290 sq km
\Iland area:\i 39,770 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of New Jersey
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,852 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 164 km, \JFrance\j 573 km, \JItaly\j 740 km, \JLiechtenstein\j 41 km, \JGermany\j 334 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b temperate, but varies with altitude; cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool to warm, cloudy, humid summers with occasional showers
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains (Alps in south, Jura in northwest) with a central plateau of rolling hills, plains, and large lakes
\Ilowest point:\i Lake Maggiore 195 m
\Ihighest point:\i Dufourspitze 4,634 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydropower potential, timber, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 40%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 26%
\Iother:\i 23%
\BIrrigated land:\b 250 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from vehicle emissions and open-air burning; acid rain; water \Jpollution\j from increased use of agricultural fertilizers; loss of \Jbiodiversity\j
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; crossroads of northern and southern Europe; along with southeastern \JFrance\j and northern \JItaly\j, contains the highest elevations in Europe
\Ilocal short form:\i Schweiz (German), Suisse (French), Svizzera (Italian)
\BData code:\b SZ
\BType of government:\b federal republic
\BCapital:\b \JBern\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 cantons (cantons, singular - canton in French; cantoni, singular - cantone in Italian; kantone, singular - kanton in German); Aargau, Ausser-Rhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, \JBern\j, \JFribourg\j, Geneve, Glarus, Graubunden, Inner-Rhoden, Jura, Luzern, Neuchatel, Nidwalden, Obwalden, Sankt Gallen, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Solothurn, Thurgau, Ticino, Uri, Valais, Vaud, \JZug\j, Zurich
\BIndependence:\b 1 August 1291
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Founding of the Swiss Confederation, 1 August (1291)
\BConstitution:\b 29 May 1874
\BLegal system:\b civil law system influenced by customary law; judicial review of legislative acts, except with respect to federal decrees of general obligatory character; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Jean-Pascal DELAMURAZ (1996 calendar year; presidency rotates annually); Vice President Arnold KOLLER (term runs concurrently with that of president); the president is appointed each year from the Federal Council by the Federal Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Federal Council (German - Bundesrat, French - Censeil Federal, Italian - Consiglio Federale) was elected for a four-year term by the Federal Assembly from among its own members
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Assembly (German - Bundesversammlung, French - Assemblee Federale, Italian - Assemblea Federale)
Council of States: (German - Standerat, French - Conseil des Etats, Italian - Consiglio degli Stati); elections last held throughout 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total) PRD 17, PDC 17, UDC 4, PSS 3, LPS 3, LdU 1, Ticino League 1
National Council: (German - Nationalrat, French - Conseil National, Italian - Consiglio Nazionale); elections last held 20 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (200 total) PRD 45, PSS 54, PDC 34, UDC 30, GPS 8, LPS 7, FPS 6, LdU 6, SD 3, EVP 3, PdA 2, Ticino League 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Federal Supreme Court, judges elected for six-year terms by the Federal Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Radical Free Democratic Party (PRD), Franz STEINEGGER, president; Social Democratic Party (PSS), Peter BODENMANN, president; Christian Democratic People's Party (PDC), Anton COTTIER, president; Swiss People's Party (UDC), Hans UHLMANN, president; Green Party (GPS), Verena DIENER, president; Freedom Party (FPS), Roland BORER; Liberal Party (LPS), Christoph EYMANN, president; Alliance of Independents' Party (LdU), Monica WEBER, president; Ticino League, Giuliano BIGNASCA, president; and other minor parties including Swiss Democratic Party (SD), Workers' Party (PdA), and the Evangelical People's Party (EVP); note - see elections
\Ichancery:\i 2900 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 745-7900
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 387-2564
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Pago Pago (American Samoa), and San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant)
\Iembassy:\i Jubilaeumstrasse 93, 3005 \JBern\j
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [41] (31) 357 70 11
\IFAX:\i [41] (31) 357 73 44
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Zurich
\BFlag:\b red square with a bold, equilateral white cross in the center that does not extend to the edges of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JSwitzerland\j, a fundamentally prosperous and stable modern economy with a per capita GDP roughly 10% above that of the big West European economies, is experiencing short-term difficulties. After recovering slowly in 1994-95 from recession, the Swiss economy remains weak, mainly because of the strong Swiss franc and weak growth in Swiss export market, especially in other European countries. Over the near term, growth may average barely 1%, with more than one-half of this increase resulting from growth in inventories. Weak domestic consumer demand is the principal culprit; stagnation in real disposable income is combining with a reluctance to reduce saving rates in the face of an uncertain employment outlook. \JSwitzerland\j's leading sectors, including financial services, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and special-purpose machines, will therefore be more reliant on export markets at the same time they are being squeezed by the strong franc. Consequently, growth in machinery and equipment investment, for example, is expected to taper off. On the other side, import growth has been fueled by the strong franc; there are growing indications that Swiss manufacturers are substituting imported inputs for domestic ones.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $158.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BBranches:\b Army, Air Force and Antiaircraft Command, Frontier Guards, Fortification Guards
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,893,587
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,623,414
males reach military age (20) annually: 41,425 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $3.74 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995)
#
"Syria (Atlas)",229,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JLebanon\j and Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 35 00 N, 38 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 185,180 sq km
\Iland area:\i 184,050 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than North Dakota
\Bnote:\b includes 1,295 sq km of Israeli-occupied territory
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,253 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JIraq\j 605 km, Israel 76 km, Jordan 375 km, \JLebanon\j 375 km, Turkey 822 km
\BCoastline:\b 193 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 41 nm
territorial sea: 35 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Hatay question with Turkey; dispute over Turkey's water development plans for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers; Syrian troops in northern, central, and eastern \JLebanon\j since October 1976
\BClimate:\b mostly desert; hot, dry, sunny summers (June to August) and mild, rainy winters (December to February) along coast; cold weather with snow or sleet periodically hitting Damascus
\BTerrain:\b primarily semiarid and desert plateau; narrow coastal plain; mountains in west
\Ilowest point:\i unnamed location near Lake \JTiberias\j -200 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Hermon 2,814 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jphosphates\j, chrome and \Jmanganese\j ores, \Jasphalt\j, iron ore, rock salt, marble, \Jgypsum\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 28%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 46%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 3%
\Iother:\i 20%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10,000 sq km (1992)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j; water \Jpollution\j from dumping of raw sewage and wastes from \Jpetroleum\j refining; inadequate supplies of potable water
\Inatural hazards:\i dust storms, sandstorms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification
\BGeographic note:\b there are 42 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights (August 1995 est.)
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 15,608,648 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b in addition, there are 31,300 people living in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights - 16,500 \JArabs\j (15,000 Druze and 1,500 Alawites) and 14,800 Israeli settlers (August 1995 est.)
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 227,249; female 228,433) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.37% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 39.56 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.86 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 40 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 67.13 years
\Imale:\i 65.94 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.38 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.91 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Syrian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Syrian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab 90.3%, \JKurds\j, Armenians, and other 9.7%
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 74%, Alawite, Druze, and other Muslim sects 16%, Christian (various sects) 10%, Jewish (tiny communities in Damascus, Al Qamishli, and Aleppo)
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), Kurdish, Armenian, \JAramaic\j, Circassian, French widely understood
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 70.8%
\Imale:\i 85.7%
\Ifemale:\i 55.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Syrian Arab Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i \JSyria\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumhuriyah al Arabiyah as Suriyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Suriyah
\Iformer:\i United Arab Republic (with Egypt)
\BData code:\b SY
\BType of government:\b republic under military regime since March 1963
\BCapital:\b Damascus
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 provinces (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Hasakah, Al Ladhiqiyah, Al Qunaytirah, Ar Raqqah, As Suwayda', Dar'a, Dayr az Zawr, Dimashq, Halab, Hamah, Hims, Idlib, Rif Dimashq, Tartus
\BIndependence:\b 17 April 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under French administration)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 17 April (1946)
\BConstitution:\b 13 March 1973
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law and civil law system; special religious courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Hafiz al-ASAD (since 22 February 1971; see note) was reelected for a seven-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 2 December 1991 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - President Hafiz al-ASAD was reelected for a fourth seven-year term with 99.98% of the vote; note - President ASAD seized power in the November 1970 coup, assumed presidential powers 22 February 1971, and was confirmed as president in the 12 March 1971 national elections; Vice Presidents 'Abd al-Halim ibn Said KHADDAM (since NA), Rifaat al-ASAD (since NA), and Muhammad Zuhayr MASHARIQA (since 11 March 1984) were appointed by the president
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Mahmud ZUBI (since 1 November 1987), Deputy Prime Ministers Lt. Gen. Mustafa TALAS (since 11 March 1984), Salim YASIN (since NA December 1981), and Rashid AKHTARINI (since 4 July 1992) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
People's Council (Majlis al-Chaab): elections last held 24-25 August 1994 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (250 total) National Progressive Front 167, independents 83
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Constitutional Court, justices are appointed for four-year terms by the president; High Judicial Council; Court of Cassation; State Security Courts
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
National Progressive Front includes: the ruling Arab Socialist Renaissance (Ba'th) Party, Hafiz al-ASAD, president of the republic, secretary general of the party, and chairman of the National Progressive Front; Syrian Arab Socialist Party (ASP), 'Abd al-Ghani KANNUT; Arab Socialist Union (ASU), Jamal ATASSI; Syrian Communist Party (SCP), Wisal FARHAH; Arab Socialist Unionist Movement, Sami SOUFAN; and Democratic Socialist Union Party, Ghassan UTHMAN
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b non-Ba'th parties have little effective political influence; Communist party ineffective; conservative religious leaders; Muslim Brotherhood
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with two small green five-pointed stars in a horizontal line centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Yemen, which has a plain white band and of \JIraq\j, which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of \JEgypt\j, which has a symbolic eagle centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b During 1990-92 \JSyria\j's state-dominated economy benefited from the Gulf war, increased oil production, good weather, and economic reform. Economic growth averaged roughly 10%. The war led to a Syrian aid windfall of nearly $5 billion from Arab, European, and Japanese donors. Most positive economic trends ended in 1993 due to the dissipation of the Gulf war boom, a domestic financial crisis, and economic policy missteps. Economic growth has dropped below 5%, income inequality is increasing, the government budget deficit is growing, and international accounts are weakening. For the long run, \JSyria\j's economy is saddled with a large number of poorly performing public sector firms and low industrial productivity. Oil production is likely to ebb by the end of the decade. Unemployment will likely rise as the more than 60% of the population under age 20 moves into the labor force. The economic benefits of any peace treaty with Israel will depend in large part on the pace of economic reform.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $91.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b a transit point for Lebanese and Turkish refined \Jcocaine\j going to Europe and heroin and hashish bound for regional and Western markets
\Ipartners:\i EU 61%, Arab countries 24%, former CEMA countries, China, Yugoslavia 5%, US and Canada 3% (1993 est.)
\BImports:\b $5.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery 25%, metal products 16%, transport equipment 15%, foodstuffs 12%, textiles 10%
\Ipartners:\i EU 37%, former CEMA countries, China, Yugoslavia 17%, US and Canada 7%, Arab countries 6% (1993 est.)
\BExternal debt:\b $21.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $259 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Syrian pound (úS) = 100 piastres
\BExchange rates:\b Syrian pounds (úS) per US$1 - 11.225 (official fixed rate), 26.6 ("blended rate" used by the UN and diplomatic missions), 42.0 ("neighboring country rate" - applies to most state enterprise imports), 48.0 - 52.0 (offshore rate) (1994)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,998 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 1,766 km 1.435-m gauge
narrow gauge: 232 km 1.050-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 31,569 km
\Ipaved:\i 24,308 km (including 712 km of expressways)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 13 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 541,465 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair system currently undergoing significant improvement and digital upgrades, including fiber-optic technology
\Idomestic:\i coaxial cable and microwave radio relay network
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean region); 1 submarine cable; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to \JIraq\j, Jordan, \JLebanon\j, and Turkey; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.392 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 17
\BTelevisions:\b 700,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Syrian Arab Army, Syrian Arab Navy, Syrian Arab Air Force, Syrian Arab Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Police and Security Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,590,557
\Imales fit for military service:\i 2,011,610
males reach military age (19) annually: 164,598 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $875 million, 8% of GDP (1994 est.); note - based on official budget data that understate actual spending
#
"Taiwan (Atlas)",230,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Asia, islands bordering the East China Sea, Philippine Sea, South China Sea, and \JTaiwan\j Strait, north of the \JPhilippines\j, off the southeastern coast of China
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 23 30 N, 121 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 35,980 sq km
\Iland area:\i 32,260 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Maryland and \JDelaware\j combined
\Bnote:\b includes the Pescadores, Matsu, and Quemoy
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,448 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b involved in complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, \JMalaysia\j, \JPhilippines\j, Vietnam, and possibly \JBrunei\j; Paracel Islands occupied by China, but claimed by Vietnam and \JTaiwan\j; Japanese-administered Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands/Diaoyu Tai) claimed by China and \JTaiwan\j
\BClimate:\b tropical; marine; rainy season during southwest monsoon (June to August); cloudiness is persistent and extensive all year
\BTerrain:\b eastern two-thirds mostly rugged mountains; flat to gently rolling plains in west
\Ilowest point:\i South China Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Yu Shan 3,997 m
\BNatural resources:\b small deposits of coal, natural gas, \Jlimestone\j, marble, and \Jasbestos\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 24%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 5%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 55%
\Iother:\i 15%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from industrial emissions, raw sewage; air \Jpollution\j; contamination of drinking water supplies; trade in endangered species
\Inatural hazards:\i earthquakes and typhoons
\Iinternational agreements:\i signed, but not ratified - Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 8% (male 907,310; female 758,680) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.89% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.52 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.61 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.08 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.2 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 76.02 years
\Imale:\i 73.43 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.82 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.76 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chinese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Chinese
\BEthnic divisions:\b Taiwanese 84%, mainland Chinese 14%, aborigine 2%
\BReligions:\b mixture of Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist 93%, Christian 4.5%, other 2.5%
\BLanguages:\b Mandarin Chinese (official), Taiwanese (Min), \JHakka\j dialects
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 86%
\Imale:\i 93%
\Ifemale:\i 79%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JTaiwan\j
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i T'ai-wan
\BData code:\b TW
\BType of government:\b multiparty democratic regime; opposition political parties legalized in March 1989
\BCapital:\b Taipei
\BAdministrative divisions:\b some of the ruling party in Taipei claim to be the government of all China; in keeping with that claim, the central administrative divisions include 2 provinces (sheng, singular and plural) and 2 municipalities* (shih, singular and plural) - Fu-chien (some 20 offshore islands of Fujian Province including Quemoy and Matsu), Kao-hsiung*, T'ai-pei*, and \JTaiwan\j (the island of \JTaiwan\j and the Pescadores islands); note - the more commonly referenced administrative divisions are those of \JTaiwan\j Province - 16 counties (hsien, singular and plural), 5 municipalities* (shih, singular and plural), and 2 special municipalities** (chuan-shih, singular and plural); Chang-hua, Chia-i, Chia-i*, Chi-lung*, Hsin-chu, Hsin-chu*, Hua-lien, I-lan, Kao-hsiung, Kao-hsiung**, Miao-li, Nan-t'ou, P'eng-hu, P'ing-tung, T'ai-chung, T'ai-chung*, T'ai-nan, T'ai-nan*, T'ai-pei, T'ai-pei**, T'ai-tung, T'ao-yuan, and Yun-lin; the provincial capital is at Chung-hsing-hsin-ts'un
\Bnote:\b \JTaiwan\j uses the Wade-Giles system for \Jromanization\j
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 10 October (1911) (Anniversary of the Revolution)
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1947, amended in 1992, presently undergoing revision
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President LI Teng-hui (succeeded to the presidency following the death of President CHIANG Ching-kuo 13 January 1988, elected by the National Assembly 21 March 1990, reelected by popular vote in the first-ever direct elections for president 23 March 1996); election last held 23 March 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - LI Teng-hui 54%, PENG Ming-min 21%, LIN Yang-kang 15%, and CHEN Li-an 10%; Vice President-elect LIEN Chan (to be inaugurated 20 May 1996)
\Ihead of government:\i Premier (President of the Executive Yuan) LIEN Chan (since 23 February 1993) and Vice Premier (Vice President of the Executive Yuan) HSU Li-teh (since 23 February 1993) were appointed by the president; note - LIEN Chan will continue to serve as premier until 20 May 1996 when he will be inaugurated as vice president; a new premier is expected to be appointed sometime in May 1996
\Icabinet:\i Executive Yuan was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Yuan and unicameral National Assembly
Legislative Yuan: elections last held 2 December 1995 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (164 total) KMT 85, DPP 54, CNP 21, independents 4; note - since the election, there has been a change in the distribution of seats - KMT 83, DPP 54, CNP 21, independents 6
National Assembly: elections last held 23 March 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - KMT 55%, DPP 30%, CNP 14%, other 1%; seats - (334 total) KMT 183, DPP 99, CNP 46, other 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Judicial Yuan, justices nominated and appointed for nine-year terms by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Kuomintang (KMT, Nationalist Party), LI Teng-hui, chairman; Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), leader NA; Chinese New Party (CNP), leader NA; Labor Party (LP), leader NA
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b \JTaiwan\j independence movement, various environmental groups
\Bnote:\b debate on \JTaiwan\j independence has become acceptable within the mainstream of domestic politics on \JTaiwan\j; political liberalization and the increased representation of the opposition Democratic Progressive Party in \JTaiwan\j's legislature have opened public debate on the island's national identity; advocates of \JTaiwan\j independence, both within the DPP and the ruling Kuomintang, oppose the ruling party's traditional stand that the island will eventually unify with mainland China; the aims of the \JTaiwan\j independence movement include establishing a sovereign nation on \JTaiwan\j and entering the UN; other organizations supporting \JTaiwan\j independence include the World United Formosans for Independence and the Organization for \JTaiwan\j Nation Building
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none; unofficial commercial and cultural relations with the people of the US are maintained through a private instrumentality, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) with headquarters in Taipei and field offices in Washington and 10 other US cities
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none; unofficial commercial and cultural relations with the people of \JTaiwan\j are maintained through a private institution, the American Institute in \JTaiwan\j (AIT), which has offices in Taipei at #7, Lane 134, Hsin Yi Road, Section 3, \Jtelephone\j [886] (2) 709-2000, FAX [886] (2) 702-7675, and in Kao-hsiung at #2 Chung Cheng 3d Road, \Jtelephone\j [886] (7) 224-0154 through 0157, FAX [886] (7) 223-8237, and the American Trade Center at Room 3207 International Trade Building, Taipei World Trade Center, 333 Keelung Road Section 1, Taipei 10548, \Jtelephone\j [886] (2) 720-1550
\BFlag:\b red with a dark blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a white sun with 12 triangular rays
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JTaiwan\j has a dynamic capitalist economy with considerable government guidance of investment and foreign trade and partial government ownership of some large banks and industrial firms. Real growth in GDP has averaged about 9% a year during the past three decades. Export growth has been even faster and has provided the impetus for industrialization. \JInflation\j and unemployment are low. Agriculture contributes about 4% to GDP, down from 35% in 1952. \JTaiwan\j currently ranks as number 13 among major trading countries. Traditional labor-intensive industries are steadily being replaced with more capital- and technology-intensive industries. \JTaiwan\j has become a major investor in China, \JThailand\j, \JIndonesia\j, the \JPhilippines\j, \JMalaysia\j, and Vietnam. The tightening of labor markets has led to an influx of foreign workers, both legal and illegal.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $290.5 billion (1995 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 10,253,773 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b best developed system in Asia outside of \JJapan\j
\Idomestic:\i extensive microwave radio relay trunk system on east and west coasts
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); submarine cables to \JJapan\j (Okinawa), \JPhilippines\j, \JGuam\j, \JSingapore\j, Hong Kong, \JIndonesia\j, \JAustralia\j, Middle East, and Western Europe
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 91, FM 23, shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Coastal Patrol and
\BDefense:\b Command, Armed Forces Reserve Command, Combined Service Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 6,278,159
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,849,057
males reach military age (19) annually: 204,313 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $11.5 billion, 3.6% of GDP (FY96/97)
#
"Tajikistan (Atlas)",231,0,0,0
Note: Tajikistan has experienced three changes of government since it gained independence in September 1991. The current president, Emomali RAHMONOV, was elected in November 1994, yet has been in power since 1992. The country is suffering through its third year of a civil conflict, with no clear end in sight. Underlying the conflict are deeply rooted regional and clan-based animosities that pit a government consisting of people primarily from the Kulob (Kulyab), Khujand (Leninabad), and Hisor (Hissar) regions against a secular and Islamic-led opposition from the Gharm, Gorno-Badakhshan, and Qurghonteppa (Kurgan-Tyube) regions. Government and opposition representatives have held periodic rounds of UN-mediated peace talks and agreed in September 1994 to a cease-fire which has been periodically extended. Russian-led peacekeeping troops are deployed throughout the country, and Russian-commanded border guards are stationed along the Tajik-Afghan border.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Asia, west of China
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 39 00 N, 71 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 143,100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 142,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JWisconsin\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,651 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 1,206 km, China 414 km, \JKyrgyzstan\j 870 km, Uzbekistan 1,161 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b boundary with China in dispute; territorial dispute with \JKyrgyzstan\j on northern boundary in Isfara Valley area; \JAfghanistan\j's and other foreign support to Islamic fighters in Tajikistan's civil war based in northern \JAfghanistan\j
\BClimate:\b midlatitude continental, hot summers, mild winters; semiarid to polar in Pamir Mountains
\BTerrain:\b Pamir and Altai Mountains dominate landscape; western Fergana Valley in north, Kofarnihon and Vakhsh Valleys in southwest
\Ilowest point:\i Syrdariya 300 m
\Ihighest point:\i Qullai Kommunizm 7,495 m
\BNatural resources:\b significant hydropower potential, some \Jpetroleum\j, uranium, mercury, brown coal, lead, zinc, \Jantimony\j, \Jtungsten\j
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 23%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 71%
\BIrrigated land:\b 6,940 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate sanitation facilities; increasing levels of soil \Jsalinity\j; industrial \Jpollution\j; excessive pesticides; part of the basin of the shrinking Aral Sea suffers from severe overutilization of available water for irrigation and associated \Jpollution\j
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 110,705; female 151,891) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.54% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 33.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.43 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -9.93 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.73 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 113.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 64.45 years
\Imale:\i 60.84 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.24 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.38 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Tajik(s)
\Iadjective:\i Tajik
\BEthnic divisions:\b Tajik 64.9%, Uzbek 25%, Russian 3.5% (declining because of emigration), other 6.6%
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 80%, Shi'a Muslim 5%
\BLanguages:\b Tajik (official), Russian widely used in government and business
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Tajikistan
\Iconventional short form:\i Tajikistan
\Ilocal long form:\i Jumhurii Tojikistan
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b TI
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JDushanbe\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 2 oblasts (viloyatho, singular - viloyat) and one autonomous oblast* (viloyati avtonomii); Viloyati Avtonomii Badakhshoni Kuni* (Khorugh - formerly Khorog), Viloyati Khatlon (Qurghonteppa - formerly Kurgan-Tyube), Viloyati Leninobod (Khujand - formerly Leninabad)
\Bnote:\b the administrative center names are in parentheses
\BIndependence:\b 9 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 9 September (1991)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution adopted 6 November 1994
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Emomali RAHMONOV (since 6 November 1994; was Head of State and Assembly Chairman since NA November 1992) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 6 November 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Emomali RAHMONOV 58%, Abdumalik ABDULLAJANOV 40%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Yahyo AZIMOV (since 8 February 1996) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president who proposes them to the Supreme Assembly for approval
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Majlisi Oli): elections last held 26 February and 12 March 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; estimated seats - (181 total) Communist Party and affiliates 100, People's Party 10, Party of People's Unity 6, Party of Economic and Political Renewal 1, other 64
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Party of Tajikistan, Abdumajid DOSTIYEV; Party of People's Unity, Abdumalik ABDULLOJONOR; Tajik Communist Party, Shodi SHABDOLOV; Democratic Party, Jumaboy NIYAZOV, chairman; Islamic Renaissance Party (IRP), Mohammed Sharif HIMMATZODA, chairman; Rebirth (Rastokhez), Takhir ABDUZHABOROV; Lali Badakhshan Society, Atobek AMIRBEK; Tajikistan Party of Economic and Political Renewal (TPEPR); Citizenship, Patriotism, Unity Party, Bobokhon MAHMADOV; Adolatho "Justices" Party, Abdurahmon KARIMOV, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Tajikistan Opposition Movement based in northern \JAfghanistan\j, Seyed Abdullah NURI, chairman
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Tajikistan does not have an embassy in the US, but has a mission at the UN: address - 136 East 67th Street, New York, NY 10021, \Jtelephone\j - [1] (212) 472-7645, FAX - [1] (212) 628-0252
\BFlag:\b three horizontal stripes of red (top), a wider stripe of white, and green; a gold crown surmounted by seven five-pointed gold stars is located in the center of the white stripe
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tajikistan had the next-to-lowest per capita GDP in the former USSR, the highest rate of population growth, and an extremely low standard of living. Agriculture dominates the economy, with cotton being the most important crop. Mineral resources, varied but limited in amount, include silver, gold, uranium, and \Jtungsten\j. Industry is limited to a large aluminum plant, hydropower facilities, and small obsolete factories mostly in light industry and food processing. The Tajik economy has been gravely weakened by four years of civil conflict and by the loss of subsidies and markets for its products, which has left Tajikistan dependent on \JRussia\j and Uzbekistan and on international humanitarian assistance for much of its basic subsistence needs. Moreover, constant political turmoil and the continued dominance by former communist officials have impeded the introduction of meaningful economic reforms. The regime has made only halfhearted efforts to stabilize the economy and promote reform.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -12.4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,040 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 28% monthly average (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 1.95 million (1992)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 43%, government and services 24%, industry 14%, trade and communications 11%, construction 8% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.3% includes only officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of underemployed workers and unregistered unemployed people (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b aluminum, zinc, lead, chemicals and fertilizers, cement, vegetable oil, metal-cutting machine tools, refrigerators and freezers
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs from Southwest Asia to Western Europe and North America
\Ipartners:\i \JRussia\j, Kazakstan, \JUkraine\j, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan
\BImports:\b $690 million (1995)
\Icommodities:\i fuel, chemicals, machinery and transport equipment, textiles, foodstuffs
\Ipartners:\i \JRussia\j, Uzbekistan, Kazakstan
\BExternal debt:\b $635 million (of which $250 million to Russia) (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $22 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b commitments, $885 million (disbursements $115 million) (1992-95)
\BCurrency:\b introduced its own currency, the Tajik ruble, in May 1995
\BExchange rates:\b Tajik rubles per US$1 - 284 (January 1996)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 480 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines (1990)
\BHighways:\b 32,752 km
\Ipaved:\i 21,119 km
\Iunpaved:\i 11,633 km (1992 est.)
\BPipelines:\b natural gas 400 km (1992)
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 59
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 5
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 7
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 9
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 36 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 303,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poorly developed and not well maintained; many towns are not reached by the national network
\Idomestic:\i cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i linked by cable and microwave radio relay to other \JCIS\j republics, and by leased connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; \JDushanbe\j linked by Intelsat to international gateway switch in \JAnkara\j (Turkey); satellite earth stations - 1 Orbita and 2 Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is one state-owned radio broadcast station
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\Bnote:\b 1 Intelsat earth station provides TV receive-only service from Turkey
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army (being formed), Presidential National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,358,106
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,115,149
males reach military age (18) annually: 58,691 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 180 billion rubles, 3.4% of GDP (1995)
#
"Tanzania (Atlas)",232,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between \JKenya\j and \JMozambique\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 00 S, 35 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 945,090 sq km
\Iland area:\i 886,040 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than twice the size of \JCalifornia\j
\Bnote:\b includes the islands of Mafia, Pemba, and Zanzibar
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,402 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBurundi\j 451 km, \JKenya\j 769 km, Malawi 475 km, \JMozambique\j 756 km, \JRwanda\j 217 km, \JUganda\j 396 km, \JZambia\j 338 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,424 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b boundary dispute with Malawi in Lake Nyasa; Tanzania-Zaire-Zambia tripoint in Lake Tanganyika may no longer be indefinite since it has been informally reported that the indefinite section of the Zaire-Zambia boundary has been settled
\BClimate:\b varies from tropical along coast to temperate in highlands
\BTerrain:\b plains along coast; central plateau; highlands in north, south
\Inatural hazards:\i the tsetse fly and lack of water limit agriculture; flooding on the central plateau during the rainy season
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b \JKilimanjaro\j is highest point in Africa
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 396,128; female 448,809) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.15% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 41.31 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 19.47 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -10.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b the total number of Rwandan and Burundian refugees in \JTanzania\j is about 750,000
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.88 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 105.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 42.34 years
\Imale:\i 40.95 years
\Ifemale:\i 43.78 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.67 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Tanzanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Tanzanian
\BEthnic divisions:\b
mainland: native African (95% Bantu, consisting of well over 100 tribes) 99%, Asian, European, and Arab 1%
Zanzibar: Arab, mixed Arab and native African, native African
\BReligions:\b
mainland: Christian 45%, Muslim 35%, indigenous beliefs 20%
Zanzibar: Muslim more than 99%
\BLanguages:\b Kiswahili or \JSwahili\j (official), Kiunguju (name for \JSwahili\j in Zanzibar), English (official, primary language of commerce, administration, and higher education), Arabic (widely spoken in Zanzibar), many local languages
\Bnote:\b Kiswahili (Swahili) is the mother tongue of Bantu people living in Zanzibar and nearby coastal \JTanzania\j; although Kiswahili is Bantu in structure and origin, its vocabulary draws on a variety of sources, including Arabic and English, and it has become the lingua franca of central and eastern Africa; the first language of most people is one of the local languages
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write Kiswahili (Swahili), English, or Arabic (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 67.8%
\Imale:\i 79.4%
\Ifemale:\i 56.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i United Republic of \JTanzania\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JTanzania\j
\Iformer:\i United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar
\BData code:\b TZ
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Dar es Salaam
\Bnote:\b some government offices have been transferred to \JDodoma\j, which is planned as the new national capital by the end of the 1990s
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 25 regions; Arusha, Dar es Salaam, \JDodoma\j, Iringa, Kigoma, \JKilimanjaro\j, Lindi, Mara, Mbeya, Morogoro, Mtwara, Mwanza, Pemba North, Pemba South, Pwani, Rukwa, Ruvuma, Shinyanga, Singida, Tabora, \JTanga\j, Zanzibar Central/South, Zanzibar North, Zanzibar Urban/West, Ziwa Magharibi
\BIndependence:\b 26 April 1964; Tanganyika became independent 9 December 1961 (from UK-administered UN trusteeship); Zanzibar became independent 19 December 1963 (from UK); Tanganyika united with Zanzibar 26 April 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar; renamed United Republic of \JTanzania\j 29 October 1964
\BNational holiday:\b Union Day, 26 April (1964)
\BConstitution:\b 25 April 1977; major revisions October 1984
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts limited to matters of interpretation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Benjamin MKARA (since 22 November 1995) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 October-19 November 1995 (next to be held 29 October 2000); results - Benjamin MKARA 62%, MREMA 28%, LIPUMBA 6%, CHEYO 4%; Vice President Omar Ali JUMA (since 22 November 1995); President of Zanzibar Salmin AMOUR (since 27 October 1995); election last held 22 October 1995 (next to be held 22 October 2000); results - Salmin AMOUR 50.2%, HAMAD 49.8%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Fredrick SUMAYE (since 27 November 1995) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president from the members of the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Bunge): elections last held 29 October-19 November 1995 (next to be held 29 October 2000); results - percent of total vote by party NA; seats - (274 total, 232 elected) CCM 186, opposition parties 46; of the 42 seats which are not elected some are filled by presidential appointment and others are designated by law for specific officials
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal; High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM or Revolutionary Party), Ali Hassan MWINYI; Civic United Front (CUF), Seif Sharif HAMAD; National Convention for Construction and Reform (NCCR), Lyatonga (Augustine) MREMA; Union for Multiparty Democracy (UMD), Abdullah FUNDIKIRA; Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), Edwin I. M. MTEI, chairman; Democratic Party (unregistered), Reverend MTIKLA; United Democratic Party (UDP), John CHEYO
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mustafa Salim NYANG'ANYI
\Ichancery:\i 2139 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-6125
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 797-7408
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador J. Brady ANDERSON
\Iembassy:\i 36 Laibon Road (off Bagamoyo Road), Dar es Salaam
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam
\Itelephone:\i [255] (51) 66010 through 66015
\IFAX:\i [255] (51) 66701
\BFlag:\b divided diagonally by a yellow-edged black band from the lower hoist-side corner; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is blue
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JTanzania\j is one of the poorest countries in the world. The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which accounts for 58% of GDP, provides 85% of exports, and employs 90% of the work force. \JTopography\j and climatic conditions, however, limit cultivated crops to only 5% of the land area. Industry accounts for 8% of GDP and is mainly limited to processing agricultural products and light consumer goods. The economic recovery program announced in mid-1986 has generated notable increases in agricultural production and financial support for the program by bilateral donors. The World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and bilateral donors have provided funds to rehabilitate \JTanzania\j's deteriorated economic \Jinfrastructure\j. Growth in 1991-94 has featured a pickup in industrial production and a substantial increase in output of minerals, led by gold. Recent banking reforms have helped increase private sector growth and investment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $23.1 billion (1995 est.)
narrow gauge: 2,600 km 1.000-m gauge; 969 km 1.067-m gauge
\Bnote::\b the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), which operates 1,860 km of 1.067-m narrow gauge track between Dar es Salaam and New Kapiri M'poshi in \JZambia\j is not a part of \JTanzania\j Railways Corporation; 969 km are in \JTanzania\j and 891 km are in \JZambia\j; because of the difference in gauge, this system does not connect to \JTanzania\j Railways
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 55,600 km
\Ipaved:\i 20,572 km (including 50 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 35,028 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Lake Tanganyika, Lake Victoria, Lake Nyasa
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 982 km
\BPorts:\b Bukoba, Dar es Salaam, Kigoma, Lindi, Mkoani, Mtwara, Musoma, Mwanza, \JTanga\j, Wete, Zanzibar
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 57 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 137,000 (1989 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair system operating below capacity
\Idomestic:\i open wire, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 12, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 640,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 45,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Tanzanian People's
\BDefense:\b Force (TPDF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force), paramilitary Police Field Force Unit, Militia
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 6,499,244
\Imales fit for military service:\i 3,765,193 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $69 million, NA% of GDP (FY94/95)
#
"Thailand (Atlas)",233,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of \JThailand\j, southeast of \JBurma\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 100 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 514,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 511,770 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of Wyoming
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,863 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBurma\j 1,800 km, \JCambodia\j 803 km, Laos 1,754 km, \JMalaysia\j 506 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,219 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b boundary dispute with Laos; unresolved maritime boundary with Vietnam; parts of border with \JCambodia\j in dispute; maritime boundary with \JCambodia\j not clearly defined
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy, warm, cloudy southwest monsoon (mid-May to September); dry, cool northeast monsoon (November to mid-March); southern isthmus always hot and humid
\BTerrain:\b central plain; Khorat Plateau in the east; mountains elsewhere
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j from vehicle emissions; water \Jpollution\j from organic and factory wastes; deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened by illegal hunting
\Inatural hazards:\i land subsidence in \JBangkok\j area resulting from the depletion of the water table; droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b controls only land route from Asia to \JMalaysia\j and \JSingapore\j
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 1,468,814; female 1,832,338) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.03% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.29 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.8 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 33.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 68.6 years
\Imale:\i 64.89 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.49 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.89 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Thai (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Thai
\BEthnic divisions:\b Thai 75%, Chinese 14%, other 11%
\BReligions:\b \JBuddhism\j 95%, Muslim 3.8%, \JChristianity\j 0.5%, \JHinduism\j 0.1%, other 0.6% (1991)
\BLanguages:\b Thai, English the secondary language of the elite, ethnic and regional dialects
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 93.8%
\Imale:\i 96%
\Ifemale:\i 91.6%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of \JThailand\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JThailand\j
\BData code:\b TH
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b \JBangkok\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 76 provinces (changwat, singular and plural); Amnat Charoen, Ang Thong, Buriram, Chachoengsao, Chai Nat, Chaiyaphum, Chanthaburi, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Chon Buri, Chumphon, Kalasin, Kamphaeng Phet, Kanchanaburi, Khon Kaen, Krabi, Krung Thep Mahanakhon (Bangkok), Lampang, Lamphun, Loei, Lop Buri, Mae Hong Son, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nan, Narathiwat, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Pattani, Phangnga, Phatthalung, Phayao, Phetchabun, Phetchaburi, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phrae, Phuket, Prachin Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Roi Et, Sa Kaeo, Sakon Nakhon, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Sara Buri, Satun, Sing Buri, Sisaket, Songkhla, Sukhothai, Suphan Buri, \JSurat\j Thani, Surin, Tak, Trang, Trat, Ubon Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Uthai Thani, Uttaradit, Yala, Yasothon
\BIndependence:\b 1238 (traditional founding date; never colonized)
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of His Majesty the King, 5 December (1927)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution approved 7 December 1991; amended 10 June 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system, with influences of common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j; martial law in effect since 23 February 1991 military coup
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King PHUMIPHON Adunyadet (since 9 June 1946) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince WACHIRALONGKON (born 28 July 1952)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister BANHAN Sinlapa-acha (since 13 July 1995); prime minister must be appointed from among the members of the House of Representatives
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
Privy Council: NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly (Rathasapha)
Senate (Wuthisapha): consists of a 270-member appointed body
House of Representatives (Sapha Phuthaen Ratsadon): elections last held 2 July 1995 (next to be held 2 July 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (391 total) TNP 93, DP 86, NAP 56, NDP 53, PDP 23, SAP 23, NTP 18, TCP 18, LDP 10, SP 8, MP 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Sandika), judges appointed by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Thai Nation Party (TNP or Chat Thai Party), BANHAN Sinlapa-acha; Democratic Party (DP or Prachathipat Party), CHUAN Likphai; New Aspiration Party (NAP or Khwamwang Mai), Gen. CHAWALIT Yongchaiyut; National Development Party (NDP or Chat Phattana), CHATCHAI Chunhawan; Phalang \JDharma\j Party (PDP or Phalang Tham), THAKSIN Chinnawat; Social Action Party (SAP or Kitsangkhom Party), MONTRI Phongphanit; Thai Leadership Party (NTP or Nam Thai), Amnuai Wirawan; Thai Citizen's Party (TCP or Prachakon Thai), SAMAK Sunthonwet; Liberal Democratic Party (LDP or Seri Tham), ATHIT Urairat; Solidarity Party (SP or Ekkaphap Party), UTHAI Phimchaichon; Mass Party (MP or Muanchon), Pol. Cpt. CHALOEM Yubamrung
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador NIT Phibunsongkhram
\Ichancery:\i 1024 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 944-3600
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 944-3611
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador William H. ITOH
\Iembassy:\i 95 Wireless Road, \JBangkok\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AP 96546
\Itelephone:\i [66] (2) 252-5040
\IFAX:\i [66] (2) 254-2990
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Chiang Mai
\Iconsulate(s):\i Udorn
\BFlag:\b five horizontal bands of red (top), white, blue (double width), white, and red
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b One of the more advanced developing countries in Asia, \JThailand\j depends on exports of manufactures - including high-technology goods - and the development of the service sector to fuel the country's rapid growth, averaging 9% since 1989. Most of \JThailand\j's recent imports have been for capital equipment and raw materials, although imports of consumer goods are beginning to rise. \JThailand\j's 35% domestic savings rate is a key source of capital for the economy, and the country is also benefiting from rising investment from abroad. Prime Minister BANHAN's government - \JThailand\j's sixth government in five years - undoubtedly will continue \JBangkok\j's probusiness policies despite some concerns that it is relaxing \JBangkok\j's traditional fiscal austerity. BANHAN is beginning to address \JThailand\j's serious \Jinfrastructure\j bottlenecks, especially in the transport and telecommunications sectors. Over the longer term, \JBangkok\j must produce more college graduates with technical training and upgrade workers' skills to continue its rapid economic development.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $416.7 billion (1995 est.)
\Iexpenditures:\i $28.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $6.1 billion (FY94/95)
\BIndustries:\b tourism; textiles and garments, agricultural processing, beverages, \Jtobacco\j, cement, light manufacturing, such as jewelry; electric appliances and components, integrated circuits, furniture, plastics; world's second-largest \Jtungsten\j producer and third-largest tin producer
Industrial production growth rate: 13.3% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b a minor producer of opium, heroin, and marijuana; major illicit transit point for heroin en route to the international drug market from \JBurma\j and Laos; eradication efforts have reduced the area of cannabis cultivation and shifted some production to neighboring countries; opium poppy cultivation has been reduced by eradication efforts; also a drug money laundering center; rapidly growing role in \Jamphetamine\j production for regional consumption; increasing indigenous abuse of methamphetamine and heroin
\BExports:\b $45.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 73%, agricultural products and fisheries 21%, raw materials 5%, fuels 1%
\Ipartners:\i US 21.0%, \JJapan\j 17.1%, \JSingapore\j 13.6%, Hong Kong 5.3%, \JGermany\j 3.5%, UK 3.0%, Netherlands 2.8%, \JMalaysia\j 2.4%
\BImports:\b $53.9 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 80%, fuels 6.9%, raw materials 6.6%, foodstuffs 4.3%
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 30.4%, US 11.9%, \JSingapore\j 6.3%, \JGermany\j 5.8%, \JTaiwan\j 5.1%, \JMalaysia\j 4.9%, South Korea 3.7%, China 2.6%
narrow gauge: 4,623 km 1.000-m gauge (99 km double track)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 54,388 km
\Ipaved:\i 48,786 km (including 171 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 5,602 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,999 km principal waterways; 3,701 km with navigable depths of 0.9 m or more throughout the year; numerous minor waterways navigable by shallow-draft native craft
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products 67 km; natural gas 350 km
\BPorts:\b \JBangkok\j, Laem Chabang, Pattani, Phuket, Sattahip, Si Racha, Songkhla
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 12 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,553,200 (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b service to general public inadequate; bulk of service to government activities provided by multichannel cable and microwave radio relay network
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay and multichannel cable; domestic satellite system being developed
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 200 (in government-controlled network), FM 100 (in government-controlled network), shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 10.75 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 11 (in government-controlled network)
\BTelevisions:\b 3.3 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy (includes Royal Thai Marine Corps), Royal Thai Air Force, Paramilitary Forces
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 16,835,334
\Imales fit for military service:\i 10,182,904
males reach military age (18) annually: 592,268 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $4.0 billion, 2.5% of GDP (FY94/95)
#
"The Bahamas (Atlas)",234,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, chain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of \JFlorida\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 24 15 N, 76 00 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 13,940 sq km
\Iland area:\i 10,070 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,542 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 3 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; moderated by warm waters of Gulf Stream
\BTerrain:\b long, flat \Jcoral\j formations with some low rounded hills
\Inatural hazards:\i hurricanes and other tropical storms that cause extensive flood and wind damage
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location adjacent to US and \JCuba\j; extensive island chain
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 259,367 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 28% (male 36,331; female 35,771)
\I15-64 years:\i 67% (male 84,107; female 89,193)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 5,449; female 8,516) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.05% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 18.73 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.74 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.54 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.94 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.64 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 23.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.53 years
\Imale:\i 67.98 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.16 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.97 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bahamian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bahamian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 85%, white 15%
\BReligions:\b Baptist 32%, Anglican 20%, Roman Catholic 19%, Methodist 6%, Church of God 6%, other Protestant 12%, none or unknown 3%, other 2%
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write but definition of \Jliteracy\j not available (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98.2%
\Imale:\i 98.5%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of The \JBahamas\j
\Iconventional short form:\i The \JBahamas\j
\BData code:\b BF
\BType of government:\b commonwealth
\BCapital:\b Nassau
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 21 districts; Acklins and Crooked Islands, Bimini, Cat Island, Exuma, Freeport, Fresh Creek, Governor's Harbour, Green Turtle Cay, Harbour Island, High Rock, Inagua, Kemps Bay, Long Island, Marsh Harbour, Mayaguana, New Providence, Nicholls Town and Berry Islands, Ragged Island, Rock Sound, Sandy Point, San Salvador and Rum Cay
\BIndependence:\b 10 July 1973 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 10 July (1973)
\BConstitution:\b 10 July 1973
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir Orville TURNQUEST (since 2 January 1995) who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM (since 19 August 1992) and Deputy Prime Minister Frank WATSON (since NA) were appointed by the governor general
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the prime minister's recommendation
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: a 16-member body appointed by the governor general
House of Assembly: elections last held 19 August 1992 (next to be held by August 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (49 total) FNM 32, PLP 17
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Sir Lynden O. PINDLING; Free National Movement (FNM), Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box N-8197, Nassau; P.O. Box 9009, Miami, FL 33159; Nassau, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-3370 (pouch)
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 322-1181, 328-2206
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 328-7838
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of aquamarine (top), gold, and aquamarine with a black equilateral triangle based on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The \JBahamas\j is a stable, developing nation with an economy heavily dependent on tourism and offshore banking. Tourism alone accounts for more than 50% of GDP and directly or indirectly employs 40% of the archipelago's labor force. A slowdown in the expansion of the tourism sector - especially stopover travel from Europe - led to a reduction in the country's GDP growth rate in 1995, down to an estimated 2% from 3.5% in 1994. The construction sector benefited from hotel rehabilitation and the government's ongoing housing development program. Earnings from exports of vegetable and \Jcitrus\j production have been decreasing since 1993 but are expected to increase in 1996 due to storm damage to crops in \JFlorida\j. The overall growth prospects through 1996 will depend heavily on the fortunes of the tourism sector and continued income growth in the US, which accounts for the majority of tourist visits.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $18,700 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 3%
\Iindustry:\i 35%
\Iservices:\i 62% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 1.5% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 136,900 (1993)
\Iby occupation:\i government 30%, tourism 40%, business services 10%, agriculture 5% (1995 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 15% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $665 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $725 million, including capital expenditures of $94 million (FY95/96 est.)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, banking, cement, oil refining and transshipment, salt production, rum, \Jaragonite\j, pharmaceuticals, spiral-welded steel pipe
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 424,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 929 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 3,200 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcitrus\j, vegetables; poultry
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j and marijuana bound for US and Europe; also a money-laundering center
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 48 countries among which are \JNorway\j 155, \JGreece\j 124, US 84, Denmark 63, Netherlands 44, Sweden 36, \JFinland\j 34, \JFrance\j 29, \JJapan\j 29, and \JBelgium\j 24 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 55
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 16
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 11
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 17
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 8 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 119,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i totally automatic system; highly developed
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter and submarine cable to \JFlorida\j; 3 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 200,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1986 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 60,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Royal \JBahamas\j
\BDefense:\b Force (Coast Guard only), Royal \JBahamas\j Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $20 million, 3.8% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"The Gambia (Atlas)",235,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and \JSenegal\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 28 N, 16 34 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 11,300 sq km
\Iland area:\i 10,000 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of \JDelaware\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 740 km
border country: \JSenegal\j 740 km
\BCoastline:\b 80 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 18 nm
continental shelf: not specified
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of boundary with \JSenegal\j is indefinite
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, rainy season (June to November); cooler, dry season (November to May)
\BTerrain:\b flood plain of the Gambia River flanked by some low hills
\Inatural hazards:\i rainfall has dropped by 30% in the last 30 years
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b almost an enclave of \JSenegal\j; smallest country on the continent of Africa
\BReligions:\b Muslim 90%, Christian 9%, indigenous beliefs 1%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Mandinka, \JWolof\j, Fula, other indigenous vernaculars
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 38.6%
\Imale:\i 52.8%
\Ifemale:\i 24.9%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of The Gambia
\Iconventional short form:\i The Gambia
\BData code:\b GA
\BType of government:\b republic under multiparty democratic rule
\Bnote::\b nominally a republic, The Gambia has had a military government since 22 July 1994; the military authority has promised to return control to a democratically-elected government in July 1996
\BCapital:\b Banjul
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 5 divisions and 1 city*; Banjul*, Lower River, MacCarthy Island, North Bank, Upper River, Western
\BIndependence:\b 18 February 1965 (from UK; The Gambia and \JSenegal\j signed an agreement on 12 December 1981 that called for the creation of a loose confederation to be known as Senegambia, but the agreement was dissolved on 30 September 1989)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 18 February (1965)
\BConstitution:\b 24 April 1970; suspended July 1994
\BLegal system:\b based on a composite of English common law, Koranic law, and customary law; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council Capt. Yahya A. J. J. JAMMEH (since the military coup of 22 July 1994); Vice Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council Capt. Edward SINGHATEH (since March 1995); last popular election held on 29 April 1992; results - Sir Dawda JAWARA (PPP) 58.5%, Sherif Mustapha DIBBA (NCP) 22.2%, Assan Musa CAMARA (GPP) 8.0% (prior to the 22 July 1994 coup, next election had been scheduled for April 1997)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet normally is appointed by the president from members of the House of Representatives (present cabinet appointed by Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Representatives: last popular election held on 29 April 1992 (next to be held NA April 1997); results - PPP won 58.1% of votes; seats - (43 total, 36 elected) PPP 30, NCP 6
\Bnote:\b following the military coup on 22 July 1994, all elective offices were dissolved; in April 1996, the military government announced that voter registrations would begin in May and democratic elections would be held in October 1996
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b the following political parties were active on 22 July 1994, after which time political activity was banned by the military government: People's Progressive Party (PPP), Dawda K. JAWARA (in exile), secretary general; National Convention Party (NCP), Sheriff DIBBA (in exile); Gambian People's Party (GPP), Hassan Musa CAMARA; United Party (UP), leader NA; People's Democratic Organization of Independence and \JSocialism\j (PDOIS), leader NA; People's Democratic Party (PDP), Jabel SALLAH
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue with white edges, and green
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Gambia has no important mineral or other natural resources and has a limited agricultural base. About 75% of the population is engaged in crop production and livestock raising. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides. A sustained structural adjustment program, including a liberalized trade policy, had fostered a respectable 4% annual rate of growth in 1990-93. Reexport trade normally constitutes one-third of economic activity; however, border closures associated with \JSenegal\j's monetary crisis in late 1993 led to a halving of reexport trade, reducing government revenues in turn. The 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the CFA franc in January 1994 has made Senegalese goods more competitive and apparently prompted a relaxation of Senegalese controls, paving the way for a comeback in reexports. But, in response to the military's takeover in July 1994, cuts in foreign trade and a decline in tourism have undermined economic growth.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,100 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 27%
\Iindustry:\i 15%
\Iservices:\i 58% (1993)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 1.7% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 400,000 (1986 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 75.0%, industry, commerce, and services 18.9%, government 6.1%
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $91.4 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $90 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.)
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation attributable to slash-and-burn agriculture and the use of wood for fuel; recent droughts affecting agriculture
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry \Jharmattan\j wind can reduce visibility in north during winter; periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Tropical Timber 94
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 46,089; female 53,306) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.56% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 46.23 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 10.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.93 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 84.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 57.87 years
\Imale:\i 55.7 years
\Ifemale:\i 60.1 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.75 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Togolese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Togolese
\BEthnic divisions:\b native African (37 tribes; largest and most important are Ewe, Mina, and Kabre) 99%, European and Syrian-Lebanese less than 1%
\BReligions:\b indigenous beliefs 70%, Christian 20%, Muslim 10%
\BLanguages:\b French (official and the language of commerce), Ewe and Mina (the two major African languages in the south), Dagomba and Kabye (sometimes spelled Kabiye; the two major African languages in the north)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 51.7%
\Imale:\i 67%
\Ifemale:\i 37%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of \JTogo\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JTogo\j
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique Togolaise
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i French \JTogo\j
\BData code:\b TO
\BType of government:\b republic under transition to multiparty democratic rule
\Bnote:\b the 23 units may now be called prefectures (singular - prefecture) and reported name changes for individual units are included in parentheses
\BIndependence:\b 27 April 1960 (from French-administered UN trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 April (1960)
\BConstitution:\b multiparty draft constitution approved by High Council of the Republic 1 July 1992; adopted by public referendum 27 September 1992
\BLegal system:\b French-based court system
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Gen. Gnassingbe EYADEMA (since 14 April 1967) reelected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 25 August 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); all major opposition parties boycotted the election; Gen. EYADEMA won 96.5% of the vote
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Edem KODJO (since April 1994) appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president and the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 6 and 20 February 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (81 total) CAR 36, RPT 35, UTD 7, UJD 2, CFN 1
\Bnote:\b the Supreme Court ordered new elections for three seats of the Action Committee for Renewal (CAR) and the Togolese Union for Democracy (UTD), lowering their total to 34 and six seats, respectively; the remaining three seats have not been filled
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally of the Togolese
\BPeople:\b (RPT), President Gen. Gnassingbe EYADEMA; Coordination des Forces Nouvelles (CFN), Joseph KOFFIGOH; Togolese Union for Democracy (UTD), Edem KODJO; Action Committee for Renewal (CAR), Yao AGBOYIBOR; Union for Democracy and Solidarity (UDS), Antoine FOLLY; Pan-African Sociodemocrats Group (GSP), an alliance of three radical parties: CDPA, PDR, and PSP; Democratic Convention of African Peoples (CDPA), Leopold GNININVI; Party for Democracy and Renewal (PDR), Zarifou AYEVA; Pan-African Social Party (PSP), Francis AGBAGLI; Union of Forces for Change (UFC), Gilchrist OLYMPIO (in exile); Union of Justice and Democracy (UJD), Lal TAXPANDJAN
\Bnote:\b Rally of the Togolese
\BPeople:\b (RPT), led by President EYADEMA, was the only party until the formation of multiple parties was legalized 12 April 1991
\BFlag:\b five equal horizontal bands of green (top and bottom) alternating with yellow; there is a white five-pointed star on a red square in the upper hoist-side corner; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b This small sub-Saharan economy is heavily dependent on subsistence agriculture, which provides employment for more than 60% of the labor force. \JCocoa\j, \Jcoffee\j, and cotton together generate about 30% of export earnings. \JTogo\j is self-sufficient in basic foodstuffs when harvests are normal. In the industrial sector, phosphate mining is by far the most important activity, although it has suffered from the collapse of world phosphate prices and increased foreign competition. \JTogo\j serves as a regional commercial and trade center. The government's decade-long effort, supported by the World Bank and the IMF, to implement economic reform measures, encourage foreign investment, and bring revenues in line with expenditures has stalled. Political unrest, including private and public sector strikes throughout 1992 and 1993, has jeopardized the reform program, shrunk the tax base, and disrupted vital economic activity. Although strikes had ended in 1994, political unrest and lack of funds prevented the government from taking advantage of the 50% currency \Jdevaluation\j of 12 January 1994. Resumption of World Bank and IMF flows will depend on implementation of several controversial moves toward privatization and on downsizing the military, on which the regime depends to stay in power.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 795,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 3 (relays 2)
\BTelevisions:\b 24,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 975,746
\Imales fit for military service:\i 512,196 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $48 million, 2.9% of GDP (1993)
#
"Tokelau (Atlas)",237,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of New Zealand)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 9 00 S, 172 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 10 sq km
\Iland area:\i 10 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 17 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 101 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds (April to November)
\BTerrain:\b \Jcoral\j atolls enclosing large lagoons
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 5 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i very limited natural resources and overcrowding are contributing to emigration to New Zealand
\Inatural hazards:\i lies in Pacific typhoon belt
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 1,482 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -1.35% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Tokelauan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Tokelauan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Polynesian
\BReligions:\b Congregational Christian Church 70%, Roman Catholic 28%, other 2%
\Bnote:\b on Atafu, all Congregational Christian Church of \JSamoa\j; on Nukunonu, all Roman Catholic; on Fakaofo, both denominations, with the Congregational Christian Church predominant
\BLanguages:\b Tokelauan (a Polynesian language), English
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Tokelau
\BData code:\b TL
\BType of government:\b territory of New Zealand
\BCapital:\b none; each \Jatoll\j has its own administrative center
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of New Zealand)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of New Zealand)
\BNational holiday:\b Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British sovereignty over New Zealand)
\BConstitution:\b administered under the Tokelau Islands Act of 1948, as amended in 1970
\BLegal system:\b British and local statutes
\BSuffrage:\b NA
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; the queen and New Zealand are represented by Administrator Lindsay WATT (since NA March 1993) who was appointed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade in New Zealand
\Ihead of government:\i Official Secretary Casimilo J. PEREZ (since NA), Tokelau \JApia\j Liaison Office
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
General Fono: seats - (45 total, 15 chosen by each of the three \Jatoll\j's Council of Elders or Taupulega)
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court in Niue; Supreme Court in New Zealand
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BInternational organization participation:\b SPC, WHO (associate)
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of New Zealand)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of New Zealand)
\BFlag:\b the flag of New Zealand is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tokelau's small size, isolation, and lack of resources greatly restrain economic development and confine agriculture to the subsistence level. The people must rely on aid from New Zealand to maintain public services, annual aid being substantially greater than GDP. The principal sources of revenue come from sales of copra, postage stamps, souvenir coins, and handicrafts. Money is also remitted to families from relatives in New Zealand.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.5 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,000 (1993 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $430,830
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.8 million, including capital expenditures of $37,300 (1987 est.)
\BAirports:\b none; lagoon landings by amphibious \Jaircraft\j from Western \JSamoa\j
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i radiotelephone service between islands
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone service to Western \JSamoa\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\Bnote:\b each \Jatoll\j has a radio broadcast station of NA type that broadcasts shipping and weather reports
\BRadios:\b 1,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of New Zealand
#
"Tonga (Atlas)",238,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 20 00 S, 175 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 748 sq km
\Iland area:\i 718 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i four times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 419 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; modified by trade winds; warm season (December to May), cool season (May to December)
\BTerrain:\b most islands have \Jlimestone\j base formed from uplifted \Jcoral\j formation; others have \Jlimestone\j overlying volcanic base
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i on Kao Island 1,033 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, fertile soil
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 25%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 55%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 6%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 12%
\Iother:\i 2%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation results as more and more land is being cleared for agriculture and settlement; some damage to \Jcoral\j reefs from \Jstarfish\j and indiscriminate \Jcoral\j and shell collectors; overhunting threatens native sea turtle populations
\Inatural hazards:\i cyclones (October to April); earthquakes and volcanic activity on Fonuafo'ou
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b archipelago of 170 islands (36 inhabited)
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 106,466 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.82% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 27.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.26 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 40.26 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 69.04 years
\Imale:\i 67.03 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.4 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.75 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Tongan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Tongan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Polynesian, Europeans about 300
\BReligions:\b Christian (Free Wesleyan Church claims over 30,000 adherents)
\BLanguages:\b Tongan, English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write a simple message in Tongan or English (1976 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 100%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of \JTonga\j
\Iconventional short form:\i \JTonga\j
\Iformer:\i Friendly Islands
\BData code:\b TN
\BType of government:\b hereditary constitutional monarchy
\BCapital:\b Nuku'alofa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b three island groups; Ha'apai, Tongatapu, Vava'u
\BIndependence:\b 4 June 1970 (emancipation from UK protectorate)
\BNational holiday:\b Emancipation Day, 4 June (1970)
\BConstitution:\b 4 November 1875, revised 1 January 1967
\BLegal system:\b based on English law
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King Taufa'ahau TUPOU IV (since 16 December 1965) is a constitutional monarch
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Baron VAEA (since 22 August 1991) and Deputy Prime Minister S. Langi KAVALIKU (since 22 August 1991) were appointed for life by the king
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the king
Privy Council: consists of the king and the Cabinet
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Fale Alea): elections last held 3-4 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (30 total, 12 reserved for cabinet ministers sitting ex officio, nine for nobles selected by the country's 33 nobles, and nine for elected people's representatives) 6 proreform, 3 traditionalist
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JTonga\j People's Party, Viliami FUKOFUKA
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JTonga\j does not have an embassy in the US; Ambassador Sione KITE, resides in London
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i San Francisco
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JTonga\j; the ambassador to \JFiji\j is accredited to \JTonga\j
\BFlag:\b red with a bold red cross on a white rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy's base is agriculture, which contributes 40% to GDP. Squash, coconuts, bananas, and vanilla beans are the main crops, and agricultural exports make up two-thirds of total exports. The country must import a high proportion of its food, mainly from New Zealand. The manufacturing sector accounts for only 11% of GDP. Tourism is the primary source of hard currency earnings, but the country also remains dependent on sizable external aid and remittances to offset its trade deficit. The economy continued to grow in 1993-95 largely because of a rise in squash exports, increased aid flows, and several large construction projects. The government is now turning its attention to further development of the private sector and the reduction of the budget deficit.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $228 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,160 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 40% (1995 est.)
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 3% (1993)
\BLabor force:\b 32,013 (1990 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 70% (1995 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $44 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $86 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from agricultural chemicals, industrial wastes, and raw sewage; oil \Jpollution\j of beaches; deforestation; soil erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i outside usual path of hurricanes and other tropical storms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 33,791; female 41,210) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.08% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 16.25 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -8.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.82 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 18.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 70.3 years
\Imale:\i 67.91 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.77 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.99 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Trinidadian(s), Tobagonian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Trinidadian, Tobagonian
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 43%, East Indian (a local term - primarily immigrants from northern India) 40%, mixed 14%, white 1%, Chinese 1%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 32.2%, Hindu 24.3%, Anglican 14.4%, other Protestant 14%, Muslim 6%, none or unknown 9.1%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), \JHindi\j, French, Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97.9%
\Imale:\i 98.8%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
\Iconventional short form:\i Trinidad and Tobago
\BData code:\b TD
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b Port-of-Spain
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 counties, 3 municipalities*, and 1 ward**; Arima*, Caroni, Mayaro, Nariva, Port-of-Spain*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint Patrick, San Fernando*, Tobago**, Victoria
\BIndependence:\b 31 August 1962 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 31 August (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 1 August 1976
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Noor Mohammed HASSANALI (since 18 March 1987) was elected by an electoral college of members of the Senate and House of Representatives
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Basdeo PANDAY (since 9 November 1995) was appointed from among the members of Parliament
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed from among the members of Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
Senate: consists of a 31-member body appointed by the president
House of Representatives: elections last held 6 November 1995 (next to be held by December 2001); results - PNM 52%, UNC 42.2%, NAR 5.2%; seats - (36 total) PNM 17, UNC 17, NAR 2; the UNC formed a coalition with the NAR
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister; Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's National Movement (PNM), Patrick MANNING; United National Congress (UNC), Basdeo PANDAY; National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR), A. N. R. ROBINSON; Movement for Social Transformation (MOTION), David ABDULLAH; National Joint Action Committee (NJAC), Makandal DAAGA; Republican Party, Nello MITCHELL; National Development Party (NDP), Carson CHARLES; Movement for Unity and Progress (MUP), Hulsie BHAGGAN
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Corinne Averille McKNIGHT
\Ichancery:\i 1708 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 467-6490
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 785-3130
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Brian J. DONNELLY
\Iembassy:\i 15 Queen's Park West, Port-of-Spain
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 752, Port-of-Spain
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 622-6372 through 6376, 6176
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 628-5462
\BFlag:\b red with a white-edged black diagonal band from the upper hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Trinidad and Tobago's oil- and petrochemical-dependent economy enjoys a high per capita income, although living standards have declined since the boom years of 1973-82. The country managed to record a second successive year of economic growth in 1995, the first period of substantial expansion since the early 1980s. A broad economic reform program, including the floating of the exchange rate, trade and capital market liberalization, and an extensive privatization program by the previous administration has left the incoming PANDAY government in a relatively sound economic position. Trinidad and Tobago's economic prospects continue to depend heavily on world \Jpetroleum\j prices, however, and further progress toward diversification will be an important challenge in the medium term.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $16.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $12,100 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 4.8%
\Iindustry:\i 44.5%
\Iservices:\i 50.7% (1995 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 5.4% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 404,500
\Iby occupation:\i construction and utilities 13%, manufacturing, mining, and quarrying 14%, agriculture 11%, services 62% (1993 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 17.8% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.65 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.61 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\Ipartners:\i US 48%, Caricom countries15%, Latin America 9%, EU 5% (1994)
\BImports:\b $996 million (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, food, live animals
\Ipartners:\i US 47.7%, Venezuela 10%, UK 8.3%, other EU 8% (1994)
\BExternal debt:\b $2 billion (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $10 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TT$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Trinidad and Tobago dollars (TT$) per US$1 - 5.9412 (January 1996), 5.9192 (1995), 5.9249 (1994), 5.3511 (1993), 4.2500 (fixed rate 1989-1992); note - effective 13 April 1993, the exchange rate of the TT$ is market-determined as opposed to the prior fixed relationship to the US dollar
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Bnote:\b minimal agricultural railroad system near San Fernando; railway service was discontinued in 1968
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 8,352 km
\Ipaved:\i 3,978 km
\Iunpaved:\i 4,374 km (1987 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,032 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 19 km; natural gas 904 km
\BPorts:\b Pointe-a-Pierre, Point Fortin, Point Lisas, Port-of-Spain, Scarborough, Tembladora
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 170,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b excellent international service; good local service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to \JBarbados\j and \JGuyana\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 700,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 5 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 400,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Trinidad and Tobago
\BDefense:\b Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard, and Air Wing), Trinidad and Tobago Police Service
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 351,835
\Imales fit for military service:\i 252,532 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $83 million, NA% of GDP (1994)
#
"Tromelin Island (Atlas)",240,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (possession of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 52 S, 54 25 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 1 sq km
\Iland area:\i 1 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 1.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 3.7 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 12 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by Madagascar, \JMauritius\j, and \JSeychelles\j
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b sandy
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 7 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (scattered bushes)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b climatologically important location for forecasting cyclones; wildlife sanctuary
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Tromelin Island
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile Tromelin
\BData code:\b TE
\BType of government:\b French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
\BCapital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of France)
\BFlag:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation:\b
\BPorts:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\ICommunications note:\i important meteorological station
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"Tunisia (Atlas)",241,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between \JAlgeria\j and \JLibya\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 34 00 N, 9 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 163,610 sq km
\Iland area:\i 155,360 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Georgia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,424 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 965 km, \JLibya\j 459 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,148 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary dispute with \JLibya\j; land boundary dispute with \JAlgeria\j settled in 1993; Malta and \JTunisia\j are discussing the commercial exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration
\BClimate:\b temperate in north with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers; desert in south
\BTerrain:\b mountains in north; hot, dry central plain; semiarid south merges into the Sahara
\Ilowest point:\i Shatt al Gharsah -17 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal ash Shanabi 1,544 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jphosphates\j, iron ore, lead, zinc, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 20%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 10%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 19%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 47%
\BIrrigated land:\b 2,750 sq km (1989)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i toxic and hazardous waste disposal is ineffective and presents human health risks; water \Jpollution\j from raw sewage; limited natural fresh water resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location in central Mediterranean
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 20 March (1956)
\BConstitution:\b 1 June 1959; amended 12 July 1988
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and Islamic law; some judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court in joint session
\BSuffrage:\b 20 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Zine El Abidine BEN ALI (since 7 November 1987) was reelected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President Zine El Abidine BEN ALI was reelected without opposition
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Hamed KAROUI (since 26 September 1989) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Chamber of Deputies (Majlis al-Nuwaab): elections last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - RCD 97.7%, MDS 1.0%, others 1.3%; seats - (163 total) RCD 144, MDS 10, others 9; note - the government changed the electoral code to guarantee that the opposition won seats
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Cassation (Cour de Cassation)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Constitutional Democratic Rally Party (RCD), President BEN ALI (official ruling party); Movement of Democratic Socialists (MDS), Mohammed MOUAADA; five other political parties are legal, including the Communist Party
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b the Islamic fundamentalist party, An Nahda (Rebirth), is outlawed
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mohamed Azzouz ENNAIFER
\Ichancery:\i 1515 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 862-1850
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mary Ann CASEY
\Iembassy:\i 144 Avenue de la Liberte, 1002 Tunis-Belvedere
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [216] (1) 782-566
\IFAX:\i [216] (1) 789-719
\BFlag:\b red with a white disk in the center bearing a red crescent nearly encircling a red five-pointed star; the crescent and star are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JTunisia\j has a diverse economy, with important agricultural, mining, energy, tourism, and manufacturing sectors. Detailed governmental control of economic affairs has gradually lessened over the past decade, including increasing privatization of trade and commerce, simplification of the tax structure, and a cautious approach to debt. Real growth has averaged 4.2% in 1991-95, and \Jinflation\j has been moderate. Growth in tourism and IMF support have been key elements in this solid record. \JDrought\j, especially in the south, held back GDP growth in 1995. Further privatization and further improvements in government administrative efficiency are among the challenges for the future.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $37.1 billion (1994 est.)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 233,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b the system is above the African average; key centers are \JSfax\j, \JSousse\j, Bizerte, and \JTunis\j
\Idomestic:\i trunk facilities consist of open-wire lines, coaxial cable, and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i 5 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Arabsat with back-up control station; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to \JAlgeria\j and \JLibya\j; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 7, FM 8, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 1,693,527 (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 19
\BTelevisions:\b 670,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces, National Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,354,513
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,349,728
males reach military age (20) annually: 91,866 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $535 million, 2.8% of GDP (1995)
#
"Turkey (Atlas)",242,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia (that part west of the Bosporus is sometimes included with Europe), bordering the Black Sea, between \JBulgaria\j and Georgia, and bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, between \JGreece\j and \JSyria\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 39 00 N, 35 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 780,580 sq km
\Iland area:\i 770,760 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,627 km
\Iborder countries:\i Armenia 268 km, \JAzerbaijan\j 9 km, \JBulgaria\j 240 km, Georgia 252 km, \JGreece\j 206 km, \JIran\j 499 km, \JIraq\j 331 km, \JSyria\j 822 km
\BCoastline:\b 7,200 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: in Black Sea only - to the maritime boundary agreed upon with the former USSR
territorial sea: 6 nm in the Aegean Sea,; 12 nm in the Black Sea and in the Mediterranean Sea
\BInternational disputes:\b complex maritime, air and territorial disputes with \JGreece\j in Aegean Sea; Cyprus question; Hatay question with \JSyria\j; dispute with downstream riparians (Syria and Iraq) over water development plans for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers
\BClimate:\b temperate; hot, dry summers with mild, wet winters; harsher in interior
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains; narrow coastal plain; high central plateau (Anatolia)
\Icurrent issues:\i water \Jpollution\j from dumping of chemicals and detergents; air \Jpollution\j, particularly in urban areas; deforestation
\Inatural hazards:\i very severe earthquakes, especially in northern Turkey, along an arc extending from the Sea of \JMarmara\j to Lake Van
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location controlling the Turkish Straits (Bosporus, Sea of \JMarmara\j, Dardanelles) that link Black and Aegean Seas
\Bnote:\b Karabuk, Kilis, and Yalova are three new Turkish provinces mentioned in the 24 December 1995 election results
\BIndependence:\b 29 October 1923 (successor state to the Ottoman Empire)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Declaration of the Republic, 29 October (1923)
\BConstitution:\b 7 November 1982
\BLegal system:\b derived from various continental legal systems; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Suleyman DEMIREL (since 16 May 1993) was elected for a seven-year term by the National Assembly
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Mesut YILMAZ (since 12 March 1996) and Deputy Prime Minister Nahit MENTESE (since 12 March 1996) were appointed by the president
National Security Council: advisory body to the president and the cabinet
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on nomination of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Grand National Assembly of Turkey: (Turkiye Buyuk \JMillet\j Meclisi) elections last held 24 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - RP 21.38%, DYP 19.18%, ANAP 19.65%, DSP 14.64%, CHP 10.71%, independent 0.48%; seats - 550 total) RP 158, DYP 135, ANAP 133, DSP 75, CHP 49
\Bnote:\b seats held by various parties are subject to change due to defections, creation of new parties, and ouster or death of sitting deputies; current seats by party are as follows: RP 158, DYP 135, ANAP 126, DSP 75, CHP 49, BBP 7
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court, judges appointed by the president; Court of Appeals, judges are elected by the Supreme Council of Judges and Prosecutors
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b True Path Party (DYP), Tansu CILLER; Motherland Party (ANAP), Mesut YILMAZ; Welfare Party (RP), Necmettin ERBAKAN; Democratic Left Party (DSP), Bulent ECEVIT; Nationalist Action Party (MHP), Alparslan TURKES; New Party (YP), Yusuf Bozkurt OZAL; Republican People's Party (CHP), Deniz BAYKAL; Workers' Party (IP), Dogu PERINCEK; Nation Party (MP), Aykut EDIBALI; Democrat Party (DP), Murat UZMAN; Grand Unity Party (BBP), Muhsin YAZICIOGLU; Rebirth Party (YDP), Hasan Celal GUZEL; People's Democracy Party (HADEP), Murat BOZLAK; Main Path Party (ANAYOL), Gurcan BASER; Democratic Target Party (DHP), Abdulkadir Yasar TURK; Liberal Party (LP), Besim TIBUK; New Democracy Movement (YDH), Cem BOYNER; Labor Party (EP), Abdullah Levent TUZER; Democracy and Peace Party (DBP), Refik KARAKOC; Freedom and Solidarity Praty (ODP), Ufuk URAS
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Turkish Confederation of Labor (Turk-Is), Bayram MERAL; Confederation of Revolutionary Workers Unions (DISK), Ridvan BUDAK; Moral Rights Workers Union (Hak-Is), Salim USLU; Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (TUSIAD), Halis KOMILI; Turkish Union of Chambers of Commerce and Commodity Exchanges (TOBB), Ali Osman ULUSOY; Turkish Confederation of Employers' Unions (TISK), Refik BAYDUR; Independent Industrialists and Businessmen's Association (MUSIAD), Erol YARAR
\Ichancery:\i 1714 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 659-8200
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Marc GROSSMAN
\Iembassy:\i 110 Ataturk Boulevard, \JAnkara\j
\Imailing address:\i PSC 93, Box 5000, APO AE 09823
\Itelephone:\i [90] (312) 468-6110
\IFAX:\i [90] (312) 467-0019
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JIstanbul\j
\Iconsulate(s):\i Adana
\BFlag:\b red with a vertical white crescent (the closed portion is toward the hoist side) and white five-pointed star centered just outside the crescent opening
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Turkish economy consists of a mixture, on the one hand, of modern industry and commerce, and, on the other hand, of time-honored village agriculture and crafts. Since World War II, it has become increasingly integrated into the West European economic arena, for example, as a member of OECD. The economy has improved significantly since the 1994 crisis, when the economy experienced a sharp drop and \Jinflation\j hit triple digits. The crisis - sparked by the downgrading in January 1994 of Turkey's international credit rating by two US rating agencies - stemmed from years of loose monetary and fiscal policies that had exacerbated \Jinflation\j and allowed the public debt, money supply, and current account deficit to explode. In April 1994, then Prime Minister CILLER introduced a stabilization package that paved the way for a $950 million IMF standby loan. However, because the government missed key macroeconomic targets in 1995 and the December national election produced months of political wrangling, the IMF put the agreement - and release of remaining funds - on hold. The new center-right minority government that finally has emerged will find it difficult to balance the need for new austerity measures and tough structural reforms with the pressure for continued buoyant growth. \JAnkara\j is also likely to face internal opposition to policies it must implement as part of the Turkey-EU customs union agreement - which came into force on 1 January 1996 - because many industries are unfit for EU competition and much-needed revenues will decline with the elimination of import tariffs and surcharges. Meanwhile, \JAnkara\j's heavy debt repayment schedule in 1996 makes it necessary for Turkish leaders to bolster the confidence of both domestic and foreign investors.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $345.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 6.8% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $5,500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 15.5%
\Iindustry:\i 33.2%
\Iservices:\i 51.3% (1994)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 94% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 20.9 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 46%, services 31%, industry 23%
\Bnote:\b about 1.5 million Turks work abroad (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 10.2% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $30.2 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $35 billion, including capital expenditures of $2.8 billion (1995)
\BIllicit drugs:\b major transit route for Southwest Asian heroin and hashish to Western Europe and the US via air, land, and sea routes; major Turkish, Iranian, and other international trafficking organizations operate out of \JIstanbul\j; laboratories to convert imported \Jmorphine\j base into heroin are in remote regions of Turkey as well as near \JIstanbul\j; government maintains strict controls over areas of legal opium poppy cultivation and output of poppy straw concentrate
\BExports:\b $20.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i textiles and apparel 37%, steel products 12%, fruits and vegetables 11% (1994)
\Ipartners:\i \JGermany\j 22%, \JRussia\j 8%, US 8%, \JItaly\j 6% (1994)
\Bnote:\b Turkey owns an additional 18 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 247,369 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, Panama, \JLibya\j, and \JGreece\j (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 104
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 17
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 19
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 12
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 18
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 28
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 8 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 6.89 million (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair domestic and international systems
\Idomestic:\i trunk microwave radio relay network; limited open-wire network
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 15, FM 94, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 9.4 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 357
\BTelevisions:\b 10.53 million (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Land Forces, Navy (includes Naval Air and Naval Infantry), Air Force, Coast Guard, Gendarmerie
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 16,937,828
\Imales fit for military service:\i 10,312,010
males reach military age (20) annually: 637,456 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $6.0 billion, 4% of GDP (1995); note - figures do not include about $7 billion for the government's counterinsurgency effort against the separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK)
#
"Turkmenistan (Atlas)",243,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between \JIran\j and Kazakstan
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 00 N, 60 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 488,100 sq km
\Iland area:\i 488,100 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,736 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 744 km, \JIran\j 992 km, Kazakstan 379 km, Uzbekistan 1,621 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km
\Bnote:\b Turkmenistan borders the Caspian Sea (1,768 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
\BClimate:\b subtropical desert
\BTerrain:\b flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes rising to mountains in the south; low mountains along border with \JIran\j; borders Caspian Sea in west
\Ilowest point:\i Sarygamysh Koli -110 m
\Ihighest point:\i Ayrybaba 3,139 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas, coal, sulfur, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 69%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 29%
\BIrrigated land:\b 12,450 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i contamination of soil and \Jgroundwater\j with agricultural chemicals, pesticides; salinization, water-logging of soil due to poor irrigation methods; Caspian Sea \Jpollution\j; diversion of a large share of the flow of the Amu Darya into irrigation contributes to that river's inability to replenish the Aral Sea; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 65,447; female 110,226) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.82% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 29.12 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.89 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.08 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.59 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 81.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 61.48 years
\Imale:\i 56.68 years
\Ifemale:\i 66.52 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.62 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Turkmen(s)
\Iadjective:\i Turkmen
\BEthnic divisions:\b Turkmen 73.3%, Russian 9.8%, Uzbek 9%, Kazak 2%, other 5.9%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 87%, Eastern Orthodox 11%, unknown 2%
\BLanguages:\b Turkmen 72%, Russian 12%, Uzbek 9%, other 7%
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Turkmenistan
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Turkmenistan
\Iformer:\i Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b TX
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Ashgabat
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 5 welayatlar (singular - welayat): Ahal Welayaty (Ashgabat), Balkan Welayaty (Nebitdag), Dashhowuz Welayaty (formerly Tashauz), Lebap Welayaty (Charjew), Mary Welayaty
\Bnote:\b names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from welayat name
\BIndependence:\b 27 October 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 October (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 18 May 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Saparmurat NIYAZOV (since 27 October 1990, when the first direct presidential election occured) was elected to a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 21 June 1992 (next to be held NA 2002); results - Saparmurad NIYAZOV 99.5% (ran unopposed); note - a 15 January 1994 referendum extended NIYAZOV's term an additional five years until 2002 (99.99% approval)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister (vacant); Deputy Prime Ministers Mukhamed ABALAKOV (since NA), Babamurad BAZAROV (since NA), Hekim ISHANOV (since NA), Valeriy OTCHERTSOV (since NA), Yagmur OVEZOV (since NA), Matkarim RAJAPOV (since NA), Pirkuly ODEYEV (since NA), Rejep SAPAROV (since NA), Boris SHIKHMURADOV (since NA), Batyr SARJAYEV (since NA), Amannazar ILAMANOV (since NA), Ilaman SHYKHYYEV (since NA) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\Bnote:\b NIYAZOV has been asked by various local groups, most recently on 26 October 1995 at the annual elders meeting, to be "president for life," but that would require an amendment to the constitution
\BLegislative branch:\b under the 1992 constitution, there are two parliamentary bodies, a unicameral People's Council (Halk Maslahaty - having more than 100 members and meeting infrequently) and a 50-member unicameral Assembly (Majlis)
Assembly (Majlis): elections last held 11 December 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (50 total) Democratic Party 45, other 5; note - all 50 preapproved by President NIYAZOV
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat NIYAZOV; Party for Democratic Development, Durdymurat HOJA-MUHAMEDOV, chairman; Agzybirlik, Nurberdy NURMAMEDOV, cochairman, Hubayberdi HALLIYEV, cochairman
\Bnote:\b formal opposition parties are outlawed; unofficial, small opposition movements exist underground or in foreign countries
\Ichancery:\i 1511 K Street NW, Suite 412, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 737-4800
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 737-1152
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Michael W. COTTER
\Iembassy:\i 9 Pushkin Street, Ashgabat
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [7] (3632) 35-00-45, 35-00-46, 35-00-42, Tie Line [8] 962-0000
\IFAX:\i [7] (3632) 51-13-05
\BFlag:\b green field, including a vertical stripe on the hoist side, with a claret vertical stripe in between containing five white, black, and orange carpet guls (an asymmetrical design used in producing rugs) associated with five different tribes; a white crescent and five white stars in the upper left corner to the right of the carpet guls
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Turkmenistan is largely desert country with nomadic \Jcattle\j raising, intensive agriculture in irrigated oases, and huge gas and oil resources. One-half of its irrigated land is planted in cotton making it the world's tenth largest producer. It also has the world's fifth largest reserves of natural gas and substantial oil resources. Until the end of 1993, Turkmenistan had experienced less economic disruption than other former Soviet states because its economy received a boost from higher prices for oil and gas and a sharp increase in hard currency earnings. In 1994, \JRussia\j's refusal to export Turkmen gas to hard currency markets and mounting debts of its major customers in the former USSR for gas deliveries contributed to a sharp fall in industrial production and caused the budget to shift from a surplus to a slight deficit. The economy remained depressed through 1995 while \Jinflation\j soared. Furthermore, with an authoritarian ex-communist regime in power and a tribally based social structure, Turkmenistan has taken a cautious approach to economic reform, hoping to use gas and cotton sales to sustain its inefficient economy. For 1996, Turkmenistan will face continuing constraints on its earnings because of its customers' inability to pay for their gas and a below average cotton crop in 1995. Turkmenistan is working hard to open new gas export channels through \JIran\j and Turkey, but these will take many years to realize.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $11.5 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -10% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,820 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 32.5%
\Iindustry:\i 33.4%
\Iservices:\i 34.1% (1991 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 25% monthly average (1994 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 1.642 million (January 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 44%, industry and construction 20%, other 36% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs from Southwest Asia to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $1.9 billion to states outside the FSU (1995)
\BExternal debt:\b $400 million (of which $275 million to Russia) (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $10 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b commitments, $1,830 million ($375 million drawn), 1992-95
\BCurrency:\b Turkmenistan introduced its national currency, the manat, on 1 November 1993
\BExchange rates:\b manats per US$1 - 2,400 (January 1996)
\Bnote:\b government established a unified rate in mid-January 1996
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,120 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 2,120 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 23,000 km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b the Amu Darya is an important inland waterway
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 250 km; natural gas 4,400 km
\BPorts:\b Turkmenbashi (formerly Krasnowodsk)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 64
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 13
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 8
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 7
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 35 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b poorly developed
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i linked by cable and microwave radio relay to other \JCIS\j republics and to other countries by leased connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; a new \Jtelephone\j link from Ashgabat to \JIran\j has been established; a new exchange in Ashgabat switches international traffic through Turkey via Intelsat; satellite earth stations - 1 Orbita and 1 Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is at least one state-owned radio broadcast station of NA type
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air and Air Defense, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,024,398
\Imales fit for military service:\i 834,803
males reach military age (18) annually: 41,697 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 4.5 billion manats, 3.0% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Turks and Caicos Islands (Atlas)",244,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (dependent territory of the UK)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, two island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of The \JBahamas\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 45 N, 71 35 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 430 sq km
\Iland area:\i 430 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 389 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; marine; moderated by trade winds; sunny and relatively dry
\BTerrain:\b low, flat \Jlimestone\j; extensive marshes and mangrove swamps
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 98%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Turks and Caicos Islands
\BData code:\b TK
\BType of government:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BCapital:\b Grand Turk
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day, 30 August (1976)
\BConstitution:\b introduced 30 August 1976, suspended in 1986, restored and revised 5 March 1988
\BLegal system:\b based on laws of England and Wales with a small number adopted from \JJamaica\j and The \JBahamas\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1953) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor Martin BOURKE (since NA February 1993) who was appointed by the queen
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Derek H. TAYLOR (since 31 January 1995) was appointed by the governor
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council consists of three ex officio members and five appointed by the governor from the Legislative Council
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Council: elections last held 31 January 1995 (next to be held by NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (20 total, 13 elected) PDM 8, PNP 4, independent (Norman SAUNDERS) 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Progressive National Party (PNP), Washington MISSICK; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Derek H. TAYLOR; United Democratic Party (UDP), Wendal SWANN
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the colonial shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield is yellow and contains a \Jconch\j shell, lobster, and \Jcactus\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The Turks and Caicos economy is based on tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. Most food for domestic consumption is imported; there is some subsistence farming - mainly corn, \Jcassava\j, \Jcitrus\j, and beans - on the Caicos Islands. The tourism sector expanded in 1995, posting a 10% increase in the first quarter as compared to the same period in 1994. The US was the leading source of tourists in 1995, accounting for upward of 70% of arrivals or about 60,000 visitors. Major sources of government revenue include fees from offshore financial activities and customs receipts as the Islands rely on imports for nearly all consumption and capital goods.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $80.8 million (1992 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -1.5% (1992 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $6,000 (1992 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 4,848 (1990 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i majority engaged in fishing and tourist industries; some subsistence agriculture
\BUnemployment rate:\b 12% (1992)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $31.9 million (1995)
\Iexpenditures:\i $30.4 million (1995), including capital expenditures of $NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 7,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b \Jtelevision\j programs are available from a cable network, and broadcasts from the \JBahamas\j can be received in the islands
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the UK
#
"Tuvalu (Atlas)",245,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island group consisting of nine \Jcoral\j atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 S, 178 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 26 sq km
\Iland area:\i 26 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 24 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by easterly trade winds (March to November); westerly gales and heavy rain (November to March)
\BTerrain:\b very low-lying and narrow \Jcoral\j atolls
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 5 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\Bnote:\b \JTuvalu\j's nine \Jcoral\j atolls have enough soil to grow coconuts and support subsistence agriculture
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i since there are no streams or rivers and \Jgroundwater\j is not potable, all water needs must be met by catchment systems with storage facilities; beachhead erosion because of the use of sand for building materials; excessive clearance of forest undergrowth for use as fuel; damage to \Jcoral\j reefs from the spread of the crown of thorns \Jstarfish\j
\Inatural hazards:\i severe tropical storms are rare
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Law of the Sea
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 10,146 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 36% (male 1,865; female 1,798)
\I15-64 years:\i 59% (male 2,831; female 3,162)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 227; female 263) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.51% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.95 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.87 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.9 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.86 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 27.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 63.34 years
\Imale:\i 62.15 years
\Ifemale:\i 64.59 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.11 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Tuvaluan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Tuvaluan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Polynesian 96%
\BReligions:\b Church of \JTuvalu\j (Congregationalist) 97%, Seventh-Day Adventist 1.4%, Baha'i 1%, other 0.6%
\BLanguages:\b Tuvaluan, English
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JTuvalu\j
\Iformer:\i Ellice Islands
\BData code:\b TV
\BType of government:\b democracy; began debating republic status in 1992
\BCapital:\b \JFunafuti\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none
\BIndependence:\b 1 October 1978 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 October (1978)
\BConstitution:\b 1 October 1978
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Manuella TULAGA (since NA June 1994) who was appointed by the queen on recommendation of the prime minister
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Kamuta LATASI (since 10 December 1993) and Deputy Prime Minister Otinielu TAUSI (since 10 December 1993) were elected by and from the members of Parliament
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on recommendation of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament (Fale I Fono): members elected for four-year terms; elections last held 25 November 1993 (next to be held by NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (12 total) independents 12
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BInternational organization participation:\b ACP, AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Sparteca, SPC, SPF, \JUNESCO\j, UPU, WHO
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b \JTuvalu\j does not have an embassy in the US
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in \JTuvalu\j
\BFlag:\b light blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant; the outer half of the flag represents a map of the country with nine yellow five-pointed stars symbolizing the nine islands
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JTuvalu\j consists of a scattered group of nine \Jcoral\j atolls with poor soil. The country has no known mineral resources and few exports. Subsistence farming and fishing are the primary economic activities. The islands are too small and too remote for development of a tourist industry. Government revenues largely come from the sale of stamps and coins and worker remittances. Substantial income is received annually from an international trust fund established in 1987 by \JAustralia\j, NZ, and the UK and supported also by \JJapan\j and South Korea. In an effort to reduce its dependence on foreign aid, the government is pursuing public sector reforms, including privatization of some government functions and personnel cuts of up to 7%.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.8 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $800 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 2.9% (1989)
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $4.3 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $4.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989 est.)
\BIndustries:\b fishing, tourism, copra
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 2,600 kW
\Iproduction:\i 3 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 330 kWh (1990)
\BAgriculture:\b coconuts; fish
\BExports:\b $165,000 (f.o.b., 1989)
\Icommodities:\i copra
\Ipartners:\i \JFiji\j, \JAustralia\j, NZ
\BImports:\b $4.4 million (c.i.f., 1989)
\Icommodities:\i food, animals, mineral fuels, machinery, manufactured goods
\Ipartners:\i \JFiji\j, \JAustralia\j, NZ
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Tuvaluan dollar ($T) or 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Tuvaluan dollars ($T) or Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996), 1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991)
ships by type: cargo 6, chemical tanker 4, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 130 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i radiotelephone communications between islands
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 4,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular military forces; Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Uganda (Atlas)",246,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, west of \JKenya\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 N, 32 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 236,040 sq km
\Iland area:\i 199,710 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Oregon
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,698 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JKenya\j 933 km, \JRwanda\j 169 km, \JSudan\j 435 km, \JTanzania\j 396 km, Zaire 765 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; generally rainy with two dry seasons (December to February, June to August); semiarid in northeast
\BTerrain:\b mostly plateau with rim of mountains
\Ilowest point:\i Lake Albert 621 m
\Ihighest point:\i Margherita (Mount Stanley) 5,110 m
\BNatural resources:\b copper, \Jcobalt\j, \Jlimestone\j, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 23%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 9%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 25%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 30%
\Iother:\i 13%
\BIrrigated land:\b 90 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i draining of wetlands for agricultural use; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching is widespread
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 231,156; female 230,195) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.24% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 45.92 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 20.72 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.8 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b \JUganda\j is host to refugees from a number of neighboring countries, including Zaire, \JSudan\j, and \JRwanda\j; probably in excess of 100,000 southern Sudanese fled to \JUganda\j during the past year; many of the 8,000 Rwandans who took refuge in \JUganda\j have returned home
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 99.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 40.29 years
\Imale:\i 39.98 years
\Ifemale:\i 40.6 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.61 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 9 October (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 8 October 1995; adopted by the interim, 284-member Constituent Assembly, charged with debating the draft constitution that had been proposed in May 1993; the Constituent Assembly was dissolved on promulgation of the constitution in October 1995
\BLegal system:\b in 1995, the government restored the legal system to one based on English common law and customary law and reinstituted a normal judicial system; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Lt. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta MUSEVENI (since seizing power 29 January 1986); election last held 9 May 1996 (next to be held NA); results - Yoweri Kaguta MUSEVENI 74%, Paul K. SSEMOGERERE 24%, Muhammad MAYANJA 2%; note - this was the first popular direct presidential election since independence in 1962
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Kintu MUSOKE (since 18 November 1994);
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet, appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held in 1980; note - the National Assembly was dissolved in July 1985 following a military coup and was succeeded on 1 February 1986 by the interim National Resistance Council, initially consisting of 23 appointed members, but by early-1989 enlarged to 278 members, of whom 210 were indirectly elected; the National Resistance Council, which had served as \JUganda\j's acting legislature for more than 10 years, was dissolved on 15 June 1996 to prepare for the popular election of a new legislature on 27 June 1996 in keeping with the provisions of the new constitution
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal; High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b only officially recognized party - National Resistance Movement (NRM), Yoweri MUSEVENI
\Bnote:\b Ugandan People's Congress (UPC), Milton OBOTE; Democratic Party (DP), Paul SSEMOGEERE; and Conservative Party (CP), Joshua S. MAYANJA-NKANGI continue to exist but the new constitution confirms the suspension of political party activity until 2001
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Lord's Resistance Army (LRA); West Nile Bank Front (WNBF)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Stephen Kapimpina KATENTA-APULI
\Ichancery:\i 5911 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 726-7100 through 7102, 0416
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 726-1727
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador E. Michael SOUTHWICK
\Iembassy:\i Parliament Avenue, \JKampala\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 7007, \JKampala\j
\Itelephone:\i [256] (41) 259792, 259793, 259795
\IFAX:\i [256] (41) 259794
\BFlag:\b six equal horizontal bands of black (top), yellow, red, black, yellow, and red; a white disk is superimposed at the center and depicts a red-crested crane (the national symbol) facing the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b \JUganda\j has substantial natural resources, including fertile soils, regular rainfall, and sizable mineral deposits of copper and \Jcobalt\j. Agriculture is the most important sector of the economy, employing over 80% of the work force. \JCoffee\j is the major export crop and accounts for the bulk of export revenues. Since 1986 the government - with the support of foreign countries and international agencies - has acted to rehabilitate and stabilize the economy by undertaking currency reform, raising producer prices on export crops, increasing prices of \Jpetroleum\j products, and improving civil service wages. The policy changes are especially aimed at dampening \Jinflation\j and boosting production and export earnings. In 1990-94, the economy turned in a solid performance based on continued investment in the rehabilitation of \Jinfrastructure\j, improved incentives for production and exports, and gradually improving domestic security. The economy again prospered in 1995 with rapid growth, low \Jinflation\j, growing foreign investment, a trimmed bureaucracy, and the continued return of exiled Indian-Ugandan entrepreneurs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $16.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 7.1% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $900 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 55%
\Iindustry:\i 12%
\Iservices:\i 33% (1995)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 6.1% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 8.361 million (1993 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 86%, industry 4%, services 10% (1980 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $574 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.07 billion, including capital expenditures of $328 million (1994/95 est.)
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between \JPoland\j and \JRussia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 49 00 N, 32 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 603,700 sq km
\Iland area:\i 603,700 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,558 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBelarus\j 891 km, \JHungary\j 103 km, Moldova 939 km, \JPoland\j 428 km, \JRomania\j (southwest) 169 km, \JRomania\j (west) 362 km, \JRussia\j 1,576 km, \JSlovakia\j 90 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,782 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: 200-m or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: undefined
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b certain territory of Moldova and \JUkraine\j - including Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina - are considered by \JBucharest\j as historically a part of \JRomania\j; this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940; dispute with \JRomania\j over continental shelf of the Black Sea under which signifcant gas and oil deposits may exist; potential dispute with \JRussia\j over \JCrimea\j; has made no territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (but has reserved the right to do so) and does not recognize the claims of any other nation
\BClimate:\b temperate continental; Mediterranean only on the southern Crimean coast; precipitation disproportionately distributed, highest in west and north, lesser in east and southeast; winters vary from cool along the Black Sea to cold farther inland; summers are warm across the greater part of the country, hot in the south
\BTerrain:\b most of \JUkraine\j consists of fertile plains (steppes) and plateaux, mountains being found only in the west (the Carpathians), and in the Crimean Peninsula in the extreme south
\Icurrent issues:\i inadequate supplies of potable water; air and water \Jpollution\j; deforestation; radiation contamination in the northeast from 1986 accident at Chornobyl' Nuclear Power Plant
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic position at the crossroads between Europe and Asia; second-largest country in Europe
\Bnote:\b names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblast' name
\BIndependence:\b 1 December 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 24 August (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 28 June 1996
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Leonid D. KUCHMA (since 19 July 1994) was elected for a five-year term by direct popular vote; election last held 26 June and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Leonid KUCHMA 52.15%, Leonid KRAVCHUK 45.06%
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Yevhen MARCHUK (since NA June 1995), First Deputy Prime Minister Pavlo LAZARENKO (since NA), and eight deputy prime ministers were appointed by the president and approved by the Supreme Council
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president and approved by the Supreme Council
National Security Council: originally created in 1992, but significantly revamped and strengthened under President KUCHMA; members include the president, prime minister, ministers of finance, environment, justice, internal affairs, foreign economic relations, economic and foreign affairs; the NSC staff is tasked with developing national security policy on domestic and international matters and advising the president
Presidential Administration: helps draft presidential edicts and provides policy support to the president
Council of Regions: advisory body created by President KUCHMA in September 1994; includes the chairmen of Oblast and \JKiev\j and Sevastopol City Supreme Councils
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Supreme Council: elections last held 27 March 1994 with repeat elections continuing through December 1998 to fill empty seats (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (450 total) Communists 91, Rukh 22, Agrarians 18, Socialists 15, Republicans 11, Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists 5, Labor 5, Party of Democratic Revival 4, Democrats 2, Social Democrats 2, Civil Congress 2, Conservative Republicans 1, Party of Economic Revival of \JCrimea\j 1, Christian Democrats 1, independents 225; note - most recent repeat election held in April 1996 filling 422 of 450 seats as follows: independents 238, Communist 95, Rukh 22, Agrarians 18, Socialist 15, Republicans 11, Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists 5, Labor 5, Party of Democratic Revival 4, Democratic Party of \JUkraine\j 2, Social Democrats 2, Civil Congress 2, Conservative Republicans 1, Party of Economic Rivival of \JCrimea\j 1, Christian Democrats 1, vacant 28
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court is the highest judicial body; Constitutional Court has exclusive \Jjurisdiction\j over interpretation of the constitution and laws
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Green Party of \JUkraine\j, Vitaliy KONONOV, leader; Liberal Party of \JUkraine\j, Volodymyr SHCHERBAN; Liberal Democratic Party of \JUkraine\j, Volodymyr KLYMCHUK, chairman; Democratic Party of \JUkraine\j, Volodymyr Oleksandrovych YAVORIVSKIY, chairman; People's Party of \JUkraine\j; Peasants' Party of \JUkraine\j; Party of Democratic Rebirth (Revival) of \JUkraine\j, Volodymyr FILENKO, chairman; Social Democratic Party of \JUkraine\j, Vasyl ONOPENKO, chairman; Socialist Party of \JUkraine\j, Oleksandr MOROZ, chairman; Ukrainian Christian Democratic Party, Vitaliy ZHURAVSKYY, chairman; Ukrainian Conservative Republican Party, Stepan KHMARA, chairman; Ukrainian Labor Party, Valentyn LANDYK, chairman; Ukrainian Party of Justice, Yuriy ZUBKO, chairman; Ukrainian Peasants' Democratic Party, Serhiy PLACHINDA, chairman; Ukrainian Republican Party, Bondan YAROSHPSKYY, chairman; Ukrainian National Conservative Party; Ukrainian People's Movement for Restructuring (Rukh), Vyacheslav CHORNOVIL, chairman; Ukrainian Communist Party, Petr SYMONENKO; Agrarian Party; Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists, Slava STESTKO; Civil Congress, O. BAZYLUK; Party of Economic Revival of \JCrimea\j; Progressive Socialist Party of \JUkraine\j, Nataliya VITRENKO and Volodymyr MARCHENKO, leaders; People's Democratic Party, Anatoliy MATVIYENKO, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b New \JUkraine\j (Nova Ukrayina); Congress of National Democratic Forces
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of azure (top) and golden yellow represent grainfields under a blue sky
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b After \JRussia\j, the Ukrainian republic was far and away the most important economic component of the former Soviet Union, producing about four times the output of the next-ranking republic. Its fertile black soil generated more than one-fourth of Soviet agricultural output, and its farms provided substantial quantities of meat, milk, grain, and vegetables to other republics. Likewise, its diversified heavy industry supplied equipment and raw materials to industrial and mining sites in other regions of the former USSR. In early 1992, the Ukrainian Government liberalized most prices and erected a legal framework for privatization, but widespread resistance to reform within the government and the legislature soon stalled reform efforts and led to some backtracking. Loose monetary policies pushed \Jinflation\j to hyperinflationary levels in late 1993. Since his election in July 1994, President KUCHMA has developed a comprehensive economic reform program, maintained financial discipline, and removed almost all controls over prices and foreign trade. Implementation of KUCHMA's economic agenda is encountering considerable resistance from parliament, entrenched bureaucrats, and industrial interests. However, should KUCHMA succeed in implementing aggressive market reforms during 1996, the economy may stabilize and possibly achieve real growth in the range of 0.5%-1%.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $174.6 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $3,370 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 31%
\Iindustry:\i 43%
\Iservices:\i 26% (1993 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 9% monthly average (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 23.55 million (January 1994)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 33%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 21%, health, education, and culture 16%, trade and distribution 7%, transport and communication 7%, other 16% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 0.7% officially registered; large number of unregistered or underemployed workers (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, food-processing (especially sugar)
Industrial production growth rate: -11% (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
\BExports:\b $11.3 billion (1995)
\Icommodities:\i coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, machinery and transport equipment, grain, meat
\Ipartners:\i other FSU countries, China, \JItaly\j, \JSwitzerland\j
\BImports:\b $10.7 billion (1995)
\Icommodities:\i energy, machinery and parts, transportation equipment, chemicals, textiles
\Ipartners:\i other FSU countries, \JGermany\j, \JPoland\j, Czech Republic
\BCurrency:\b on 2 September 1996, \JUkraine\j introduced the long-awaited hryvnia (plural hryvni) as its national currency, replacing the karbovanets (in circulation since 12 November 1992) at a rate of 100,000 karbovantsi to 1 hryvnia
\BExchange rates:\b hryvnia per US$1 - 1.76 (2 September 1996)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 23,350 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 23,350 km 1.524-m gauge (8,600 km electrified)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 169,964 km
\Ipaved:\i 168,094 km (including 1,767 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 1,870 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 4,400 km navigable waterways, of which 1,672 km were on the Pryp''yat' and Dnipro (1990)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 2,010 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 1,920 km; natural gas 7,800 km (1992)
\BTelephone system:\b system is unsatisfactory both for business and for personal use; 3.56 million applications for telephones had not been satisfied as of January 1991; electronic mail services have been established in \JKiev\j, Odessa, and Luhans'k by Sprint
\Idomestic:\i an NMT-450 analog cellular \Jtelephone\j network operates in \JKiev\j (Kyyiv) and allows direct dialing of international calls through \JKiev\j's digital exchange
\Iinternational:\i calls to other \JCIS\j countries are carried by landline or microwave radio relay; calls to 167 other countries are carried by satellite or by the 150 leased lines through the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - NA Intelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions), and NA Intersputnik
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there are at least two radio broadcast stations of NA type
\BRadios:\b 15 million (1990)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b at least 2
\BTelevisions:\b 17.3 million (1992)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air
\BDefense:\b Forces, Internal Troops, National Guard, Border Troops
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 12,388,788
\Imales fit for military service:\i 9,716,127
males reach military age (18) annually: 362,000 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 1.35 billion hryvni, less than 2% of GDP (Ukrainian Government's forecast for 1996); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"United Arab Emirates (Atlas)",248,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Oman and Saudi \JArabia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 24 00 N, 54 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 75,581 sq km
\Iland area:\i 75,581 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Maine
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 867 km
\Iborder countries:\i Oman 410 km, Saudi \JArabia\j 457 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,318 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b location and status of boundary with Saudi \JArabia\j is not final, defacto boundary reflects 1974 agreement; no defined boundary with most of Oman, but Administrative Line in far north; claims two islands in the Persian Gulf occupied by \JIran\j: Lesser Tunb (called Tunb as Sughra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek in Persian by Iran) and Greater Tunb (called Tunb al Kubra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg in Persian by Iran); claims island in the Persian Gulf jointly administered with \JIran\j (called Abu Musa in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Abu Musa in Persian by Iran); in 1992, the dispute over Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when \JIran\j unilaterally tried to control the entry of third country nationals into the UAE portion of Abu Musa island, Tehran subsequently backed off in the face of significant diplomatic support for the UAE in the region
\BClimate:\b desert; cooler in eastern mountains
\BTerrain:\b flat, barren coastal plain merging into rolling sand dunes of vast desert wasteland; mountains in east
\Ilowest point:\i Persian Gulf 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal Yibir 1,527 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 2%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 98%
\BIrrigated land:\b 50 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i lack of natural freshwater resources being overcome by \Jdesalination\j plants; \Jdesertification\j; beach \Jpollution\j from oil spills
\Inatural hazards:\i frequent sand and dust storms
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Law of the Sea
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location along southern approaches to Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write but definition of \Jliteracy\j not available (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 79.2%
\Imale:\i 78.9%
\Ifemale:\i 79.8%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i United Arab Emirates
\Iconventional short form:\i none
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Imarata al Arabiyah al Muttahidah
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i Trucial States
abbreviation: UAE
\BData code:\b TC
\BType of government:\b federation with specified powers delegated to the UAE central government and other powers reserved to member emirates
\BCapital:\b Abu Dhabi
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 emirates (imarat, singular - imarah); Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi), 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah (Sharjah), Dubayy (Dubai), Ra's al Khaymah, Umm al Qaywayn
\BIndependence:\b 2 December 1971 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 2 December (1971)
\BConstitution:\b 2 December 1971 (provisional)
\BLegal system:\b federal court system introduced in 1971; all emirates except Dubayy (Dubai) and Ra's al Khaymah have joined the federal system; all emirates have secular and Islamic law for civil, criminal, and high courts
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President ZAYID bin Sultan Al Nuhayyan (since 2 December 1971), ruler of Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi) (since NA 1966) and Vice President MAKTUM bin Rashid al-Maktum (since 8 October 1990), ruler of Dubayy (Dubai) were elected by the Supreme Council of Rulers
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister MAKTUM bin Rashid al-Maktum (since 8 October 1990), ruler of Dubayy (Dubai) and Deputy Prime Minister SULTAN bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan (since 20 November 1990) were appointed by the president
Supreme Council of Rulers: composed of the seven emirate rulers, the council is the highest constitutional authority in the UAE; establishes general policies and sanctions federal legislation, Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi) and Dubayy (Dubai) rulers have effective veto power; council meets four times a year
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Federal National Council (Majlis Watani Itihad); no elections; reviews legislation, but cannot change or veto
\BJudicial branch:\b Union Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Muhammad bin Husayn al-SHAALI
\Ichancery:\i Suite 600, 3000 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 338-6500
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador David C. LITT
\Iembassy:\i Al-Sudan Street, Abu Dhabi
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 4009, Abu Dhabi; American Embassy Abu Dhabi, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-6010 (pouch)
\Itelephone:\i [971] (2) 436691, 436692
\IFAX:\i [971] (2) 434771
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Dubai
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a thicker vertical red band on the hoist side
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The UAE has an open economy with one of the world's highest incomes per capita and with a sizable annual trade surplus. Its wealth is based on oil and gas output (about 33% of GDP), and the fortunes of the economy fluctuate with the prices of those commodities. Since 1973, the UAE has undergone a profound transformation from an impoverished region of small desert principalities to a modern state with a high standard of living. At present levels of production, crude oil reserves should last for over 100 years. Although much stronger economically than most Gulf states, the UAE faces similar problems with weak international oil prices and the pressures for cuts in OPEC oil production quotas. The UAE Government is encouraging increased privatization within the economy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $70.1 billion (1995 est.)
ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 17, chemical tanker 2, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 1, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 22, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 36
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 9
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 3
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 10
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 7 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 2 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 677,793 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern system consisting of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable; key centers are Abu Dhabi and Dubai
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay and coaxial cable
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; submarine cables to \JQatar\j, \JBahrain\j, India, and \JPakistan\j; tropospheric scatter to \JBahrain\j; microwave radio relay to Saudi \JArabia\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 8, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 545,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 12
\BTelevisions:\b 170,000 (1993 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary (includes Federal Police Force)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,102,080
\Imales fit for military service:\i 599,439
males reach military age (18) annually: 21,250 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $1.59 billion, 4.3% of GDP (1994)
#
"United Kingdom (Atlas)",249,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, islands including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, northwest of \JFrance\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 54 00 N, 2 00 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 244,820 sq km
\Iland area:\i 241,590 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Oregon
\Bnote:\b includes Rockall and Shetland Islands
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 360 km
border country: Ireland 360 km
\BCoastline:\b 12,429 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
continental shelf: as defined in continental shelf orders or in accordance with agreed upon boundaries
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Northern Ireland question with Ireland; \JGibraltar\j question with \JSpain\j; Argentina claims Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas); Argentina claims South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands; \JMauritius\j claims island of Diego Garcia in British Indian Ocean Territory; Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, \JIceland\j, and Ireland (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area); territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (British Antarctic Territory)
\BClimate:\b temperate; moderated by prevailing southwest winds over the North Atlantic Current; more than one-half of the days are overcast
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged hills and low mountains; level to rolling plains in east and southeast
\Icurrent issues:\i sulfur dioxide emissions from power plants contribute to air \Jpollution\j; some rivers polluted by agricultural wastes and coastal waters polluted because of large-scale disposal of sewage at sea
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, \JDesertification\j
\BGeographic note:\b lies near vital North Atlantic sea lanes; only 35 km from \JFrance\j and now linked by tunnel under the English Channel; because of heavily indented coastline, no location is more than 125 km from tidal waters
Scotland (autonomous region with independent parliament): 9 regions, 3 islands areas*; Borders, Central, Dumfries and Galloway, Fife, Grampian, Highland, Lothian, Orkney*, Shetland*, Strathclyde, \JTayside\j, Western Isles*
Wales (autonomous region with independent parliament): 8 counties; Clwyd, Dyfed, \JGwent\j, \JGwynedd\j, Mid \JGlamorgan\j, Powys, South \JGlamorgan\j, West \JGlamorgan\j
Dependent areas: \JAnguilla\j, \JBermuda\j, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, \JCayman\j Islands, Falkland Islands, \JGibraltar\j, \JGuernsey\j, Jersey, Isle of Man, Montserrat, Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1801 (United Kingdom established)
\BNational holiday:\b Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday in June)
\BConstitution:\b unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
\BLegal system:\b common law tradition with early Roman and modern continental influences; no judicial review of Acts of Parliament; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Prince CHARLES (son of the queen, born 14 November 1948)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Tony BLAIR (since 1 May 1997) is the leader of the Labour Party which holds the majority in the House of Commons which must have the consent of the monarch
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament
House of Lords: consists of a 1,200-member body, four-fifths are hereditary peers, two archbishops, 24 other senior bishops, serving and retired Lords of Appeal in Ordinary, other life peers, Scottish peers
House of Commons: elections last held 9 April 1992 (next to be held by NA April 1997); results - Conservative 41.9%, Labor 34.5%, Liberal Democratic 17.9%, other 5.7%; seats - (651 total) Conservative 336, Labor 271, Liberal Democratic 20, other 24
\BJudicial branch:\b House of Lords, several Lords of Appeal in Ordinary are appointed by the monarch for life
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Conservative and Unionist Party, John MAJOR; Labor Party, Anthony (Tony) Blair; Liberal Democrats (LD), Jeremy (Paddy) ASHDOWN; Scottish National Party, Alex SALMOND; Welsh National Party (Plaid Cymru), Dafydd Iwan WIGLEY; Ulster Unionist Party (Northern Ireland), David TRIMBLE; Democratic Unionist Party (Northern Ireland), Rev. Ian \JPAISLEY\j; Social Democratic and Labor Party (SDLP, Northern Ireland), John HUME; Sinn Fein (Northern Ireland), Gerry ADAMS; Alliance Party (Northern Ireland), John ALDERDICE
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Trades Union Congress; Confederation of British Industry; National Farmers' Union; Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament
\BFlag:\b blue with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) edged in white superimposed on the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) which is superimposed on the diagonal white cross of Saint Andrew (patron saint of Scotland); known as the Union Flag or Union Jack; the design and colors (especially the Blue Ensign) have been the basis for a number of other flags including dependencies, Commonwealth countries, and others
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The UK is one of the world's great trading powers and financial centers, and its economy ranks among the four largest in Western Europe. The economy is essentially capitalistic; over the past 13 years the ruling Tories have greatly reduced public ownership and contained the growth of social welfare programs. Agriculture is intensive, highly mechanized, and efficient by European standards, producing about 60% of food needs with only about 1% of the labor force. The UK has large coal, natural gas, and oil reserves, and primary energy production accounts for 12% of GDP, one of the highest shares of any industrial nation. Services, particularly banking, insurance, and business services, account by far for the largest proportion of GDP while industry continues to decline in importance, now employing only 25% of the work force. The economy registered 3.9% GDP growth in 1994, the best rate for six years, but slipped back to 2.7% in 1995. Exports and manufacturing output have been the primary engines of growth. Unemployment is gradually falling. \JInflation\j is at a tolerable 3%. A major economic policy question for the UK in the 1990s is the terms on which it participates in the financial and economic \Jintegration\j of Europe.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.1384 trillion (1995 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 62.8%, manufacturing and construction 25.0%, government 9.1%, energy 1.9%, agriculture 1.2% (June 1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $388.9 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $447.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.)
\BIndustries:\b production machinery including machine tools, electric power equipment, automation equipment, railroad equipment, shipbuilding, \Jaircraft\j, motor vehicles and parts, \Jelectronics\j and communications equipment, metals, chemicals, coal, \Jpetroleum\j, paper and paper products, food processing, textiles, clothing, and other consumer goods
Industrial production growth rate: 1.9% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 65,360,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 303 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 5,123 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b \Jcereals\j, oilseed, potatoes, vegetables; \Jcattle\j, sheep, poultry; fish
\BIllicit drugs:\b gateway country for Latin American \Jcocaine\j entering the European market; producer of synthetic drugs; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin; money-laundering center
\BExports:\b $200.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, chemicals, semifinished goods, transport equipment
\Ipartners:\i EU countries 56.4% (Germany 12.7%, \JFrance\j 9.9%, Netherlands 7.0%), US 13.1%
\Ibroad gauge:\i 434 km 1.600-m gauge (190 km double track); note - all 1.600-m gauge track, of which 357 km is in common carrier use, is in Northern Ireland
standard gauge: 16,892 km 1.435-m gauge (4,928 km electrified; 12,591 km double or multiple track); note - 16,532 km of 1.435-m routes are in common carrier service; the remaining 360 km are operated by a total of 40 tourist or other private companies
narrow gauge: 235 km 0.260-m, 0.311-m, 0.381-m, 0.600-m, 0.610-m, 0.686-m, 0.760-m, 0.762-m, 0.800-m, 0.825-m, 0.914-m and 1.067-m gauges; note - these short, narrow-gage lines are operated by a total of 25 tourist and other private firms (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 386,243 km (1993 est.)
\Ipaved:\i NA km (including 3,237 km of expressways in Great Britain)
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BWaterways:\b 3,200 km under British Waterways Board
\BPipelines:\b crude oil (almost all insignificant) 933 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 2,993 km; natural gas 12,800 km
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 22 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 10 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 29.5 million (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b technologically advanced domestic and international system
\Idomestic:\i equal mix of buried cables, microwave radio relay, and fiber-optic systems
\Iinternational:\i 40 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 10 Intelsat (7 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), and 1 Eutelsat; at least 8 large international switching centers
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 225, FM 525 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0
\BBranches:\b Army, Royal Navy (includes Royal Marines), Royal Air Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 14,515,077
\Imales fit for military service:\i 12,102,431 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $35.1 billion, 3.1% of GDP (FY95/96)
#
"United States (Atlas)",250,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean, between Canada and Mexico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 38 00 N, 97 00 W
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 9,372,610 sq km
\Iland area:\i 9,166,600 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about one-half the size of \JRussia\j; about three-tenths the size of Africa; about one-half the size of South America (or slightly larger than Brazil); slightly smaller than China; about two and one-half times the size of Western Europe
\Bnote:\b includes only the 50 states and District of Columbia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,248 km
\Iborder countries:\i Canada 8,893 km (including 2,477 km with Alaska), \JCuba\j 29 km (US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay), Mexico 3,326 km
\Bnote:\b Guantanamo Naval Base is leased by the US and thus remains part of \JCuba\j
\BCoastline:\b 19,924 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 12 nm
continental shelf: not specified
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary disputes with Canada (Dixon Entrance, Beaufort Sea, Strait of Juan de Fuca, Machias Seal Island); US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay is leased from \JCuba\j and only mutual agreement or US abandonment of the area can terminate the lease; \JHaiti\j claims Navassa Island; US has made no territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (but has reserved the right to do so) and does not recognize the claims of any other nation; Republic of Marshall Islands claims Wake Island
\BClimate:\b mostly temperate, but tropical in Hawaii and \JFlorida\j and \Jarctic\j in \JAlaska\j, semiarid in the great plains west of the Mississippi River and arid in the Great Basin of the southwest; low winter temperatures in the northwest are ameliorated occasionally in January and February by warm chinook winds from the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains
\BTerrain:\b vast central plain, mountains in west, hills and low mountains in east; rugged mountains and broad river valleys in \JAlaska\j; rugged, volcanic \Jtopography\j in Hawaii
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j resulting in acid rain in both the US and Canada; the US is the largest single emitter of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels; water \Jpollution\j from runoff of pesticides and fertilizers; very limited natural fresh water resources in much of the western part of the country require careful management; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i tsunamis, volcanoes, and \Jearthquake\j activity around Pacific Basin; hurricanes along the Atlantic coast; tornadoes in the midwest; mud slides in \JCalifornia\j; forest fires in the west; flooding; \Jpermafrost\j in northern \JAlaska\j is a major impediment to development
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Air \JPollution\j, Air Pollution-Nitrogen \JOxides\j, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, \JBiodiversity\j, \JDesertification\j, Hazardous Wastes, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b world's fourth-largest country (after \JRussia\j, Canada, and China)
\I65 years and over:\i 13% (male 13,850,234; female 20,021,655) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.91% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.8 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.8 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 3.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.69 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.95 years
\Imale:\i 72.65 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.41 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.06 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i American(s)
\Iadjective:\i American
\BEthnic divisions:\b white 83.4%, black 12.4%, Asian 3.3%, Native American 0.8% (1992)
\BReligions:\b Protestant 56%, Roman Catholic 28%, Jewish 2%, other 4%, none 10% (1989)
\BLanguages:\b English, Spanish (spoken by a sizable minority)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1979 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i United States of America
\Iconventional short form:\i United States
abbreviation: US or USA
\BData code:\b US
\BType of government:\b federal republic; strong democratic tradition
\BCapital:\b Washington, DC
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 50 states and 1 district*; \JAlabama\j, \JAlaska\j, \JArizona\j, \JArkansas\j, \JCalifornia\j, \JColorado\j, Connecticut, \JDelaware\j, District of Columbia*, \JFlorida\j, Georgia, Hawaii, \JIdaho\j, Illinois, \JIndiana\j, \JIowa\j, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, \JMassachusetts\j, \JMichigan\j, \JMinnesota\j, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, \JNebraska\j, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, \JPennsylvania\j, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, \JTennessee\j, \JTexas\j, \JUtah\j, \JVermont\j, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, \JWisconsin\j, Wyoming
Dependent areas: American \JSamoa\j, Baker Island, \JGuam\j, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston \JAtoll\j, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, Navassa Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Palmyra \JAtoll\j, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Wake Island
\Bnote:\b from 18 July 1947 until 1 October 1994, the US administered the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, but recently entered into a new political relationship with all four political units: the Northern Mariana Islands is a Commonwealth in political union with the US (effective 3 November 1986); Palau concluded a Compact of Free Association with the US (effective 1 October 1994); the Federated States of \JMicronesia\j signed a Compact of Free Association with the US (effective 3 November 1986); the Republic of the Marshall Islands signed a Compact of Free Association with the US (effective 21 October 1986)
\BIndependence:\b 4 July 1776 (from England)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 4 July (1776)
\BConstitution:\b 17 September 1787, effective 4 March 1789
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993) and Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) were elected for four-year terms by a college of representatives elected directly from each state; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - William Jefferson CLINTON (Democratic Party) 43.2%, George BUSH (Republican Party) 37.7%, Ross PEROT (independent) 19.0%, other 0.1%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president with Senate approval
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Congress
Senate: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) Republican Party 54, Democratic Party 46
House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (435 total) Republican Party 231, Democratic Party 203, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, justices are appointed for life by the president with confirmation by the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Republican Party, Haley BARBOUR, national committee chairman and Jeanie \JAUSTIN\j, co-chairman; Democratic Party, David C. WILHELM, national committee chairman; several other groups or parties of minor political significance
\BFlag:\b thirteen equal horizontal stripes of red (top and bottom) alternating with white; there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing 50 small white five-pointed stars arranged in nine offset horizontal rows of six stars (top and bottom) alternating with rows of five stars; the 50 stars represent the 50 states, the 13 stripes represent the 13 original colonies; known as Old Glory; the design and colors have been the basis for a number of other flags including \JChile\j, \JLiberia\j, \JMalaysia\j, and Puerto Rico
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The US has the most powerful, diverse, and technologically advanced economy in the world, with a per capita GDP of $27,500, the largest among major industrial nations. In this market-oriented economy, private individuals and business firms make most of the decisions, and government purchases of goods and services are made predominantly in the marketplace. US business firms enjoy considerably greater flexibility than their counterparts in Western Europe and \JJapan\j in decisions to expand capital plant, lay off surplus workers, and develop new products. At the same time, they face higher barriers to entry in their rivals' home markets than the barriers to entry of foreign firms in US markets. In all economic sectors, US firms are at or near the forefront in technological advances, especially in computers, medical equipment, and aerospace, although their advantage has steadily narrowed since the end of World War II. The onrush of technology largely explains the gradual development of a "two-tier labor market" in which those at the bottom lack the education and professional/technical skills of those at the top and, more and more, fail to get pay raises, health insurance coverage, and other benefits. The years 1994-95 witnessed moderate gains in real output, low \Jinflation\j rates, and a drop in unemployment below 6%. The capture of both houses of Congress by the Republicans in the elections of 8 November 1994 has intensified the debate over how the US should address its major economic problems. These problems include inadequate investment in economic \Jinfrastructure\j, rapidly rising medical costs of an aging population, sizable budget and trade deficits, and stagnation of family income in the lower economic groups. The outlook for 1996 is for continued moderate growth, low \Jinflation\j, and about the same level of unemployment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.2477 trillion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 2.1% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $27,500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 2%
\Iindustry:\i 23%
\Iservices:\i 75% (1995 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 2.5% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 132.304 million (includes unemployed) (1995)
\Iby occupation:\i managerial and professional 28.3%, technical, sales and administrative support 30.0%, services 13.5%, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and crafts 25.3%, farming, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 2.8%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 5.6% (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.258 trillion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.461 trillion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
\BIndustries:\b leading industrial power in the world, highly diversified and technologically advanced; \Jpetroleum\j, steel, motor vehicles, aerospace, telecommunications, chemicals, \Jelectronics\j, food processing, consumer goods, lumber, mining
Industrial production growth rate: 5.4% (1994 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 695,120,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 3.1 trillion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 11,236 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b wheat, other grains, corn, fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, pork, poultry, dairy products; forest products; fish
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for domestic consumption with 1987 production estimated at 3,500 metric tons or about 25% of the available marijuana; ongoing eradication program aimed at small plots and greenhouses has not reduced production
\BExports:\b $578 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i capital goods, automobiles, industrial supplies and raw materials, consumer goods, agricultural products
\Ipartners:\i Western Europe 24.3%, Canada 22.1%, \JJapan\j 10.5% (1993)
\BImports:\b $751 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil and refined \Jpetroleum\j products, machinery, automobiles, consumer goods, industrial raw materials, food and beverages
\Ipartners:\i Canada, 19.3%, Western Europe 18.1%, \JJapan\j 18.1% (1993)
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
donor: ODA, $9.721 billion (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b
British pounds: (ú) per US$ - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991)
Canadian dollars: (Can$) per US$ - 1.3666 (January 1996), 1.3724 (1995), 1.3656 (1994), 1.2901 (1993), 1.2087 (1992), 1.1457 (1991)
French francs: (F) per US$ - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991)
Italian lire: (Lit) per US$ - 1,583.8 (January 1996), 1,629.6 (1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991)
Japanese yen: (Ñ) per US$ - 105.84 (January 1996), 94.06 (1995), 102.21 (1994), 111.20 (1993), 126.65 (1992), 134.71 (1991)
German deutsche marks: (DM) per US$ - 1.4617 (January 1996), 1.4331 (1995), 1.6228 (1994), 1.6533 (1993), 1.5617 (1992), 1.6595 (1991)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 240,000 km mainline routes (nongovernment owned)
standard gauge: 240,000 km 1.435-m gauge (1989)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,284,488 km
\Ipaved:\i 5,574,341 km (in 1991, included 85,267 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 710,147 km (1993 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 41,009 km of navigable inland channels, exclusive of the Great Lakes
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j 276,000 km; natural gas 331,000 km (1991)
\BPorts:\b \JAnchorage\j, Baltimore, \JBoston\j, Charleston, \JChicago\j, Duluth, Hampton Roads, \JHonolulu\j, Houston, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, Port Canaveral, Portland (Oregon), Prudhoe Bay, San Francisco, Savannah, Seattle, Tampa, Toledo
\BInternational disputes:\b short section of boundary with Argentina is in dispute; two short sections of the boundary with \JBrazil\j are in dispute - Arroyo de la Invernada (Arroio Invernada) area of the Rio Cuareim (Rio Quarai) and the islands at the confluence of the Rio Cuareim (Rio Quarai) and the Uruguay River
\BClimate:\b warm temperate; freezing temperatures almost unknown
\BTerrain:\b mostly rolling plains and low hills; fertile coastal lowland
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Catedral 514 m
\BNatural resources:\b fertile soil, hydropower potential, minor minerals
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 78%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 4%
\Iother:\i 10%
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,100 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i substantial \Jpollution\j from Brazilian industry along border; one-fifth of country affected by acid rain generated by \JBrazil\j; water \Jpollution\j from meat packing/tannery industry; inadequate solid/hazardous waste disposal
\Inatural hazards:\i seasonally high winds (the pampero is a chilly and occasional violent wind which blows north from the Argentine pampas), droughts, floods; because of the absence of mountains, which act as weather barriers, all locations are particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in weather fronts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
\I65 years and over:\i 13% (male 170,109; female 238,222) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.7% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.05 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.99 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.71 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 15.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 74.94 years
\Imale:\i 71.8 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.25 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.32 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Uruguayan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Uruguayan
\BEthnic divisions:\b white 88%, mestizo 8%, black 4%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 66% (less than one-half of the adult population attends church regularly), Protestant 2%, Jewish 2%, nonprofessing or other 30%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish, Brazilero (Portuguese-Spanish mix on the Brazilian frontier)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97.3%
\Imale:\i 96.9%
\Ifemale:\i 97.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Oriental Republic of Uruguay
\Iconventional short form:\i Uruguay
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Oriental del Uruguay
\Ilocal short form:\i Uruguay
\BData code:\b UY
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JMontevideo\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 19 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Artigas, Canelones, Cerro Largo, Colonia, Durazno, Flores, \JFlorida\j, Lavalleja, Maldonado, \JMontevideo\j, Paysandu, Rio Negro, Rivera, Rocha, Salto, San Jose, Soriano, Tacuarembo, Treinta y Tres
\BIndependence:\b 25 August 1828 (from Brazil)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 25 August (1828)
\BConstitution:\b 27 November 1966, effective February 1967, suspended 27 June 1973, new constitution rejected by referendum 30 November 1980
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Julio Maria SANGUINETTI (since 1 March 1995) and Vice President Hugo BATALLA (since 1 March 1995) were elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held 27 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1999)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral General Assembly (Asamblea General)
Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 27 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - \JColorado\j 36%, Blanco 34 %, Encuentro Progresista 27%, New Sector 3%; seats - (30 total) \JColorado\j 11, Blanco 10, Encuentro Progresista 8, New Sector 1
Chamber of Representatives (Camara de Representantes): elections last held 27 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - \JColorado\j 32%, Blanco 31%, Encuentro Progresista 31%, New Sector 5%; seats - (99 total) \JColorado\j 32, Blanco 31, Encuentro Progresista 31, New Sector 5
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are nominated by the president and elected for 10-year terms by the General Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National (Blanco) Party, Alberto VOLONTE Berro; \JColorado\j Party, Jorge BATLLE; Broad Front Coalition, 12 member Executive Secretariat (as of 11 March 1996); New Sector Coalition, Hugo BATALLA; Encuentro Progresista (EP), Tabare VAZQUEZ
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alvaro DIEZ DE \JMEDINA\j SUAREZ
\Ichancery:\i 1918 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 331-1313 through 1316
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles, Miami, and New York
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Thomas J. DODD
\Iembassy:\i Lauro Muller 1776, \JMontevideo\j
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34035
\Itelephone:\i [598] (2) 23 60 61, 48 77 77
\IFAX:\i [598] (2) 48 86 11
\BFlag:\b nine equal horizontal stripes of white (top and bottom) alternating with blue; there is a white square in the upper hoist-side corner with a yellow sun bearing a human face known as the Sun of May and 16 rays alternately triangular and wavy
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Uruguay's small economy benefits from a favorable climate for agriculture and substantial hydropower potential. Economic development has been restrained in recent years by high - though declining - \Jinflation\j and extensive government regulation. The SANGUINETTI government's conservative monetary and fiscal policies are aimed at continuing to reduce \Jinflation\j, currently at 35.4%; other priorities include extensive reform of the social security system and increased investment in education. Uruguay went into recession during second quarter 1995 and ended the year with an estimated 2% fall in GDP and a two percentage point rise in unemployment to 11%. This was partly due to Argentina's recession and the slowdown in Brazilian growth in 1995, which contributed to declines in the Uruguayan manufacturing, construction, and service sectors. However, despite its Mercosur (Southern Cone Common Market) partners' troubles, Uruguayan trade expanded and potential new markets are being explored through Mercosur negotiations with neighboring countries and the European Union (EU). Uruguay also recently augmented its transport and agricultural sector ties with the US. The economy is expected to come out of recession as regional growth prospects improve.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $24.4 billion (1995 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 99, FM 0, shortwave 9
\BRadios:\b 1.89 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 26
\BTelevisions:\b 725,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy (includes Naval Air Arm, Coast Guard, Marines), Air Force, \JGrenadier\j Guards, Coracero Guard, Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 783,890
\Imales fit for military service:\i 636,454 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $256 million, 1.5% of GDP (1994)
#
"Uzbekistan (Atlas)",252,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Asia, north of \JAfghanistan\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 41 00 N, 64 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 447,400 sq km
\Iland area:\i 425,400 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,221 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 137 km, Kazakstan 2,203 km, \JKyrgyzstan\j 1,099 km, Tajikistan 1,161 km, Turkmenistan 1,621 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km
\Bnote:\b Uzbekistan borders the Aral Sea (420 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b mostly midlatitude desert, long, hot summers, mild winters; semiarid grassland in east
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes; broad, flat intensely irrigated river valleys along course of Amu Darya and Sirdaryo; Fergana Valley in east surrounded by mountainous Tajikistan and \JKyrgyzstan\j; shrinking Aral Sea in west
\Ilowest point:\i Saryqamish Kuli -12 m
\Ihighest point:\i Adelunga Toghi 4,301 m
\BNatural resources:\b natural gas, \Jpetroleum\j, coal, gold, uranium, silver, copper, lead and zinc, \Jtungsten\j, molybdenum
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 47%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 42%
\BIrrigated land:\b 41,550 sq km (1990)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i drying up of the Aral Sea is resulting in growing concentrations of chemical pesticides and natural salts; these substances are then blown from the increasingly exposed lake bed and contribute to \Jdesertification\j; water \Jpollution\j from industrial wastes and the heavy use of fertilizers and pesticides is the cause of many human health disorders; increasing soil salinization; soil contamination from agricultural chemicals, including DDT
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Climate Change, \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 416,571; female 669,191) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.87% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 29.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -3.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.98 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.62 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 79.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 64.6 years
\Imale:\i 60.44 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.97 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.69 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Uzbek(s)
\Iadjective:\i Uzbek
\BEthnic divisions:\b Uzbek 71.4%, Russian 8.3%, Tajik 4.7%, Kazak 4.1%, Tatar 2.4%, Karakalpak 2.1%, other 7%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 88% (mostly Sunnis), Eastern Orthodox 9%, other 3%
\BLanguages:\b Uzbek 74.3%, Russian 14.2%, Tajik 4.4%, other 7.1%
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 96%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Uzbekistan
\Iconventional short form:\i Uzbekistan
\Ilocal long form:\i Uzbekiston Respublikasi
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b UZ
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Tashkent (Toshkent)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 12 wiloyatlar (singular - wiloyat), 1 autonomous republic* (respublikasi), and 1 city** (shahri); Andijon Wiloyati, Bukhoro Wiloyati, Jizzakh Wiloyati, Farghona Wiloyati, Qoraqalpoghiston* (Nukus), Qashqadaryo Wiloyati (Qarshi), Khorazm Wiloyati (Urganch), Namangan Wiloyati, Nawoiy Wiloyati, Samarqand Wiloyati, Sirdaryo Wiloyati (Guliston), Surkhondaryo Wiloyati (Termiz), Toshkent Shahri**, Toshkent Wiloyati
\Bnote:\b an administrative division has the same name as its administrative center (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
\BIndependence:\b 31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 September (1991)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution adopted 8 December 1992
\BLegal system:\b evolution of Soviet civil law; still lacks independent judicial system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Islom KARIMOV (since 24 March 1990, when he was elected president by the then Supreme Soviet) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 December 1991 (next to be held NA 2000); results - \JIslam\j KARIMOV 86%, Mukhammad SOLIKH 12%, other 2%; note - the 26 March 1995 referendum extended KARIMOV's term until 2000 (99.6% approval)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Otkir SULTONOV (since December 1995), First Deputy Prime Minister Ismoil JURABEKOV (since NA), Deputy Prime Ministers Viktor CHIZHEN (since NA), Bakhtiyor HAMIDOV (since NA), Kayim HAQQULOV (since NA), Rim GINIYATULLIN (since NA), Saidmukhtor SAIDQOSIMOV (since NA), Mirabror USMONOV (since NA), Murat SHARIFKHOJAYEV (since NA), Uktam ISMAILOV (since NA), Rustam YUNUSOV (since NA) were appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president with approval of the Supreme Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Supreme Assembly (Oliy Majlis): elections last held 25 December 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (250 total) People's Democratic Party 207, Fatherland Progress Party 12, other 31; note - final runoffs were held 22 January 1995; seating was as follows: People's Democratic Party 69, Fatherland Progress Party 14, Social Democratic Party 47, local government 120
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Supreme Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Democratic Party (PDP; formerly Communist Party), Islom A. KARIMOV, chairman; Fatherland Progress Party (FPP), Anwar YULDASHEV, chairman; Social Democratic Party, Anvar JORABAYEV, chairman
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b Birlik (Unity) People's Movement (BPM), Ibrahim BURIYEV, chairman; Islamic Rebirth Party (IRP), Abdullah UTAYEV, chairman; Erk (Freedom) Democratic Party was banned 9 December 1992
\Bnote:\b UTAYEV (IRP) is either in prison or in exile
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and green separated by red fimbriations with a crescent moon and 12 stars in the upper hoist-side quadrant
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Uzbekistan is a dry, landlocked country of which 10% consists of intensely cultivated, irrigated river valleys. It was one of the poorest republics of the former Soviet Union with more than 60% of its population living in overpopulated rural communities. At the same time, Uzbekistan is the world's third largest cotton exporter, a major producer of gold and natural gas, and a regionally significant producer of chemicals and machinery. Following independence, the government sought to prop up its Soviet-style command economy with subsidies and tight controls on production and prices. Faced with high rates of \Jinflation\j, however, the government stepped up the pace of reform in mid-1994, by introducing tighter monetary policies, expanding privatization, reducing the role of the state in the economy, and improving the environment for foreign investors. Nevertheless, the state continues to be a dominating influence in the economy, and reforms have so far failed to induce far-reaching structural changes.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $54.7 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -1% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,370 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 7.7% monthly average (January-October 1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 8.234 million
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 43%, industry and construction 22%, other 35% (1992)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 0.4% includes only officially registered unemployed; large numbers of underemployed workers (December 1995)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b textiles, food processing, machine building, \Jmetallurgy\j, natural gas
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; government eradication programs; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
\Ipartners:\i \JRussia\j, \JUkraine\j, Eastern Europe, US
\BImports:\b $2.9 billion (1995)
\Icommodities:\i grain, machinery and parts, consumer durables, other foods
\Ipartners:\i principally other FSU countries, Czech Republic
\BExternal debt:\b $1.285 billion (of which $510 million to Russia)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $71 million (1993)
\Bnote:\b commitments, $2,915 million ($135 million in disbursements) (1992-95)
\BCurrency:\b introduced provisional som-coupons 10 November 1993 which circulated parallel to the Russian rubles; became the sole legal currency 31 January 1994; was replaced in July 1994 by the som currency
\BExchange rates:\b soms per US$1 - 35.8 (end December 1995), 25 (yearend 1994)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,460 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 3,460 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 78,400 km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km (1990 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 250 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 40 km; natural gas 810 km (1992)
\BPorts:\b Termiz
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 261
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 6
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 14
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 8
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 5
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 7
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 216 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 1.458 million (1995 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poorly developed
\Idomestic:\i NMT-450 analog cellular network established in Tashkent
\Iinternational:\i linked by landline or microwave radio relay with \JCIS\j member states and to other countries by leased connection via the Moscow international gateway switch; new Intelsat links to \JTokyo\j and \JAnkara\j give Uzbekistan international access independent of Russian facilities; satellite earth stations - NA Orbita and NA Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is at least one state-owned broadcast station of NA type
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air and Air Defense, Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,672,621
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,623,960
males reach military age (18) annually: 231,293 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i 164 million soms, 3.7% of GDP (1993); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
#
"Vanuatu (Atlas)",253,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to \JAustralia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 00 S, 167 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 14,760 sq km
\Iland area:\i 14,760 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Connecticut
\Bnote:\b includes more than 80 islands
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,528 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by southeast trade winds
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains of volcanic origin; narrow coastal plains
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Tabwemasana 1,877 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jmanganese\j, hardwood forests, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 5%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 2%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 1%
\Iother:\i 91%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i a majority of the population does not have access to a potable and reliable supply of water
\Inatural hazards:\i tropical cyclones or typhoons (January to April); volcanism causes minor earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Law of the Sea
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 177,504 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 40% (male 36,409; female 35,105)
\I15-64 years:\i 57% (male 51,969; female 48,901)
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 2,802; female 2,318) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.17% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 30.57 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.84 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.04 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 1.21 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 64.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 60.13 years
\Imale:\i 58.27 years
\Ifemale:\i 62.09 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.01 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BIndependence:\b 30 July 1980 (from \JFrance\j and UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 30 July (1980)
\BConstitution:\b 30 July 1980
\BLegal system:\b unified system being created from former dual French and British systems
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jean Marie LEYE (since 2 March 1994) was elected for a five-year term by an electoral college consisting of Parliament and the presidents of the regional councils
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Maxime Carlot KORMAN (since 23 February 1996) was elected by Parliament from among its members; Deputy Prime Minister Donald KALPOKAS (since 23 February 1996) was appointed by the prime minister from among members of Parliament; note - Prime Minister VOHOR resigned 7 February 1996 when faced with a no-confidence vote in Parliament; Parliament then convened an extraordinary session and voted 30 to 20 to elect Maxime Carlot KORMAN as the new prime minister
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister, responsible to Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 30 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (50 total) UMP 17, VP 14, NUP 9, MPP 5, TU 2, Na-Griamel Movement 1, Friend Melanesian Party 1, independent 1; note - after the election, a coalition was formed by the Union of Moderate Parties and the National United Party to form a new government on 14 December 1995, but political party associations are fluid
\Bnote:\b the National Council of Chiefs advises on matters of custom and land
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chief justice is appointed by the president after consultation with the prime minister and the leader of the opposition, three other justices are appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Union of Moderate Parties (UMP), Serge VOHOR; National United Party (NUP), Walter LINI; Unity Front (UF) includes the Vanuatu Party (VP), Donald KALPOKAS, Melanesian Progressive Party (MPP), Barak SOPE, Tan Union (TU), Vincent BOULEKONE, and the Na-Griamel Movement, Frankie STEVENS; Friend Melanesian Party, leader NA; People's Democratic Party (PDP), Sethy REGENVANU; Independence Front (IF), Patrick CROWBY
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b Vanuatu does not have an embassy in the US
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i the US does not have an embassy in Vanuatu; the ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to Vanuatu
\BFlag:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a black isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) all separated by a black-edged yellow stripe in the shape of a horizontal Y (the two points of the Y face the hoist side and enclose the triangle); centered in the triangle is a boar's tusk encircling two crossed namele leaves, all in yellow
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is based primarily on subsistence farming which provides a living for the bulk of the population. Fishing and tourism are the other mainstays of the economy, with 43,000 visitors in 1992. Mineral deposits are negligible; the country has no known \Jpetroleum\j deposits. A small light industry sector caters to the local market. Tax revenues come mainly from import duties.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $210 million (1994 est.)
\Bnote:\b a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 20 countries among which are \JJapan\j 37, US 19, Netherlands 10, \JGreece\j 6, Hong Kong 6, China 4, Canada 4, UAE 3, \JRussia\j 2, and \JAustralia\j 2 (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 31
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 17
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 11 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 2,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular military forces; Vanuatu Police Force (VPF; includes the paramilitary Vanuatu Mobile Force or VMF)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Venezuela (Atlas)",254,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JColombia\j and \JGuyana\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 66 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 912,050 sq km
\Iland area:\i 882,050 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than twice the size of \JCalifornia\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,993 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 2,200 km, \JColombia\j 2,050 km, \JGuyana\j 743 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,800 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 15 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claims all of \JGuyana\j west of the Essequibo River; maritime boundary dispute with \JColombia\j in the Gulf of Venezuela
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
\BTerrain:\b \JAndes\j Mountains and \JMaracaibo\j Lowlands in northwest; central plains (llanos); Guiana Highlands in southeast
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pico Bolivar (La Columna) 5,007 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, natural gas, iron ore, gold, \Jbauxite\j, other minerals, hydropower, diamonds
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 3%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 20%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 39%
\Iother:\i 37%
\BIrrigated land:\b 2,640 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i sewage \Jpollution\j of Lago de Valencia; oil and urban \Jpollution\j of Lago de \JMaracaibo\j; deforestation; soil degradation; urban and industrial \Jpollution\j, especially along the Caribbean coast
\Inatural hazards:\i subject to floods, rockslides, mud slides; periodic droughts
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeographic note:\b on major sea and air routes linking North and South America
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 442,659; female 520,742) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.89% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.09 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.07 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.85 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 29.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.09 years
\Imale:\i 69.11 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.29 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.87 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Venezuelan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Venezuelan
\BEthnic divisions:\b mestizo 67%, white 21%, black 10%, Amerindian 2%
\BReligions:\b nominally Roman Catholic 96%, Protestant 2%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), native dialects spoken by about 200,000 Amerindians in the remote interior
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 91.1%
\Imale:\i 91.8%
\Ifemale:\i 90.3%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Venezuela
\Iconventional short form:\i Venezuela
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Venezuela
\Ilocal short form:\i Venezuela
\BData code:\b VE
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b \JCaracas\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 21 states (estados, singular - estado), 1 territory* (territorio), 1 federal district** (distrito federal), and 1 federal dependency*** (dependencia federal); Amazonas*, Anzoategui, Apure, Aragua, Barinas, Bolivar, Carabobo, Cojedes, Delta Amacuro, Dependencias Federales***, Distrito Federal**, Falcon, Guarico, Lara, Merida, Miranda, Monagas, Nueva Esparta, Portuguesa, Sucre, Tachira, Trujillo, Yaracuy, Zulia
\Bnote:\b the federal dependency consists of 11 federally controlled island groups with a total of 72 individual islands
\BIndependence:\b 5 July 1811 (from Spain)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 5 July (1811)
\BConstitution:\b 23 January 1961
\BLegal system:\b based on Napoleonic code; judicial review of legislative acts in Cassation Court only; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Rafael CALDERA Rodriguez (since 2 February 1994) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 5 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - Rafael CALDERA (National Convergence) 30.45%, Claudio FERMIN (AD) 23.59%, Oswaldo ALVAREZ PAZ (COPEI) 22.72%, Andres VELASQUEZ (Causa R) 21.94%, other 1.3%
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Congress of the Republic (Congreso de la Republica)
Senate (Senado): elections last held 5 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (53 total) AD 18, COPEI 15, Causa R 9, MAS 5, National Convergence 6; note - 3 former presidents (2 from AD, 1 from COPEI) hold lifetime Senate seats
Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 5 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - AD 27.9%, COPEI 26.9%, MAS 12.4%, National Convergence 12.9%, Causa R 19.9%; seats - (203 total) AD 55, COPEI 53, MAS 24, National Convergence 26, Causa R 40, other 5
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), magistrates are elected by both chambers in joint session
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Convergence (Convergencia), Jose Miguel UZCATEGUI, president, Juan Jose CALDERA, national coordinator; Social Christian Party (COPEI), Luis HERRERA Campins, president, and Donald RAMIREZ, secretary general; Democratic Action (AD), Pedro PARIS Montesinos, president, and Luis ALFARO Ucero, secretary general; Movement Toward \JSocialism\j (MAS), Gustavo MARQUEZ, president, and Enrique OCHOA Antich, secretary general; Radical Cause (La Causa R), Pablo \JMEDINA\j, secretary general
\BOther political or pressure groups:\b FEDECAMARAS, a conservative business group; Venezuelan Confederation of Workers (CTV, labor organization dominated by the Democratic Action); VECINOS groups
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Pedro Luis ECHEVERRIA
\Ichancery:\i 1099 30th Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 342-2214
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jeffrey DAVIDOW
\Iembassy:\i Calle F con Calle Suapure, Colinas de Valle Arriba, \JCaracas\j 1060
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 62291, \JCaracas\j 1060-A; APO AA 34037
\Itelephone:\i [58] (2) 977-2011
\IFAX:\i [58] (2) 977-0843
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), blue, and red with the coat of arms on the hoist side of the yellow band and an arc of seven white five-pointed stars centered in the blue band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The \Jpetroleum\j sector continues to dominate the economy, accounting for roughly 25% of GDP, 70% of total merchandise exports, and 45% of government revenue. According to preliminary Venezuelan government figures, real GDP grew 2.2% in 1995, largely on the strength of 6% growth in the \Jpetroleum\j sector. Nonoil private sector GDP registered only a 0.8% gain in 1995, however, reflecting difficult domestic operating conditions, including a virtual cutoff of foreign exchange disbursements in the fourth quarter; the government has used foreign exchange controls to conserve reserves since mid-1994. The CALDERA administration is currently negotiating with the IMF for a $3 billion stand-by agreement; it is unclear whether \JCaracas\j is willing to take the tough steps - including a substantial increase in \Jgasoline\j prices - needed to seal a deal. Most private forecasters predict a difficult 1996, including flat or declining GDP, continued inflationary pressure, a tight foreign exchange situation, and potentially severe budget difficulties for the government.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $195.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis, opium, and \Jcoca\j leaf for the international drug trade on a small scale; however, large quantities of \Jcocaine\j and heroin transit the country from \JColombia\j; important money-laundering hub; active aerial eradication program primarily targeting opium
\Itotal:\i 584 km (336 km single track; 248 km privately owned)
standard gauge: 584 km 1.435-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 93,472 km
\Ipaved:\i 29,954 km
\Iunpaved:\i 63,518 km (1993 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 7,100 km; Rio Orinoco and Lago de \JMaracaibo\j accept oceangoing vessels
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 6,370 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 480 km; natural gas 4,010 km
\BPorts:\b Amuay, Bajo Grande, El Tablazo, La Guaira, La Salina, \JMaracaibo\j, Matanzas, Palua, Puerto Cabello, Puerto la Cruz, Puerto Ordaz, Puerto Sucre, Punta Cardon
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 181, FM 0, shortwave 26
\BRadios:\b 9.04 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 59
\BTelevisions:\b 3.3 million (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b National Armed Forces (Fuerzas Armadas Nacionales or FAN) includes Ground Forces or Army (Fuerzas Terrestres or Ejercito), Naval Forces (Fuerzas Navales or Armada), Air Force (Fuerzas Aereas or Aviacion), Armed Forces of Cooperation or National Guard (Fuerzas Armadas de Cooperacion or Guardia Nacional)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,856,391
\Imales fit for military service:\i 4,235,519
males reach military age (18) annually: 236,084 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $902 million, 1.4% of GDP (1996)
#
"Vietnam (Atlas)",255,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of \JThailand\j, Gulf of Tonkin, and South China Sea, between China and \JCambodia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 00 N, 106 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 329,560 sq km
\Iland area:\i 325,360 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,818 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCambodia\j 982 km, China 1,281 km, Laos 1,555 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,444 km (excludes islands)
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b maritime boundary with \JCambodia\j not defined; involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea with China, \JMalaysia\j, \JPhilippines\j, \JTaiwan\j, and possibly \JBrunei\j; unresolved maritime boundary with \JThailand\j; maritime boundary dispute with China in the Gulf of Tonkin; Paracel Islands in the South China Sea occupied by China but claimed by Vietnam and \JTaiwan\j; offshore islands and sections of boundary with \JCambodia\j are in dispute
\BClimate:\b tropical in south; monsoonal in north with hot, rainy season (mid-May to mid-September) and warm, dry season (mid-October to mid-March)
\BTerrain:\b low, flat delta in south and north; central highlands; hilly, mountainous in far north and northwest
\Icurrent issues:\i logging and slash-and-burn agricultural practices are contributing to deforestation; soil degradation; water \Jpollution\j and overfishing threatening marine life populations; inadequate supplies of potable water because of \Jgroundwater\j contamination
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional typhoons (May to January) with extensive flooding
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship \JPollution\j, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban
\BReligions:\b Buddhist, Taoist, Roman Catholic, indigenous beliefs, \JIslam\j, Protestant
\BLanguages:\b Vietnamese (official), French, Chinese, English, Khmer, tribal languages (Mon-Khmer and Malayo-Polynesian)
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 93.7%
\Imale:\i 96.5%
\Ifemale:\i 91.2%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Socialist Republic of Vietnam
\Iconventional short form:\i Vietnam
\Ilocal long form:\i Cong Hoa Chu Nghia Viet Nam
\Ilocal short form:\i Viet Nam
abbreviation: SRV
\BData code:\b VM
\BType of government:\b Communist state
\BCapital:\b \JHanoi\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 50 provinces (tinh, singular and plural), 3 municipalities* (thu do, singular and plural); An Giang, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Bac Thai, Ben Tre, Binh Dinh, Binh Thuan, Can Tho, Cao Bang, Dac Lac, Dong Nai, Dong Thap, Gia Lai, Ha Bac, Ha Giang, Ha Noi*, Ha Tay, Ha Tinh, Hai Hung, Hai Phong*, Ho Chi Minh*, Hoa Binh, Khanh Hoa, Kien Giang, Kon Tum, Lai Chau, Lam Dong, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Long An, Minh Hai, Nam Ha, Nghe An, Ninh Binh, Ninh Thuan, Phu Yen, Quang Binh, Quang Nam-Da Nang, Quang Ngai, Quang Ninh, Quang Tri, Soc Trang, Son La, Song Be, Tay Ninh, Thai Binh, Thanh Hoa, Thua Thien-Hue, Tien Giang, Tra Vinh, Tuyen Quang, Vinh Long, Vinh Phu, Yen Bai
\BIndependence:\b 2 September 1945 (from France)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 2 September (1945)
\BConstitution:\b 15 April 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on communist legal theory and French civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Le Duc ANH (since 23 September 1992) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly from among its members
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Vo Van KIET (since 9 August 1991) was appointed by the president from among the members of the National Assembly; First Deputy Prime Minister Phan Van KHAI (since 10 August 1991) and Deputy Prime Ministers Nguyen KHANH (since NA February 1987) and Tran Duc LUONG (since NA February 1987) were appointed by the prime minister
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president on proposal of the prime minister and ratification of the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly (Quoc-Hoi): elections last held 19 July 1992 (next to be held NA July 1997); results - CPV is the only party; seats - (395 total) CPV or CPV-approved 395
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme People's Court, chief justice is elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b only party - Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), DO MUOI, general secretary
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Le Van BANG
\Ichancery:\i 1233 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, Suite 501
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 861-0737
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 861-0917
\Bnote:\b on 11 July 1995, President CLINTON announced the normalization of diplomatic relations with Vietnam; the liaison offices in both countries were upgraded to full embassies on 5 August 1995
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires L. Desaix ANDERSON
\Iembassy:\i 7 Lang Ha Road, Ba Dinh District, \JHanoi\j
\Imailing address:\i PSC 461, Box 400, FPO AP 96521-0002
\Itelephone:\i [84] (4) 431500
\IFAX:\i [84] (4) 350484
\Bnote:\b on 11 July 1995, President CLINTON announced the normalization of diplomatic relations with Vietnam; the liaison offices in both countries were upgraded to full embassies on 5 August 1995
\BFlag:\b red with a large yellow five-pointed star in the center
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Vietnam's economic performance has been impressive in 1990-95, with real growth averaging over 8% annually. Much of this growth comes from a surge in foreign investment outlays which are estimated at $750 million in 1995, up 50% from 1993 levels. Utilization rates for official development assistance are also increasing, rising to an estimated $535 million in 1995. Foreign capital is contributing to a boom in commercial construction and strong growth in services and industrial output. Crude oil remains the country's largest single export but now accounts for only one-quarter of total exports, slightly more than manufactures. Imports are dominated by capital and intermediate goods closely related to investment outlays. Vietnamese authorities may not be moving quickly enough to establish the financial and legal \Jinfrastructure\j needed to sustain growth through the remainder of the decade. Reform of the banking sector is proceeding slowly, raising concerns that the country will be unable to tap sufficient domestic savings to maintain rapid growth. Administrative and legal barriers are leading to costly delays for foreign investors, raising doubts about Vietnam's ability to maintain the inflow of foreign capital. While government officials are leading an effort to accelerate reform, their continuing ideological bias in favor of state intervention and control of the economy may slow progress toward a more liberalized investment environment. Even with the strong growth of the economy, unemployment at 25% remains a major problem.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $97 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 9.5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,300 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 28%
\Iindustry:\i 28%
\Iservices:\i 44% (1995 est.)
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 14% (1995)
\BLabor force:\b 32.7 million
\Iby occupation:\i agricultural 65%, industrial and service 35% (1990 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 25% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $4.67 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $5 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.36 billion (1995 est.)
Industrial production growth rate: 14% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 4,470,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 20 billion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 200 kWh (1995 est.)
\BAgriculture:\b paddy rice, corn, potatoes, rubber, soybeans, \Jcoffee\j, tea, bananas; poultry, pigs; fish catch of 943,100 metric tons (1989 est.)
\BIllicit drugs:\b opium producer and increasingly important transit point for Southeast Asian heroin destined for the US and Europe; growing opium addiction; possible small-scale heroin production
\Bnote:\b Vietnam owns an additional 9 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 120,320 DWT operating under the registries of \JHonduras\j, Panama, The \JBahamas\j, and Malta (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 48
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 8
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 13
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 7
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5
with unpaved runways under 914 m: 5 (1994 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 800,000 (1995 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b while Vietnam's telecommunication sector lags far behind other countries in Southeast Asia, \JHanoi\j has made considerable progress since 1991 in upgrading the system; Vietnam has digitized fully 100% of provincial switch boards, while fiber-optic and microwave transmission systems have been extended from \JHanoi\j, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City to all provinces; the density of \Jtelephone\j receivers nationwide doubled from 1993 to 1995, but is still far behind other countries in the region; Vietnam's telecommunications strategy aims to increase \Jtelephone\j density to 30 per 1,000 inhabitants by the year 2000 and authorities estimate that approximately $2.7 billion will be spent on telecommunications upgrades through the end of the decade
\BBranches:\b People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) (includes Ground Forces, Navy, and Air Force)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 18,593,129
\Imales fit for military service:\i 11,769,955
males reach military age (17) annually: 796,312 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $544 million, 2.7% of GDP (1995)
#
"Virgin Islands (Atlas)",256,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 20 N, 64 50 W
\BMap references:\b Central America and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 352 sq km
\Iland area:\i 349 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 188 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b subtropical, tempered by easterly trade winds, relatively low \Jhumidity\j, little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season May to November
\BTerrain:\b mostly hilly to rugged and mountainous with little level land
\Ilowest point:\i Caribbean Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Crown Mountain 474 m
\BNatural resources:\b sun, sand, sea, surf
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 15%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 6%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 26%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 6%
\Iother:\i 47%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i lack of natural freshwater resources
\Inatural hazards:\i rarely affected by hurricanes; frequent and severe droughts, floods, and earthquakes
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b important location along the Anegada Passage - a key shipping lane for the Panama Canal; Saint Thomas has one of the best natural, deepwater harbors in the Caribbean
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 97,120 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b West Indian (45% born in the Virgin Islands and 29% born elsewhere in the West Indies) 74%, US mainland 13%, Puerto Rican 5%, other 8%
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -0.06% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.57 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -12.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 12.54 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 75.29 years
\Imale:\i 73.6 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.2 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.29 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Virgin Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Virgin Islander
\BEthnic divisions:\b black 80%, white 15%, other 5%
\BReligions:\b Baptist 42%, Roman Catholic 34%, Episcopalian 17%, other 7%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Spanish, \JCreole\j
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Virgin Islands of the United States
\Iconventional short form:\i Virgin Islands
\Iformer:\i Danish West Indies
\BData code:\b VQ
\BType of government:\b organized, unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Office of Territorial and International Affairs, US Department of the Interior
\BCapital:\b Charlotte Amalie
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of the US)
\BNational holiday:\b Transfer Day, 31 March (1917) (from Denmark to US)
\BConstitution:\b Revised Organic Act of 22 July 1954
\BLegal system:\b based on US laws
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal; note - indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do not vote in US presidential elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of the United States) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Dr. Roy L. SCHNEIDER (since 5 January 1995) and Lieutenant Governor Kenneth E. MAPP (since 5 January 1995) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 22 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Dr. Roy L. SCHNEIDER (ICM) 54.7%, former Lieutenant Governor Derek HODGE 42.6%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Senate: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total) Democrats 7, independents 7, Republican 1
US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - Victor O. FRAZER (ICM) 54.5%, Eileen R. PETERSON (Democrat) 45.5%; seats - (1 total) ICM 1; note - the Virgin Islands elects one representative to the US House of Representatives
\BJudicial branch:\b US District Court, handles civil matters over $50,000, felonies (persons 15 years of age and over), and federal cases, judges are appointed by the president; Territorial Court, handles civil matters up to $50,000, small claims, juvenile, domestic, misdemeanors, and traffic cases, judges appointed by the governor
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party, Marilyn STAPLETON; Independent Citizens' Movement (ICM), Virdin C. BROWN; Republican Party, Charlotte-Poole DAVIS
\BInternational organization participation:\b ECLAC (associate), IOC
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (territory of the US)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (territory of the US)
\BFlag:\b white with a modified US coat of arms in the center between the large blue initials V and I; the coat of arms shows a yellow eagle holding an olive branch in one talon and three arrows in the other with a superimposed shield of vertical red and white stripes below a blue panel
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Tourism is the primary economic activity, accounting for more than 70% of GDP and 70% of employment. The manufacturing sector consists of textile, \Jelectronics\j, pharmaceutical, and watch assembly plants. The agricultural sector is small, most food being imported. International business and financial services are a small but growing component of the economy. One of the world's largest \Jpetroleum\j refineries is at Saint Croix.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.2 billion (1987 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $12,500 (1987 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 47,443 (1990 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture, industry, services, other (1990 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.7% (1992)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $364.4 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $364.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1990 est.)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil, foodstuffs, consumer goods, building materials
\Ipartners:\i US, Puerto Rico
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b US currency is used
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 856 km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, Cruz Bay, Port Alucroix
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Bnote:\b international airports on Saint Thomas and Saint Croix (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 60,000 (1990 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i modern, uses fiber-optic cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i submarine cable and satellite communications; satellite earth stations - NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 8, shortwave 0 (1988)
\BRadios:\b 105,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 65,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Wake Island (Atlas)",257,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to the Northern Mariana Islands
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 17 N, 166 36 E
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 6.5 sq km
\Iland area:\i 6.5 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about 11 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 19.3 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed by the Republic of the Marshall Islands
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b \Jatoll\j of three \Jcoral\j islands built up on an underwater \Jvolcano\j; central lagoon is former crater, islands are part of the rim
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 6 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional typhoons
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; emergency landing location for transpacific flights
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; there are 302 US military and contract personnel (July 1995 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Wake Island
\BData code:\b WQ
\BType of government:\b unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Army and Strategic
\BDefense:\b Command since 1 October 1994
\BCapital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of the US)
\BFlag:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic activity is limited to providing services to US military personnel and contractors located on the island. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
\BElectricity:\b supplied by US military
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BPorts:\b none; two offshore anchorages for large ships
\BMerchant Marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BTransportation:\b \Bnote:\b formerly an important commercial \Javiation\j base, now used by US military, some commercial cargo planes, as well as the US Army Space and Strategic
\BDefense:\b Command for missile launches
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b satellite communications; 1 DSN circuit off the Overseas \JTelephone\j System (OTS)
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 0, FM NA, shortwave NA
\Bnote:\b Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) radio service provided by satellite
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\Bnote:\b Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) \Jtelevision\j service provided by satellite
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of the US
#
"Wallis and Futuna (Atlas)",258,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (overseas territory of France)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 18 S, 176 12 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 274 sq km
\Iland area:\i 274 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Washington, DC
\Bnote:\b includes Ile Uvea (Wallis Island), Ile Futuna (Futuna Island), Ile Alofi, and 20 islets
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 129 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, rainy season (November to April); cool, dry season (May to October); rains 2,500-3,000 mm per year (80% humidity); average temperature 26.6 degrees C
\BTerrain:\b volcanic origin; low hills
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Singavi 765 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 5%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 20%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 75%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation (only small portions of the original forests remain) largely as a result of the continued use of wood as the main fuel source; as a consequence of cutting down the forests, the mountainous terrain of Futuna is particularly prone to erosion; there are no permanent settlements on Alofi because of the lack of natural fresh water resources
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b both island groups have fringing reefs
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 14,659 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.11% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -8.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 23.59 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 72.76 years
\Imale:\i 72.16 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.4 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Wallisian(s), Futunan(s), or Wallis and Futuna Islanders
\Iadjective:\i Wallisian, Futunan, or Wallis and Futuna Islander
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1969 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 50%
\Imale:\i 50%
\Ifemale:\i 50%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of the Wallis and Futuna Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Wallis and Futuna
\Ilocal long form:\i Territoire des Iles Wallis et Futuna
\Ilocal short form:\i Wallis et Futuna
\BData code:\b WF
\BType of government:\b overseas territory of \JFrance\j
\BCapital:\b Mata-Utu (on Ile Uvea)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are three kingdoms named Wallis, Sigave, Alo
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas territory of France)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French legal system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by High Administrator Leon-Alexandre LEGRAND (since NA) was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior
\Ihead of government:\i President of the Territorial Assembly Mikaele TAUHAVILI (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of the Territory consists of three kings and three members appointed by the high administrator on advice of the Territorial Assembly
\Bnote:\b there are three traditional kings with limited powers
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Territorial Assembly (Assemblee Territoriale): elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (20 total) RPR 9, Taumu'a Lelei 11
French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held by NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) RPR 1
French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1992 (next to be held by NA September 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) MRG 1; note - Wallis and Futuna elect one deputy
\BJudicial branch:\b none; justice generally administered under French law by the high administrator, but the three traditional kings administer customary law and there is a magistrate in Mata-Utu
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally for the Republic (RPR); Union Populaire Locale (UPL); Union Pour la Democratie Francaise (UDF); Lua kae tahi (Giscardians); Mouvement des Radicaux de Gauche (MRG); Taumu'a Lelei
\BDiplomatic representation in US:\b none (overseas territory of France)
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i none (overseas territory of France)
\BFlag:\b a white modified Maltese cross centered on a red background; the flag of \JFrance\j outlined in white on two sides is in the upper hoist quadrant; the flag of \JFrance\j is used for official occasions
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b The economy is limited to traditional subsistence agriculture, with about 80% of the labor force earning its livelihood from agriculture (coconuts and vegetables), livestock (mostly pigs), and fishing. About 4% of the population is employed in government. Revenues come from French Government subsidies, licensing of fishing rights to \JJapan\j and South Korea, import taxes, and remittances from expatriate workers in New Caledonia. Wallis and Futuna imports food - particularly sugar, rice, and beef - fuel, clothing, machinery, and transport equipment, but its exports are negligible, consisting of copra and handicrafts.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $28.7 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture, livestock, and fishing 80%, government 4% (est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $14.04 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $14.04 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
\Ipartners:\i \JFrance\j, \JAustralia\j, New Zealand
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 CFP franc (CFPF) = 100 centimes
\BExchange rates:\b Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 91.00 (January 1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.94 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 120 km (Ile Uvea 100 km, Ile Futuna 20 km)
\Ipaved:\i 16 km (all on Ile Uvea)
\Iunpaved:\i 104 km (Ile Uvea 84 km, Ile Futuna 20 km)
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 340 (1985 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\IDefense note:\i defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j
#
"West Bank (Atlas)",259,0,0,0
Note: The Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), signed in Washington on 13 September 1993, provides for a transitional period not exceeding five years of Palestinian interim self-government in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Permanent status negotiations began on 5 May 1996.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, west of Jordan
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 32 00 N, 35 15 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 5,860 sq km
\Iland area:\i 5,640 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than \JDelaware\j
\Bnote:\b includes West Bank, Latrun Salient, and the northwest quarter of the Dead Sea, but excludes Mt. Scopus; East \JJerusalem\j and \JJerusalem\j No Man's Land are also included only as a means of depicting the entire area occupied by Israel in 1967
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 404 km
\Iborder countries:\i Israel 307 km, Jordan 97 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation
\BClimate:\b temperate, temperature and precipitation vary with altitude, warm to hot summers, cool to mild winters
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged dissected upland, some vegetation in west, but barren in east
\Ilowest point:\i Dead Sea -408 m
\Ihighest point:\i Tall Asur 1,022 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 27%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 32%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 1%
\Iother:\i 40%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i NA
\Inatural hazards:\i NA
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BGeographic note:\b landlocked; highlands are main recharge area for Israel's coastal aquifers; there are 202 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the West Bank and 26 in East \JJerusalem\j (August 1995 est.)
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 1,427,741 (July 1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b in addition, there are 127,600 Israeli settlers in the West Bank and 153,700 in East \JJerusalem\j (August 1995 est.)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 20,495; female 27,590) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 4.99% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 38.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 15.76 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.02 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.74 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 28.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 71.76 years
\Imale:\i 70.17 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.44 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.2 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i NA
\Iadjective:\i NA
\BEthnic divisions:\b Palestinian Arab and other 83%, Jewish 17%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 75% (predominantly Sunni), Jewish 17%, Christian and other 8%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic, \JHebrew\j (spoken by Israeli settlers), English (widely understood)
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
Government \Bnote:\b Under the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, a Palestinian Legislative Council, elected in January 1996, as part of interim self-governing arrangements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A transfer of powers and responsibilities for the Gaza Strip and Jericho has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 4 May 1994 \JCairo\j Agreement on the Gaza Strip and the Jericho Area. A transfer of powers and responsibilities in certain spheres for the rest of the West Bank has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 29 August 1994 Agreement on Preparatory Transfer of Powers and Responsibilities. A transfer of powers and responsibilities in additional areas of the West Bank has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 28 September 1995 Interim Agreement. The DOP provides that Israel will retain responsibility during the transitional period for external security and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Permanent status is to be determined through direct negotiations within five years.
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i West Bank
\BData code:\b WE
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Economic progress in the West Bank has been hampered by Israeli military administration and the effects of the Palestinian uprising (intifadah). Industries using advanced technology or requiring sizable investment have been discouraged by a lack of local capital and restrictive Israeli policies. Capital investment consists largely of residential housing, not productive assets that would enable local Palestinian firms to compete with Israeli industry. GDP has been substantially supplemented by remittances of workers employed in Israel and Persian Gulf states. Such transfers from the Gulf dropped after \JIraq\j invaded \JKuwait\j in August 1990. In the wake of the Persian Gulf crisis, many Palestinians have returned to the West Bank, increasing unemployment, and export revenues have dropped because of the decline of markets in Jordan and the Gulf states. The area's economic situation has worsened since Israel imposed stringent border restrictions in 1995 and 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.7 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3%-4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $2,500 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 33%
\Iindustry:\i 7%
\Iservices:\i 60% (1995 est., includes Gaza Strip)
\Iby occupation:\i construction 28.2%, agriculture 21.8%, industry 14.5%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels 12.6%, other services 22.9% (1991)
\Bnote:\b excluding Israeli settlers
\BUnemployment rate:\b 25%-30% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b $NA
\BIndustries:\b generally small family businesses that produce cement, textiles, soap, olive-wood carvings, and mother-of-pearl souvenirs; the Israelis have established some small-scale, modern industries in the settlements and industrial centers
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i NA kW
\Iproduction:\i NA kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i NA kWh
\Bnote:\b most electricity imported from Israel; East \JJerusalem\j Electric Company buys and distributes electricity to Palestinians in East \JJerusalem\j and its concession in the West Bank; the Israel Electric Company directly supplies electricity to most Jewish residents and military facilities; at the same time, some Palestinian municipalities, such as Nabulus and Janin, generate their own electricity from small power plants
\BAgriculture:\b olives, \Jcitrus\j and other fruits, vegetables; beef, dairy products
\BExports:\b $116 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i olives, fruit, vegetables
\Ipartners:\i Jordan, Israel
\BImports:\b $791 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food, consumer goods, construction materials
\Ipartners:\i Jordan, Israel
\BExternal debt:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Bnote:\b $410 million (est.) disbursed from international aid pledged in 1995 (includes aid to Gaza Strip)
\BCurrency:\b 1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot; 1 Jordanian dinar (JD) = 1,000 fils
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\Bnote:\b small road network; Israelis have developed many highways to service Jewish settlements
\BPorts:\b none
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\Bnote:\b 8% of Palestinian households have telephones (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\Bnote:\b Israeli company BEZEK is responsible for communication services in the West Bank
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA; note - 82% of Palestinian households have radios (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\Bnote:\b 1 broadcast station is planned for Jericho
\BTelevisions:\b NA; note - 54% of Palestinian households have televisions (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Western Sahara (Atlas)",260,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between \JMauritania\j and Morocco
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 24 30 N, 13 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 266,000 sq km
\Iland area:\i 266,000 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i about the size of \JColorado\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,046 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAlgeria\j 42 km, \JMauritania\j 1,561 km, Morocco 443 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,110 km
\BMaritime claims:\b contingent upon resolution of sovereignty issue
\BInternational disputes:\b claimed and administered by Morocco, but sovereignty is unresolved and the UN is attempting to hold a referendum on the issue; the UN-administered cease-fire has been in effect since September 1991
\BClimate:\b hot, dry desert; rain is rare; cold offshore air currents produce fog and heavy dew
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, flat desert with large areas of rocky or sandy surfaces rising to small mountains in south and northeast
\Ilowest point:\i Sebjet Tah -55 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 463 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jphosphates\j, iron ore
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 19%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 81%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i sparse water and arable land
\Inatural hazards:\i hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind can occur during winter and spring; widespread \Jharmattan\j haze exists 60% of time, often severely restricting visibility
\Iinternational agreements:\i NA
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 222,631 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.46% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 46.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 18.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -3.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 145.82 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 47.01 years
\Imale:\i 46 years
\Ifemale:\i 48.34 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.85 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Sahrawi(s), Sahraoui(s)
\Iadjective:\i Sahrawian, Sahraouian
\BEthnic divisions:\b Arab, \JBerber\j
\BReligions:\b Muslim
\BLanguages:\b Hassaniya Arabic, Moroccan Arabic
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Western Sahara
\BData code:\b WI
\BType of government:\b legal status of territory and question of sovereignty unresolved; territory contested by Morocco and Polisario Front (Popular Front for the Liberation of the Saguia el Hamra and Rio de Oro), which in February 1976 formally proclaimed a government-in-exile of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR); territory partitioned between Morocco and \JMauritania\j in April 1976, with Morocco acquiring northern two-thirds; \JMauritania\j, under pressure from Polisario guerrillas, abandoned all claims to its portion in August 1979; Morocco moved to occupy that sector shortly thereafter and has since asserted administrative control; the Polisario's government-in-exile was seated as an OAU member in 1984; guerrilla activities continued sporadically, until a UN-monitored cease-fire was implemented 6 September 1991
\BCapital:\b none
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (under defacto control of Morocco)
\BEconomic overview:\b Western Sahara, a territory poor in natural resources and having little rainfall, depends on pastoral nomadism, fishing, and phosphate mining as the principal sources of income for the population. Most of the food for the urban population must be imported. All trade and other economic activities are controlled by the Moroccan Government. Incomes and standards of living are substantially below the Moroccan level.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP per capita:\b $NA
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i NA%
\BLabor force:\b 12,000
\Iby occupation:\i animal husbandry and subsistence farming 50%
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b phosphate mining, handicrafts
Industrial production growth rate: NA%
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 60,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 79 million kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 339 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b fruits and vegetables (grown in the few oases); camels, sheep, goats (kept by the nomads)
\BExports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i \Jphosphates\j 62%
\Ipartners:\i Morocco claims and administers Western Sahara, so trade partners are included in overall Moroccan accounts
\BImports:\b $NA
\Icommodities:\i fuel for fishing fleet, foodstuffs
\Ipartners:\i Morocco claims and administers Western Sahara, so trade partners are included in overall Moroccan accounts
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 5 (1995 est.)
\IHeliports:\i 1 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,000
\BTelephone system:\b sparse and limited system
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i tied into Morocco's system by microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, and satellite; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) linked to Rabat, Morocco
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b NA
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Western Samoa (Atlas)",261,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 35 S, 172 20 W
\BMap references:\b \JOceania\j
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,860 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,850 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly smaller than Rhode Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 403 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b none
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (October to March), dry season (May to October)
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain with volcanic, rocky, rugged mountains in interior
\Ilowest point:\i Pacific Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mauga Silisili 1,857 m
\BNatural resources:\b hardwood forests, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 19%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 24%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 0%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 47%
\Iother:\i 10%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i soil erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i occasional typhoons; active volcanism
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
\BPeople:\b
\BPopulation:\b 214,384 (July 1996 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 40% (male 43,540; female 42,185)
\I15-64 years:\i 56% (male 62,742; female 57,323)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 4,089; female 4,505) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.37% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 31.12 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.67 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.1 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.91 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 34.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 68.73 years
\Imale:\i 66.35 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.24 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.93 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Western Samoan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Western Samoan
\BEthnic divisions:\b Samoan 92.6%, Euronesians 7% (persons of European and Polynesian blood), Europeans 0.4%
\BReligions:\b Christian 99.7% (about one-half of population associated with the London Missionary Society; includes Congregational, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Latter-Day Saints, Seventh-Day Adventist)
\BLanguages:\b Samoan (Polynesian), English
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1971 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 97%
\Ifemale:\i 97%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Independent State of Western \JSamoa\j
\Iconventional short form:\i Western \JSamoa\j
\BData code:\b WS
\BType of government:\b constitutional monarchy under native chief
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1962 (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 June (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1962
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and local customs; judicial review of legislative acts with respect to fundamental rights of the citizen; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Chief Susuga MALIETOA Tanumafili II (co-chief of state from 1 January 1962 until becoming sole chief of state 5 April 1963); upon his death, a new chief of state will be elected by the Legislative Assembly to serve a five-year term
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister TOFILAU Eti Alesana (since 7 April 1988) was appointed by the chief of state with approval of the Legislative Assembly
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the chief of state with the prime minister's advice
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Legislative Assembly (Fono): elections last held 5 April 1991 (next to be held 26 April 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) HRPP 28, SNDP 18, independents 1
\Bnote:\b only matai (head of family) are able to run for the Legislative Assembly
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), TOFILAU Eti Alesana, chairman; Samoan National Development Party (SNDP), TAPUA Tamasese Efi, chairman; Samoan Progressive Conservative Party, LEOTA Ituau Ale; \JSamoa\j All People's Party (SAPP), Matatumua MAIMOAGA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Tuiloma Neroni SLADE
\Ichancery:\i 820 Second Avenue, Suite 800, New York, NY 10017
\Itelephone:\i [1] (212) 599-6196, 6197
\IFAX:\i [1] (212) 599-0797
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Josiah Horton BEEMAN (Ambassador to New Zealand and Western \JSamoa\j, resides in Wellington, New Zealand)
\Iembassy:\i 5th floor, Beach Road, \JApia\j
\Imailing address:\i P.O. Box 3430, \JApia\j
\Itelephone:\i [685] 21631
\IFAX:\i [685] 22030
\BFlag:\b red with a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side quadrant bearing five white five-pointed stars representing the Southern Cross \Jconstellation\j
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Agriculture employs more than one-half of the labor force, contributes 50% to GDP, and furnishes 90% of exports. The bulk of export earnings comes from the sale of coconut oil and copra. The economy depends on emigrant remittances and foreign aid to supplement GDP and to support a level of imports much greater than export earnings. Tourism has become the most important growth industry. The economy continued to falter in 1994, as remittances and tourist earnings remained low. Production of \Jtaro\j, the primary food export crop, dropped 97% in 1993/94 when a fungal disease threatened the country's basic food crops. Nevertheless, the government is relying on recovery and further expansion in agricultural production to sustain economic growth of around 5% over the next several years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $415 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 5% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $1,900 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 50%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 18% (1994)
\BLabor force:\b 45,635 (1986 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 65%, services 30%, industry 5% (1995 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $78.6 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $81.9 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 76,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 6,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b no regular armed services; Western \JSamoa\j Police Force
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\Imales fit for military service:\i NA
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"World (Atlas)",262,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BMap references:\b World, Time Zones
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 510.072 million sq km
\Iland area:\i 148.94 million sq km
water area: 361.132 million sq km
\Icomparative area:\i land area about 15 times the size of the US
\Bnote:\b 70.8% of the world is water, 29.2% is land
\BLand boundaries:\b the land boundaries in the world total 250,883.64 km (not counting shared boundaries twice)
\BCoastline:\b 356,000 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 24 nm claimed by most but can vary
continental shelf: 200-m depth claimed by most or to depth of exploitation, others claim 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm claimed by most but can vary
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm claimed by most but can vary
territorial sea: 12 nm claimed by most but can vary
\Bnote:\b boundary situations with neighboring states prevent many countries from extending their fishing or economic zones to a full 200 nm; 43 nations and other areas that are landlocked include \JAfghanistan\j, \JAndorra\j, Armenia, \JAustria\j, \JAzerbaijan\j, \JBelarus\j, \JBhutan\j, \JBolivia\j, \JBotswana\j, Burkina Faso, \JBurundi\j, Central African Republic, Chad, Czech Republic, \JEthiopia\j, Holy See (Vatican City), \JHungary\j, Kazakstan, \JKyrgyzstan\j, Laos, \JLesotho\j, \JLiechtenstein\j, Luxembourg, Malawi, Mali, Moldova, \JMongolia\j, \JNepal\j, \JNiger\j, \JParaguay\j, \JRwanda\j, San Marino, \JSlovakia\j, \JSwaziland\j, \JSwitzerland\j, Tajikistan, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Turkmenistan, \JUganda\j, Uzbekistan, West Bank, \JZambia\j, Zimbabwe
\BClimate:\b two large areas of polar climates separated by two rather narrow temperate zones from a wide equatorial band of tropical to subtropical climates
\BTerrain:\b the greatest ocean depth is the Marianas Trench at 10,924 m in the Pacific Ocean
\Ilowest point:\i Dead Sea -408 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Everest 8,848 m
\BNatural resources:\b the rapid using up of nonrenewable mineral resources, the depletion of forest areas and wetlands, the \Jextinction\j of animal and plant species, and the deterioration in air and water quality (especially in Eastern Europe and the former USSR) pose serious long-term problems that governments and peoples are only beginning to address
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 10%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 24%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 31%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i large areas subject to overpopulation, industrial disasters, \Jpollution\j (air, water, acid rain, toxic substances), loss of vegetation (overgrazing, deforestation, desertification), loss of wildlife, soil degradation, soil depletion, erosion
\Inatural hazards:\i large areas subject to severe weather (tropical cyclones), natural disasters (earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions)
\Iinternational agreements:\i selected international environmental agreements are included under the Environment entry for each country
\I65 years and over:\i 7% (male 162,216,128; female 213,712,993)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.4% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 60 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 62 years
\Imale:\i 61 years
\Ifemale:\i 64 years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.9 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BGovernment:\b
\BData code:\b none; there is no FIPS 10-4 country code for the World, so the Factbook uses the "W" data code from DIAM 65-18 "Geopolitical Data Elements and Related Features," Data Standard No. 3, March 1984, published by the Defense Intelligence Agency
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 266 nations, dependent areas, other, and miscellaneous entries
\BLegal system:\b varies by individual country; 186 (not including Yugoslavia) are parties to the UN International Court of Justice (ICJ or World Court)
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Real global output - gross world product (GWP) - again rose 3% in 1995, with the newly industrializing Third World countries setting the pace. And once more, results varied widely among regions and countries. Average growth of 2.5% in the GDP of industrialized countries (56% of GWP in 1995) and average growth of 5% in the GDP of less developed countries (38% of GWP) were partly offset by a small 1.5% drop in the GDP of the former USSR/Eastern Europe area (only 6% of GWP). With the notable exception of \JJapan\j at 3.1%, unemployment was typically 6%-12% in the industrial world. The US accounted for 22% of GWP in 1995; Western Europe accounted for 21%; and \JJapan\j accounted for 8%. These are the three "economic superpowers" presumably destined to compete for mastery in international markets on into the 21st century. As for the less developed countries: China, India, and the Four Dragons - South Korea, \JTaiwan\j, Hong Kong, and \JSingapore\j - once again posted records of 5% growth or better; however, many other countries, especially in Africa, continued to suffer from \Jdrought\j, rapid population growth, \Jinflation\j, and civil strife. Central Europe continued its progress in moving toward "market-friendly" economies. The 15 ex-Soviet countries typically experienced further declines in output, although considerably less than in 1992-94. Externally, the nation-state, as a bedrock economic-political institution, is steadily losing control over international flows of people, goods, funds, and technology. Internally, the central government in a number of cases is losing control over resources as separatist regional movements - typically based on \Jethnicity\j - gain momentum, e.g., in the successor states of the former Soviet Union, in the former Yugoslavia, in India, and in Canada. In Western Europe, governments face the difficult political problem of channeling resources away from welfare programs in order to increase investment and strengthen incentives to seek employment. The addition of nearly 100 million people each year to an already overcrowded globe is exacerbating the problems of \Jpollution\j, \Jdesertification\j, underemployment, epidemics, and \Jfamine\j. Because of their own internal problems, the industrialized countries have inadequate resources to deal effectively with the poorer areas of the world, which, at least from the economic point of view, are becoming further marginalized.
\BGDP:\b GWP (gross world product) - purchasing power parity - $33.7 trillion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b 3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $5,900 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i
all countries: 25%
developed countries: 2% to 6% typically
developing countries: 10% to 60% typically (1995 est.)
\Bnote:\b national \Jinflation\j rates vary widely in individual cases, from stable prices in \JJapan\j to hyperinflation in a number of Third World countries
\BLabor force:\b 2.24 billion (1992)
\Iby occupation:\i NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 30% combined unemployment and underemployment in many non-industrialized countries; developed countries typically 6%-12% unemployment (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b dominated by the onrush of technology, especially in computers, robotics, telecommunications, and medicines and medical equipment; most of these advances take place in OECD nations; only a small portion of non-OECD countries have succeeded in rapidly adjusting to these technological forces; the rapid development of new industrial (and agricultural) technology is complicating already grim environmental problems
Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity:\b
\Icapacity:\i 2,773,000,000 kW
\Iproduction:\i 11.601 trillion kWh
\Iconsumption per capita:\i 1,937 kWh (1993)
\BAgriculture:\b the whole gamut of crops, livestock, forest products, and fish
\BExports:\b $4.3 trillion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i the whole range of industrial and agricultural goods and services
\Ipartners:\i in value, about 75% of exports from the developed countries
\BImports:\b $4.4 trillion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i the whole range of industrial and agricultural goods and services
\Ipartners:\i in value, about 75% of imports by the developed countries
\BExternal debt:\b $2 trillion for less developed countries (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b worldwide traditional foreign aid $50 billion (1995 est.)
\BTransportation:\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,201,337 km includes about 190,000 to 195,000 km of electrified routes of which 147,760 km are in Europe, 24,509 km in the Far East, 11,050 km in Africa, 4,223 km in South America, and 4,160 km in North America; note - fastest speed in daily service is 300 km/hr attained by \JFrance\j's Societe Nationale des Chemins-de-Fer Francais (SNCF) Le Train a Grande Vitesse (TGV) - Atlantique line
\Ibroad gauge:\i 251,153 km
standard gauge: 710,754 km
narrow gauge: 239,430 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts:\b \JChiba\j, Houston, Kawasaki, Kobe, \JMarseille\j, Mina' al Ahmadi (Kuwait), New Orleans, New York, Rotterdam, \JYokohama\j
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b ground, maritime, and air forces at all levels of technology
\IDefense expenditures:\i probably a small decline in 1995 in aggregate real expenditure on arms worldwide and somewhat less than three-quarters of a trillion dollars in money terms, or roughly 2% of gross world product (1995 est.)
#
"Yemen (Atlas)",263,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, between Oman and Saudi \JArabia\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 48 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 527,970 sq km
\Iland area:\i 527,970 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than twice the size of Wyoming
\Bnote:\b includes Perim, Socotra, the former Yemen Arab Republic (YAR or North Yemen), and the former People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY or South Yemen)
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,746 km
\Iborder countries:\i Oman 288 km, Saudi \JArabia\j 1,458 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,906 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
contiguous zone: 18 nm in the North; 24 nm in the South
continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b large section of boundary with Saudi \JArabia\j not defined; a dispute with Eritrea over sovereignty of the Hanish Islands in the southern Red Sea has been submitted to \Jarbitration\j under the auspices of the International Court of Justice
\BClimate:\b mostly desert; hot and humid along west coast; temperate in western mountains affected by seasonal monsoon; extraordinarily hot, dry, harsh desert in east
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain backed by flat-topped hills and rugged mountains; dissected upland desert plains in center slope into the desert interior of the Arabian Peninsula
\Ilowest point:\i Arabian Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal an Nabi Shu'ayb 3,760 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, fish, rock salt, marble, small deposits of coal, gold, lead, nickel, and copper, fertile soil in west
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 30%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 7%
\Iother:\i 57%
\BIrrigated land:\b 3,100 sq km (1989 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i very limited natural fresh water resources; inadequate supplies of potable water; overgrazing; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j
\Inatural hazards:\i sandstorms and dust storms in summer
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change
\BGeographic note:\b controls Bab el Mandeb, the strait linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, one of world's most active shipping lanes
\I65 years and over:\i 2% (male 158,018; female 207,956) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.56% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 45.22 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.59 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.05 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.06 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.99 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.76 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 71.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 59.58 years
\Imale:\i 58.23 years
\Ifemale:\i 60.99 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 7.29 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Yemeni(s)
\Iadjective:\i Yemeni
\BEthnic divisions:\b predominantly Arab; Afro-Arab concentrations in western coastal locations; South Asians in southern regions; small European communities in major metropolitan areas
\BReligions:\b Muslim including Sha'fi (Sunni) and Zaydi (Shi'a), small numbers of Jewish, Christian, and Hindu
\BLanguages:\b Arabic
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 38%
\Imale:\i 53%
\Ifemale:\i 26%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Yemen
\Iconventional short form:\i Yemen
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumhuriyah al Yamaniyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Yaman
\BData code:\b YM
\BType of government:\b republic
\BCapital:\b Sanaa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 17 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Abyan, Aden, Al Bayda, Al Hudaydah, Al Jawf, Al Mahrah, Al Mahwit, Ataq, Dhamar, Hadhramaut, Hajjah, Ibb, Lahij, Ma'rib, Sa'dah, San'a', Ta'izz
\Bnote:\b there may be a new governorate for the capital city of Sanaa
\BIndependence:\b 22 May 1990 Republic of Yemen was established on 22 May 1990 with the merger of the Yemen Arab Republic {Yemen (Sanaa) or North Yemen} and the Marxist-dominated People's Democratic Republic of Yemen {Yemen (Aden) or South Yemen}; previously North Yemen had become independent on NA November 1918 (from the Ottoman Empire) and South Yemen had become independent on 30 November 1967 (from the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Proclamation of the Republic, 22 May (1990)
\BConstitution:\b 16 May 1991; amended 29 September 1994
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law, Turkish law, English common law, and local tribal customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Lt. Gen. Ali Abdallah SALIH (since 22 May 1990, the former president of North Yemen, assumed office upon the merger of North and South Yemen) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Representatives; election last held 1 October 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); Vice President Maj. Gen. Abd al-Rab Mansur al-HADI (since NA October 1994) was appointed by the president
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Abd al-Aziz ABD AL-GHANI (since NA October 1994) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Abd al-Wahhab al-ANISI (since NA October 1994), Dr. Abd al-Karim Ali al-IRYANI (since NA October 1994), Dr. Muhammad Said al-ATTAR (since NA October 1994), and Abd al-Qadir al-BA JAMAL (since NA October 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on advice of the prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
House of Representatives: elections last held 27 April 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (301 total) GPC 124, Islaah 61, YSP 55, others 13, independents 47, election nullified 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b over 40 political parties are active in Yemen, but only three project significant influence; since the May-July 1994 civil war, President SALIH's General People's Congress (GPC) and Shaykh Abdallah bin Husayn al-AHMAR's Yemeni Grouping for Reform, or Islaah, have joined to form a coalition government; the Yemeni Socialist Party (YSP), headed by Ali Salih UBAYD, has regrouped as a loyal opposition
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Muhsin Ahmad al-AYNI
\Ichancery:\i Suite 705, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 965-4760, 4761
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 337-2017
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador David G. NEWTON
\Iembassy:\i Dhahr Himyar Zone, Sheraton Hotel District, Sanaa
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 22347, Sanaa
\Itelephone:\i [967] (1) 238843 through 238852
\IFAX:\i [967] (1) 251563
\BFlag:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black; similar to the flag of \JSyria\j which has two green stars and of \JIraq\j which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of \JEgypt\j which has a symbolic eagle centered in the white band
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Whereas the northern city Sanaa is the political capital of a united Yemen, the southern city Aden, with its refinery and port facilities, is the economic and commercial capital. Future economic development depends heavily on Western-assisted development of the country's moderate oil resources. Former South Yemen's willingness to merge stemmed partly from the steady decline in Soviet economic support. The low level of domestic industry and agriculture has made northern Yemen dependent on imports for practically all of its essential needs. Once self-sufficient in food production, northern Yemen has become a major importer. Land once used for export crops - cotton, fruit, and vegetables - has been turned over to growing a shrub called qat, whose leaves are chewed for their stimulant effect by Yemenis and which has no significant export market. Economic growth in former South Yemen has been constrained by a lack of incentives, partly stemming from centralized control over production decisions, investment allocation, and import choices. Yemen's large trade deficits have been compensated for by remittances from Yemenis working abroad and by foreign aid. Since the Gulf crisis, remittances have dropped substantially. High \Jinflation\j and political divisions hinder the development of a forward-looking economic policy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $37.1 billion (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b no reliable estimates exist, most people are employed in agriculture and herding or as expatriate laborers; services, construction, industry, and commerce account for less than one-half of the labor force
\BUnemployment rate:\b 30% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.4 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b crude oil production and \Jpetroleum\j refining; small-scale production of cotton textiles and leather goods; food processing; handicrafts; small aluminum products factory; cement
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 10 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 131,655 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b since unification in 1990, efforts have been made to create a national telecommunications network
\Idomestic:\i the network consists of microwave radio relay, cable, and tropospheric scatter
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean region), and 2 Arabsat; microwave radio relay to Saudi \JArabia\j and Djibouti
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 10
\BTelevisions:\b 350,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary (includes Police)
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,985,764
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,685,517
males reach military age (18) annually: 145,161 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i $NA, NA% of GDP
#
"Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) (Atlas)",264,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Africa, northeast of \JAngola\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 00 N, 25 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 2,345,410 sq km
\Iland area:\i 2,267,600 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly more than one-fourth the size of US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 10,271 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAngola\j 2,511 km, \JBurundi\j 233 km, Central African Republic 1,577 km, \JCongo\j 2,410 km, \JRwanda\j 217 km, \JSudan\j 628 km, \JUganda\j 765 km, \JZambia\j 1,930 km
\BCoastline:\b 37 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
exclusive economic zone: boundaries with neighbors
territorial sea: 12 nm
\BInternational disputes:\b Tanzania-Zaire-Zambia tripoint in Lake Tanganyika may no longer be indefinite since it has been informally reported that the indefinite section of the Zaire-Zambia boundary has been settled; long section with \JCongo\j along the \JCongo\j river is indefinite (no division of the river or its islands has been made)
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot and humid in equatorial river basin; cooler and drier in southern highlands; cooler and wetter in eastern highlands; north of Equator - wet season April to October, dry season December to February; south of Equator - wet season November to March, dry season April to October
\BTerrain:\b vast central basin is a low-lying plateau; mountains in east
\Ilowest point:\i Atlantic Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Margherita Peak (Mount Stanley) 5,110 m
\Icurrent issues:\i poaching threatens wildlife populations; water \Jpollution\j; deforestation; 1.2 million Rwandan refugees are responsible for significant deforestation, soil erosion, and wildlife poaching in eastern Zaire
\Inatural hazards:\i periodic droughts in south; volcanic activity
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j, Environmental Modification
\BGeographic note:\b straddles Equator; very narrow strip of land that controls the lower \JCongo\j river and is only outlet to South Atlantic Ocean; dense tropical rain forest in central river basin and eastern highlands
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 539,775; female 692,213) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.67% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 48.1 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 16.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -14.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b in 1994, more than one million refugees fled into Zaire to escape the fighting between the Hutus and the Tutsis in \JRwanda\j and \JBurundi\j; a small number of these returned to their homes in 1995 despite fear of the ongoing violence; additionally, Zaire is host to about 100,000 Angolan, and about 100,000 Sudanese refugees
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.95 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.78 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 108 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 46.7 years
\Imale:\i 44.97 years
\Ifemale:\i 48.47 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.64 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Zairian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Zairian
\BEthnic divisions:\b over 200 African ethnic groups, the majority are Bantu; four largest tribes - Mongo, Luba, \JKongo\j (all Bantu), and the Mangbetu-Azande (Hamitic) make up about 45% of the population
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 20%, Kimbanguist 10%, Muslim 10%, other syncretic sects and traditional beliefs 10%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Lingala (a lingua franca trade language), Kingwana (a \Jdialect\j of Kiswahili or Swahili), Kikongo, Tshiluba
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write in French, Lingala, Kingwana, or Tshiluba (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 77.3%
\Imale:\i 86.6%
\Ifemale:\i 67.7%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Democratic Republic of \JCongo\j (formerly Zaire)
\Iconventional short form:\i Formerly Zaire
\Ilocal long form:\i Formerly Republique du Zaire
\Iformer:\i Belgian \JCongo\j Congo/Leopoldville Congo/Kinshasa
\BData code:\b CG
\BType of government:\b republic with a strong presidential system
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Regime (Second Republic), 24 November (1965)
\BConstitution:\b 24 June 1967, amended August 1974, revised 15 February 1978; amended April 1990; new transitional constitution promulgated in April 1994
\BLegal system:\b based on Belgian civil law system and tribal law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Laurent Kabila - self-declared rebel leader since May 1997. Next elections to be held in 1999.
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
parliament: a single body consisting of the High Council of the Republic and the Parliament of the Transition with membership equally divided between presidential supporters and opponents
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b sole legal party until January 1991 - Popular Movement of the Revolution (MPR); other parties include Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), Etienne TSHISEKEDI wa Mulumba; Democratic Social Christian Party (PDSC); Union of Federalists and Independent Republicans (UFERI); Unified Lumumbast Party (PALU), Antoine GIZENGA; Union of Independent Democrats (UDI)
\Ichancery:\i 1800 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-7690, 7691
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Daniel H. SIMPSON
\Iembassy:\i 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, \JKinshasa\j
\Imailing address:\i Unit 31550, APO AE 09828
\Itelephone:\i [243] (12) 21533 through 21535
\IFAX:\i [243] (88) 43805, ext. 2308 or 43467
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Zaire's economy has continued to disintegrate, although Prime Minister KENGO has had some success in slowing the rate of economic decline. While meaningful economic figures are difficult to come by, Zaire's hyperinflation, chronic large government deficits, and plunging mineral production have made the country one of the world's poorest. Most formal transactions are conducted in hard currency as indigenous bank notes have lost almost all value, and a barter economy now flourishes in all but the largest cities. Most individuals and families hang on grimly through subsistence farming and petty trade. The government has not been able to meet its financial obligations to the IMF nor put in place the financial measures advocated by it. Although short-term prospects for improvement remain doubtful, improved political stability would boost Zaire's long-term potential to effectively exploit its vast mineral and agricultural resources.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $16.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP real growth rate:\b -7.4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP per capita:\b $400 (1995 est.)
\BGDP composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\IInflation rate (consumer prices):\i 12% monthly average (1995 est.)
\BLabor force:\b 14.51 million (1993 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 65%, industry 16%, services 19% (1991 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $479 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $479 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b mining, mineral processing, consumer products (including textiles, footwear, cigarettes, processed foods and beverages), cement, diamonds
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 94 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 34,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i barely adequate wire and microwave radio relay service in and between urban areas; domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 10, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.87 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 55,000 (1992 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, paramilitary Civil Guard, Special Presidential Division
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 10,025,536
\Imales fit for military service:\i 5,108,385 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $46 million, 1.5% of GDP (1990)
#
"Zambia (Atlas)",265,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, east of \JAngola\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 S, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 752,610 sq km
\Iland area:\i 740,720 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than \JTexas\j
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,664 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAngola\j 1,110 km, Malawi 837 km, \JMozambique\j 419 km, \JNamibia\j 233 km, \JTanzania\j 338 km, Zaire 1,930 km, Zimbabwe 797 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b quadripoint with \JBotswana\j, \JNamibia\j, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; Tanzania-Zaire-Zambia tripoint in Lake Tanganyika may no longer be indefinite since it has been informally reported that the indefinite section of the Zaire-Zambia boundary has been settled
\BClimate:\b tropical; modified by altitude; rainy season (October to April)
\BTerrain:\b mostly high plateau with some hills and mountains
\Icurrent issues:\i air \Jpollution\j and resulting acid rain in the mineral extraction and refining region; poaching seriously threatens \Jrhinoceros\j and elephant populations; deforestation; soil erosion; \Jdesertification\j; lack of adequate water treatment presents human health risks
\Inatural hazards:\i tropical storms (November to April)
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 24 October (1964)
\BConstitution:\b 2 August 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in an ad hoc constitutional council; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i President Frederick CHILUBA (since 31 October 1991) elected for a five-year term by popular vote; Vice President General Godfrey MIYANDA (since NA August 1994) appointed by the president; election last held 31 October 1991 (next to be held October 1996); results - Frederick CHILUBA 84%, Kenneth KAUNDA 16%
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet, appointed by the president from among the members of the National Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
National Assembly: elections last held 31 October 1991 (next to be held October 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (150 total) MMD 125, UNIP 25; note - the MMD's majority was weakened by the defection of 13 of its parliamentary members during 1993 and the defeat of its candidates in four of the resulting byelections
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, justices are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), Frederick CHILUBA; United National Independence Party (UNIP), Kenneth KAUNDA; National Party (NP), Humphrey MULEMBIA; Labor Party (LP), Chibiza MFUNI; \JZambia\j Democratic Congress (ZDC), Dean MUNG'OMBA; Liberal Progressive Front (LPF), Roger CHONGWE, president
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dunstan Weston KAMANA
\Ichancery:\i 2419 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-9717 through 9719
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-0826
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Roland K. KUCHEL
\Iembassy:\i corner of Independence Avenue and United Nations Avenue, \JLusaka\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 31617, \JLusaka\j
\Itelephone:\i [260] (1) 250-955, 252-230
\IFAX:\i [260] (1) 252-225
\BFlag:\b green with a panel of three vertical bands of red (hoist side), black, and orange below a soaring orange eagle, on the outer edge of the flag
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Despite continuing progress in privatization and budgetary reform, \JZambia\j's economy is showing little improvement. \JInflation\j, while slowing somewhat, continues to be a major concern to the CHILUBA government. Four of \JZambia\j's 20 banks collapsed in 1995, and the nation's debt stood at about $7 billion. \JZambia\j's copper mining sector, which accounts for over 80% of the nation's foreign currency intake, is struggling. Production rates are down as are world copper prices. Food production is insufficient to meet the country's needs due to previous droughts and an end to government subsidization of agriculture. While the government's economic program aims for 6% growth in each of the next three years, a growth rate of 3-5% is more likely.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8.9 billion (1995 est.)
narrow gauge: 2,164 km 1.067-m gauge (13 km double track)
\Bnote:\b the total includes 891 km of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), which operates 1,860 km of 1.067-m narrow gauge track between Dar es Salaam and New Kapiri M'poshi where it connects to the \JZambia\j Railways system; TAZARA is not a part of \JZambia\j Railways
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 37,359 km
\Ipaved:\i 6,575 km (including 56 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 30,784 km (1992 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 2,250 km, including Zambezi and Luapula rivers, Lake Tanganyika
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,724 km
\BPorts:\b Mpulungu
\BAirports:\b
\Itotal:\i 104
\Iwith paved runways over 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\Iwith paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m: 2
\Iwith paved runways under 914 m:\i 35
\Iwith unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iwith unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
\Iwith unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:\i 54 (1995 est.)
\BCommunications:\b
\BTelephones:\b 80,900 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b facilities are among the best in Sub-Saharan Africa
\Idomestic:\i high-capacity microwave radio relay connects most larger towns and cities
\Iinternational:\i satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 11, FM 5, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 1,889,140
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\BTelevisions:\b 215,000 (1995 est.)
\BDefense:\b
\BBranches:\b Army, Air Force, paramilitary forces, Police
\BManpower availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,934,845
\Imales fit for military service:\i 1,020,851 (1996 est.)
\IDefense expenditures:\i exchange rate conversion - $96 million, 2.7% of GDP (1995)
#
"Zimbabwe (Atlas)",266,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, northeast of \JBotswana\j
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 20 00 S, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal area:\i 390,580 sq km
\Iland area:\i 386,670 sq km
\Icomparative area:\i slightly larger than Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,066 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBotswana\j 813 km, \JMozambique\j 1,231 km, South Africa 225 km, \JZambia\j 797 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BInternational disputes:\b quadripoint with \JBotswana\j, \JNamibia\j, and \JZambia\j is in disagreement
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by altitude; rainy season (November to March)
\BTerrain:\b mostly high plateau with higher central plateau (high veld); mountains in east
\Ilowest point:\i junction of the Lundi and Savi rivers 162 m
\Ihighest point:\i Inyangani 2,592 m
\BNatural resources:\b coal, \Jchromium\j ore, \Jasbestos\j, gold, nickel, copper, iron ore, \Jvanadium\j, \Jlithium\j, tin, \Jplatinum\j group metals
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 7%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NEGL (coffee)
\Imeadows and pastures:\i 13%
\Iforest and woodland:\i 49%
\Iother:\i 31%
\BIrrigated land:\b 2,250 sq km (1993 est.)
\BEnvironment:\b
\Icurrent issues:\i deforestation; soil erosion; land degradation; air and water \Jpollution\j; the black \Jrhinoceros\j herd - once the largest concentration of the species in the world - has been significantly reduced by poaching
\Inatural hazards:\i recurring droughts; floods and severe storms are rare
\Iinternational agreements:\i party to - \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - \JDesertification\j
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 152,244; female 158,528) (July 1996 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.41% (1996 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 32.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 18.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.)
\Bnote:\b there is a small but steady flow of Zimbabweans into South Africa in search of better paid employment
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i 1.03 male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i 1.01 male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i 0.97 male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i 0.96 male(s)/female
\Iall ages:\i 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 72.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.)
Life expectancy \Iat birth:\i
\Itotal population:\i 41.85 years
\Imale:\i 41.91 years
\Ifemale:\i 41.78 years (1996 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.09 children born/woman (1996 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Zimbabwean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Zimbabwean
\BEthnic divisions:\b African 98% (Shona 71%, Ndebele 16%, other 11%), white 1%, mixed and Asian 1%
\BReligions:\b syncretic (part Christian, part indigenous beliefs) 50%, Christian 25%, indigenous beliefs 24%, Muslim and other 1%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Shona, Sindebele (the language of the Ndebele, sometimes called Ndebele), numerous but minor tribal dialects
\BLiteracy:\b age 15 and over can read and write in English (1995 est.)
\Itotal population:\i 85%
\Imale:\i 90%
\Ifemale:\i 80%
\BGovernment:\b
\BName of country:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Zimbabwe
\Iconventional short form:\i Zimbabwe
\Iformer:\i Southern Rhodesia
\BData code:\b ZI
\BType of government:\b parliamentary democracy
\BCapital:\b \JHarare\j
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 provinces and 2 cities* with provincial status; Bulawayo*, Harare*, Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Masvingo (Victoria), \JMatabeleland\j North, \JMatabeleland\j South, Midlands
\BIndependence:\b 18 April 1980 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 18 April (1980)
\BConstitution:\b 21 December 1979
\BLegal system:\b mixture of Roman-Dutch and English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
chief of state and \Ihead of government:\i Executive President Robert Gabriel MUGABE (since 31 December 1987) was nominated by the House of Assembly (if more than one nomination, electoral college of members of the House of Assembly elect the president); election last held 26-27 March 1996 (next to be held NA March 2002); results - Robert MUGABE 92.7%, Abel MUZOREWA 4.8%; Ndabaningi SITHOLE 2.4%; Co-Vice President Simon Vengai MUZENDA (since 31 December 1987); Co-Vice President Joshua M. NKOMO (since 6 August 1990) was appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet was appointed by the president; responsible to Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral
Parliament: elections last held 8-9 April 1995 (next to be held NA March 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (150 total, 120 elected) ZANU-PF 118, ZANU-Ndonga 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), Robert MUGABE; Zimbabwe African National Union-NDONGA (ZANU-NDONGA), Ndabaningi SITHOLE; Zimbabwe Unity Movement (ZUM), Edgar TEKERE; Democratic Party (DP), Emmanuel MAGOCHE; Forum Party of Zimbabwe, Enock DUMBUTSHENA; United Parties, Abel MUZOREWA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Amos Bernard Muvengwa MIDZI
\Ichancery:\i 1608 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-7100
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 483-9326
\IUS diplomatic representation:\i
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Johnnie CARSON
\Iembassy:\i 172 Herbert Chitepo Avenue, \JHarare\j
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 3340, \JHarare\j
\Itelephone:\i [263] (4) 794521
\IFAX:\i [263] (4) 796488
\BFlag:\b seven equal horizontal bands of green, yellow, red, black, red, yellow, and green with a white equilateral triangle edged in black based on the hoist side; a yellow Zimbabwe bird is superimposed on a red five-pointed star in the center of the triangle
\BEconomy:\b
\BEconomic overview:\b Agriculture employs 70% of the labor force of this landlocked nation and supplies almost 40% of exports. Mining accounts for only 5% of both GDP and employment, but minerals and metals account for about 40% of exports. Severe \Jdrought\j caused GDP to drop 8% in 1992, with growth rebounding to 2% in 1993 and 4.5% in 1994, only to drop by 2.4% in 1995. The government is continuing to push its IMF/World Bank structural adjustment program aimed at encouraging exports and foreign investment. Officials face the difficult task of restraining expenditures in their effort to keep \Jinflation\j within bounds.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $18.1 billion (1995 est.)
